Summary:

• Nepal Policy Institute (NPI) Chair Dr. Khagendra Raj Dhakal recommended adopting key elements of Thailand's "30 Baht Scheme" to help Nepal advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
• The recommendation was made during a meeting with Nepal’s Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, in Bangkok on June 26, 2025.
• Thailand's 30 Baht Scheme, started in 2001, initially charged a nominal fee for healthcare but later became fully tax-funded and now covers nearly 75% of Thailand’s population through the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS). Together with other schemes, coverage exceeds 99%.
• The Thai model offers affordable services including outpatient, inpatient care, maternal health, diagnostics, and chronic disease management, mostly through public facilities.
• Dr. Dhakal suggested Nepal unify its UHC framework, digitize National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) enrollment, link health promotion funding to sin taxes (taxes on tobacco, alcohol), and pilot reforms in provinces with good digital infrastructure.
• Minister Paudel welcomed these ideas and expressed interest in working with NPI on health financing, digital integration, and policy innovation.
• The government is committed to expanding health coverage and reforming NHIP to better serve informal sector workers and low-income groups.
• The meeting also included other officials from Nepal’s delegation in Bangkok.

In short, Nepal is considering adapting Thailand’s successful low-cost, tax-funded health coverage model to improve its own national health insurance and universal health coverage system.

Archive: https://archive.md/Ue20M

Summary:
Two women-led courts in Nepal—the Hetauda Bench High Court and Makawanpur District Court—have shown outstanding judicial performance over the past two years, with high case clearance rates and improved service delivery.

Hetauda Bench High Court:

• Jurisdiction over Chitwan and Makawanpur districts
• Led by five female judges out of seven sanctioned posts
• In fiscal year 2024/25, cleared 1,247 out of 1,727 cases (72% clearance)
• No pending cases older than two years

Makawanpur District Court:

• Entirely run by four female judges
• In fiscal year 2024/25, resolved 2,868 out of 4,150 cases (69.11% clearance)
• Only two cases older than two years pending (down from 22 the previous year)

Judges emphasize that gender does not affect their ability to deliver justice impartially. The courts also have a significant number of women in administrative roles, contributing to efficient functioning. Legal experts praise the women judges for their leadership and positive impact, especially in sensitive cases. This success highlights women's capability in judicial leadership and effective justice delivery in Nepal.

Archive: https://archive.md/LXhRq

Summary:
In Pokhara, Nepal, ornithologist Hemanta Dhakal keeps a daily rooftop watch near the new Pokhara International Airport to monitor vultures and prevent bird strikes with airplanes. Pokhara is home to nine vulture species, including critically endangered ones, whose flight paths cross near the airport’s runway. The airport, opened in late 2022, is close to prime vulture habitats and an old landfill site, attracting large birds and increasing collision risks.

A study led by Dhakal found significant risks of bird-aircraft collisions involving several vulture species. One incident in January 2023 involved a plane striking a steppe eagle, killing the bird. Despite initial reluctance from airport authorities, Dhakal trained staff in bird identification and management, helping reduce bird activity near the runway through methods like air gun harassment.

Challenges remain, including waste management issues and thermal currents that attract vultures during colder months. Dhakal advocates for better data collection, improved waste management, and use of drones or trained raptors to scare birds away. He warns unplanned infrastructure threatens decades of vulture conservation progress in Nepal, which saw population recoveries after banning the harmful drug diclofenac.

Dhakal continues his vigil, sharing findings with conservation networks and officials to push for actions that protect both vultures and aviation safety.

Archive: https://archive.md/zJ4Ns

Summary:
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a show cause notice to KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, following the suicides of two Nepalese students on campus between February 16 and May 1, 2025. The notice highlights serious concerns regarding the university's mental health support system, safety protocols, and administrative response. The UGC's Fact-Finding Committee report pointed out critical lapses that contributed to these tragic events. KIIT has been asked to respond within a week. Failure to comply may result in public warnings, restrictions on new courses, programs, or campus expansions for up to three years, and a recommended inquiry committee formation.

Archive: https://archive.md/ZxEtx

Summary:
The Max Foundation has partnered with B P Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital in Nepal to expand breast cancer care access. Since the program's launch in 2021, patients have received timely treatment, improving outcomes and hope. The collaboration, supported by dedicated physicians like Dr. Guru Sharan Sah, aims to transform lives by providing better breast cancer treatment in Nepal.

Archive: https://archive.md/qGCeF

Summary:
On July 21, 2025, Cambodian authorities in Siem Reap cracked down on an online scam operation, arresting 13 Nepali nationals (including 4 women) at a rented villa in Khnar village. The raid led to the confiscation of computers, laptops, phones, and other evidence. The suspects and evidence were taken to the Siem Reap Provincial Police for legal action. This action is part of Cambodia's ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and online scams.

Key Points:

• 13 Nepali nationals arrested in Siem Reap for suspected online scam activities.
• The operation took place on July 21, 2025, at a rented villa in Khnar village.
• Police seized 16 desktop computers, 2 laptops, multiple mobile phones, and other evidence.
• Suspects and evidence transferred to Siem Reap Provincial Police for legal proceedings.
• Authorities emphasize strict legal measures against cybercrime networks.

Archive: https://archive.md/Sq18v

Questions to the Health Minister about Irregularities in Medical Equipment Procurement: Is the Tender News Published a Coincidence or Collusion?

Summary:

• According to Nepali law, tender proposals remain confidential until the official opening date, making it suspicious if specific suppliers always win tenders.
• Since mid-2081 BS (around 2024 AD), multiple investigations by the media outlet "UkeRa" exposed irregularities and collusion in the procurement of medical equipment and supplies across various health institutions.
• Despite initial cancellations of some tenders after media reports, most tenders ended up being awarded to the same suppliers alleged to be involved in collusion.
• At a press conference, journalists questioned Health Minister Pradeep Paudel about these irregularities, implying either foresight (like astrology) or deliberate rigging.
• The minister appeared uncomfortable and avoided direct answers, citing legal constraints but failing to specify which laws prevent investigation or action.
• He claimed that 35% of the health budget remained unspent due to procurement delays and suggested changing procurement laws to address issues, but gave no concrete plans or timelines.
• Multiple examples were cited where tenders were either rigged with technical specifications favoring certain companies or cancelled only after media exposure.
• Hospitals like Narayani and Gajendra Narayan Singh showed clear patterns of awarding contracts to pre-determined suppliers, despite public allegations.
• The minister denied personal responsibility and blamed legal frameworks, while media reports consistently confirmed procurement collusion.
• The article criticizes the lack of accountability and calls for transparent investigations and reforms in procurement processes to prevent misuse of state resources.

In short, the article exposes widespread collusion in health equipment procurement in Nepal, questions the minister’s handling of the issue, and highlights the need for stronger oversight and legal reforms.

Archive: https://archive.md/tajhy

Hospitals that were closed for illegal and substandard facilities in Madesh have started reopening ‘In Settings’ as in corruption with the officials

Summary:
Several private hospitals in Nepal’s Madhes province that were closed during a government campaign to shut down health facilities operating without proper standards or licenses have started reopening. The Madhes provincial government had launched a strict inspection and closure drive called the “Operation Hospital” campaign to crack down on illegal and substandard hospitals. Over 130 such hospitals were found operating without proper registration or failing to meet health regulations and were ordered closed.

However, after the campaign ended, many of these hospitals resumed operations. Some reopened with local government permissions, while others allegedly reopened through unofficial arrangements or bribes. Hospital operators claim they paid intermediaries to get reopening approvals despite still lacking proper standards, raising concerns about corruption and negligence.

The provincial health minister confirmed that only a few hospitals that completed legal paperwork were officially allowed to reopen, but many more are operating without proper oversight. Officials monitoring the situation accuse local governments of forcing hospitals to reopen, undermining the provincial government's efforts. This situation highlights ongoing challenges in regulating private health facilities and ensuring public health safety in the region.

Archive: https://archive.md/0ihvA

Summary:
At least six major highways in Nepal are fully blocked due to floods and landslides caused by heavy rain. The blocked highways include:

• Koshi Highway (Sankhuwasabha)
• Mechi Highway (Tamor Corridor, Panchthar)
• Kaligandaki Corridor (Nawalparasi East)
• Sahid Highway (Rolpa)
• Jajarkot-Dolpa section of Bheri Corridor (Rukum West)

Some roads allow one-way traffic, including Tokha-Nuwakot road, parts of the Kaligandaki Corridor, Mid-Hill Highway (Galkot), and Sahid Highway (Rolpa).

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has advised people to avoid long-distance travel unless necessary due to ongoing monsoon risks. The Meteorological Forecasting Division predicts light to heavy rainfall in various provinces, with some hilly and mountainous areas expecting rain and snowfall.

Rescue efforts are underway amid continued disruptions.

Archive: https://archive.md/QLQBI

Summary:

• In the fiscal year 2024-25, Nepal recorded 18,926 cybercrime cases, averaging 52 cases daily. This is slightly lower than the previous year's 19,730 cases.
• The decrease does not necessarily mean improvement; it may reflect underreporting and decentralization of case management to district police offices.
• Cyber fraud is the most common crime, with 7,723 cases (40.82% of total), an 87.82% increase from the previous year.
• Other cybercrimes include hacking (3,503 cases), fake impersonation accounts (3,067), bullying/harassment (1,801), criminal defamation (1,026), hate speech (495), sexting (437), sextortion (84), sexual assault (8), threats, image morphing, and cases involving minors.
• Facebook Messenger led in cybercrime platforms with 9,829 incidents, followed by TikTok, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram.
• Telegram-related cases mostly involved online fraud but posed investigation challenges due to limited data access.
• Men are the majority of victims overall, mainly targeted in financial scams, while women face more harassment, bullying, sextortion, and threats.
• Cyber-dependent crimes such as unauthorized server access and malware attacks increased and are harder to investigate due to technical and international cooperation challenges.
• Nepal's current cybercrime law (Electronic Transaction Act 2008) is outdated and lacks clear definitions covering modern cybercrimes.
• The Cyber Bureau highlights the need for updated laws, better resources, technical expertise, infrastructure, and international cooperation to effectively combat cybercrime in Nepal.

Archive: https://archive.md/OfjIl

Caste-based discrimination in Nepal creates inequality from knowledge production to justice

Summary:
In Nepal, there is discrimination in knowledge production and justice delivery that favors dominant groups. Although the constitution guarantees the rights of marginalized communities like Dalits, implementation is weak. Laws protecting Dalit rights exist, but judicial punishments are minimal, and discretion often benefits the dominant classes. Victims are required to gather evidence themselves, which increases their vulnerability. Discrimination based on caste and gender is also present in education and knowledge production. Although bonded labor has been abolished legally, there is no proper rehabilitation or support system for those freed, causing ongoing problems. Human rights are seen as rights against the state, which must be held accountable, but this accountability is lacking.

In short, social and caste-based discrimination in Nepal creates inequality from knowledge production to justice, and there is a pressing need for better enforcement and reforms.

Archive: https://archive.md/TqemD

Summary:
Manaslu region in northern Gorkha saw a record 12,512 foreign tourist arrivals in the fiscal year 2024-25, up from 9,783 in 2023-24, according to the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP). This sharp rise follows recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourists from France and Germany led the numbers, with 1,407 French and 1,130 German visitors. Other frequent visitors came from the Netherlands, Israel, Australia, Spain, Canada, Poland, and Italy. Peak trekking seasons are March-May and September-November. Improvements in trekking trails, especially in the Chaurikharka section of Chum Valley, and installation of 35 signposts and 16 trail markers have made travel safer and easier. Further upgrades are planned for Chum and Nubri valleys.

Archive: https://archive.md/X3QKu

Summary:

• One-way traffic for light vehicles has resumed on the Syaphrubesi–Rasuwagadhi road after being disrupted for 13 days due to severe flooding of the Bhotekoshi River on July 8.
• The flood washed away about one kilometer of road, cutting off a 16-kilometer stretch and halting access between Timure and Rasuwagadhi, affecting emergency transport and food supplies.
• Road authorities initially targeted reopening by July 19 but faced delays due to complications near the Lingling landslide area.
• Temporary tracks were built and rock drilling was done to create new paths, allowing light vehicles to pass.
• Heavy vehicles are still barred as repairs continue; studies are ongoing to allow freight transport in the second phase.
• The flood also destroyed the Miteri Bridge linking Nepal and China. China has expressed willingness to construct a temporary Bailey bridge within two months, and permanent bridge work is expected to start soon.
• The road section was part of a Chinese grant project started in 2019 but slowed by COVID-19.
• Local residents welcomed the reopening as essential deliveries resumed, preventing a crisis.
• Cross-border trade remains suspended due to the damage at Rasuwagadhi customs and other flood impacts on nearby roads.
• The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport is coordinating with China to expedite reconstruction before the upcoming Dashain festival.

Archive: https://archive.md/7B27s

Summary:
Nepal has banned the messaging app Telegram due to concerns over rising online fraud and money laundering. The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) ordered internet service providers to immediately block access to Telegram, citing its misuse for criminal activities. Telegram, known for its privacy features, has been criticized for enabling illegal activities. This ban follows a similar move against TikTok in 2023, which was later lifted after the company agreed to comply with government regulations. Experts argue that such bans are difficult to enforce as users often use VPNs to bypass restrictions and suggest stronger regulatory measures instead of blanket bans.

Archive: https://archive.md/qogJ7

To reach the highest point on our planet is at once a measure of our ambition and achievement, and at the same time, of our frailties and vanity.

More than 100 years on from the tragic events of the 1924 Mount Everest Expedition, Julie Summers, the great niece of Sandy Irvine, and mountaineer and narrator Matt Sharman seek insights into the 1920s Everest expeditions in interviews with many well-know climbers, including Sir Chris Bonington, Rebecca Stephens, Krish Thapa, Dr. Melanie Windridge, Stephen Venables, Dawson Stelfox and Leo Houlding.

Along with extensive historical footage, photographs and documents, as well as interviews with Everest scholars and mountaineers the pair don't just re-tell the story of the three Everest expeditions of the 1920s, but re-examine them, asking what the mountain means for climbers and the people of Nepal 100 years on from the infamous disappearance of George Mallory and Sandy Irvine.

'Everest Revisited' is an Alpine Club production, produced with support from the Mount Everest Foundation. It was directed by John Porter and Dom Bush.

It stars Sir Chris Bonington, Leo Houlding, Rebecca Stephens, Jonathan Westaway, Stephen Venables, Melanie Windridge, Krish Thapa, Ed Douglas, Dawson Stelfox, Noel Odell, Julie Summers and Matt Sharman.

The film won the Jury Special Mention Award at the 2024 Krakow Mountain Festival and was runner-up for the Audience Choice Award at the 2024 London Mountain Film Festival.

Summary:
Nepal is currently battling two extreme weather problems simultaneously:

Dry Spell in Tarai:

• The southern Tarai region is experiencing a prolonged dry spell during mid-monsoon, severely affecting farmers.
• Hundreds of farmers can’t plant paddy due to lack of rainfall and irrigation issues.
• Irrigation canals like the Narayani system are clogged with river sediments and need urgent clearing.
• Local authorities struggle with stolen equipment and inadequate infrastructure.
• The drought has forced the Madhesh provincial government to declare the entire province drought-hit and supply drinking water by tanker trucks.
• This situation threatens food production and the region’s economy.

Floods and Landslides in Mountains and Hills:

• Mountainous regions are facing erratic weather with sudden floods and landslides, causing deaths and injuries.
• Glacial lake outbursts have triggered floods, notably the Bhotekoshi flood from a supraglacial lake previously unnoticed in Tibet.
• The unpredictable river rises and floods catch locals off guard.
• Infrastructure damage worth billions of rupees reported due to floods and landslides.

Broader Climate Context

• Nepal is one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate change, facing increasing extreme weather events like glacial lake outbursts, droughts, and abnormal temperature rises.
• The country’s temperature is rising faster than the global average, with maximum temperatures increasing by 0.05°C per year.
• Despite these challenges, Nepal lacks adequate infrastructure and coordinated systems to handle such climate crises effectively.

Calls for Action

Experts stress that Nepal must develop better coordinated government responses and infrastructure to tackle climate challenges. The current situation, especially in Tarai, is an emergency affecting food security and livelihoods.

Archive: https://archive.md/PqSwh

Summary:
Nepal once saw a major push for domestic biogas systems, which convert livestock and human waste into methane gas used for cooking and lighting. This technology helped many rural households reduce dependence on firewood and petroleum fuels, easing environmental pressure and saving money.

• History & Impact: Between 1992 and 2011, about 260,000 biogas digesters were installed across Nepal through a government partnership with the Netherlands. These systems significantly reduced firewood use, helping conserve forests and reduce household expenses.

• Current Challenges: Despite early success, the biogas movement is now stalling. Many households can no longer maintain biogas systems due to migration (people moving to cities or abroad), fewer cattle being raised, and high maintenance needs. About 50-55% of installed digesters are now non-functional.

• Energy Shift: As biogas use declines, reliance on imported liquified petroleum gas (LPG) has increased, raising energy security concerns due to Nepal’s dependence on India for fuel imports. Around 40% of households now use LPG cylinders.

• Technical & Social Issues:

• Biogas systems need proper upkeep; chemicals or sick cattle waste can disrupt bacteria inside digesters, lowering gas production.

• Hydrogen sulfide in biogas causes corrosion of zinc roofs common in rural homes, adding repair costs.

• Elderly people, who often remain in rural areas, struggle to manage cattle and maintain the systems.

• Potential & Solutions: Nepal has the potential for around 2 million biogas plants but has only installed about 450,000. Biogas could produce energy equivalent to 110 million LPG cylinders annually. To revive the movement, experts suggest:

• Promoting mixed renewable energy solutions including solar and wind alongside biogas.

• Offering better subsidies and support programs.

• Innovating smaller, portable biogas digesters suitable for families with fewer cattle.

• Educating users on maintenance to keep systems functional.

• Grassroots Efforts: Projects like those by Wildlife Conservation Nepal focus on making biogas affordable and training locals to maintain digesters, especially in areas where cattle numbers are dropping.

Bottom Line

Nepal’s biogas revolution improved rural energy access and environmental health but now faces decline due to demographic shifts and maintenance challenges. Reviving it will require innovation, government support, and integration with other renewable energy options to ensure energy security and sustainability.

Archive: https://archive.md/DGDNo

Summary:
Nepal's government debt increased by NPR 2.31 trillion (two trillion, thirty-one billion fifty-four crore) within one year. At the end of fiscal year 2080/81 (mid-July 2023), the total public debt was NPR 24.34 trillion, which rose to NPR 26.65 trillion by the end of fiscal year 2081/82 (mid-July 2024).

Key reasons:

• Difficulty in meeting current expenditures, forcing the government to borrow both domestically and externally for development projects.
• Revenue collection did not increase as expected.
• Reliance on foreign aid, foreign loans, and internal borrowing to balance the budget.

The government plans to collect NPR 13.15 trillion in revenue in the fiscal year 2082/83, with the remainder of the budget to be financed through foreign grants, foreign loans, and internal borrowing. The Finance Ministry highlights the challenge of reducing dependency on loans by managing external resources more effectively.

Despite some increase in revenue collection (a 11.33% rise compared to the previous year), the government’s revenue is insufficient to cover expenses, resulting in a continued rise in public debt.

Archive: https://archive.md/fd4UG

Summary: Between mid-April and mid-July 2025, Nepal experienced over 2,000 disaster events, resulting in at least 93 deaths and 22 people missing, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Authority (NDRRMA). These disasters affected more than 4,100 families and caused 445 injuries.

Key details:

• Floods: 137 incidents causing 13 deaths and 22 missing; notably, a glacial lake outburst flood on July 8 in Rasuwa caused significant casualties.
• Landslides: 175 events with six fatalities.
• Other causes of death included lightning strikes (26), fires (14), animal attacks (12), and altitude sickness (11).
• Additional hazards included strong winds, snake bites, and heavy rainfall.
• Floods affected 1,246 families; fires impacted 1,048 households.
• Many people were displaced and suffered losses due to these weather-related events.
• The data corresponds to the first quarter of the Nepali year 2082.

Nepal remains highly vulnerable to climate change and extreme weather disasters, with such events expected to increase as the monsoon season continues.

Archive: https://archive.md/7lLad

Summary:

• Nepali women are eager to join the British Army as Gurkha soldiers and have started training for it, inspired by the opportunity to work abroad and secure stable jobs.
• The British Ministry of Defence announced in 2018 that they would start recruiting Nepali women as Gurkhas. However, in 2019, Nepal's Parliament blocked the recruitment of female Gurkhas, stating that no women should be recruited into the British Army without the Nepal government's consent.
• The British Embassy says that any change allowing female Gurkha recruitment would require coordination with the Nepal government, which has not yet responded to the UK's interest.
• Training centers like Salute Gorkha Training Center have included women trainees, but unlike men, women do not have the option to join the British Army due to Nepal's restrictions.
• Many young Nepali women see joining military forces abroad as a valuable opportunity for independence and career growth. However, family permission remains a significant hurdle.
• Advocates say allowing women to join would provide equal opportunities and greatly improve their livelihoods.
• Despite government resistance, female trainees remain motivated and hopeful about future changes.

In short: Nepali women want to join the British Gurkhas and are preparing for it, but Nepal's government currently blocks female recruitment into the British Army, limiting their chances despite growing interest and training efforts.

Archive: https://archive.md/L3wU6

Summary:

• Nepal's implementation of recommendations from the third cycle of the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) has been poor, according to a consortium of NGOs representing 530 civil society organizations.
• In January 2022, Nepal agreed to implement 233 recommendations covering 42 thematic issues but has either partially implemented or completely ignored many of them.
• Key areas with poor implementation include child rights, sexual and gender-based violence, national human rights institutions, and equity/non-discrimination.
• For example, none of the recommendations on child rights were fully implemented; 60% were partially implemented, and 40% ignored.
• Recommendations regarding gender-based violence saw only 61% partial implementation; promises to fund shelters and crisis centers for victims remain unfulfilled.
• Only one out of four recommendations related to human rights institutions was fully adopted.
• On equity and non-discrimination, none of the accepted recommendations were fully implemented; 80% partial and 20% unimplemented.
• Experts criticize the government for lack of accountability and warn that failure to meet commitments could affect international funding for human rights and rule of law programs.
• NGOs urge the government to allocate sufficient budgets, strengthen legal frameworks, ratify additional international conventions (like the Convention on Enforced Disappearances, Migrant Workers Convention, Rome Statute, etc.), and improve coordination to fulfill its human rights obligations.
• The next UPR review is scheduled for January 2026.

The article highlights significant gaps between Nepal's commitments and actual progress on human rights issues.

Archive: https://archive.md/DfeKE

From December 16, 2024

Summary:

• Nearly 50% of women in Nepal experience domestic violence, with many showing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Emotional abuse, a form of gender-based violence (GBV), is often ignored because it leaves no physical scars, making survivors like Panthi (a pseudonym) feel trapped and unheard.
• Emotional abuse includes controlling behaviors, verbal assaults, manipulation, humiliation, and isolation, which cause deep psychological harm.
• The United Nations defines GBV to include physical, sexual, and psychological harm, but society and authorities primarily recognize only physical violence.
• Survivors of emotional abuse often hesitate to report due to lack of evidence, social stigma, fear of financial insecurity, and dismissive attitudes from family and authorities.
• Psychological abuse is often a precursor to physical violence and leads to mental health issues like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies.
• Research in Nepal shows a strong link between domestic violence and mental health problems; nearly half of women experiencing domestic violence show signs of anxiety or depression.
• Cultural norms pressure women to endure abuse silently; 58% of abused women in Nepal do not seek help.
• Nepal’s current laws (Domestic Violence Act-2009) include emotional abuse but lack an integrated framework for identifying and reporting such cases.
• Experts stress the need for trained counselors, psychologists, police, and social workers to support survivors properly.
• Patriarchal norms also affect men, discouraging emotional expression and contributing to aggression and violence.
• Integrated services for survivors—legal, healthcare, housing—are fragmented in Nepal, making it hard for victims to get help.
• Educating men on emotional intelligence and better resource integration could reduce GBV.

The article highlights the urgent need for broader recognition of emotional abuse within GBV frameworks in Nepal to provide better protection and support for survivors.

Archive: https://archive.md/1lnbS

Summary:
On July 8, 2025, a massive glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) hit Nepal’s Rasuwa district near the Nepal-China border, causing severe damage and loss of life. The flood swept away parts of a key border highway, killed seven people (including six Chinese workers), and caused an estimated $100 million in losses. The event disrupted trade and tourism, with a major border crossing closed and local businesses affected.

What Happened?

• A glacial lake formed in March 2025 about 35 km upstream inside Chinese territory rapidly expanded and then burst on July 7.
• The sudden release of water flooded downstream areas, sweeping away infrastructure, vehicles, and camps.
• Scientists attribute the event to climate change-driven warming, which is accelerating glacier melt and increasing the number and size of glacial lakes.

Why Is This Happening?

• The Himalayas are warming faster than many other regions (0.42°C per decade between 2008–2018).
• Nepal’s glaciers are shrinking; the number of glacial lakes has increased by 154% since 1977.
• Many lakes pose high risk of bursting, threatening millions downstream.

Past Incidents & Future Risks

• Similar GLOFs occurred recently in Nepal: - May 2025 in Humla district displaced 20 families.

• August 2024 in Thame village destroyed homes.

• 2021 flood killed 24 people in Sindhupalchok district.

• Experts warn these events will become more frequent and intense.

• ICIMOD and local scientists emphasize urgent need for monitoring and disaster preparedness.

This “Himalayan tsunami” is a stark warning of the increasing danger posed by climate change in mountain regions, with serious implications for Nepal and neighboring countries.

Archive: https://archive.md/MBW2z

Universities Operate from the Prime Minister’s Residence

Summary:
The article from Nagarik News highlights the ongoing issue where Nepal's universities hold their key meetings and budget approvals at the Prime Minister's residence in Baluwatar, rather than on their own campuses.

Key points:

• The Prime Minister is the formal chancellor of all universities and institutions, but his busy schedule means university officials often have to go to Baluwatar to get their policies, programs, and budgets approved.
• In the recent fiscal year, nine universities and one institution have attended meetings at the Prime Minister's residence to get their budgets and plans passed.
• This practice is criticized by academics as undermining university autonomy and academic dignity. Experts say universities should be self-governing institutions where decisions are made internally.
• For example, Tribhuvan University, Nepal's oldest and most prestigious university, held its 14th meeting at Baluwatar, approving a budget of over NPR 2.8 billion. However, only a limited number of senate members were called, excluding student union leaders, which weakened the legitimacy of the meeting.
• Former university officials argue that the chancellor's role should be symbolic, offering guidance but not running university affairs from the Prime Minister’s office.
• They urge that universities should have autonomous governance with internal leadership managing meetings and decisions without government interference.
• Overall, the article suggests that this trend reflects growing political interference in academic institutions and calls for reform so that universities regain their independent status and hold meetings on campus.

In short: Nepalese universities are increasingly dependent on the Prime Minister’s office for administrative approvals, which experts say damages academic independence and university dignity. They recommend shifting back to autonomous governance within the universities themselves.

Archive: https://archive.md/iRbIB

Sustainable Development Goals Progress Slow

Summary:

The United Nations released the "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Progress Report 2025," marking the 10th annual assessment since the 2030 Agenda adoption. The report praises improvements in health, education, energy access, and digital connectivity, which have enhanced millions of lives globally. However, progress toward the 2030 targets is slow:

• Only 35% of the SDGs are on track with moderate progress.
• Nearly half of the goals are advancing very slowly.
• 18% of targets have regressed compared to original plans.

Key achievements include a 40% reduction in new HIV infections since 2010, significant malaria prevention efforts saving over 127 million lives since 2000, expanded social protection coverage to over half the global population, increased school enrollment by 110 million children since 2015, declines in child marriage, increased female parliamentary representation, and electricity access for 92% of the world by 2023. Internet use has also grown from 40% in 2015 to 68% in 2024, boosting education, jobs, and civic engagement. Conservation efforts have doubled, aiding biodiversity.

Despite these gains, serious challenges persist:

• Around 800 million people still live in extreme poverty.
• Billions lack access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.
• 2024 was the hottest year on record due to climate change.
• Conflict caused about 50,000 deaths and displaced 12 million people.
• Over 112 million live in inadequate housing or informal settlements.
• Official development assistance dropped by 7.1% in 2024 and may decline further in 2025.

The report calls for urgent action across six priority areas: food systems, energy access, digital transformation, education, employment, social protection, climate, and biodiversity. The next five years are critical for achieving the SDGs by 2030. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the situation as a "global development emergency," emphasizing that no country can tackle these interconnected challenges alone. The SDGs represent a shared commitment and responsibility for all humanity. Though progress is slow, immediate, unified, and determined efforts can still realize the goals. The report stresses that sustainable development is not optional but an essential duty to current and future generations.

Archive: https://archive.md/3OIGU