- Tuesday, 21 January 2025
Damak, Feb 6 (RSS): Nepali Congress leader and central member Dr Sekhar Koirala has said reform in election system is essential even by amending constitution. Electoral provisions in constitution needs amendment, he stressed.
During an interaction with active cadres as part of party’s campaign ‘NC in community’ in Jhapa district on Monday, leader Koirala assured that his party would make policy level efforts to ensure electoral competition among the people within reservation groups.
“Not only election tickets but also seats should be guaranteed to the people from reserve quota. The constitution itself should have provision that electoral competition is held among members from within women, dalit, and indigenous groups,” he underlined.
Similarly, the leader viewed proportional representation could be adopted for National Assembly, while only direct election for House of Representatives.
On the occasion, 23 active cadres from Damak, Kamal, Gauradaha and Shivasatakshi municipality furnished suggestions to the leader Koirala for reform in NC.
Most of them strongly urged the party that it shunned alliance with other parties in the next election. The party leadership was also suggested that it continued programmes to reach people and mobilize sister organizations from time to time.
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Cooperatives should win depositors’ trust: CM Sharma
Karnali, Feb 6: Chief Minister of Karnali Province, Raj Kumar Sharma, has viewed cooperatives should maintain good governance and win depositors’ trust.
Development could be ensured with mobilization of people through cooperatives, he opined while addressing a province level workshop on ‘cooperatives’ problems and good governance promotion’ organized by the province ministry at Birendranagar on Monday.
He further suggested that cooperatives could launch activities for income generation. Cooperative’s role is vital for development as the constitution itself has envisioned socialism, CM Sharma reminded.
CM Sharma viewed the problems facing cooperative sector could be addressed through proper policies at all three tiers of government.
According to him, province government was focused on economic prosperity and social justice which, he argued, would bring happiness in people. Good governance is essential to address problems seen in multiple sectors, he emphasized.
He also reminded that State had adopted three-pillar policy for economic development where cooperatives, private and public build partnership and forward activities.
Chairman of the management committee to sort out sick cooperatives, Kashiraj Dahal, claimed, “Cooperatives are losing trust due to unethical activities.” The cooperatives could play important role to retain capital, technology and talent, he suggested.
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Koshi Highway resumes after two days
Kimathanka (Sankhuwasabha), Feb 6: The Koshi Highway obstructed by the dry landslide has resumed after two days.
The highway was blocked in the section of Khandbari-Kimathanka in the district, according to chief engineer at North-South Road Office, Sabin Koirala.
Huge stones fallen onto the road blocked the traffic, thereby causing sheer inconvenience to the people from northern belt, Bhotkhola. The road is linked to Changa and Denda of Tibet.
Similarly, many vehicles to and from Bhotkhola were stranded along the way.
Even an excavator operator was injured while clearing the obstruction on Sunday morning.
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‘Assimilation of federal democratic republic in people’s culture must’
Gandaki, Feb 6: As the provinces are observing the 6th establishment day of province assemblies, strengthening of province governments has been voiced strongly. The effectiveness of province government has been linked to enforcement of federalism as well.
In this connection, Chief of Gandaki Province, Prithvi Man Gurung, has viewed federal democratic republic should be people’s culture and lifestyle. If helps people realize change in system, he argued.
Addressing a programme organized to observe the establishment day here Monday, Gurung reminded even a year has elapsed since the second term of province assembly commenced. Province assembly and government have been burdened to act responsibly and up to people’s aspiration, he urged.
The law-making and development activities forwarded by province government are linked to true enforcement of federalism, according to him. The Gandaki people have placed much hope on their province representatives, Gurung reminded.
He further said, “In the first term of province assembly, many laws were enacted, thereby paving foundation for stability. Now, further activities should be carried out based on these so that achievements could be realized.”
Gurung suggested the government that it forwarded new schemes for industrialization, creation of job, development works, health, housing, security, education and good governance. Further seriousness is warranted, he underscored.
On the occasion, Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pande, viewed they were working for full implementation of federal democratic system as per constitution’s guideline. It is present need to ensure democratic dividend to the people by reinforcing democracy, he said, adding that province assembly could be further functional for it. Beneficiaries should realize inclusive and just distribution of democratic entitlements, Pande argued.
The present constitution is dubbed the best charter in terms of constitutionalism, so province assembly’s role is pivotal to make constitution meaningful. He also shared that a concept paper on second five-year plan in province was approved and formulation of second periodic plan was at final stage. CM Pande vowed province government could not afford to repeat past mistakes.
Similarly, UML leader and former Chief Minister Khagaraj Adhikari viewed province is the beauty of federalism. So relevance of province must be reflected in its activities, he suggested, adding that centralist mindset should be shunned. All sides’ cooperation is imperative to fortify province structures, according to him.
CPN (Maoist Centre) leader Hari Bahadur Chuman informed that more than 60 laws were made by the Gandaki Province. Although the laws under exclusive rights were made, laws under concurrent rights were awaited.
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NC central leader Budhathoki passes away
Jhapa, Feb 6: Central member of the Nepali Congress and former minister Keshav Kumar Budhathoki passed away while undergoing treatment at Birat Medical College, Biratnagar last night.
The 80-year-old leader had been suffering from prostate cancer for long, according to NC secretary at Jhapa, Krishna Humagain. A permanent resident of Arjundhara municipality-8 of Jhapa, Budhathoki was a bold, assertive and popular leader.
He is lived by spouse, two sons and two daughters.
The late Budhathoki had become national panchayat member in 2043BS. He later became minister of state for water resources.
He was elected to House of Representatives member from Nepali Congress from Jhapa (5) in 2064Bs and the constituent assembly member in 2070BS.
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Issues raised in special hour go unheard: Tara Lama Tamang
Sudurpaschim, Feb 6: Lawmaker Tara Lama Tamang has said the issues he raised during special hour and zero hour in federal parliament went unheard. “I repeatedly voiced for people’s welfare and concern of my constituency in the House of Representatives, but they were not addressed,” he shared the plight.
Talking to the RSS reporter from Dhangadhi, Siddha Raj Bhatta, Tamang informed that he raised pressing issues, such as border dispute, victims of wildlife reserve in Kanchanpur, sluggish construction of postal highway and river erosion. The government, however, failed to pay adequate attention to such concern, he blamed.
Although the government verbally vowed to address the problems, it did not put the words into practice, Tamang argued, adding that federal parliament was derailing from the activities and agenda required to enforce federalism.
A CPN UML leader Tamang was elected to HoR member from constituency-1 of Kanchanpur district, and had already become Province Assembly member.
“I have experienced both the Province Assembly and HoR. Province Assembly, in its first time, witnessed slew of bills as it was a new structure, while HoR did not become active to make necessary laws,” he observed.
He admits necessary laws and policies were not made to enforce federalism and constitution. “Leaders must not involve in weakening parliament, a supreme body of people’s representatives,” he said, interpreting issues in parliament as per personal/party interest is unbecoming.
Tamang underscored the need of consolidating legislature, executive and judiciary for effective performance. He wondered why the government and parliament did not pay heed to the reports submitted by parliamentary committees.
He, however, appreciated that a tentative schedule for parliament business had been prepared this time. It is positive in deed, Tamang commented.
According to him, it is failure of government and the bodies concerned to curb corruption and aberrations. To be biased and to engage in bargaining for corruption control is loathsome. The anti-corruption efforts must show clear results, Tamang stressed.
The UML lawmaker is also for continuing positive initiatives forwarded by the previous governments.
Tamang regretted, “Although criticizing each other by the political parties is normal in multi-party democracy, parties’ distancing even on agenda of development and prosperity is disappointing.”
His vision for prosperous Nepal is creation of jobs within country, launch of long-term plan and nationally important projects.
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Asian Cup and South Asian Triathlon Championship to be held in Pokhara
Kaski, Feb 6: The Asian Cup and South Asian Triathlon Championship is going to be organized in Pokhara on April 27. The championship is being held in this lake city since 2011. It has been regularly held since then except for two years due to COVID-19 pandemic.
The sports event will take place at local Lakeside. Nepal Triathlon Association is the organizer of the championship. The International Triathlon Union has already posted the date of the championship in its official website, according to Association president Nilendra Raj Shrestha.
He said the competition will be held towards the sprint event under the championship. Fifty-three athletes from 18 countries had taken part in the championship last year. The sprint event includes 750 metres swimming in the Phewa Lake, 20 kilometres cycling and five kilometres of race.
Shrestha added that the long distance race will be held from Gaurighat – Sahidchok, Mustang Chok, Birauta Chok, Damside and back to Gaurighat through Rastra Bank Chok.
Preparations have started for the championship. A meeting of the office-bearers of the central, provincial and district triathlon associations convened here on Monday decided to gear up the preparations and make the championship grand this time compared to the past editions. Association president Shrestha was also present in the meeting.
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Weather Forecast: Partly cloudy weather in hilly areas
Kathmandu, Feb 6: There is now partial influence of westerly wind in Nepal. The weather in hilly areas of the country would remain partly cloudy while it will be mainly fair in the rest of the country. Fog has occurred at few places of Tarai.
Meteorologist Saroj Pudasaini said there is possibility of partly cloudy weather in hilly areas of Koshi, Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces this afternoon and it will be fair in rest of the places.
“The sky in high-hilly and mountainous region of the country is partly cloudy. Dhangadhi of Kailali is witnessing fog while fog and mist has blanketed all areas of Tarai. Although there is no possibility of rainfall for few more days including today, snowfall is forecast in the mountainous region,” shared Pudasaini.
According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, there are chances of snowfall at one or two places of high-hilly region and mountainous region of Koshi, Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpaschim Provinces.
Currently, the air temperature in Kathmandu Valley has been measured at 10 degrees Celsius and visibility is 3,500 metres.
Similarly, today’s minimum temperature in Kathmandu Valley is recorded at 3.5 degrees Celsius and maximum temperature would remain in between 18-20 degrees Celsius, mentioned Pudasaini.
There are no chances of rainfall in Kathmandu Valley and the weather would remain mainly fair today. Tonight, weather in hilly areas of Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali provinces would remain partly cloudy and it will be fair in rest of the country.
Light snowfall has been forecast at one or two places of high-hilly areas of Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali provinces and mountainous region.
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Construction of Amarpur-Dhungesanghu transmission line begins
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has implemented a project to develop the Amarpur-Dhungesanghu 132 kV double circuit transmission line spanning from Amarpur substation at Hilihang rural municipality in Panchthar to Dhungesanghu substation at Maiwakhola rural municipality in Taplejung.
This transmission line aims to connect the 132-kV Kabeli corridor (Damak substation: Lakhanpur in Jhapa to Amarpur substation) and the 220 kV-Koshi corridor (Inaruwa substation in Sunsari to Dhungesanghu). Under the Koshi corridor, the Basantapur-Inaruwa section has already come into operation while the construction of Basantapur-Dhungesanghu section has neared the final phase. The Kabeli corridor is under operation.
The foundation stone laying ceremony for the Amarpur-Dhungesanghu transmission line was observed on Monday. Under this, around 19-kilometer transmission line, 67 towers need to be developed.
According to project chief Anup Gautam, the development of the transmission line would enhance reliability over the national grid in the western Nepal, strengthening the power supply capacity.
Power to be generated from projects based Tamor River sources will be connected to the national grid though the Dhungesanghu substation.
The project was commenced in fiscal year 2075/76 at an investment of around Rs 1.20 billion by the government. The contract for constructing the transmission line was signed in 2079 BS. Under the project, two line bays will be constructed at Amarpur and Dhungesanghu substation.
In addition to this, 11 kV structures would be constructed at Dhungesanghu substation for the supply of electricity locally. The contract for the construction of the line bays and the 11 kV structures would be signed in the current fiscal year. The target is to complete all the works under the project within the fiscal year 2081/82.
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CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Dahal’s directive to play active role in law enactment
Kathmandu, Feb 6: CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has instructed the lawmakers from his party to play an effective role in the parliament.
A meeting of the CPN (Maoist Centre) Parliamentary Party convened at the Party’s office in Singha Durbar today, he urged the party’s all lawmakers to go on refining their roles.
Stating that the government has preparations to table important bills in the current session of parliament, Chair Dahal urged the lawmakers to play active role in the law making, said Rupa Soshi Chaudhary, the Maoist Centre Whip.
The meeting also held discussions on formation of parliamentary friendship group, formulation of the policy and programmes and the budget for the next fiscal year, the 16th periodic plan, the parliament work schedule and the parliament’s and committees’ meetings as well.
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NC grieves demise of party central member Budhathoki
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The Nepali Congress (NC) has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of party central member and former minister Keshab Kumar Budhathoki.
An emergency meeting of the party central working committee took place at the party central office, Sanepa this morning paid tribute to Budhathoki, the party leader, (former) Constituent Assembly member and former General Administration Minister, extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
Budhathoki breathed his last amidst the medical treatment at Biratnagar-based Birat Medical College last night. He was born to mother Nandakumari and father Ranakeshar Budhathoki on October 7, 1944.
The party said it acknowledged a significant contribution of Budhathoki to the party’s institutional building and to the Nepal’s democratic movement.
In mourning Budhathoki’s death, the NC has decided to lower the party flag at half-mast for three days beginning on February 7 at the central office, province and district offices and postpone all the pre-scheduled official events during the period. The party’s central, provincial and district offices shall remain closed on February 7. It will be holding a condolence assembly in Jhapa on the 13th day of the demise of Budhathoki, according to party Central Office Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Poudel.
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Academic-level debate for studying impacts of migration stressed
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Emphasis has been laid on policy-level debate for the socio-economic impacts due to increasing internal and external migration as well as of the provision of basic service facilities in mountain, hill and Tara in a proportional manner.
At an academic debate organised by the Central Department of Population Studies of the Tribhuvan University with the collaboration of UN International Office of Migration in Nepal here today, speakers urged to find out reasons and measures to stop migration as migration from mountain to urban areas and Tarai areas as well as foreign countries is increasing.
Stating that although birth and death of human is natural, migration is unnatural, Dean of Humanities and Social Science faculty of the Tribhuvan University, Prof Dr Kushum Shakya, stressed the need of appropriate policy to analyse the data of migration seen in recent national census.
Similarly, Deputy Chief of National Statistics Office, Dr Hemraj Regmi, mentioned that though there is now no problem of high birthrate in the country, migration has become a problem and dimension.
He shared that as per the recent national census, around 4.4 million Nepali citizen were migrated inside the country and abroad.
Likewise, Chief of Central Department of Population Studies, Dr Yogendra Bahadur Gurung, pointed out that studying the impacts of migration is the work of the academic world while Prof Dr Dinesh Bhuju argued that migration should not be considered as the matter of concern as it is taking place since ancestors.
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Half-yearly economic review: forex reserves reaches 1816.57 billion
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The half-yearly review of the current fiscal year 2080-81 BS( 2-23-24), showed the Gross foreign exchange reserves stood at NPR 1816.57 billion and 13.69 billion in USD terms, with a 18-percent rise in the past six months.
According to the current macroeconomic and financial situation of Nepal based on the six months data ending on mid-January assesses by the central bank, the current size of the foreign exchange reserves is bigger than the country’s annual budget and this is the highest forex reserves so far.
The report states gross foreign exchange reserves increased 18.0 percent to Rs.1816.57 billion in mid-January 2024 from Rs.1539.36 billion in mid-July 2023. In the US dollar terms, the gross foreign exchange reserves increased 16.9 percent to 13.69 billion in mid-January 2024 from 11.71 billion in mid-July 2023.
Of the total foreign exchange reserves, reserves held by NRB increased 18.9 percent to Rs.1600.23 billion in mid-January 2024 from Rs.1345.78 billion in mid-July 2023.
Reserves held by banks and financial institutions (except NRB) increased 11.8 percent to Rs.216.35 billion in mid-January 2024 from Rs.193.59 billion in mid-July 2023. The share of Indian currency in total reserves stood at 22.5 percent in mid- January 2024. Based on the imports of six months of 2023/24, the foreign exchange reserves of the banking sector is sufficient to cover the prospective merchandise imports of 14.5 months, and merchandise and services imports of 12.1 months. The ratio of reserves-to-GDP, reserves-to-imports and reserves to-M2 stood at 33.8 percent, 100.9 percent and 27.7 percent respectively in mid-January 2024.
Such ratios were 28.6 percent, 83 percent and 25 percent respectively in mid-July 2023.
The current account remained at a surplus of Rs.161.62 billion in the review period against a deficit of Rs.35.57 billion in the same period of the previous year. In the US Dollar terms, the current account registered a surplus of 1.21 billion in the review period against a deficit of 279.6 million sin the same period last year.
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Finance Minister directs employees to carry out works with tangible results
Kapilbastu, Feb 6: Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat has directed the employees to carry out works showing results, saying he is ready to fulfill their justified demands.
Issuing directives after inspecting the Krishnanagar Customs and Internal Revenue Office here today, he said, “The employees would be evaluated on the basis of their work performance notwithstanding their position and responsibilities.”
Finance Minister Mahat opined that it would not be difficult to meet the revenue targets if the realistic evaluation of the business is done adopting discipline and in a transparent manner. He urged the customs and revenue employees to take into consideration the constantly changing nature of trade and business.
Stating that internal revenue and customs are intricately related, he said, “Monitoring of trade and business from the revenue perspective would be easier if the customs identified which goods came legally and which did not.”
Minister Mahat stated that many goods have now been brought under the tax net and the transaction volume and the amount of income can be known from that. “The number of service-based business like hotels, restaurants etc is increasing. How many new business enterprises have been registered and their transaction volume should be constantly monitored. They should be linked to the tax system,” he added.
The Finance Minister directed the employees to strive towards increasing the revenue, maintaining discipline and transparency. “Nobody should be unnecessarily harassed. The customs and revenue employees should also not shut their eyes. They should be serious their duty and responsibilities,” he further added.
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Eleven rhinos found dead in CNP in current fiscal year
Chitwan, Feb 6: Eleven rhinos have been found dead in Chitwan National Park (CNP) and surrounding areas in the current fiscal year. Of these, two were killed by poachers while nine died due to natural causes, said Ganesh Prasad Tiwari, the CNP Information Officer.
According to him, the natural causes of the rhino deaths include getting stuck in bog, ill health, fighting with each other, attacks by tiger and old age. Tiwari said the male rhino that was found dead on the bank of the Rapti river in west Chitwan on Monday had died due to old age. He added that the horn and hooves of the about 30-year-old pachyderm were found intact.
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Japan provides 240 sets of Judo sports uniform
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Japan has provided 240 sets of Judo uniform to Nepal Judo Association. At a programme organised by the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu today, Japanese Ambassador to Nepal, Kikuta Yutaka, handed over the Judo uniforms to Association President Deepak Harsha Bajracharya.
On the occasion, Ambassador Kikuta expressed the belief that this support would help encourage the Judo players of Nepal, who are in training targeting the Asian Games and Aichi-Nagoya 2026.
He mentioned that Judo skill for the players contribute to healthy body as well as physical and mental development of youths.
Stating that Judo players of Nepal would be encouraged from this support, Association President Bajracharya extended gratitude towards Japan for the cooperation.
All Japan Judo Federation and ‘Judos’ had provided the Judo uniforms. Judo Association officials, members, national and international judo players of Nepal were present on the occasion.
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New chapter of mutual cooperation and coordination has initiated: Chinese Ambassador
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Nepal Bar Association (NBA) representatives and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal, Chen Song, held a courtesy meeting today.
On the occasion, Ambassador Chen said that a new chapter of mutual cooperation and coordination has started between the two countries and expressed the belief that this would be further deepened in the coming days.
In the meeting took place at the Embassy of China here, discussions were held on the legal practices between the two countries, use of newest information technology, training and on various matters of bilateral interest, among others, NBA said.
The NBA delegation led by the Association president Gopal Krishna Ghimire comprised of vice-president Harka Bahadur Rawal, general-secretary Anjita Khanal, treasurer Bharat Raut, secretary Abharat Lakai, central member Nirvaya Raj Poudel and project coordinator Sarita Sapkota.
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Half-yearly economic review depicts positive trend for indicators
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The half-yearly review of the current fiscal year 2080-81 BS (2023-24) suggests positive trends in various economic and financial indicators. According to the central bank’s assessment, based on the six months’ data ending in mid-January, there is an improvement in overall economic and financial indicators.
Remittance inflows increased by 25.3 percent to reach Rs.733.22 billion in the review period, compared to a 24.3 percent increase in the same period last year. In US Dollar terms, remittance inflows rose by 22.6 percent to 5.52 billion compared to an increase of 13.9 percent in the same period of the previous year.
In the review period, the number of Nepali workers, both institutional and individual, taking first-time approval for foreign employment stands at 207,970 and taking approval for renew entry stands at 135,435. In the previous year, such numbers were 275,643 and 142,548 respectively.
Net transfer increased 24 percent to Rs.799.51 billion in the review period. Such a transfer had increased 22.7 percent in the same period of the previous year.
Balance of Payments (BOP) remained at a surplus of Rs.273.52 billion in the review period against a surplus of Rs.92.15 billion in the same period of the previous year. In the US Dollar terms, the BOP remained at a surplus of 2.06 billion in the review period against a surplus of 697.4 million in the same period of the previous year.
Gross foreign exchange reserves increased by 18.0 percent to Rs.1816.57 billion in mid-January 2024 from Rs.1539.36 billion in mid-July 2023. In the US dollar terms, the gross foreign exchange reserves saw an increase of 16.9 percent to reach 13.69 billion in mid-January 2024 from 11.71 billion in mid-July 2023.
Similarly, broad money (M2) increased by 6.4 percent while on y-o-y basis, M2 expanded by 14.3 percent.
Deposits at banks and financial institutions rose by 6.6 percent and private sector credit increased 4 percent. On y-o-y basis, deposits increased 14.9 percent and private sector credit increased 4.9 percent. The y-o-y consumer price inflation moderated to 5.26 percent in mid-January 2024 compared to 7.26 percent a year ago. Food and beverage category inflation stood at 5.77 percent whereas non-food and service category inflation stood at 4.85 percent in the review month.
As the report state, the y-o-y price index of ghee and oil, vegetables, meat & fish and transportation sub-categories exhibited a downward trend in mid-January 2024. Additionally, price index of spices and sugar and sugar products are also moderating. During the review month, the y-o-y import price index, salary and wage rate index and the wholesale price index also moderated. These factors contributed to a moderated consumer price inflation
Under the Food and Beverage Category, y-o-y price index of ghee and oil, vegetable and meat and fish sub-category decreased by 13.07 percent, 1.04 percent and 0.06 percent respectively in the review month. The y-o-y price index of spices sub-category increased by 35.60 percent, cereal grains and their products 11.38 percent, pulses and legumes 11.14 percent, milk products and eggs 10.29 percent and fruit 10.15 percent.
Under the Non-Food and Services Category, y-o-y price index of transportation sub-category decreased by 1.62 percent in the review month. The y-o-y price index of recreation and culture subcategory increased by 12.84 percent, miscellaneous goods and services 9.73 percent, education 8.92 percent, furnishing and household equipment 5.18 percent and clothes and footwear 4.96 percent.
The y-o-y consumer price inflation in the Kathmandu Valley, Terai, Hill and Mountain region stood at 5.76 percent, 4.78 percent, 5.40 percent and 6.57 percent respectively in the review month. Such inflation in these regions was 6.93 percent, 7.49 percent, 7.30 percent and 6.69 percent respectively a year ago.
The y-o-y wholesale price inflation stood at 3.36 percent in mid-January 2024 compared to 9.82 percent a year ago. The y-o-y wholesale price index of consumption goods, intermediate goods and capital goods increased 6.16 percent, 1.99 percent and 2.71 percent respectively. The y-o-y wholesale price index of construction material decreased 1.08 percent in the review month. The y-o-y salary and wage rate index increased 5.56 percent in mid-January 2024 compared to 10.27 percent a year ago. The y-o-y Salary index and Wage rate index increased 1.05 and 6.92 percent respectively in the review month.
Imports fell by 3.1 percent, exports by 7.2 percent and trade deficit by 2.6 percent.
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Media, social network found insensitive on children’s issues
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Speakers have expressed the view that with the growing access to and use of the internet, exposure to insensitive contents related to children has increased and the situation would become worse if it is not controlled.
They said not only social media, but also mainstream media are not serious on the issue of child rights and safety.
At a national workshop organised by Press Council Nepal here today, the speakers pointed out the need of effective regulation and monitoring of media and social media contents that violated the existing laws related to child rights.
Similarly, the bodies and sides concerned should be responsible to address the issue through the law, they underscored.
Chairperson of Education, Health and Information Technology Committee under the House of Representatives, Bhanu Bhakta Joshi, stressed that the issue of child rights should be taken seriously in course of making laws related to communications and information technology sector.
He expressed commitment to take the issues of child rights and child safety sensitivity seriously in course of laws formulation.
“I have realized how important the role of parliamentary committee is in the field of children. I express commitment to hold discussion on such issues seriously during the debate in the committee on the bill related to media,” Joshi mentioned.
It was necessary to further clarify the role of media in the sector of child rights through laws, he said, adding the Committee would pay special attention in formulating new laws and amending existing laws for the same.
Similarly, Press Council Nepal Chairperson Bal Krishna Basnet pointed out that media should be responsible towards self-regulation and follow the code of ethics.
He explained that solution of negative impacts in society created by media should be sought at a time when the use of media has become mandatory.
“It is necessary for media to do self-review. Let’s debate what type of communication policy and laws we need,” said Basnet, adding that it should not be kept beyond the ambit of regulation in the present situation where use of social network has become mandatory for mainstream media, though regulation of social network is challenging.
Rights activist and Professor Dr Kundan Aryal said along with the media the civil society also plays a key role on online security of children. “It is necessary for us all to understand that cyber security too is an important aspect of children’s security. The wider accessibility of internet and use of digital media is increasing this risk,” he said.
As he said, the media and social organisations should raise the issue of implementation of the provisions in the existing laws to that regard. Now, not only media literacy but digital literacy is also necessary, he reiterated.
Prof Aryal also pointed out the need of extensive studies and research regarding what impact the issues raised by social networking sites and media are having on juvenile security.
Executive-director of Voice of Children, Krishna Kumar Thapa, said that children are becoming insecure due to the internet. “Internet is also essential at present, but when provided to children it increases their vulnerability. The media should also raise this issue with due seriousness,” he said.
Thapa referred to news some years back that a foreigner abused children in Nepal through online and urged the security bodies to be alert on such issues.
Press Council Nepal’s chief officer Jhabindra Bhusal had made a presentation on ‘media on children and child-friendly communication guidelines’ on the occasion.
Physical, mental, social and psychological abuses against children using various sorts of social media are on an increasing trend.
In several instances the mainstream media are also found insensitive on children’s rights and their privacy by indiscriminately publishing photos and disseminating videos involving children.
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Taskforce formed to develop in integrated information system for emergency services
Kathmandu, Feb 6: A task force has been formed with the aim of creating an integrated information system capable of promptly relaying emergency texts sent by individuals through mobile or landline phones to a central information hub for swift response in providing emergency services.
Coordinated by Joint Secretary Bharat Mani Pandey at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, the 11-member task force includes one representative each from key government ministries such as Home, Health and Population, Communications and Information Technology, Federal Affairs and General Administration, and from the Nepal Army and Armed Police Force while two members are from the Nepal Police.
Information and communications expert Bijay Gautam is also a member of the task force.
The system to be developed ahead will have a system to ensure ambulance, firefighting, police, and primary health facilities during emergency in an integrated way, according to the Ministry.
A meeting of stakeholders held on Monday in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, had given 15 days’ deadline to the taskforce to present concept paper and action plan regarding delivery of emergency services.
Nepal Police’s hotline number 100, fire engine’s 101, ambulance 102 and Traffic Police’s 103 are in use for emergency service.
With the launching of new service, all citizens would be able to report their problems in the central system using a single number.
The information received at the central information system would be forwarded to the concerned body immediately. Coordinator Pandey shared that activities have been forwarded to bring different equipment in use for the delivery of emergency services.
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Hetauda Cement Industry resumes production
Makwanpur, Feb 6: Hetauda Cement Industry has resumed production of cement after a gap of three and a half months. The industry had stopped production due to the lack of coal required for cement production.
Naveen Kumar Karna, Deputy General Manager of the industry, said that it was difficult to purchase coal due to the financial crisis in the industry. The production started after 1,800 metric tons of coal was purchased recently.
The industry requires 100 metric tons of coal every day. Meanwhile, General Manager of the Industry, Basant Raj Pandey, said that the industry will not be closed in the near future as there will be regular supply of coal. The industry that has the capacity of producing 18,000 sacks of cement per day it can now produce only 10,000 sacks due to the worn-out machines.
The cement industry has been producing cement commercially since 2043. Currently, 150 people are directly employed by the industry. General Manager Pandey said negotiations are going one with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies to install new equipment and provide subsidy for the purchase of necessary raw materials including coal.
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No changes in international recognition, NRCS says
Kathmandu, Feb 6 : The Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) has said that there have been no changes in its status on the membership and international recognition of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
Issuing a press statement today, the NRCS said that it received membership of the IFRC 60 years ago and there has been change on it since then. Based on the same status, the NRCS is involved in the humanitarian work across the country after being registered as per the country’s laws, it said.
Likewise, the NRCS said that it has carried out its annual audit, annual general meeting, social welfare council affiliation, approval for the international assistance, recommendation from the local government and all the legal obligations for the organization’s renewal.
After a long hiatus, the NRCS is carrying out is functions under the leadership of Prof Sudarshan Prasad Nepal following the election of a new working committee on July 18, 2023. General Secretary of NRCS Bhupatilal Shrestha said that the organization is also carrying out partnership by further strengthening its international relations.
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President appoints Pandey as general-secretary of federal parliament
Kathmandu, Feb 6 : President Ramchandra Paudel has appointed Padma Prasad Pandey as the general-secretary of the Federal Parliament on the joint recommendation of House of Representatives (HoR) Speaker and National Assembly Chairperson. He was serving as acting general-secretary of the federal parliament.
Earlier today, President Paudel had approved the resignation Pandey tendered from the post of acting general-secretary. President Paudel appointed Pandey, a resident of Ribdikot rural municipality-9, Palpa, to the post as per Article 106 (1) of the Constitution, stated a press release issued by Spokesperson of the President’s Office, Shailaja Regmi Bhattarai.
Prior to this, Pandey had served the federal parliament secretariat as the secretary.
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Nepal eliminated from SAFF Championship
Kathmandu, Feb 6 : Nepal has been eliminated from the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-19 Women’s Football Championship.
Nepal was beaten by India by 0-4 in the last match under the league round held in Dhaka, Bangladesh today. With this win, India has reached the final of the championship.
The match today ended in a goal-less draw in the first half. But India scored four goals in the second half. Neha scored in the 54th and 81st minute. Similarly, Sulanjana Rahul added another goal for India in the 85th minute while Cindy Colney’s goal in the additional time (90+3 minutes) made it 4-0 for India.
In the first match of the Championship, India had defeated Bhutan 10-1 while it lost to Bangladesh 0-1. Similarly, Bangladesh defeated Nepal 3-1 in the first match while Nepal secured victory against Bhutan by 1-0 in the second match.
India will face Bangladesh in the final match of the championship.
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Human rights friendly governance is government’s priority: PM Dahal
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said that human rights-friendly governance is a priority for the present government.
Addressing a human rights award distribution ceremony held at the Singha Durbar today, Prime Minister Dahal it is the government’s priority to ensure a human rights-friendly system based on good governance, transparency, accountability and the rule of law. The government has also given high priority to respect, protection and fulfillment of human rights.
Stating that most of human rights are included under fundamental rights by the Constitution, Prime Minister Dahal said that various constitutional commissions, including the National Human Rights Commission, the National Women’s Commission have been established and are functioning to ensure protection of human rights through effective monitoring and supervision.
Remedy for violation of human rights has been constitutionally guaranteed through an independent and competent judiciary, Prime Minister Dahal said and called for coordination with non-governmental organizations and civil society to ensure respect, protection and fulfillment of human rights.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister also shared that the government has decided to establish a human rights award fund to recognize the contribution of individuals and organizations working in the field of human rights.
Stating that the government is active in fulfilling its obligations under international human rights treaties, Prime Minister Dahal said Nepal is expressing solidarity and working accordingly for the respect, protection and fulfillment of human rights globally by actively participating in the international forum on human rights.
He also emphasized on effective implementation of the national action plan on human rights in coordination between all three levels of government, and organizations and civil society leaders active in the field of human rights.
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Problems due to misuse of trade unions: Minister Sharma
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that problems have been faced since the delivery was as per the essence of the trade unions, while questions were raised over their misuse.
Minister Sharma said so while responding to the queries raised by parliamentarians in the clause-wise discussion on the Bill related to Security Printing Press at the House of Representatives’ Committee for Education, Health and Information Technology on Tuesday. “There would not have been any problems if the trade unions were used properly. There have been problems because the unions are misused,” she said.
On the Bill that was registered at the federal parliament some three years ago to pave the way for establishment of a security printing press, the Minister said, “If the Bill has mentioned anything regarding the employees, we will look at it. Otherwise, I think there is no need to mention anything or consider amendment.”
Prior to that, parliamentarian Mahesh Bartaula, on the behalf of those seeking amendment in the Bill, said that the security printing press was a matter of national importance and pride, and thus suggested to use polymers (polymeric materials) to print bank notes.
He viewed that the special attention should be paid towards the aspects of sensitive, credibility and confidentially when it came to security printing press and spoke of the need to recruit permanent, dedicated and committed employees for maintaining that.
According to him, over Rs 12 billion was being sent abroad annually for lack of a security printing press in the country and thus pressed for the need for the parliament to provide legal ground to prevent money from going abroad.
Furthermore, he urged the parliament to put legal provision in place now for the foreigners to avail service from security printing press.
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Parliamentary committee endorses M&E bill with amendments
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The House of Representatives (HoR) State Affairs and Good Governance Committee has unanimously endorsed the Monitoring and Evaluation Bill with amendment.
At the 22nd meeting of the committee on Tuesday, Committee Chair Ramhari Khatiwada said the bill that was registered in the National Assembly has been unanimously endorsed with amendments.
The bill once endorsed will be easier to monitor and fix irregularities by bringing all responsible agencies and individuals, including the project chiefs, contractor companies, governments, ministers and office chiefs to right track in course of executing development policy and plan.
The bill has stipulated provisions for promoting responsibility and accountability in the course of implementing development policy and plan. It aims to make the monitoring and evaluation of development policy and plan factual, credible, quality, managed, result-oriented and effective towards enhancing cost effectiveness.
Khatiwada said the bill related to the roles and responsibilities of the constitutional council is under final round discussion.
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Foreign Minister to attend 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Prakash Saud is leaving for Perth, Australia tomorrow to participate in the 7th Indian Ocean Conference being jointly organized by the Government of Australia and India Foundation from February 9 to 10.
Minister Saud is scheduled to address the Conference being held on the theme, ‘Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean,’ on February 10, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
While in Perth, Minister Saud will hold bilateral meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia Senator Penny Wong. In the margins of the Conference, the Foreign Minister is also scheduled to hold meetings with participating heads of delegation from friendly countries.
Likewise, Minister Saud will visit Wellington, New Zealand for a bilateral meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand Winston Peters on February 14. The meeting will be preceded by the Second Foreign Ministry Consultation Meeting between the senior officials of the Ministries.
Minister Saud is accompanied by his spouse Jyotshna Adhikari Saud and officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador of Nepal to Australia Kailash Raj Pokharel will also join the Nepali delegation.
The Minister Foreign is scheduled to return to Kathmandu on February 15, adds the Ministry.
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Civil society leaders, politicians urge to unite to strengthen federal system
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The civil society leaders and politicians of different political parties have said that all should be equally responsible to strengthen the existing political system obtained from the long struggle and sacrifices of the people. They also stated that the federal democratic republic system has not been run as effectively as per people’s expectations.
At a programme organized by Nepal Study Centre in Kathmandu on Tuesday, they argued that expected reforms were not obtained as political parties continue to carry on their traditional mindset and the constitutionally envisaged mechanisms were not active.
Civil society leader Dr Devendra Raj Pandey said that public concerns are there whether the system could not be run effectively as per the public expectations. “Effectiveness of the system has not accelerated as some mechanisms have not worked by keeping people at the centre,” Dr Pandey, the former minister said.
Prof Krishna Khanal argued that existing structures of the political parties should be changed to make the partisan system more robust adding that public resentment was on the rise as political parties were more engaged in surface politics.
Likewise, Archana Thapa stated that existing democratic exercises were not sufficient to meet people’s expectations and viewed that the principle of inclusiveness was not fully implemented.
Political analyst Hari Sharma said that there should be reforms in the system by carrying out a review on the effectiveness of constitutionally formed mechanisms. During the event, CPN (UML) leader Prithvi Subba Gurung said that Federal Civil Service Act and Police Act should be finalized soon for the effective implementation of federal democratic republic.
Nepali Congress leader Dr Minendra Rijal viewed that effectiveness of the system is not likely until we ensure reforms in the electoral system. General Secretary of CPN (Unified Socialist) Ghanshyam Bhusal stated that public criticisms to the system have increased for lack of a competent figure to lead the republican system.
Similarly, former Speaker and CPN (Maoist Centre) leader Onsari Gharti asked the youths to take initiatives along with alternative to make the system strong and effective instead of mere criticisms.
Chief whip of Rastriya Swatantra Party Santosh Pariyar observed that lack of a true leadership to lead the republican system has led to ineffective delivery.
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Revenue worth Rs 790 million collected from traffic defaulters
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Public revenue worth Rs 797.1 million has been collected from road traffic violators across the country in the first six months of the current fiscal year.
The revenue was gathered by taking action against 1,052,055 drivers during the reporting period. Among the revenue collected was Rs 322.2 million from the Kathmandu Valley, Rs 78.7 million from the Koshi province, Rs 100.5 million from Madhes, Rs 70.8 million from Bagmati, Rs 81.8 million from Gandaki, Rs 93.8 million from the Lumbini, Rs 15.6 million from Karnali and Rs 24.2 million from Sudurpaschim province.
Likewise, among other sources of revenue include Rs 151.9 million from truck/tanker, Rs 92 million from bus/mini bus, Rs 189 million from car/jeep/van, Rs 28.8 million from tractors, Rs 311.7 million from motorbike and Rs 25.3 million from tempo and other vehicles.
According to the Central Police News Room, over 1.52 million vehicle drivers faced action during the period. Motorbike riders faced the highest number of actions for breaching the traffic rules.
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31- Nomination for best youth sports person and coach announced
Kathmandu, Feb 6: Nomination of best youth sportsperson and coach of the year for the NSJF Pulsar Sports Award-2079 BS has been announced.
Altogether eight sportspersons delivering their best performance in various sports competitions have been nominated in the Award to be presented by the Nepal Sports Journalists Forum (NSJF).
The awards will be distributed amid a programme to be organized on February 11. Bijaya Bata and Sushma Tamang have been nominated from boxing while Dev Khanal and Deepesh Kandel are nominated from cricket.
Ram Maya Budha of athletics, Sadhbhav Acharya of Golf, Sujata Tamang and Yunesh Budhathoki of football and Sushma Tamang of boxing have also been nominated for the best youth sportsperson award.
Similarly, the nominated coaches are Ananta Thapa and Bhagawati Rana Magar of football, Bharat Shah of Volleyball, Chandra Gurung of Athletics, Deepak Maharjan of boxing and Jagat Tamata and Monti Desai of Cricket and Angden Lama of swimming.
Three among the eight nominated best coaches will be shortlisted as the top three and one among them will be awarded as the winner, according to the NSJF.
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Human rights award to MAHURI-Home and Rajbhandari
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The human rights awards-2080 were presented to Madhes Human Rights Home (MAHURI-Home) on institutional category and Dr Renu Rajbhandari on individual category.
At a programme organized here Wednesday by the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ handed over the awards to Rabindranath Thakur of MAHURI-Home and Rajbhandari in recognition of their contribution to the human rights sector.
The award carries a purse of Rs 111,111 each along with a letter of appreciation. The human rights day has been celebrated in Nepal as per the United Nations decision to mark the 50 years since the adoption of United Nations Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
On the occasion, PM Dahal said that the government has laid high emphasis on human rights respect, preservation and protection agreeing upon the fact that human dignity, values and human civilization cannot be preserved without human rights.
Likewise, Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Dhanraj Gurung said it was the shared responsibility to promote, protect and preserve human rights as a culture by realizing the obligations under the international human rights instruments.
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Joint military exercise of Nepali and US armies begin
Kathmandu, Feb 6: The joint military training ‘X Balance Nail’ has commenced between the Nepali and US armies. Started in 2060 BS, this is the 41st edition of such joint exercise, according to the Military Public Relations and Information Directorate of Nepal Army.
The NA Directorate shared that a total of 46 army personnel including 10 from the US Army are taking part in the exercise. The training is focused on disaster management, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance and others, taking place at Chhauni and Nagarkot areas and will continue till March 7.
The Nepali Army is organizing and attending joint military exercises with the USA, the UK, India, China, Mongolia, Indonesia and other countries on search and rescue operations, disaster management, counter terrorism, mountaineering, UN Peacekeeping Mission and other areas.
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