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Nepal Tea Exports Surge by 36%

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Mechi, October 18, 2024 – Nepal’s tea exports have seen a significant rise in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, with a 36% increase in volume compared to the same period last year, according to the Mechi Customs Office. A total of 6,426 metric tonnes of tea were exported during the first three months.

Ganapati Kandel, Information Officer at Mechi Customs Office, revealed that in terms of value, tea exports surged by over 50%, generating Rs 1.71 billion in revenue. This boost has been attributed to reduced tea production in India, as explained by Aditya Parajuli, Chairman of the Nepal Tea Producers Association. Parajuli expressed optimism that Nepali tea exports could grow even further with greater government support and facilitation.

However, while tea exports soared, the export of cardamom declined drastically by 49% during the same period. Only 783 metric tonnes of cardamom were exported, a sharp decrease from 1,525 metric tonnes exported in the first quarter of the last fiscal year.

In addition to tea, the Mechi Customs Office reported impressive increases in the export of plywood, broom grass, and veneer sheets, while the exports of ginger, iron, Chhuri (a type of traditional knife), and vegetables showed a downward trend.

The contrasting fortunes of different export commodities reflect the complex dynamics in Nepal’s agricultural export sector, with weather conditions, international demand, and production fluctuations playing a significant role.

UK-based Genese Solution launches Its operations in Nigeria

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London – Genese Solution, a UK-based IT and cybersecurity consulting company, has officially launched its operations in Nigeria. 

Addressing the event on Wednesday,  Country Director for the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) for Nigeria, Mark Smithson said that he was  delighted to celebrate Genese Solution’s expansion into Lagos.  “The UK technology sector is a global success story, and in June 2023, we became the third country in the world to see our tech sector valued at over $1 trillion. The UK is home to 150 unicorn companies, more than Germany, France, and Sweden combined. We welcome Genese Solution’s contribution to Nigeria’s booming tech sector,” he added.

Anjani Phuyal, Founder and CEO of Genese Solution, expressed his excitement about the company’s new Lagos branch. “This is our first office in Africa, and we plan to expand into other countries in the region soon. With our focus on providing advanced cloud solutions and driving digital transformation, we aim to make a meaningful impact on Nigeria’s growing IT sector. We’re also eager to leverage our cybersecurity expertise to support our clients in Nigeria and beyond.”

Mr Phuyal said that Genese Solution recognised the immense potential of Nigeria’s dynamic tech sector and was committed to harnessing the country’s supportive environment to deliver innovative, tailored solutions that meet evolving market needs. “Our decision to launch in Lagos aligns with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Straegy, which prioritises the use of digital technology for economic diversification. In addition to offering value IT consulting, we will support key policy pillars by collaborating locally and staying informed on Nigeria’s dynamic digital economy,” he added. He also extended his gratitude to the British Deputy High Commission (DBT) in Lagos, and everyone who supported the company’s journey into Nigeria.

At the event, Niranjan Kunwar, Chief Technology and Information Security Officer of Genese Solution, emphasised the need to treat cybersecurity as a critical business risk, not just an IT issue. He stressed the importance of proactive cybersecurity management for long-term business success in today’s digital landscape. “Information and communication technologies are key to modernising and accelerating Nigeria’s economic development. With experience working with stakeholders globally, Genese Solution is here to support Nigeria’s digital transformation,” he said.

Genese Solution Nigeria brings a wealth of expertise to the local IT sector, offering services in cloud solutions, DevSecOps consulting, and cybersecurity. The company is committed to pioneering innovation and upholding the highest standards of excellence, a press statement issued by the Company said.

 Genese Solution is embarking on a strategic expansion across Africa, with Nigeria as the hub, through in-depth market research, regulatory adherence, and attention to cultural nuances. Genese Solution’s adaptability and clear timelines are crucial to ensuring the success of its African expansion strategy. The company’s entry into the Nigerian market marks a significant step in providing valuable digital transformation solutions both locally and globally, the statement said.

The launch event, hosted at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, on Wednesday was organised by the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT). The event drew an esteemed gathering of Nigerian industry leaders, IT experts, and community figures, highlighting the strategic importance of this expansion.

‘Poverty has worsened in South Asia at a higher rate than the global average during the COVID-19 pandemic’ – World Bank

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A new report by the World Bank, Poverty, Prosperity, and Planet 2024: Pathways Out of the Polycrisis, reveals that approximately 8.5 percent of the global population—equating to 692 million people—are currently living in extreme poverty, defined as surviving on less than $2.15 per day. While this marks a significant reduction from the 37.9 percent living in extreme poverty in 1990, the report raises concerns about a slowdown in progress, with 2020 to 2030 potentially becoming a “lost decade” for poverty alleviation.

The stagnation in poverty reduction is attributed to several overlapping crises, including slow economic growth, increased fragility, climate change, and heightened global uncertainty. The report highlights the need for urgent action to address these issues to prevent further regression in poverty levels.

South Asia Hit Hardest

The report shows that poverty has worsened in South Asia at a higher rate than the global average during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, 75.6 percent of South Asians—approximately 1.48 billion people—are living on less than $6.85 per day, a poverty line typically used for upper-middle-income countries. This figure is significantly higher than the global average of 43.6 percent, with South Asia accounting for nearly 42 percent of the world’s population living under this threshold.

The World Bank uses three poverty benchmarks: $2.15 per day for extreme poverty, $3.65 for lower-middle-income countries, and $6.85 for upper-middle-income countries. In 2024, an estimated 1.7 billion people (21.4 percent) live on less than $3.65 per day, and about 3.5 billion people (43.6 percent) survive on less than $6.85 per day.

Future Goals at Risk

Despite progress since the 1990s, the report warns that the number of people living in poverty has remained relatively steady due to population growth. If economic growth continues to lag and inequality is not addressed, the World Bank’s goal of reducing extreme poverty to below three percent of the global population will not be achieved for many decades.

The report stresses that while it is essential to continue efforts to reduce global poverty and promote shared prosperity, it is equally important to consider environmental sustainability in these efforts.

Ajay Rai Re-elected to International Transport Workers’ Federation Executive Committee

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Morocco – Ajay Kumar Rai from Nepal has been re-elected as a member of the World Executive Committee of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) during the federation’s 46th World Congress, currently taking place in Morocco. Rai, who will serve another five-year term until 2029, was first elected to the executive committee in 2018 at the ITF’s World Congress in Singapore.

The ITF, a historic organization founded 128 years ago and based in London, operates in 149 countries and represents nearly 20 million transport workers globally. It spans across nine major sectors, including civil aviation, maritime, railways, road transport, ports, tourism, and urban transport. The federation collaborates with key international bodies such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to develop labor laws, protect workers’ rights, and empower trade unions worldwide.

Rai, who has been a leading figure in Nepal’s labor movement for over 32 years, currently serves as the Chief Advisor of the Nepal Transport Workers Union. He began his union career in the informal transport sector and later went on to lead the Nepal Transport Workers Union as President for three terms, spanning 15 years. His advocacy on behalf of Nepalese workers has earned him international recognition.

Shiva Lamsal, President of the Nepal Press Union, praised Rai’s re-election as a significant milestone for Nepal’s labor movement, further strengthening its influence on the global stage.

The ITF World Congress, attended by nearly 2,000 labor leaders from around the world, will conclude on October 19. In addition to Rai’s re-election, British national Stephen Cotton was unanimously re-elected for a third term as the ITF’s General Secretary. The newly elected members of the World Executive Committee will elect the federation’s President on October 19.

Groundbreaking Study Explores Postnatal Mental Health of British South Asian Mothers

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London— Experts from the University of Nottingham have played a key role in a pioneering study investigating the postnatal mental health of British South Asian mothers. The ROSHNI-2 study, published today in The Lancet, is one of the largest trials to explore the effectiveness of psychological interventions for this group.

Led by Professor Nusrat Husain from the University of Manchester and supported by Professor Richard Morriss and his team from the University of Nottingham, the study recruited over 4,000 women across the UK. It focused on British South Asian women, a group often underrepresented in mental health services.

The study introduced the “Positive Health Programme,” a culturally adapted group therapy for postnatal depression, and compared it to the usual care provided by general practitioners. Results showed that more women in the Positive Health Programme group recovered faster and more significantly than those in the usual treatment group. The findings highlight the importance of culturally sensitive care for British South Asian women, who face barriers like language, family engagement, and cultural perceptions of mental health.

These results provide critical insights for healthcare policy makers, with recommendations to make culturally tailored treatments more accessible to underserved communities.

For more information, see the full study in The Lancet.

London Mayor announces capital’s annual Diwali on the Square celebrations

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London— The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today announced that the capital’s annual Diwali on the Square celebrations will return to Trafalgar Square on Sunday 27 October. 

The free family-friendly celebration of the Festival of Lights will bring together Londoners and visitors in the heart of the capital to enjoy a fantastic programme of dance, music, activities and food from 1-7pm. 

Delivered in partnership with the volunteer-led Diwali in London committee, and supported by headline sponsor Remitly, the event will showcase the very best of culture from London’s Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities.

The afternoon opens with a burst of colour and music as 200 traditionally dressed dancers are set to perform in the centre of Trafalgar Square.

 

There will be a variety of market stalls and free, family-friendly activities to enjoy. These includes dance workshops, yoga and meditation, comedy from Soho Theatre, Sari and Turban tying and the Glimpse of Goddesses stall where visitors can find out more about Hindu goddesses. New this year is the Bhajan singing space where groups will perform throughout the day.

Visitors can also enjoy South Asian food, with a range of caterers serving up delicious traditional and fusion vegan and vegetarian cuisine.  

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Diwali on the Square is a fantastic family celebration of light and colour. It brings together Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds to mark the symbolic victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance with a packed programme of entertainment. As global tensions continue to affect us all, Diwali’s central messages of peace and hope are more pertinent than ever. By uniting to celebrate our diversity, we are showing why our capital is the greatest city in the world, as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”

Parul Jani, of the Brahmin Society North London, and Chair of Diwali in London Committee 2024, said: “On our 23rd year of Diwali on Trafalgar Square, always supported by the Mayor of London, wishing everyone a very Happy Diwali right from the heart. Jai Siya Ram.”

Dashain Festival Concludes with Kojagrat Purnima Celebrations in Nepal

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KATHMANDU: The festival of Bada Dashain, one of the largest Hindu festivals celebrated in Nepal and globally known as Dushera or Durga Puja, officially concludes today with Kojagrat Purnima. This day marks the final opportunity to receive blessings through the ritual of putting ‘tika’ and ‘jamara,’ symbols of Navadurga’s protection and prosperity.

Ashwin Shuklapaksha Chaturdashi, which occurred during sunrise today, coincides with Purnima, which began at midnight, making it an auspicious day for devotees. Kojagrat Purnima, celebrated tonight, also marks the traditional evening fast that will continue through Thursday, October 17.

The ritual of applying ‘tika’ and ‘jamara,’ which started on Bijaya Dashami, serves as a significant practice during Dashain, symbolizing the blessings received from Navadurga from Ashwin Shukla Pratipada to Nawami. Families and relatives, both near and far, visit each other during this period to exchange blessings, making Dashain a time for familial reunions and community gatherings.

The normally quiet days of Maha Ashtami and Maha Nawami gave way to increased activity in Kathmandu and across the country since Bijaya Dashami. Following the public holiday for Bada Dashain, government offices resumed operations on Tuesday.

Dengue Cases Surge in Nepal, Infecting Nearly 20,000 People

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Kathmandu, Oct 16: Dengue is spreading rapidly across Nepal, with 19,599 confirmed cases reported nationwide, according to the latest data from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD). The mosquito-borne disease has claimed nine lives and affected 76 districts.

Kathmandu has the highest number of cases at 3,103, followed by Kaski (2,847), Tanahu (2,107), and Parbat (1,562). Other affected districts include Chitwan (971), Lalitpur (827), Gorkha (588), Baglung (610), Bhaktapur (355), and Syangja (335).

Dr. Sher Bahadur Pun, of the Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, said the risk of dengue rises during the post-monsoon period, with cases spiking immediately after Dashain, indicating community-level transmission.

From April 2023 to January 2024, over 52,000 people were infected, with 20 fatalities reported.

Bomb Threats Target Multiple Flights, Prompt Security Drills at Airports

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In the past 48 hours, ten flights, including an Air India aircraft carrying 211 passengers from Delhi to Chicago, were the target of bomb threats received via social media, prompting security agencies to launch counter-terrorism drills at various airports across India.

On Tuesday, seven bomb threats were sent through the social media platform X, while three bomb threats were received for international flights departing from Mumbai on Monday. All the threats, later determined to be hoaxes, caused significant disruptions and heightened security protocols.

Among the targeted flights were Air India Express IX765 (Jaipur to Bengaluru via Ayodhya), SpiceJet SG116 (Darbhanga to Mumbai), Akasa Air QP1373 (Bagdogra to Bengaluru), Air India AI127 (Delhi to Chicago), IndiGo 6E98 (Dammam to Lucknow), Alliance Air 9I650 (Amritsar to Dehradun), and Air India Express IX684 (Madurai to Singapore).

Following the threats, cybersecurity agencies suspended the X account responsible for sending the bomb alerts, according to reports by PTI.

In one incident, Singapore scrambled two F-15 combat jets to escort Air India Express flight IX684, which was traveling from Madurai to Singapore. The aircraft was kept away from populated areas until it landed safely at Singapore Changi Airport around 10:04 PM on Tuesday. Investigations into the threat are ongoing.

Top Security Responses to Bomb Threats:
SpiceJet SG116: The aircraft landed safely at Mumbai Airport, where it was directed to an isolation area for inspection.
Akasa Air QP1373: The flight landed safely at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport after receiving a bomb threat.
Air India AI127: This flight was redirected to Canada’s Iqaluit Airport following an online security threat.
IndiGo 6E98: The flight from Dammam to Lucknow was diverted to Jaipur after receiving a bomb threat.
Alliance Air 9I650: Security checks were carried out on the Amritsar-Dehradun-Delhi flight at Dehradun Airport as a precautionary measure.
Air India Express IX684: The flight from Madurai to Singapore was delayed, awaiting clearance from Singaporean authorities.
Additionally, on Monday, bomb threats were made against three international flights departing from Mumbai. No suspicious items were found on any of the aircraft after thorough security checks.

Mumbai Police Investigation
The Mumbai Police issued notices to a teenager, his father, and another individual from Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, for questioning in connection with the threats against Monday’s flights. An Air India flight bound for New York was diverted to New Delhi, while two IndiGo flights were delayed. In separate incidents, two IndiGo flights—one bound for Muscat and another for Jeddah—also received bomb threats, leading to their relocation to isolation bays for further inspections.

Authorities, including the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), are working closely with Indian cybersecurity agencies and law enforcement to trace the origins of the threats and ensure the safety of air travel.

[With agency inputs]

UN Warns Disasters Could Derail Economic Progress in Asia Pacific Region

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MANILA, Philippines — Disasters, fueled by increasingly severe storms and other natural hazards, are putting more lives at risk and could undermine decades of economic progress in the Asia Pacific region if governments do not significantly increase investments in disaster mitigation, a senior United Nations official warned Tuesday.

Kamal Kishore, U.N. Assistant Secretary-General and head of the U.N. Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), delivered this message at the opening of a regional conference on disaster mitigation in Manila. Hosted by the Philippines—one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations—the three-day conference gathered ministers and officials responsible for disaster response and prevention from across the Asia Pacific.

“Disasters are now affecting record numbers of people and threatening their lives and livelihoods,” Kishore told the hundreds of delegates. “Left unchecked, these disaster risks threaten to derail the development aspirations of the Asia Pacific region and push back progress that has taken decades to achieve.”

Kishore stressed the need for countries to allocate regular funds within their national budgets for disaster risk reduction and to increase the proportion of foreign aid dedicated to prevention, rather than merely response. While investments in disaster mitigation have reduced death tolls, the U.N. official cautioned that much more needs to be done to protect the region’s most vulnerable populations.

The conference discussions focused on enhancing disaster-warning systems, sharing advanced technology, and constructing more resilient infrastructure, homes, and workplaces. The Philippines, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, faces an average of 20 typhoons and storms annually, as well as frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the heightened threats brought on by climate change, which have made the country’s disaster-prone landscape even more vulnerable. “With better access to financing, technology, and data, the most vulnerable states could build better resilience,” he said.

European Union Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic, who attended the conference, echoed the need for global collaboration. “None of us will be able to face these new challenges alone,” he told The Associated Press. “These disasters know no boundaries.”

Since 2020, the EU has contributed over 80 million euros ($87 million) to disaster preparedness efforts in the Asia Pacific. Lenarcic urged wealthier nations to increase their contributions, while emphasizing that Europe also has much to learn from the region’s extensive experience in disaster resilience.

As the Asia Pacific region continues to face increasingly severe natural hazards, the conference underscored the urgent need for sustained and collaborative efforts to mitigate the devastating impacts of disasters.

Ratan Tata Passes Away at 86

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Mumbai, India – Ratan Tata, one of India’s most revered industrialists, passed away today at the age of 86. The former chairman of Tata Sons was reportedly admitted to a Mumbai hospital in critical condition before his death was confirmed by N Chandrasekaran, the current Chairman of Tata Sons.

In a heartfelt statement, Mr. Chandrasekaran expressed the profound sense of loss felt by both the Tata Group and the nation. He described Mr. Tata as “a truly uncommon leader” whose influence extended far beyond the world of business.

“It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation,” Chandrasekaran said in his statement.

He went on to highlight the legacy left by Mr. Tata, who led the Tata Group to unprecedented global success while remaining committed to ethical business practices. “To me, he was a mentor, guide, and friend. He inspired by example,” said Mr. Chandrasekaran. He further emphasized Mr. Tata’s deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy and social development, noting that his work in fields such as education and healthcare had touched millions of lives.

Mr. Tata’s legacy as a leader, philanthropist, and visionary continues to resonate across India and around the world. His death marks the end of an era for the Tata Group, a conglomerate that grew under his leadership to become a global powerhouse.

The passing of Ratan Tata has left a void in the business community and beyond. The Tata family and the entire nation are mourning the loss of a man whose integrity, humility, and drive for progress have left an indelible mark on India’s corporate and social landscape.

N Chandrasekaran’s Full Statement:

“It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation.

For the Tata Group, Mr. Tata was more than a chairperson. To me, he was a mentor, guide, and friend. He inspired by example. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, the Tata Group under his stewardship expanded its global footprint while always remaining true to its moral compass.

Mr. Tata’s dedication to philanthropy and the development of society has touched the lives of millions. From education to healthcare, his initiatives have left a deep-rooted mark that will benefit generations to come. Reinforcing all of this work was Mr. Tata’s genuine humility in every individual interaction.

On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the principles he so passionately championed.

N Chandrasekaran
Chairman
Tata Sons”

South Asia Smartphone Market Sees 39.5% Growth in 2Q24, Reports IDC

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INDIA – South Asia’s smartphone market (excluding India) experienced a significant surge in 2Q24, with shipments totaling 2.9 million units, marking a 39.5% year-over-year (YoY) growth, according to the International Data Corporation’s (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker. This follows a strong double-digit growth pattern observed in 1Q24.

Country-wise Market Insights:

  • Bangladesh shipped 2.0 million units in 2Q24, showing 20.1% YoY growth. The festive season of Eid fueled consumer demand, as brands introduced special offers and discounts.
  • Nepal witnessed an impressive 77.8% YoY growth, shipping 548,000 units. The continued growth for three consecutive quarters was driven by the introduction of affordable, high-spec smartphones during Nepali New Year and Buddha Jayanti.
  • Sri Lanka saw extraordinary growth, with a 218% YoY increase and 365,000 units shipped. This marks the fifth consecutive quarter of triple-digit growth, supported by the launch of new brands and models during celebrations such as Sinhalese New Year, Vesak Poya, and Poson.

“Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to continue their growth momentum in 3Q24, thanks to the upcoming Diwali festive period in Nepal and the expansion of Chinese brands in Sri Lanka. However, political unrest and floods could dampen Bangladesh’s market,” said Anjney Bhardwaj, Senior Market Analyst, Mobile Phones, IDC India.

Rising ASPs and Market Segment BreakdownThe average selling price (ASP) of smartphones in South Asia rose by 19.2% YoY, reaching USD 152. The market was dominated by the low-end segment (USD 100-200), which accounted for 50% of the market. This was followed by the ultra-low-end segment (under USD 100), comprising 34% of the market. Transsion led the ultra-low-end segment, while Xiaomi dominated the low-end segment in Bangladesh and Nepal, and Samsung led in Sri Lanka. Vivo led the mid-range segment (USD 200-400) in Bangladesh, while Samsung and Honor took the lead in Nepal and Sri Lanka, respectively.

5G Smartphone Surge 5G smartphone shipments surged by 354% YoY, accounting for 15% of the overall smartphone market in the region.

  • In Bangladesh, 5G shipments grew by 430%, reaching 8% of the market, as telcos expanded 5G services while continuing to prioritize 4G rollout.
  • Nepal recorded 212% YoY growth, with 5G smartphones making up 34% of the market, following the government’s authorization of 5G spectrum auctions.
  • Sri Lanka saw 5G smartphones account for 25% of total shipments, as Dialog Axiata expanded its 5G coverage after acquiring Sri Lankan Telecom and Airtel.

Retail Channels Dominate Retail outlets continued to dominate distribution channels, with a 98% market share, as consumers preferred to physically inspect smartphones before making purchases. This was facilitated by the easy availability of multi-brand outlets and the expansion of national distributors, particularly in Sri Lanka.

Leading Brands

  • Transsion led the South Asia market with a 24% share, followed by Xiaomi at 22%, and realme at 14%.
    • Transsion retained its lead in Bangladesh for the eighth straight quarter, despite a 10% YoY decline, with its Spark Go 2024 and A05s models performing well.
    • Xiaomi continued to dominate the Nepalese market, growing 122% YoY, with its Redmi 13C series as the top-seller.
    • Honor took the lead in Sri Lanka, with a 21% market share, as its X7b model became the most shipped device in the country.

As the South Asian market shows no signs of slowing down, 5G adoption and brand competition are expected to shape the region’s smartphone landscape in the coming quarters.

Inspire X 2024 Brings Together Influential Speakers to Empower Young Entrepreneurs

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London — Inspire X, an annual event designed to motivate and connect young students and entrepreneurs, took place in London on September 28th. Organized by Nik Dhimal and his team, the event attracted a large and enthusiastic audience, eager to learn from some of the most influential figures in various industries.

This year’s star-studded lineup featured actress and humanitarian Manisha Koirala, Bikash Nepal, CEO of Nepal Food, Anil K. Shah, a prominent figure in Nepal’s banking sector, and Shrikhala Khatiwada, Miss Nepal 2018 and a qualified architect. These speakers shared their unique experiences, offering insights into leadership, resilience, and innovation.

In addition to these notable figures, Nik Dhimal, a UK-based property investor, and Jason Patterson, widely known as the “Short Lease King,” contributed their expertise in the property market. Their talks emphasized the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Inspire X has become a key platform for fostering motivation and networking, empowering the next generation of leaders by providing diverse perspectives from a variety of professions. This year’s event successfully highlighted the critical role of innovation in a rapidly changing world and encouraged participants to pursue their entrepreneurial goals with determination and vision.

With its strong focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and resilience, Inspire X 2024 proved to be a source of inspiration for all who attended, setting a high bar for future editions.

‘Pakistan stands ready to help Nepal’

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Kathmandu : Pakistan has expressed its readiness to provide assistance to Nepal affected by floods and landslides. 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of precious lives due to devastating floods and extended sympathy on behalf of the government of Pakistan and the people of his country to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the people of Nepal. 

According to its Kathmandu-based Embassy, Pakistan, which had suffered a calamitous floods in 2022, stood in full solidarity with Nepal in this hour of grief and expressed readiness to provide necessary assistance to the government of Nepal.  (RSS)

Death Toll Rises to 217 in Landslide and Flooding Disaster in Nepal, 28 Missing

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Kathmandu, October 1 — The death toll from the recent landslides and flooding triggered by nonstop rainfall has risen to 217, with 28 people still missing, according to the latest update from the Home Ministry.

Ministry spokesperson Rishiram Tiwari shared that 143 individuals have been injured in the natural disasters. “All security agencies have been mobilized for all-out efforts in search, rescue, and relief distribution,” Tiwari added, emphasizing the government’s prioritization of saving lives and providing aid.

The injured are receiving treatment at various health facilities, while those displaced by the disaster have been provided with immediate relief supplies. Roadway restoration efforts are also underway, as several routes were blocked due to landslides.

The government has declared a national mourning period in response to the devastating loss of life and property caused by the continuous rainfall on September 27 and 28.

Death Toll from Nepal Floods and Landslides Surpasses 200

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Kathmandu, Nepal — The death toll from flood and landslides caused by incessant rainfall that began Thursday night has surged past 200, according to the latest reports from Nepal Police Headquarters. As of Monday evening, the disaster has claimed 205 lives, with 24 people still missing across the country.

Heavy rains have triggered widespread destruction, with the highest death toll recorded in Bagmati province. Fifty-six people have died in the Kathmandu Valley, while 125 more lives have been lost in other parts of Bagmati. Koshi province has reported 17 deaths, Madhes province five, and Lumbini province two.

In addition to the fatalities, 130 people have been injured across the nation. Among the injured, 24 are from the Kathmandu Valley, 85 from other areas of Bagmati province, 13 from Koshi province, and eight from Madhes province. Many of the injured are receiving treatment at local hospitals.

Rescue efforts have been ongoing, with authorities successfully rescuing over 4,000 people. In the Kathmandu Valley alone, 2,155 people have been brought to safety, while 745 individuals have been rescued in the rest of Bagmati, 290 in Koshi, and 997 in Gandaki province.

Police officials confirmed that the search for the missing is still underway, with emergency teams continuing their efforts to locate and aid those affected by the disaster.