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Report: 99 of World’s 100 Most Polluted Cities in Asia, New Study Finds

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A recent report by IQAir has shed light on the alarming state of air pollution worldwide, with Asia bearing the brunt of the crisis. According to the study, all but one of the 100 cities with the worst air quality last year were located in Asia, raising significant concerns about the health risks faced by billions of people globally.

The report highlights that a staggering 83 of these cities were in India, with pollution levels exceeding the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines by more than 10 times. The study focused on fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, which poses the greatest threat to human health due to its ability to penetrate deep into lung tissue and enter the bloodstream.

Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir, emphasized the profound impact of air pollution on public health, noting that it could potentially reduce individuals’ lifespan by several years. He underscored the urgent need for improved air quality to prevent unnecessary suffering and premature deaths.

Begusarai, a city in northern India’s Bihar state, topped the list as the world’s most polluted city last year, with PM2.5 concentrations exceeding WHO guidelines by 23 times. Other Indian cities, including Guwahati, Delhi, and Mullanpur, also ranked among the most polluted globally.

The report highlights the disproportionate impact of air pollution on South Asia, where 29 of the 30 most polluted cities were located. This concentration of pollution poses significant challenges for public health and underscores the need for urgent action to address the root causes of air pollution.

While the report identified a few bright spots, including improvements in air quality in some regions, it also emphasized the need for concerted efforts to tackle air pollution on a global scale. Increased pressure from communities, NGOs, and scientists to monitor air quality signals a growing recognition of the importance of addressing this critical issue.

As the world grapples with the health and environmental consequences of air pollution, urgent action is needed to reduce emissions and protect the health and well-being of billions of people worldwide.

UN Weather Agency Issues Red Alert on Global Warming Crisis

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Geneva — In a stark warning issued by the United Nations weather agency, the world has been put on red alert regarding the escalating crisis of global warming. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) released its State of the Global Climate report on Tuesday, revealing alarming increases in greenhouse gases, land and water temperatures, and the rapid melting of glaciers and sea ice. The report highlights that the world’s efforts to combat these trends have fallen woefully short.

Celeste Saulo, the agency’s secretary-general, expressed grave concern, stating, “Never have we been so close, albeit on a temporary basis, to the 1.5-degree Celsius lower limit of the Paris agreement on climate change.” The 12-month period from March 2023 to February 2024 surpassed the 1.5-degree Celsius limit, averaging 1.56 degrees Celsius higher, according to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Service.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres underscored the urgency of the situation, noting, “Earth is issuing a distress call. The latest State of the Global Climate report shows a planet on the brink.” He emphasized the role of fossil fuel pollution in exacerbating climate chaos.

The report outlined alarming statistics, including over 90% of ocean waters experiencing heatwave conditions, record losses of ice from glaciers, and Antarctic sea ice retreating to its lowest level ever recorded. Jonathan Overpeck, dean of the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability, described the situation as a “meltdown phase,” both literally and figuratively, due to warming and mass loss from polar ice sheets.

Despite the grim outlook, the report noted a glimmer of hope in the rise of renewable energy generation capacity, which increased nearly 50% from 2022 to a total of 510 gigawatts. However, the urgency of the crisis demands immediate and concerted action.

The release of the report coincides with a gathering of climate experts and government ministers in Copenhagen, Denmark, to push for greater climate action and increased national commitments to combat global warming. Andrew Weaver, a former British Columbia lawmaker and climate scientist, lamented the lack of substantive action from elected leaders, urging a shift away from political grandstanding towards meaningful climate policy advancements.

As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, the WMO’s red alert serves as a clarion call for urgent and decisive action to mitigate the devastating impacts of global warming on our planet and future generations

What the ancient Indian text Bhagavad Gita can teach about not putting too much of our identity and emotions into work

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 Robert J. Stephens, Clemson University
Krishna explains to Arjuna that his actions or karma should follow dharma, the religious and social obligations inherent in his role as a warrior of the Pandavas. And the proper dharmic attitude toward the results of action is nonattachment. 

The word that describes this nonattachment is “nishkama,” or without desire – the proper spirit in which karma is to be undertaken. From the perspective of the Gita – a perspective shared widely in traditional Indian thought – desire is inherently problematic due to its insistent preoccupation with the self. By reducing desire, however, one can perform one’s work or action without the constant distraction of seeking praise or avoiding blame.

Furthermore, since knowing the outcome of one’s actions is impossible, the Gita advises performing one’s duties without a sense of ego in a spirit of service to the world. “Therefore, without attachment, always do whatever action has to be done; for it is through acting without attachment that one attains the highest state,” as Krishna says to Arjuna (3.19). 

The flow state

In his modern classic “Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience,” psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi writes about the optimal mental state that may be experienced while performing an engaging task. Csikszentmihalyi describes “flow” as a mental state where one is fully immersed in the task at hand. In such a state, attention is focused on the work being done without any self-conscious concerns about performance or outcome.

By way of example, Csikszentmihalyi asked readers to consider downhill skiing. He noted that while one is fully engaged in the process itself, there is no place for distraction. For a skier, he said, “There is no room in your awareness for conflicts and contradictions; you know that distracting thought or emotion might get you buried face down in the snow.”

Csikszentmihalyi’s research suggests that problems like distraction, feeling detached from one’s work, and job dissatisfaction can arise when people lose sight of the action of work itself. As Csikszentmihalyi writes, “The problem arises when people are so fixated on what they want to achieve that they cease to derive pleasure from the present. When that happens, they forfeit their chance of contentment.” 

Acting without attachment

A fragmented mind that approaches work or action with an agenda of gaining power, wealth or fame cannot perform at its best. The Gita suggests that the secret to success at work is cultivating a balanced state of mind that isn’t fixated on ego inflation and self-promotion.

It is impossible to be fully present during the performance of a task if one is speculating about unknowable future contingencies or ruminating about past outcomes. Likewise, for Csikszentmihalyi, cultivating the “flow state” means actively remaining present and engaged while performing a task. 

Csikszentmihalyi’s writings about the “flow state” resonate with the advice of Krishna in the Gita: “As ignorant people perform their duties with attachment to the results, O scion of Bharat (an epithet for Arjuna), so should the wise act without attachment, for the sake of leading people on the right path” (3.25). 

Nishkama karma and the “flow state” are not identical ideas. However, they share at least one fundamental assumption: Focusing on the task at hand, with no thought of gain or loss, is necessary for achieving our best, most satisfying work.

(From : The Conversation)

India Gears Up for Largest Democratic Exercise as 970 Million Voters Prepare to Elect New Parliament

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India is poised to embark on its monumental democratic journey once again as the Election Commission announced the schedule for the parliamentary elections, slated to be the world’s largest democratic exercise. With a staggering 970 million registered voters, the upcoming elections will witness a colossal display of democracy in action.

The Election Commission unveiled on Saturday that the elections will unfold in seven phases, commencing from April 19th and culminating on June 1st, spanning over a duration of 44 days. This meticulous planning aims to ensure smooth conduct and maximal participation across the vast expanse of the nation.

To orchestrate this mammoth endeavor, a workforce comprising a staggering 15 million polling officials and security personnel has been mobilized. Their mandate is to guarantee the integrity of the electoral process and maintain law and order during the polling period.

Facilitating the democratic exercise are 5.5 million electronic voting machines (EVMs), a testament to India’s commitment to modernize its electoral process. These machines will be deployed across more than a million polling stations spread throughout the country.

One of the hallmarks of Indian electoral regulations is the provision stipulating that a polling station must be within two kilometers (1.2 miles) of every domicile. This provision underscores the nation’s dedication to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in the electoral process, thereby enabling citizens from all walks of life to exercise their fundamental right to vote.

The forthcoming elections in India not only signify the vibrancy of its democratic fabric but also serve as a testament to the resilience of its electoral machinery. With the stage set for the grand spectacle of democracy, the world will keenly observe as India undertakes yet another historic electoral odyssey.

India to Enact Controversial Citizenship Law Amid Criticism

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India’s government has announced plans to enact the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), a move that has sparked controversy and drawn criticism for its perceived anti-Muslim bias. The law, passed in 2019, aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, who are facing persecution.

Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah confirmed the development, stating that the law’s implementation was delayed due to various factors, including the Covid-19 pandemic. The CAA’s rules have now been finalized, allowing eligible individuals to apply for Indian citizenship online.

The announcement has reignited protests in some states, with opposition parties condemning the timing, accusing the government of political maneuvering ahead of the upcoming elections. Critics argue that the law undermines India’s secular principles and could be used to target its Muslim population.

Despite assurances from the government that the law is aimed at aiding persecuted minorities, concerns persist regarding its potential repercussions and exclusionary nature. The move has intensified political tensions, with opposition leaders questioning the timing and motives behind the sudden implementation of the CAA.

As India prepares for the upcoming elections, the enactment of the controversial citizenship law adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape, highlighting ongoing debates over identity, inclusion, and religious freedom

Asif Ali Zardari Elected President of Pakistan in Deal with Prime Minister Allies

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Islamabad — Pakistan’s political landscape witnessed a significant maneuver as Asif Ali Zardari secured a second term as president through a strategic alliance with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s supporters. The veteran politician garnered 411 votes, surpassing the candidate backed by former leader Imran Khan, who managed only 181 votes, according to the Election Commission.

The presidency, though largely ceremonial following Zardari’s previous stint in 2009, still holds sway behind the scenes. Analysts foresee a recurring pattern in such political agreements, underscoring the power dynamics within Pakistan’s governance.

Zardari’s re-election comes amidst his co-chairmanship of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), the third-largest entity in the National Assembly. While the PPP pledged support to Sharif as prime minister, it refrained from direct involvement in his cabinet, raising concerns about the government’s stability.

The political landscape’s uncertainty could jeopardize Sharif’s efforts to secure substantial loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and implement necessary reforms. PPP’s stance against state-run enterprise privatization adds another layer of complexity to the IMF negotiations.

Political commentator Zahid Hussain remarked on the PPP’s newfound influence, suggesting that Sharif’s administration might be influenced by Zardari’s party. Zardari himself expressed readiness to collaborate with Sharif to tackle Pakistan’s economic challenges.

As a seasoned political operator, Zardari’s journey from a cinema business heir to a key figure in Pakistani politics has been marked by controversies and alliances. His marriage to Benazir Bhutto propelled him into the limelight, earning him the moniker “Mr. 10%” due to corruption allegations.

Despite bouts of imprisonment and political turbulence, Zardari has emerged as a pivotal player, adept at navigating alliances and negotiations with the military. His presidency symbolizes a potential tool for the military establishment to exert influence over the Sharif faction, as suggested by Shaista Tabassum, an international relations expert.

Zardari succeeds Arif Alvi, a close ally of former premier Khan, whose resistance to a no-confidence vote in 2022 strained relations with Sharif’s government. However, analysts anticipate a smoother relationship under Zardari’s leadership, emphasizing his strategic acumen in political maneuvering.

For now, Pakistan braces for a new chapter under Zardari’s presidency, characterized by intricate power dynamics and looming economic challenges, as alliances and negotiations shape the country’s future trajectory.

Nepalese Authorities Crack Down on Luxury Facilities at Everest Base Camp

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Kathmandu — In a bid to address overcrowding and environmental concerns at Everest Base Camp, Nepalese authorities have implemented stringent regulations targeting luxury facilities and commercial ventures catering to climbers.

Luxury amenities such as yoga tents, ensuite bathrooms, and flatscreen televisions, once a common sight at the base camp situated approximately 17,598 feet up the Himalayan mountain, will now be prohibited under the new rules. Concerns over the overcrowding of the base camp, exacerbated by the influx of visitors and the proliferation of luxury holiday companies offering premium services, prompted the crackdown.

Dome-shaped tents equipped with lavish features like carpeted flooring, wooden furniture, and ensuites will be replaced with smaller accommodations to ensure fair allocation of space. Additionally, commercial ventures such as bars, bakeries, cafes, and museums will be banned to preserve the sanctity of the natural environment.

The regulations also aim to bolster local employment opportunities by mandating the use of yaks instead of helicopters to transport equipment. Helicopters will be restricted to emergency rescue operations for injured climbers and evacuations due to altitude sickness.

Dawa Steven Sherpa, secretary of the Expedition Operators Association, emphasized the importance of maintaining comfort at the base camp while minimizing environmental impact. He stated, “Base camp should be comfortable. That’s the point. There’s nothing wrong with luxuries, as long as you are not impacting other people or the environment.”

The issue of waste management has long plagued Everest Base Camp, prompting the establishment of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) in 1991. The SPCC oversees waste collection efforts at the base camp and the surrounding trails in the national park. Climbers venturing beyond Base Camp since 2014 are required to carry back 18 lbs (8kg) of rubbish or risk forfeiting their deposit.

While luxury tourism contributes significantly to the Nepalese government and the local economy, the excessive waste generated poses a threat to the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas. The implementation of these regulations reflects a concerted effort to strike a balance between tourism and environmental conservation in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Nepal Mandates Electronic Chips for Mount Everest Climbers to Enhance Safety

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Kathmandu — Nepal is gearing up to introduce a significant safety measure aimed at improving rescue operations for climbers tackling the formidable challenge of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Beginning this Spring, all climbers embarking on the ascent or descent of the 8,849-meter (29,032 ft) mountain will be required to carry an electronic chip, marking a pivotal step towards ensuring safer expeditions in the treacherous terrain.

The government is currently in the process of formulating regulations that will enforce the mandatory use of these electronic chips. Anticipated to take effect from the upcoming Spring season, coinciding with the commencement of the climbing season on Mount Everest, this measure aims to enhance safety during the limited window suitable for ascending to extreme altitudes.

During the Spring season, which witnesses the narrow climbing window, thousands of climbers from around the world, including India and Nepal, are drawn to Mount Everest, known as Sagarmatha in Nepali. While many achieve the summit successfully, incidents of fatalities and serious injuries have been reported over the years, highlighting the inherent risks associated with high-altitude mountaineering.

According to Nepal government data since 1953, approximately 300 individuals have lost their lives on Mount Everest. In the Spring season of 2023 alone, up to May 22, 12 climbers, including nationals from Nepal, India, and China, succumbed to various challenges during expeditions to the peak.

Addressing safety concerns, the Nepali government plans to distribute electronic chips to climbers at a nominal cost, estimated to range between USD 10 to USD 15. Rakesh Gurung, Director at the Department of Tourism, emphasized that equipping climbers with these chips, integrated into their jackets, will not only contribute to safer expeditions but also streamline emergency rescue operations.

Several reputable climbing agencies have already embraced this safety measure by providing electronic chips to their climbers ahead of the official implementation of the regulation. This proactive approach underscores Nepal’s commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of climbers venturing into the Himalayas, reaffirming its status as a premier destination for mountaineering enthusiasts worldwide.

Indian Idol 14: Vaibhav Gupta takes home trophy

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KATHMANDU: Vaibhav Gupta of Uttar Pradesh has been declared the winner of the 14th edition of Indian Idol.

He took home prize money of Rs 25 lakh and a car.

The top six finalists of the show were Anjana Padmanabhan, Ananya Pal, Adya Mishra, Piyush Panwar, Vaibhav Gupta, and Subhadeep Das Chowdhury.

The show was hosted by Hussain Kuwajerwala.

Vishal Dadlani, Kumar Sanu and Shreya Ghoshal were judges of the Indian Idol Season 14.

The first runner up was Subhadeep, second runner up Piyush received Rs 5 lakh prize money and the third runner up  Ananya Pal received Rs 3 lakh prize money.

Nepal Urges UK Government to Address Ex-Gurkha Soldiers’ Demands

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In a recent development, Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Prakash Saud, has reiterated the importance of addressing the legitimate demands of ex-Gurkha soldiers by the UK government.

Minister Saud emphasized this stance during a meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives (HoR) on Sunday. He acknowledged some progress made during the February 21 meeting of the Technical Committee between Nepal and the UK. However, he underscored that key demands, particularly concerning equal pensions, remain unmet.

Expressing Nepal’s commitment to advocating for the rights of ex-Gurkha soldiers, Minister Saud announced plans to travel to London for a meeting of the same committee on March 24. During this visit, he intends to raise the unresolved issues pertaining to the demands of the ex-Gurkha soldiers directly with UK officials.

The demands of ex-Gurkha soldiers have been a longstanding issue, with calls for equitable treatment and fair pensions echoing within both Nepal and the UK. Minister Saud’s proactive engagement signifies Nepal’s firm stance on ensuring justice and dignity for its former soldiers who have served in the British Army.

As the dialogue between Nepal and the UK continues, stakeholders remain hopeful for a constructive resolution that upholds the rights and welfare of ex-Gurkha soldiers, reflecting the enduring bond between the two nations.

Shehbaz Sharif Sworn in as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Amid Controversy and Challenges

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Islamabad —Shehbaz Sharif has assumed office as Pakistan’s prime minister for the second time, marking the culmination of a tumultuous post-election period rife with allegations of vote-rigging and political upheaval.

In the aftermath of the inconclusive general election on February 8, no party secured a clear majority. However, candidates associated with the PTI party of incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan managed to secure the highest number of seats, albeit as independents, with 102 seats. The Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz party (PMLN), led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, emerged as the second-largest party with 73 seats, while the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) secured 54 seats.

With the support of his brother Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif has returned to power, leading a coalition government with the PMLN. The opposition’s discontent was palpable during Sharif’s parliamentary address, with accusations of theft hurled at him.

Under the coalition agreement, Asif Ali Zardari of the PPP assumes the presidency, continuing the legacy of his late wife, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

Sharif’s re-ascendancy to the premiership comes against the backdrop of Imran Khan’s imprisonment on charges including corruption and divulging state secrets. Khan’s recent sentencing, alongside his wife, has further exacerbated political tensions in the country.

Challenges loom large for the new government, notably the country’s escalating poverty crisis and the imperative to engage in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize Pakistan’s economy.

Moreover, the lingering presence of Khan’s fervent supporters, who continue to protest against the authorities, poses an additional hurdle for Sharif’s administration as it seeks to navigate Pakistan’s complex political landscape.

Daraz Group to Conduct New Round of Lay-offs Amid Market Challenges

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Kathmandu — Daraz Group, a prominent e-commerce company in South Asia, excluding India, owned by Alibaba Group Holding, is gearing up for another round of lay-offs citing “unprecedented challenges in the market”. This decision comes just a year after the company slashed 11 per cent of its workforce.

Acting chief executive James Dong, in an internal memo published on the company’s website, expressed reluctance over the impending lay-offs, stating, “Reluctantly, we will bid farewell to many valued members of the Daraz family.” Dong, who also heads Alibaba’s Southeast Asian e-commerce unit Lazada, took over as head of Daraz in January.

Despite efforts to explore various solutions, Dong highlighted that the company’s cost structure continues to fall short of financial targets. He emphasized the need for swift action to ensure long-term sustainability and continued growth, given the challenges faced in the market.

The exact number of employees to be affected across Daraz’s operations in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal remains undisclosed. The company did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Despite the impending lay-offs, Daraz remains committed to maintaining its regional presence, focusing on improving consumer experience, diversifying product offerings, and enhancing operational efficiency for sellers.

The move underscores the need for optimization within Alibaba’s International Digital Commerce Group, which includes Daraz and Lazada, to boost sales and narrow losses. Despite a 24 per cent year-on-year increase in combined orders in the December quarter, the group aims to improve operational efficiency further.

Last year, Daraz announced job cuts affecting about 360 employees amid economic slowdowns attributed to various factors, including global supply chain disruptions and inflation.

Originally launched in 2012 by German company Rocket Internet as a fashion retailer in Pakistan, Daraz expanded its operations to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Alibaba acquired Daraz from Rocket Internet, further expanding its international operations.

Alibaba’s international revenue surged 44 per cent year-on-year in the December quarter, outperforming its core China e-commerce business. However, the company faces stiff competition from emerging online shopping platforms outside China.

The latest developments at Daraz highlight the evolving landscape of e-commerce in South Asia amidst global economic challenges.

Sri Lanka transforms 52 loss-making state-owned enterprises into profit-making ventures

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COLOMBO: The Sri Lankan government has transformed 52 loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) into profit-making ventures in 2023, State Minister for Finance Shehan Semasinghe said on Tuesday.

These SOEs lost around 743 billion rupees (about 2.4 billion U.S. dollars) in 2022.

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and the Ceylon Electricity Board, two of the most loss-making SOEs in the past, are now profitable due to the cost-reflective pricing mechanism and the current economic reforms.

The minister said previous governments provided essential services at a subsidized price to provide relief to the people, but on a long-term basis, this resulted in Sri Lanka facing a severe economic crisis.

At present, the government is focusing on providing targeted welfare for the poor instead of providing subsidized price systems for essential services for all, Semasinghe added.

Xinhua

Nepal Embassy in London facilitates interaction for collaboration between Nepali Professionals in the UK and Nepal

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Jagan Karki, London– The Nepal Embassy in London organized a two-day interactive session on February 24 and 25, bringing together Nepali professionals residing in the UK and senior officials, academics and private sector leaders from Nepal. The hybrid event aimed to foster collaboration, discuss opportunities for investment, and address various challenges faced by the Nepali diaspora and the homeland.

Addressing the seminar remotely, Foreign Minister NP Saud lauded the role of Nepali diaspora in the socio-economic development of Nepal. He said the Nepal government has recently launched Non Resident Nepali (NRN) Citizenship and looked for more closer collaboration between Nepali diaspora experts and their counterparts in Nepal.

Ambassador Gyan Chandra Acharya said there was a critical mass of Nepali professionals and experts in the UK and the embassy was organising this event to help them connect with Senior Nepali Officials and private sector leaders back home and explore the possibility of collaboration. “This is a mapping exercise to understand the strengths and requirements and we will organise follow up events focusing on priority sectors,” he added.

Professor of Economics at the Cardiff University, Dr Kul Luintel, said education was bedrock of socio-economic development of any country. Saying that thousands of Nepali students were going abroad every year as the country’s education sector was in a poor state, Prof Luintel called upon depoliticization of Nepal’s education sector and more investment to link education with skills and employment.

Senior lecturer in Economics at the University of Hull, Dr Keshab Bhattarai, said that all political parties in Nepal were committed to growth and distribution but the problem lay in implementation. He called for high quality research and evidence-based policy making. “At a time when India and China are being seen as engines of global development, there is no reason Nepal should lag behind,” he added.

President of Nepalese Doctors Association (NDA) UK, Dr. Sanjeeb Nepali, former Presidents Dr. Ramesh Koju, Dr Kamal Aryal and President of Nepalese Nurses Association UK, Mrs Sunita Gautam Thapa, highlighted their initiatives to support Nepal in areas like medical training, health education, and emergency response. A public health professional, Dr. Bachchu Kailash Kaini shared lessons from the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and discussed the need for sustainable funding and business approaches in Nepalese healthcare organisations.

President of Research Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology, Prajwal Raj Bhandari, Senior researcher at the Oxford Vaccine Group, Sonu Shrestha and Pramila Rijal, also made their presentations.

Chairman of Nepal Medical Council Dr Chop Lal Bhusal, Chairperson of Nepal Nursing Council Prof Sarala KC and Additional Secretary Dr Tanka Barakoti at the Ministry of Health also shared their experiences.

Public Health and Behaviour Change Scientist and Senior WASH expert at the Water Aid UK, Dr Om Prasad Gautam, said that some 91 percent of the Nepalese now had access to piped drinking water though only 16 percent of the population had access to safely managed water service. Saying that Nepal was declared Open Defecation Free country in 2019, he called upon the international community to help Nepal to attain the goal of clean drinking water and hygiene for all by 2030.

President of Society of Nepalese Engineers (SONE) UK, Rudra Koirala, Senior Engineer Prem Lamsal, Dr Binod Amatya, among others, made presentations and emphasized on the importance of building capacity among Nepali engineers, adopting international knowledge, and addressing road safety issues. Dr Amatya called upon the Nepal government to set up a Metro Development Authority to construct a metro rail system to address the problem of congestion in the capital valley.

Chairman of Nepal Engineering Council, Prof Dr Padma Bahadur Shahi and Director General at the Department of Roads, said they were open to share knowledge and expertise of Nepali diaspora professionals.

Education Transformation

Speaking from Nepal, Suresh Adhikari, Secretary at the Ministry of Education, emphasized the ongoing transformation in Nepal’s education sector. He highlighted the collaborative efforts at the federal, provincial, and local levels, with a significant role for local governments in delivering education. Adhikari proudly noted achievements such as near 99 percent student enrollment with no discrimination between genders, reduction in school dropouts, and the construction of 7500 new schools post the Gorkha earthquake. However, challenges remain, with nearly 700 schools partially damaged due to the Jajarkot earthquake. Adhikari stated that the ministry is reviewing the entire education cycle and addressing issues to ensure a robust education system.

Prof. Diwakar Acharya from Oxford University called upon Nepali Universities to conduct summer schools, seminars, and partnerships with world-class universities. Registrar at the Kathmandu University, Prof. Dr Achyut Wagle stressed the importance of conducting courses like impact of climate change on high Himalayas, Yoga and wellbeing that rooted on Nepal’s strength. Prof Dr Krishna Prasad Bashyal, Registrar of the Tribhuvan University and Prof Dr Dipak Bahadur Bhandari, Registrar of the Pokhara University, called upon expatriate Nepali professors and researchers to collaborate with Nepali Universities.

Legal and Accountancy Session:

The conference also delved into legal and accountancy matters. Prof. Surya Subedi and Barrister Sneha Shrestha and Solicitor Deepak Bhattarai discussed about need for legal reforms and promoting Kathmandu as a seat of international mediation. Professor of International Law at the Leeds University, Dr Surya P Subedi, said collaboration between academics and lawyers from both the countries would benefit both sides. Secretary at the Nepal Law Commission Lila Devi Gadtaula, President of Nepal Bar Association Gopal Krishna Ghimire and Registrar at the Supreme Court of Nepal, Bimal Poudel, discussed how Nepal’s judiciary was undergoing massive transformation and learning from British legal practices would help the judicial sector a lot.

In a separate session, Krishna P Dahal, FCCA, discussed the potential of developing Nepal as a global outsourcing center in accounting. The session also addressed challenges related to tax laws and best practices for the accounting industry. Joining online from Nepal, Deputy Auditor General Padam Raj Poudel and Sanjay Singhaniya of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Nepal shared their experiences, challenges, and ideas for the development of Nepal’s accountancy sector.

IT, Investment and Economic Growth

Financial experts, including Sujan Adhikari and Rabi Karki, discussed the challenges of investing in Nepal due to political and credit risks, proposing collective investments and strategies to attract young, tech-savvy individuals. Mr Karki, who heads the Assets and Wealth Management division at the Oppenheimer, said Nepal must ensure smooth repatriation of profits to attract foreign direct investment.

A London-based Cyber Security Expert, Niranjan Kunwar, said that Nepal could establish itself as a serious outsourcing partner. “The IT companies in Nepal provide high quality services which is up to 65 percent cheaper compared to other countries in the region. The playing field has levelled up,” said Kunwar calling upon the Nepali authorities to provide incentives to IT companies in Nepal.

Deputy Chief of Mission at the embassy, Mrs Roshan Khanal, thanked all participants and senior officials in Nepal for their participation and contributions to the conference.

South Asian Music Mourns the Loss of Legendary Singers Pankaj Udhas and Bhakta Raj Acharya

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Kathmandu — Today, the world of music in South Asia is enveloped in grief as two iconic figures bid farewell. Renowned Bhajan Maestro Bhakta Raj Acharya from Nepal and legendary Ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas from India have passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of millions.

Pankaj Udhas, the maestro behind timeless classics like ‘Chitthi Aayi Hai’ and ‘Na Kajre Ki Dhaar’, breathed his last today at the age of 72 after battling a prolonged illness. His family confirmed the news, stating, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padma Shri Pankaj Udhas on 26 February due to a prolonged illness.” Udhas, who carved his niche in Bollywood with soul-stirring melodies, had been undergoing treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. His departure marks the end of an era in Indian music.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Udhas, acknowledging his profound impact on the music world. “We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul,” said the Prime Minister. “His departure leaves a void in the music world that can never be filled. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Meanwhile, across the border, Nepal mourns the loss of its own musical luminary, Bhakta Raj Acharya. The veteran singer, known for his soulful renditions and devotional hymns, passed away at the age of 82 while being rushed to Mediciti Hospital in Lalitpur. Acharya, revered as the Bhajan Shiromani, had a profound impact on Nepali music, with hits like ‘Mutu Jalirahechha’ and ‘Maya Meri Saajh Bihana’. His departure leaves a void in the Nepali music industry, with tributes pouring in from all corners of the country.

Former Prime Minister and Chairman of CPN-UML KP Sharma Oli paid homage to Acharya through social media, highlighting his unparalleled contribution to Nepali music.

As the curtains fall on the lives of these two maestros, their melodies will continue to echo through the corridors of time, immortalizing their legacy for generations to come. May their souls rest in eternal peace.

Global Leaders Gather in Nairobi for UN Environment Assembly to Address Urgent Environmental Challenges

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Government officials, environmental experts, and stakeholders from around the world have convened in Nairobi, Kenya, for the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6). The assembly, which commenced on Monday, aims to foster collaboration among nations to tackle pressing environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

Inger Andersen, the executive director of the UN Environment Programme, emphasized the interconnectedness of nations in addressing environmental crises. “None of us live on an island. We live on planet Earth, and we are all connected,” Andersen remarked ahead of the talks. She underscored the importance of dialogue and cooperation in finding solutions to global environmental challenges.

During the assembly, member states are deliberating on a range of draft resolutions covering various environmental concerns. These resolutions, adopted upon consensus, pave the way for coordinated action by participating countries. Among the 20 draft resolutions submitted for discussion this year are proposals to restore degraded lands, combat dust storms, and mitigate the environmental impacts of metal and mineral mining.

The assembly’s previous session in 2022 yielded significant outcomes, including the adoption of 14 resolutions, notably the commitment to create a legally binding instrument to address global plastic pollution. Andersen hailed this agreement as a landmark achievement in multilateral environmental cooperation since the Paris Agreement.

Despite differing national priorities, Andersen noted a positive momentum towards consensus on this year’s draft resolutions. The focus of UNEA-6 on multilateralism seeks to build upon past successes such as the Minamata Convention and the Montreal Protocol, both led by the UN Environment Programme.

However, challenges persist, particularly regarding complex issues like financing for chemical and waste management. Bjorn Beeler, international coordinator for the International Pollutants Elimination Network, anticipates slow progress on such matters. He also expects resistance to a draft resolution aimed at phasing out highly hazardous pesticides, which could mark a significant global milestone if adopted.

With over 70 government ministers and 3,000 delegates in attendance, UNEA-6 presents an opportunity for decision-makers to address emerging environmental threats proactively. Andersen emphasized the importance of foresight and preemptive action in safeguarding the planet’s future. As discussions unfold in Nairobi, the international community remains committed to collective action in preserving Earth’s ecosystems for future generations