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British Investors Set to Attend Investment Conference in Kathmandu

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Kathmandu – A delegation of high-level investors from the United Kingdom is gearing up to participate in an upcoming investment conference scheduled to be held in Kathmandu in May. This significant development was conveyed by British Ambassador to Nepal, Rob Fenn, during a meeting with Finance Minister Barshman Pun “Ananta” on Thursday.

Ambassador Fenn commended Nepal for fostering a welcoming environment for foreign investment and expressed the enthusiasm of British investors to explore opportunities in the country. He highlighted the importance of clarifying policies, particularly regarding the double taxation system, to the international community to facilitate smoother investment processes.

Furthermore, Ambassador Fenn disclosed ongoing discussions and coordination efforts with diplomatic counterparts in Kathmandu to ensure the success of the investment conference. “A high-level team of British investors is coming to the investment conference,” he stated, underscoring the active involvement of the British Embassy in facilitating the event’s success.

Minister Pun, acknowledging the longstanding partnership between Nepal and the UK, expressed gratitude for the support extended by the British government. He reiterated Nepal’s commitment to welcoming foreign investment and assured that concerns raised by international investors, including those related to taxation, would be addressed. Minister Pun highlighted ongoing legislative reforms aimed at creating a conducive environment for foreign investment and expressed optimism about increased UK investment in Nepal.

Additionally, Ambassador Fenn provided updates on the cooperation announced by Andrew Mitchell, the British Minister for Development and Africa, during his visit to Nepal in February. Mitchell pledged a grant of 66.6 billion Nepali rupees (approximately 400 million pounds) to Nepal for initiatives focusing on climate change mitigation, economic transformation, and enhancing access to quality healthcare and education services.

The collaborative efforts between Nepal and the UK aim to generate employment opportunities, promote sustainable development, and enhance the well-being of marginalized communities.

With preparations underway for the investment conference and ongoing initiatives to strengthen bilateral cooperation, both Nepal and the UK anticipate mutually beneficial outcomes that will contribute to economic growth and prosperity.

Nepal Department of Tourism Begins Issuing climbing Permits to Mt Everest for the season

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KATHMANDU, March 26 – The Department of Tourism of Nepal has commenced the issuance of permits for climbers embarking on expeditions to conquer Mt Everest, the world’s tallest peak, starting today. This marks the beginning of the spring mountaineering season in Nepal, attracting adventurers from across the globe to test their limits amidst the majestic Himalayan landscape.

With the official announcement, mountaineering enthusiasts can now obtain permits to pursue their aspirations of summiting iconic peaks in the Himalayas. According to the Department, the issuance of mountaineering permits covers a range of peaks, offering diverse challenges and experiences for climbers.

Among the permits granted, four climbers have secured permission to undertake the exhilarating journey to conquer Mt Ama Dablam, renowned for its striking pyramid-shaped peak and technical climbing routes. Additionally, five climbers have been granted permits for Himlung, one for Jugal, and an impressive 24 permits for the formidable Mt Annapurna, known for its treacherous terrain and demanding ascent.

In line with modern advancements, the Department has introduced online booking arrangements, streamlining the permit application process for mountaineers eager to embark on their Himalayan adventure. This digital initiative not only enhances convenience but also ensures efficient management of mountaineering activities, aligning with Nepal’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices in the region.

As climbers prepare to embark on their expeditions, safety remains paramount, with authorities emphasizing the importance of adhering to established guidelines and protocols to mitigate risks and ensure a successful and rewarding mountaineering experience.

The commencement of permit issuance heralds the onset of the spring mountaineering season, a time when the Himalayas come alive with the spirit of adventure and exploration. With Nepal’s awe-inspiring peaks beckoning enthusiasts from around the world, the Department of Tourism stands ready to facilitate and support their aspirations of conquering the world’s highest summits.

India Adds 94 New Billionaires in 2023, Surpassing $1 Trillion Wealth Mark

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New Delhi — India has witnessed a staggering surge in billionaire wealth, with the addition of 94 new billionaires in 2023, bringing the country’s total to 271, according to the latest report from the Hurun Global Rich List. The combined wealth of India’s billionaire cohort now stands at a staggering $1 trillion, underscoring the country’s growing economic prowess on the global stage.

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani remains the sole Indian representative in the top 10 of the ‘2024 Hurun Global Rich List,’ ranking 10th with a wealth of $115 billion. Despite a 40 percent increase in his wealth, Ambani dropped one rank compared to the previous year’s ranking. He retains his status as Asia’s richest individual.

Following closely behind Ambani is Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, who ranks 15th on the global list with a net worth of $86 billion. Adani’s wealth surged by $33 billion, attributed to a rally in his companies’ shares.

India’s remarkable billionaire boom was fueled by a booming stock market, leading the country to add 94 new billionaires in 2023, the second-highest after the United States. Key sectors driving this growth include pharmaceuticals, automobile and auto components, and chemicals. The average age of India’s billionaires stands at 67.

Mumbai emerged as the fastest-growing billionaire capital in the world, adding 26 new billionaires in the report’s year and securing the third rank globally. Meanwhile, New Delhi made its debut in the top 10 billionaire cities. The Hurun Global Rich List highlights India’s ascent as a future economic powerhouse, poised to become the world’s third-largest economy.

Anas Rahman Junaid, founder and chief researcher of Hurun India, emphasized the significance of India’s billionaire boom, stating, “The next decade holds a clear message: overlooking the Indian narrative is a risk no visionary can afford.” The report underscores India’s potential in emerging sectors such as electric vehicles, space technology, and artificial intelligence.

The global billionaire rankings were topped by Tesla CEO Elon Musk with a wealth of $231 billion, followed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with $185 billion. Notably, pop superstar Taylor Swift joined the billionaire club, primarily through her music ventures, with a wealth valued at $1.2 billion.

India’s burgeoning billionaire landscape reflects the country’s growing economic influence and underscores its potential to shape the global economic landscape in the coming years.

Global Insured Damages from Natural Disasters Set to Double in a Decade, Swiss Re Report Warns

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London — The Swiss Re Institute, a leading research arm of the reinsurance industry, issued a stark warning on Tuesday, revealing that insured damages inflicted by natural catastrophes are on track to double within the next decade. According to the report, if current trends persist, policyholders around the world could face significant financial repercussions, with premiums expected to rise in response to heightened risk.

Jerome Jean Haegeli, Swiss Re’s chief economist and lead author of the report, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Premiums have to move in line with this risk.” Insured losses from natural catastrophes have been steadily rising, with last year marking the fourth consecutive year of surpassing $100 billion in damages, despite a slight decrease from previous years.

Historically, major hurricanes like Harvey and Katrina have driven global insured damages past the $100 billion mark. However, recent years have witnessed a surge in smaller events, particularly severe thunderstorms, causing widespread destruction. The devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria last February, claiming thousands of lives, resulted in insured damages of approximately $6.2 billion, highlighting the vulnerability of regions with low insurance penetration.

In contrast, 2023 saw a record $60 billion in losses from 18 thunderstorms, with the United States bearing the brunt of the damage due to its relatively high insurance coverage. Severe Convective Storms (SCS), characterized by sudden downpours, fierce winds, and hailstones, have been increasing by about 7 percent annually for the past three decades.

The report underscores the link between rising temperatures and the proliferation of thunderstorms, fueled by planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. Bernadette Woods Placky, chief meteorologist at Climate Central, explained, “Thunderstorms thrive in a warm, moist environment,” highlighting the growing impact of climate change on weather patterns.

Swiss Re identifies inflation, population growth in high-risk areas, and changing behaviors such as the increased use of solar energy as contributing factors to the rise in thunderstorm damage. Aging rooftops hosting solar power systems are particularly vulnerable to hail damage, exacerbating losses.

As insurers grapple with the mounting costs of natural disasters, the report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for adaptation and mitigation measures to address the escalating risks posed by climate change. Without decisive action, the economic toll of natural catastrophes is poised to escalate, threatening the resilience of communities worldwide.

Mount Everest Climbers Ordered to Carry Back Their Own Poo

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Kathmandu — In a bid to address the growing pollution crisis on Mount Everest, authorities have mandated that climbers must now collect and carry back their own waste, including human excrement, from the mountain. The initiative, spearheaded by the Pasang Lhamu rural municipality, targets the pervasive issue of litter and waste accumulation, particularly in higher camps where environmental conditions inhibit decomposition.

Mingma Sherpa, chairman of the Pasang Lhamu rural municipality, expressed concerns over the deteriorating conditions on Everest, stating, “Our mountains have begun to stink.” Complaints of visible human waste on the mountain’s slopes and the adverse health effects on climbers have prompted the implementation of this new regulation.

Under the new rule, climbers embarking on Mount Everest and nearby Mount Lhotse will be required to purchase designated “poo bags” at base camp, which will be inspected upon their return. These bags, procured from the United States, contain chemicals and powders to solidify excrement and mitigate odor.

Chhiring Sherpa, CEO of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC), emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing estimates of approximately three tonnes of human waste between Everest’s base camp and camp four. The initiative aims to address this issue by providing climbers with biodegradable bags and encouraging responsible waste management practices.

Dambar Parajuli, president of the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal, voiced support for the regulation, suggesting its potential expansion to other mountains. He emphasized the need for effective implementation, citing past failures in enforcing mountaineering regulations.

While Nepal’s central government has announced previous measures to regulate mountaineering activities, critics highlight the lack of enforcement on the ground. Mingma Sherpa assured that the municipality would establish a contact office to ensure compliance with the new regulations, signaling a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship on Everest.

With mounting concerns over pollution and environmental degradation, the initiative to mandate waste management practices marks a significant step towards preserving the pristine beauty of the world’s highest peak. As climbers prepare for the upcoming season, they are tasked not only with conquering Everest’s summit but also with safeguarding its fragile ecosystem for future generations. ( Source : BBC , Navin Khadka)

Nepali Singer Ani Choying Drolma set to enchant UK Audience with ‘Inner Melody for Inner Peace’ Concert

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Jagan Karki, London – Renowned Nepali singer, Ani Choying Drolma, is poised to grace the stage of the Lakeside Country Club in Camberley, United Kingdom, on 5thMay 2024 with her transcendent musical event, ‘Inner Melody for Inner Peace.’ This grand concert, a fusion of Himalayan Buddhist mantras, ritual chanting, and Nepali music, aims to support Nepal’s Manav Sewa Ashram’s building project, a charitable organization dedicated to humanitarian causes.

An icon in the international world music scene, Ani Choying Drolm,  has captivated audiences across America and Europe with her celestial voice and profound musical compositions. With 16 albums to her name and performances at prestigious music festivals worldwide, she is celebrated for her music’s ability to illuminate darkness with compassion and purity.

In a press conference held in London, the collaboration between Manav Sewa Ashram UK and Ani was unveiled, marking a momentous occasion in the realm of music and philanthropy. Sunil Babu Khadka, coordinator of Manav Sewa Ashram UK, expressed gratitude for the concert’s dedication to uplifting the marginalised and underprivileged.

Attendees were deeply moved by a documentary showcasing Manav Sewa Ashram’s relentless commitment to social welfare, underscoring their vision of a Nepal free from homeless information by 2026. Ani Choying Drolma’s philanthropic efforts, including earthquake relief and contributions to children’s hospitals, resonate deeply with the ethos of the Ashram.

As anticipation builds for ‘Inner Melody for Inner Peace,’ tickets are available for purchase, promising an evening of musical enchantment and humanitarian solidarity. With each note sung by Ani Choying Drolma, and each act of kindness supported by the audience, a symphony of hope and healing will reverberate, leaving an indelible mark on hearts and minds alike, the organisers said.

About Ani Choying Drolma

Born in Nepal to Tibetan refugee parents, Drolma’s rise from teenage nun to international music star is the stuff of fairytales. Her prolific philanthropic work and subsequent role as Nepal’s first UNICEF national ambassador has earned her comparisons to India’s Mother Teresa.

When she sings, her voice sounds like an echo from the deepest part of a soul.

She developed a sincere desire to contribute whatever capacities she has to benefit sentient beings as much as possible and to promote the advancement of nuns.

She has become a well-known name in the international world music scene. She toured in America and Europe and successfully presented Himalayan Buddhist mantra, ritual chanting and Nepali music to the world. Till to date, she has launched 16 albums nationally and internationally, and performed for hundreds of reputed music festivals and private exclusive concerts around the world. It is said that Ani Choying Drolma’s music is like a beam of light that cut through the darkness and is filled with compassion and purity. Her voice is also named as “the heavenly voice” with healing power.

Foreign Tourists Add Vibrancy to Holi Celebrations in Nepal

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Kathmandu, March 24 – As the vibrant hues of Holi spread joy and celebration across Nepal, foreign tourists have enthusiastically joined in the festivities, adding an international flair to the traditional Hindu festival.

Captured by our esteemed photojournalist Keshav Gurung, tourists could be seen immersing themselves in the colorful revelry on the streets of Kathmandu, joining locals in spraying each other with bright gulal powder, symbolic of the festival’s message of harmony, health, happiness, and prosperity.

Holi, also known as the festival of colors, holds significant cultural and religious importance for Hindus worldwide. It marks the end of winter and the onset of spring, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the celebration of new life.

The festival is renowned for its vibrant colors, with people gathering in crowds to playfully hurl gulal at each other. Each color carries a special significance, with blue representing the god Krishna, red symbolizing love, and yellow reminiscent of turmeric, a healing spice commonly used in Indian cuisine.

Beyond the color-throwing revelry, Holi encompasses various traditions, including the lighting of bonfires on the first day to purify the air and offerings to express gratitude for the spring season and abundant crops.

Historically, Holi is linked to ancient legends, such as the tale of Prince Prahlada and the demon king Hiranyakashipu, from which the festival derives its name. It’s a time when children are encouraged to embrace the joy of colors and indulge in playful mischief without restraint.

Moreover, Holi serves as a unifying force, bringing together families and communities from diverse backgrounds to partake in special dances and culinary delights. While deeply rooted in Indian culture, the festival transcends borders, with South Asian communities worldwide, including those in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan, celebrating with fervor.

Notably, international Holi celebrations extend beyond the Indian subcontinent, with cities like Leicester in the UK hosting grand festivities, and events in Australia and New York drawing participants from across the globe, fostering cultural exchange and unity.

As Nepal’s streets resonate with laughter and vibrant colors, the participation of foreign tourists adds an extra dimension to the joyous occasion, highlighting the universal appeal and spirit of camaraderie that defines the festival of Holi.

Sadhguru Undergoes Emergency Brain Surgery at Apollo Hospital in Delhi

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Renowned spiritual leader Sadhguru underwent emergency brain surgery at Apollo Hospital in Delhi on Saturday. The surgery, necessitated by a sudden health complication, took place under the supervision of a team of expert neurosurgeons. Sources close to the spiritual guru revealed that he was admitted to the hospital following complaints of severe headaches and underwent immediate medical evaluation, leading to the decision for surgery.

The news of Sadhguru’s surgery has garnered widespread concern and well wishes from his followers and admirers worldwide. Many took to social media platforms to express their prayers for his swift recovery and well-being.

Apollo Hospital, renowned for its state-of-the-art medical facilities and skilled medical professionals, assured the public that Sadhguru’s surgery was successful, and he is currently under observation in the intensive care unit. The hospital also emphasized that every measure is being taken to ensure his speedy recovery.

Sadhguru, widely known for his teachings on spirituality, yoga, and meditation, has a significant global following. His absence from public engagements due to health reasons is expected to impact his scheduled events and programs.

Further updates on Sadhguru’s health condition are awaited as his followers and well-wishers continue to pray for his speedy recovery.

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.