tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90447284359690333222024-03-18T02:48:37.097-07:00Latest News from Kathmandu, NepalLatest Nepal News, Nepali Stock Market, Credit Cards, Loans, Politics, Business and Economy and more.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger24190125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-60355338353509125042024-03-17T23:45:00.001-07:002024-03-17T23:45:18.531-07:00Krishna Bahadur Mahara arrested<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="810" height="502" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Krishna-Mahara-4.jpg" alt="Krishna Bahadur Mahara" class="wp-image-386278" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Krishna-Mahara-4.jpg 810w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Krishna-Mahara-4-300x186.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Krishna-Mahara-4-768x476.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px" /></figure>
<p>Kathmandu, March 18</p>
<p>Vice-chairperson of the CPN Maoist Center, Krishna Bahadur Mahara, has been arrested.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.nepalpolice.gov.np/about-us/about-igp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inspector General of Police</a> Basanta Bahadur Kunwar told Onlinekhabar that Mahara was arrested in Kapilvastu and is being transported to Kathmandu.</p>
<p>A high-level inquiry commission, established to investigate gold smuggling, had recommended prosecution against Mahara. The Ministry of Home Affairs directed the police to take appropriate action based on this recommendation.</p>
<p>Previously, the commission had also taken a statement from Krishna Bahadur Mahara. Additionally, his son, <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/rahul-mahara-arrested.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rahul Mahara, is in custody awaiting trial</a> in the case involving gold smuggling through electronic cigarettes (Vape).</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/krishna-bahadur-mahara-arrested.html">Krishna Bahadur Mahara arrested</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-26861325105934981872024-03-17T22:45:00.001-07:002024-03-17T22:45:10.319-07:002024 NIU RQi: Modern retro electric bike with dual battery launching soon in Nepal<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="1880" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/RQi_0.jpg" alt="2024 NIU RQi. Photo: NIU" class="wp-image-555550" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">2024 NIU RQi. Photo: NIU</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Chinese electric two-wheeler manufacturer; NIU is set to launch the <a href="https://www.niu.com/en/product/rqi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIU RQi soon in Nepal</a>. The electric bike has two options in other markets – the normal and sports, however, only the standard normal version is making its way to Nepal.</p>
<p>The electric bike has modern looks with advanced features and tech loaded for a comfortable and safer ride. With the electric market in the scooter segment a success for <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/price-list-new-niu-scooters-nepal.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIU in Nepal</a>, NIU aims to compete in the electric bike market which is still flourishing in Nepal. Super Soco is currently leading with four options in the electric bike range. There are other electric bike options like the Yatri P1 which is also set to get a facelift soon, Komaki Ranger and the Pure EV Etryst 350.</p>
<p>Let us see what the electric bike offers in terms of specs.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Specifications of NIU RQi</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 2080mm<br />
Width: 835mm<br />
Height: 1108mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>186 Kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>1455mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>167mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seat height</td>
<td>825mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor</td>
<td>7.5 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peak power</td>
<td>11Hp</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peak Torque</td>
<td>450Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Acceleration</td>
<td>2.9s seconds (0-50km/h)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>2 x 18650 Lithium Ion</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery tech</td>
<td>4th GEN NIU ENERGY SMART POWER TECH</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery weight</td>
<td>23Kg x 2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery capacity</td>
<td>72V36Ah</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rated power</td>
<td>5000W</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charging time</td>
<td>4 Hours (Single) / 7 Hours (Dual)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Range</td>
<td>95-105 km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front:<br />
Rear: Mono-shock</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: 300mm CBS | 300mm ABS+TCS<br />
Rear: 240mm CBS | 240mm ABS+TCS</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>Front: 110/70-R17<br />
Rear: 140/70-R17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Green | Blue | Red | Brushed Silver</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price (expected)</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 1,150,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Design</h2>
<p>The NIU RQi features the unique NIU retro look with modern touches giving it a distinctive modern retro bike vibe. Upfront, we can see the round LED DRL with LED headlight. The indicators are situated just above the headlamp setup. With the round headlamp setup and body parts, the electric bike looks quite big.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="769" height="764" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-17-115618.png" alt="" class="wp-image-555572" /></figure>
<p>From the side, the NIU RQi has a modern touch with the lines and finishing. The muscular tank features air vents to keep the battery and the motor cool. There is a start stop button on the start of the tank which functions with the keyless entry feature.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1184" height="1061" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Group-10.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555573" /></figure>
<p>On the rear, the LED setup continues with the LED taillights and the LED indicators. The indicators and the mudguard are on the lower half which are not connected or attached to the taillight but connected to the frame on either side.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="755" height="756" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-17-115648.png" alt="" class="wp-image-555574" /></figure>
<p>One unique feature of the NIU RQi is the availability of cameras on both the front and the back. There is one just above the front headlamp setup and one just above the rear taillight section. The cameras can easily capture the surroundings and also have impact detection which will record footage of the impact.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1160" height="464" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-17-152655.png" alt="" class="wp-image-555575" /></figure>
<p>The seats on the NIU RQi is single-piece which is soft and comfortable for both the rider and the pillion. The seats can also come off to access the battery underneath. The display on the electric bike is an LCD TFT which displays all the necessary information during rides. The electric bike can also connect to the mobile using the NIU app which can check the location of the bike, customise the ride and check the bike’s information.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance</h2>
<p>The NIU RQi electric bike packs a punch with its 7.5 kW motor, delivering a peak power of 11Hp. With a peak torque of 450Nm, it offers quick acceleration, reaching 0-50km/h in just 2.9 seconds. This makes it fast and responsive ideal for navigating through city traffic with ease.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1439" height="703" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-17-120153.png" alt="" class="wp-image-555578" /></figure>
<p>It is equipped with two 18650 Lithium Ion batteries utilizing 4th GEN NIU ENERGY SMART POWER TECH. The electric bike ensures reliable and efficient power delivery with efficient cooling for longer rides. Each battery weighs 23kg, providing a combined capacity of 72V36Ah. Charging is easy, taking 4 hours for a single battery or 7 hours for both.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1196" height="787" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-17-152520.png" alt="" class="wp-image-555576" /></figure>
<p>The NIU RQi offers a decent range of around 95-105 km on a single charge. Its suspension system features front and rear mono-shocks. When it comes to safety, the RQi is equipped with advanced braking technology (ABS). It has brembo brakes with CBS on the front 300mm disc and 240mm disc on the rear. Both the front and the rear brakes have ABS+TCS for reliable stopping power and stability. It is coupled with its 110/70-R17 front and 140/70-R17 rear tyres offering grip and presence on the road.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="737" height="588" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-17-152543.png" alt="" class="wp-image-555577" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Features</h2>
<p>The features of the NIU RQi are as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>7.5 kW electric motor</li>
<li>Top Speed: 100 kmph</li>
<li>Acceleration: 0 to 50 kmph in 2.9 seconds</li>
<li>Range: Up to 105 kms per charge (with dual batteries)</li>
<li>Brakes: Dual-channel ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)</li>
<li>Traction Control System</li>
<li>Full LED Lighting</li>
<li>Keyless Start</li>
<li>TFT Dashboard</li>
<li>Removable Batteries: Two 72V, 36Ah batteries</li>
<li>Dual camera</li>
<li>Brembo Radial Caliper (front)</li>
<li>Mobile connectivity</li>
<li>GPS tracking</li>
<li>Modern-retro design</li>
</ul>
<p>The NIU RQi is available in four colour options; Green, Blue, Red and Brushed Silver.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2127" height="1002" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Group-11.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555579" /></figure>
<p><strong>The NIU RQi is expected to launch soon in Nepal with a price tag of around Rs 1,150,000.</strong></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/niu-rqi-modern-retro-electric-bike.html">2024 NIU RQi: Modern retro electric bike with dual battery launching soon in Nepal</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-35876127343823027932024-03-16T23:45:00.001-07:002024-03-16T23:45:38.385-07:00Bansbari land case: Binod Chaudhary to be questioned by CIB<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="810" height="485" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Binod-Chaudhari.jpg" alt="Binod Chaudhary" class="wp-image-397502" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Binod-Chaudhari.jpg 810w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Binod-Chaudhari-300x180.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Binod-Chaudhari-768x460.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">File: Binod Chaudhary</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kathmandu, March 17</p>
<p><a href="https://cib.nepalpolice.gov.np/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Central Investigation Bureau</a> (CIB) is taking Binod Chaudhary’s statement concerning the Bansbari Leather Factory land grab case.</p>
<p>The CIB, on February 1, <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/arun-chaudhary-arrested-bansbari.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arrested Chaudhary’s brother Arun</a> on charges of illegally obtaining government land.</p>
<p>Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane in a meeting on Sunday directed Home Secretary Eknarayan Aryal and the newly appointed head of CIB, Shyam Lal Gyawali to investigate the case further.</p>
<p>Regarding the Bansbari land case, CIB arrested three individuals, including Arun Kumar Chaudhary, on February 1 for investigation. However, they were subsequently released after Judge Yagya Prasad Acharya of the District Court, Kathmandu, ruled that there was no necessity to detain them for further investigation.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/bansbari-land-case-binod-chaudhary.html">Bansbari land case: Binod Chaudhary to be questioned by CIB</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-61409191461279047202024-03-16T21:45:00.001-07:002024-03-16T21:45:04.217-07:00Honda NX 200: Bold and beginner-friendly adventure tourer launched in Nepal<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="971" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-121.jpg" alt="Honda NX 200. Photo: Honda Nepal" class="wp-image-555487" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Honda NX 200. Photo: Honda Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Sykar Trading, the official dealer of Honda two-wheelers and four-wheelers have launched the <a href="https://honda.com.np/motorcycle/honda-nx-200/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Honda NX 200</a> adventure touring bike. The touring bike is based on the Honda Hornet 2.0 platform sharing most of the parts and features from it. This new addition from Honda gives an entry option to adventure touring bikes with modern features.</p>
<p>The adventure touring segment in Nepal is growing popular yearly with the introduction of new riders in the long tor format. Current options in beginner adventure touring bikes include the Benelli TRK 251, KTM 250 Adventure, <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/hero-x-pulse-4v-in-nepal.html" data-type="post" data-id="489988">Hero Xpulse 4V</a> and the BMW G310 GS.</p>
<p>Honda’s engine refinement and tuning in the Hornet 2.0-based bike can be a favourite in the segment with modern features. Let us see what the adventure tourer offers in terms of specs.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Specifications of Honda NX 200</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 2035 mm<br />
Width: 843 mm<br />
Height: 1248 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kerb weight</td>
<td>147 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>1355 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground clearance</td>
<td>167 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seat height</td>
<td>810 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine displacement</td>
<td>184.4 cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max power</td>
<td>12.7 kW @ 8500 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max torque</td>
<td>16.1 Nm @ 6000 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Compression ratio</td>
<td>9.5:1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bore</td>
<td>61.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stroke</td>
<td>63.096</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank</td>
<td>12 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>Front: 110/70-17 M/C 54S<br />
Rear: 140/70-17 M/C 66S</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: Disc 276 mm<br />
Rear:</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: Upside Down Front Fork (USD)<br />
Rear: Monoshock</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>12V, 5,0 Ah</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Sports Red | Pearl Nightster Black | Matte Selene Silver Metallic | Decent Blue Metallic</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs <strong>479,900</strong></strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Design</h2>
<p>Being based on the Honda Hornet 2.0 platform, the design looks quite familiar in the case of the Honda NX 200. The front and the side have been cladded with extra parts for any road and weather conditions and to give a more adventurous tourer look.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="577" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-120.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555488" /></figure>
<p>The front light setup of the Honda NX 200 is fully LED with LED headlamps and DRLs. The indicators are mounted on the hand guard which gives a more aggressive and bulkier look. The tall wind visor gives better air dispersion and aerodynamics.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="695" height="199" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Group-8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555489" /></figure>
<p>There is an under-cowl part which protects the engine and the lower portion from rocks and other things while riding. It has a ground clearance of 167mm which is comfortable enough for all kinds of roads. For a long and comfortable ride for both the rider and the pillion, the NX 200 features split seats with sporty split grab handles for the pillion. The seat height is also decent with 810mm. The rear of the adventure tourer also features the LED setup with the LED tail lamp and LED indicators.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="199" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Group-7.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555490" /></figure>
<p>The Honda NX 200 features the same digital instrument cluster as the Honda Hornet 2.0. It displays necessary information like the speed, rpm, fuel indicator, trip meter, gear position, time and indicator lights. The handlebar has a comfortable position with all the necessary buttons and switches to operate the bike during the ride.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance</h2>
<p>The Honda NX 200 can be a perfect adventure touring bike for beginners. Being based of the reliable Honda Hornet 2.0., it shares the same 184.4 cc engine which delivers a maximum of 12.7 kW of power at 8500 rpm, making it ideal for both city commutes and light off-road adventures and a maximum torque of 16.1 Nm at 6000 rpm for smooth acceleration and manageable power delivery. With a 9.5:1 compression ratio, the adventure tourer delivers efficient fuel combustion, optimizing performance while maintaining fuel economy.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="664" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-122.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555492" /></figure>
<p>Its 12-litre fuel tank provides ample range for extended rides, while the 5-speed transmission allows riders to easily navigate various terrains with smooth gear shifts. For braking it has a 276 mm front disc brake and a 220mm disc brake at the rear for reliable stopping power. Its suspension system features an Upside Down Front Fork (USD) at the front and a Monoshock at the rear for a comfortable and stable ride, absorbing bumps effortlessly. Its 110/70-17 M/C 54S front and 140/70-17 M/C 66S rear tyres provide excellent grip on both pavement and off-road trails. The 12V, 5.0 Ah battery takes care of the electricals.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="988" height="199" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Group-9.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555493" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Features</h2>
<p>The features of the Honda NX 200 are listed below:</p>
<ul>
<li>184.4cc air-cooled engine</li>
<li>Fuel injection</li>
<li>5-speed manual transmission with assist and slipper clutch</li>
<li>Single-channel ABS with disc brakes</li>
<li>Upside-down front forks</li>
<li>Monoshock rear suspension</li>
<li>17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres</li>
<li>Digital instrument cluster</li>
<li>LED headlamp</li>
<li>Hazard lights</li>
<li>Split-seat</li>
<li>12-litre fuel tank</li>
<li>Split-seat for rider and passenger</li>
</ul>
<p>The Honda NX 200 is available in four colour options Sports Red, Pearl Nightster Black, Matte Selene Silver Metallic and Decent Blue Metallic.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2462" height="1505" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Frame-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555494" /></figure>
<p><strong>The Honda NX 200 is official in Nepal at Rs 479,900.</strong></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/honda-nx-200.html">Honda NX 200: Bold and beginner-friendly adventure tourer launched in Nepal</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-46568336432026998632024-03-15T01:45:00.001-07:002024-03-15T01:45:41.689-07:00Pokhara to be declared as ‘tourism capital’<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/phewa-lake-file-1024x576.jpg" alt="The Phewa lake in Pokhara, Nepal's tourism capital. Photo: Bikash Roka Magar" class="wp-image-497561" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/phewa-lake-file-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/phewa-lake-file-300x169.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/phewa-lake-file-768x432.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/phewa-lake-file-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/phewa-lake-file-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Phewa lake in Pokhara, Nepal’s tourism capital. Photo: Bikash Roka Magar</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kaski, March 15</p>
<p>Pokhara is to be declared as the tourism capital of the country. It will be declared tourism capital on March 17 in the presence of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Secretary at the <a href="https://www.mofe.gov.np/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forest and Environment</a> of Gandaki Province, Kuman Singh Gurung, said that the announcement programme would be organised by the Gandaki Province government and Pokhara metropolitan city.</p>
<p>A rally with different cultural processions will be held from Basundhara Park before the announcement. The announcement programme will be organised at the bank of Fewa Lake, Barahighat.</p>
<p>Pokhara would be officially declared as the tourism capital by unveiling the tourism capital marker, he added. A main ceremony committee has been formed under the coordination of the Mayor to make the declaration ceremony grand.</p>
<p>The chief secretary of Gandaki Province, all secretaries, chairpersons of Rupa, Madi, <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/machhapuchchhre-bank-signs-loan-agreement-mashreq-bank-dubai.html" data-type="post" data-id="443257">Machhapuchchhre</a>, Annapurna rural municipalities of Kaski, Phedikhola of Syangja, Suklagandaki of Tanahu, Kushma and Modi rural municipalities of Parbat, tourism related organisations are in the committee.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/pokhara-to-declared-tourism-capital.html">Pokhara to be declared as ‘tourism capital’</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-50444588536595468192024-03-14T22:45:00.001-07:002024-03-14T22:45:51.386-07:00Hurdles in owning homes in Nepal<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="810" height="490" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Plotting-jagga-Photo-RSS.jpg" alt="A land piece split into different plots in nepal" class="wp-image-454555" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Plotting-jagga-Photo-RSS.jpg 810w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Plotting-jagga-Photo-RSS-300x181.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Plotting-jagga-Photo-RSS-768x465.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Plotting-jagga-Photo-RSS-420x255.jpg 420w" sizes="(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A land piece split into different plots. RSS/File</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In the scenic landscapes of Nepal, the dream of owning a home remains distant for many, especially those working regular jobs. The people here face economic challenges that make acquiring real estate a struggle.</p>
<p>This eventually led a significant number of youths to seek better opportunities abroad. It is time that the government should be ready to build an interconnected society for the country’s prosperity.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The economic struggle</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="6000" height="4000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Unsplash.jpg" alt="Unsplash" class="wp-image-555435" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Unsplash/Andre Taissin</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>For countless Nepali, especially those reliant on regular jobs, owning property seems like an unattainable dream. While a modest lifestyle is achievable, expanding one’s property portfolio is often constrained, creating a divide between those with familial advantages and others still striving to secure their residence.</p>
<p>The stories of Rajan and Sandesh, BBA graduates with equal marks, vividly illustrate this divide. Rajan, who studies in Nepal faces challenges in growing his property holdings, while Sandesh working in Australia, is expanding his real estate investments in Nepal and his adopted country. The impact of foreign exchange rates becomes evident as Sandesh benefits from favourable rates, enabling him to invest more substantially in properties.</p>
<p>A significant factor exacerbating this divide is the disparity in foreign exchange rates. Nepali individuals residing abroad, particularly in countries with higher exchange rates, enjoy financial advantages. This enables them to invest more substantially in properties, both within and outside Nepal resulting in a price hike on real estate in Nepal. In contrast, those residing in Nepal find themselves walking a tightrope, balancing income with <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/inflation.asp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inflation</a>, often with limited resources for property acquisition.</p>
<p>This economic strain has unintended consequences, pushing individuals towards corruption and bribery, especially during family illnesses, significant family ceremonies or even for adding assets. However, proactive government support can mitigate these unethical practices.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The steps</h2>
<p>To address these challenges and foster a more equitable economic landscape, the government should consider the following steps:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Creating opportunities in Nepal:</strong> Generating more job opportunities within the country fosters economic growth and encourages youths to invest in their future at home. The government should support startups and assist individuals engaged in entrepreneurial ventures and traditional employment, promoting diverse career paths.</li>
<li><a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/real-estate-bubble-nepal.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Lowering real estate collateral costs:</strong></a> Initiatives should be undertaken to make real estate collateral more affordable, allowing a broader segment of the population to participate in property ownership. Additionally, the government should identify the commercial value of properties and establish monitoring mechanisms for property transactions to ensure fair practices.</li>
<li><strong>Supporting youth empowerment:</strong> Comprehensive support, including education incentives, vocational training programmes, and encouragement for startups, is crucial for retaining local talents and creating a conducive environment for professional growth within Nepal.</li>
<li><a href="https://kathmandupost.com/opinion/2023/10/11/concerns-over-elevated-interest-rates" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Addressing interest rate issues:</strong></a> Implement measures to stabilise and make interest rates more predictable, providing families with better financial planning and reducing the need to sell ancestral properties or seek opportunities abroad.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.unafei.or.jp/publications/pdf/RS_No86/No86_21PA_Poudel.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Anti-corruption</strong></a> <strong>measures:</strong> Government intervention to support families during health crises, for Higher and Technical Education or during important ceremonies can reduce incentives for corruption and bribery, fostering a more ethical economic environment.</li>
<li><strong>Incentives for local income:</strong> Policies should be devised to ensure that income earned within Nepal receives more significant benefits than the income of non-resident Nepali. This could include preferential treatment in tax incentives, business opportunities, or property ownership.</li>
</ul>
<p>Empowering residents in Nepal with economic advantages and opportunities, coupled with addressing systemic issues like interest rate fluctuations, commercial property value identification, and corporate transparency, is vital for fostering a sustainable future.</p>
<p>The government’s commitment to these multifaceted challenges will not only bridge divides within the country but retain local talent and encourage a more ethical, prosperous, and interconnected society.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/hurdles-in-owning-homes-in-nepal.html">Hurdles in owning homes in Nepal</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-11828563686948545802024-03-14T20:45:00.001-07:002024-03-14T20:45:53.777-07:00Manohar Adhikari: The man behind Foodmandu <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio">
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><iframe title="धैर्य र मेहनतको जगमा अग्लिएको फुडमान्डु | Foodmandu | Manohar Adhikari" width="640" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hM_RknGrHS8?start=2&feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>
</figure>
<p>Two decades ago, Manohar Adhikari used to work at the USA-based software company, D2Hawkeye, whose Nepal office was located in Bishalnagar. At launch, he felt the lack of proper restaurants around the office.</p>
<p>He used to wonder if a good restaurant could deliver lunch to his office. Taking this idea seriously, he later formed a startup company. This company is <a href="https://foodmandu.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foodmandu</a>, an online food delivery service popular in the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The initial phase</h2>
<p>From 2004 to 2006, he worked at D2Hawkeye. After that, he began working as a freelance software developer. While working as a freelancer, he always wanted to do something by himself.</p>
<p>As his expertise was in the IT sector, he thought of establishing a company that provides IT services for businesses. Then he researched several ideas and the idea of delivering food online remained at the top of the list. </p>
<p>Often, people cannot eat their choice of food due to the lack of good restaurants nearby, which can be solved through online food delivery services.</p>
<p>Hence, in 2010 Adhikari founded Foodmandu.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1600" height="1067" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Foodmandu.jpeg" alt="Foodmandu" class="wp-image-555421" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The challenges</h2>
<p>However, launching Foodmandu did not meet his expectations. At that time access to the internet and smartphones was less and the startup company was not doing so well. Back then, people also had no idea about online food delivery services and restaurants had trust issues regarding the concept of online food delivery.</p>
<p>Initially, Adhikari was engaged with a restaurant for Foodmandu. It was challenging for him as the restaurant owner did not trust his idea would work. After considerable effort, he earned the restaurant’s trust. “It took a lot of time to convince the restaurant,” says Adhikari.</p>
<p>In the first year, the company used to get an average of five orders per day, recalls Adhikari. For a long time, the company went through a loss. Initially, it was challenging to find a delivery person to deliver food.</p>
<p>“To deliver food was an unconventional job,” says Adhikari, “It used to be difficult to make the employees understand their duties.”</p>
<p>After four years of running the business, Adhikari doubted whether the business would run for long. The business was growing but it was not as expected. The expenditure was more than earnings. However, Adhikari also had a gut feeling that this business would thrive someday. </p>
<p>“I was confident because the market had already started recognising the business,” says Adhikari. “Slowly, the number of customers was increasing. The customer who once used our service started using it repeatedly. People started believing in us.”</p>
<p>Adhikari was confident that if the business person does not seek overnight success, the business will be long-lasting. </p>
<p>He was happy with the progress of a business but his happiness did not last for long. In 2015 Nepal was hit by a devastating earthquake and later India posed an economic blockade in Nepal. </p>
<p>Such events badly affected the business of Foodmandu. Although the business declined then, Foodmandu had already become a trustworthy brand and the investor’s eyes were on it. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The new hope</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="820" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/foodmandu_ktm.jpg" alt="Foodmandu office" class="wp-image-555422" /></figure>
<p>When Adhikari started Foodmandu, there was no concept of venture capital, private equity funds, or angel investors in Nepal. He never thought he would arrange funds from venture capital. However, by 2016, all such companies were operational in Nepal.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/v/venturecapitalist.asp#:~:text=Venture%20capitalists%20are%20investors%20who,than%20in%20its%20initial%20stage." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Venture capitalists</a> had already started developing an interest towards Foodmandu. Some of them even proposed to invest in Foodmandu. He was confident that the additional investment would help the business grow.</p>
<p>Later, in 2016, he agreed to an investment from True North Associates. The investment significantly contributed to the company’s growth. For five years after starting the company, it operated through its website. Then, in 2015, they released a mobile application.</p>
<p>In 2020, Foodmandu received a second phase of investment. From 2016 to 2020, Foodmandu’s business grew tenfold. In 2021 the company expanded their business in Pokhara as well. “In Pokhara, the business is not as big as in Kathmandu, but it is progressive,” says Adhikari. </p>
<p>In 2023, Foodmandu received investment for the third time. This time the company received an investment of Rs 460 million from Dolma Impact Fund. The company has not disclosed the amount of the previous investment.</p>
<p>Till 2020, the company was doing well, but due to Covid-19, its business started to decline. Currently, there is a notable improvement in the business. Although demands for food delivery were high during the lockdown, the closure of restaurants and restrictions on movement affected the business. </p>
<p>Currently, Foodmandu does the business of over Rs 750 million per year. As of now, 800 to 900 active restaurants are working with Foodmandu. On average, Foodmandu receives 2,000 to 2,200 orders per day. There are over 120 human resources, working from Foodmandu’s office. </p>
<p>Foodmandu is planning to expand its services in other big cities too. Foodmandu is also planning to invest in cloud kitchens. Foodmandu making its business versatile has started its delivering goods service as well.</p>
<p>Along with the company’s growth, Adhikari says he is also concerned about the facilities for employees. Adhikari claims that the company gives the best salary in the food delivery sector of Nepal. “We are also into social security and have been providing facilities specified by the government,” says Adhikari. </p>
<p>The rider of Foodmandu earns a minimum of Rs 20,000 to a maximum of Rs 70,000 monthly. </p>
<p>In the next five years, Adhikari aims to grow his business tenfold and take it public. He is optimistic about the company’s expanded growth. “The emergence of new food delivery services will help this service to grow as an industry,” says Adhikari. </p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/manohar-adhikari-the-man-behind-foodmandu.html">Manohar Adhikari: The man behind Foodmandu </a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-12038329873924476842024-03-14T03:45:00.001-07:002024-03-14T03:45:28.030-07:00HoR session: NC wants PM’s reply over Lamichhane’s appointment as Home Minister<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Home-Ministry-Rabi-Lamichhane-4-1024x683.jpg" alt="Rabi Lamichhane takes over as a deputy minister and the minister for home affairs, in Kathmandu, on Monday, December 26, 2022." class="wp-image-514589" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Home-Ministry-Rabi-Lamichhane-4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Home-Ministry-Rabi-Lamichhane-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Home-Ministry-Rabi-Lamichhane-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Home-Ministry-Rabi-Lamichhane-4.jpg 1230w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rabi Lamichhane takes over as a deputy minister and the minister for home affairs, in Kathmandu, on Monday, December 26, 2022.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kathmandu, March 14</p>
<p>The major opposition <a href="https://www.nepalicongress.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nepali Congress</a> has sought a reply from the government regarding the appointment of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President and lawmaker Rabi Lamichhane as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs.</p>
<p>In a session at the <a href="https://hr.parliament.gov.np/np" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">House of Representatives</a> (HoR), the NC demanded the government’s response over the Home Minister’s appointment. Once the session commenced, the NC lawmakers stood from their respective seats, prompting Speaker Devraj Ghimire to grant time to Badri Prasad Pandey to put forth his views.</p>
<p>Pandey expressed concerns over the appointment of a person who is under investigation for his alleged involvement in the misappropriation of cooperative funds. The appointment has cast doubt over a fair investigation into the matter. He demanded the Speaker’s ruling to the Prime Minister for a proper response. The Speaker said the House’s attention was drawn to the issue, expressing his hope that the government would also pay heed to it.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/nc-asks-rabi-lamichhane-home-minister.html">HoR session: NC wants PM’s reply over Lamichhane’s appointment as Home Minister</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-52058162780916859942024-03-13T21:45:00.001-07:002024-03-13T21:45:38.368-07:00Government’s efforts to avoid FATF grey list: Is the new government enthusiast?<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="621" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Prachanda-.jpg" alt="Pushpa Kamal Dahal" class="wp-image-555317" /></figure>
<p>The Nepal government, once again has been cursed with instability. <a href="https://www.opmcm.gov.np/en/prime-minister/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal</a> Dahal broke the alliance with the <a href="https://www.nepalicongress.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nepali Congress</a> and shook hands with the opposition CPN UML and others.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister seems confused due to misdiagnosing the problem. With increasing economic challenges in Nepal, including the possibility of being added to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, doubts emerge regarding the PM’s decision-making.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The FATF black and grey lists</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/green-economy2-1024x683.jpg" alt="green economy and nepali politics - Economic indicators" class="wp-image-481000" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/green-economy2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/green-economy2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/green-economy2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/green-economy2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/green-economy2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Unsplash/ Visual Stories || Micheile</figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="https://www.fatf-gafi.org/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FATF</a> is the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog. It sets international standards that aim to prevent these illegal activities and the harm, they cause to society. The FATF was established in 1987 by the then G7 to examine and develop measures to combat money laundering. In 2001, the FATF expanded its mandate to also combat terrorist financing.</p>
<p>The countries referred to as the blacklist by FATF are those high-risk countries identified with serious strategic deficiencies to counter money laundering, terrorist financing and financing of proliferation. North Korea, Iran and Myanmar are kept on the black list by FATF at present.</p>
<p>Similarly, in the grey list, countries that are actively working with the FATF to address strategic deficiencies in their regimes to counter money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing are included.</p>
<p>FATF places a jurisdiction under increased monitoring to these countries. Countries like Bulgaria, Cameroon, Haiti, Jamaica, Syria, etc are listed under grey list countries by the FATF as of February 2024.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nepal’s position under the FATF</h2>
<p>Nepal narrowly escaped the grey list in 2023. There was a chance of Nepal being grey-listed as Nepal failed to work on improving the areas of financial crimes and money laundering. However, Nepal has been granted an extension until October 2024 to fulfil the necessary criteria to safeguard itself from potential greylisting as Nepal promised to make improvements in all necessary areas within the timeframe of October 2024.</p>
<p>The FATF, on November 2023 warned Nepal to avoid itself from the grey list by improving the existing laws and punishing those involved in money laundering and other big financial crimes. Nepal was on the grey list of FATF from 2008-2014. FATF removed Nepal from the grey list in 2014 after Nepal amended the Anti-Money Laundering Act 2008.</p>
<p>As per the experts, the Asia Pacific Group monitors the recommendation given by the FATF to minimise money laundering. Up-to-date amended laws and regulations, the status of the law enforcement institutions and lastly, the implementation process is monitored. Nepal has been seen as weak in all of these three sectors.</p>
<p>So, the pressure lies on the officials to improve within a short time.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Impact of the FATF grey list</h2>
<p>No country would want to have its name listed in the grey list of FATF as being in the grey list of FATF can cause severe harm to the economy of any country. Especially for countries like Nepal, heavily relying on foreign aid, loans and investments to achieve planned growth, the grey list could create further difficulties.</p>
<p>The grey-listed countries will face increased monitoring from the international community, which ultimately affects attracting foreign investments. Furthermore, the greylisting could also cause severe harm to the reputation of the country.</p>
<p>No country would like to make a transaction with the grey-listed country. Even if they do, risk-coverage cost is added as a premium which makes the projects more expensive. As Nepal is a country based on import, the difficulty in getting a letter of credit or bank guarantee can also be a problem for Nepal if grey-listed. As per the economic times, Pakistan had a loss of $38 billion in its total GDP from 2008 to 2021 due to its enlistment in the FATF grey list.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Nepal has been doing?</h2>
<p>Nepal has tried to make the legal basis for controlling financial crimes. The government registered a bill to amend certain laws relating to the prevention of money laundering and promotion of the business environment at parliament 13 months ago.</p>
<p>The bill consists of the amendments of 19 acts. This bill has been brought as per the recommendations given by the FATF and Asia-Pacific Group to the Nepali government.</p>
<p>Acts related to money launderings such as the Import and Export Act, Tourism Act, Nepal Rastra Bank Act, Insolvency Act, Human Trafficking and Transportation (Control) Act, Cooperatives Act, the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, Insurance Act etc are aimed to be amended at once through this bill.</p>
<p>The irony is, 13 months since this bill has been registered in the lower house of the parliament, is still in discussion and yet to be authenticated.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Doubt on the government’s ability to policymaking</h2>
<p>Prime Minister Dahal is looking lazy in the job of policy making as only four bills have been authenticated since he became the prime minister. Also among the four, three of the authenticated bills were the regular bills brought every year by the finance ministry and one was the amendment bill. Talking about the previous government before Dahal came into the prime ministerial post, 18 bills were authenticated in the short span of just around three months. From this, we can analyse how poor Prime Minister Dahal has been when it comes to doing things from the policy level.</p>
<p>Furthermore, the appointment of disputed people as ministers makes it more challenging for the prime minister to make policies that can keep Nepal out of the FATF grey list.</p>
<p>Questions arise about whether the new ministers are enthusiastic to make laws as recommended by the APG as such laws may cause difficulties for them. Prime Minister Dahal himself looks to be in dilemma with the transitional justice bill as it may prevent the judicial bodies from penalising the war criminals. With many of the Maoist cadres being accused of war crimes, the PM seems to be hesitating to pass the transitional justice bill.</p>
<p>It seems to be a tough job for the government to make and implement laws that prevent Nepal from being on the FATF grey list as the Dahal-led government has been very slow in passing bills from the parliament.</p>
<p>Moreover, as the ministers in the current government and the cadres of the ruling parties have been accused of financial crimes and war crimes, the willingness of the government to pass the essential bills remains questioned.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/governments-efforts-to-avoid-fatf-grey-list.html">Government’s efforts to avoid FATF grey list: Is the new government enthusiast?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-73588643948765995432024-03-12T23:45:00.001-07:002024-03-12T23:45:08.904-07:00Lola and the Sea: Watch the film to understand the transition and question of identity<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1438" height="1080" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Lola-and-the-Sea.png" alt="Photo: Screengrab from Lola and the Sea" class="wp-image-555282" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Screengrab from Lola and the Sea</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In recent times, gender and specifically LGBTIQ+ issues have increasingly become a matter of concern globally, but also in Nepali society. This is also the topic depicted in Belgian director <strong>Laurent Micheli</strong>’s 2019 film <em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDd9MB71648&ab_channel=PeccadilloPictures" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDd9MB71648&ab_channel=PeccadilloPictures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lola and the Sea</a></em>, in which the titular character (Lola) is rediscovering herself as a trans woman. The plot starts with her decision, to turn from Lionel into Lola, which separates her from the family so much that due to the conflict with her father, she ends up missing the funeral of her mother Catherine. </p>
<p>The female lead, played by newcomer <strong>Mya Bollaers</strong>, and her father Philippe (<strong>Benoît Magimel</strong>) unwillingly go together on a road trip to fulfil Catherine’s last wish for her ashes to be dispersed into the sea near her childhood home. On this journey, their relationship gradually transforms and their personalities are revealed. </p>
<p>The tension further accelerates with Lola smoking in front of her father and using explicit language signifies the level of contempt that she has against him. Similarly, Philippe keeps calling Lola by her dead name and using the male pronoun to address her. He clearly is not able to accept her present identity – he wants his son back. In one scene, he gives money to Lola for her surgery, showing a softer side, but later on, he does not go back home with her. Such ambiguous instances might create confusion among the audience about their relationship. </p>
<p>The score which features opera music, soft piano tunes and a song like Four Non-Blondes’ “What’s Up” reflects the frustration and desire for freedom of the protagonist. In one of the key scenes, in a carwash where the water cleans the red paint splashed by Lola out of defiance over the windshield which becomes a potent symbol implying Philippe’s reflection and a certain extent of settlement of a dispute between the two protagonists. </p>
<p>Despite containing some, not fully accomplished elements, <em>Lola and the Sea</em> is a movie that truly deserves your attention. It goes beyond portraying the hardships and struggles of its characters; it serves as a profound lesson on universal motivations behind transformation.</p>
<p>When Lola emotionally says, “I will feel fulfilled,” in response to Philip’s questions about her motives, the film truly comes into focus, revealing its poignant message. </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1920" height="922" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Lola-and-the-Sea.png-2.png" alt="Photo: Screengrab from Lola and the Sea" class="wp-image-555280" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Screengrab from Lola and the Sea</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Everybody who has considered changing their gender can relate to Lola. There are plenty of examples of the bitter experiences that people around us have faced due to such a decision. They are seen differently in society, not respected for their decision, and their transition is most often not accepted. A scene where the police use the word “bullshit” when addressing Lola, as she tells them she is trans, serves as a testament to this.</p>
<p>But what is more important and frustrating for a person in transition, it is not just the society that does not accept them, it’s also their closest family. Till the end, Philippe is reluctant to accept Lola as a transwoman. </p>
<p>This Belgian-French film is equally relevant to Nepali society, where people from the <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/despite-some-reforms-lgbtiq-people-in-nepal-are-still-vulnerable.html" target="_blank" data-type="post" data-id="461698" rel="noreferrer noopener">LGBTIQ+ community</a> are still struggling for their identity. Due to the prevailing conservative mindset, a lot of Nepali LGBTIQ+ people have been unable to open up about their gender. There are many instances where they are subject to harassment and deprived of opportunities just because of their gender. </p>
<p>Recognition and acceptance of LGBTIQ+ issues are slowly achieved through public discourse and media, and cinema can play a key role here. Nepali cinema rarely depicts such characters and it is high time for our filmmakers to address these topics, which could conceivably bring about at least the beginning of a change. </p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/movie-review-lola-and-the-sea-nepal.html">Lola and the Sea: Watch the film to understand the transition and question of identity</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-20428063605037472782024-03-12T21:45:00.001-07:002024-03-12T21:45:30.761-07:00Natural disaster or natural hazard? Even experts interchangeably use these terms<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Melamchi-bazaar-after-flood-6-1024x683.jpg" alt="A flooded Melamchi Bazaar of Sindhupalchok - Natural disaster" class="wp-image-470956" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Melamchi-bazaar-after-flood-6-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Melamchi-bazaar-after-flood-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Melamchi-bazaar-after-flood-6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Melamchi-bazaar-after-flood-6.jpg 1230w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A flooded Melamchi Bazaar of Sindhupalchok, on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo: Bikash Shrestha</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The terminologies—natural disasters and natural hazards—have been in debate as experts in various fields offer diverse perspectives in their definitions. Sometimes these terms seem interchangeable at first glance, but the nuances in their definitions highlight the complexity of understanding and mitigating the impacts of environmental events.</p>
<p>Traditionally, the term natural disasters has been widely used to describe catastrophic events caused by natural phenomena such as <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/earthquake-jajarkot-rukum-west.html" target="_blank" data-type="post" data-id="545485" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a>, floods, and landslides.</p>
<p>This terminology often highlights the destruction and loss caused by these events, portraying them as unavoidable tragedies that occur indiscriminately.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Defining hazard and disaster</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="820" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/DSC00175.jpg" alt="Jajarkot earthquake" class="wp-image-546229" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An earthquake demolished a house and torn a road in Chuiri village in Jajarkot. Photo: Chandra Bahadur Ale</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>However, critics argue that labelling these events as disasters implies a sense of inevitability and fatalism, which downplays the role of human actions in exacerbating their impacts.</p>
<p>On the other hand, the term natural hazard refers to the potential threats posed by environmental phenomena, emphasising the risk they pose to human life and property. Unlike natural disasters, which suggest an inevitable outcome; natural hazards underscore the importance of proactive measures such as preparedness, mitigation, and adaptation to minimise the impacts of these events.</p>
<p>By framing these occurrences as hazards, there is an implicit recognition of human agency in shaping their outcomes and the possibility of reducing their severity through effective risk management strategies.</p>
<p>The distinction between natural disasters and natural hazards is not merely semantic but reflects different philosophical and practical approaches to understanding and responding to environmental events.</p>
<p>While some argue for the continued use of natural disasters to highlight the urgency of addressing the immediate impacts of these events, others advocate for a shift towards the term natural hazard to promote a more proactive and holistic approach to disaster risk reduction.</p>
<p>Considering the official definition provided by the <a href="https://www.undrr.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)</a>,</p>
<p><a href="https://www.undrr.org/terminology/hazard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hazard</a>: A process, phenomenon or human activity that may cause loss of life, injury or other health impacts, property damage, social and economic disruption or environmental degradation.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.undrr.org/terminology/disaster" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Disaster</a>: A serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society at any scale due to hazardous events interacting with conditions of exposure, vulnerability, and capacity, leading to one or more of the following: human, material, economic, and environmental losses and impacts.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The observation</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="473" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Baglung-Pahiro-1230-1024x473.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-470628" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Baglung-Pahiro-1230-1024x473.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Baglung-Pahiro-1230-300x138.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Baglung-Pahiro-1230-768x354.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Baglung-Pahiro-1230.jpg 1300w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Landslide destroyed a lot of houses in Baglung in 2020.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A quick observation of the definition of hazard and disaster may sound the same. However, diving into the depth, several keywords present differences. The annotation provided along with the definition has further elaborated the differences. The annotation elaborates disaster as an incident requiring additional support for coping makes it different from a hazard defined just as an incident.</p>
<p>Thus, taking an example, an incident in the forest, which people do not need to cope with, is just a hazard despite having some impacts on the environment; however, immediate action might be required for the incident which is nearby and likely to impact lives and livelihood of people, this can be considered a disaster.</p>
<p>In 2021, the <a href="https://ehs.unu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations University- Institute for Environment and Human Security</a> published an annual science-based report entitled <a href="https://interconnectedrisks.org/report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Interconnected Disaster Risks</a>. Based on the thorough scientific analysis and technical background, it summarised the analysis of several disastrous events and evaluated their interconnectedness with each other and human actions.</p>
<p>The report concluded that disaster is associated with hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. The hazards are prominent, but they become a disaster when they impact a community or people not adequately protected, further supported by physical and social vulnerability factors.</p>
<p>The report also suggested that hazards can be stopped from becoming disasters by increasing the resilience of people and infrastructures. The statements were later supported by the UNDRR through an article published on its <a href="https://www.undrr.org/our-impact/campaigns/no-natural-disasters" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a> and made an announcement also through official social media that “#NoNaturalDisasters – Hazards may be natural. Disasters are not.</p>
<p>Next time you hear the phrase natural disaster step up to the mark and correct the speaker: “There is no such thing as a natural disaster.”</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/natural-disaster-or-natural-hazard.html">Natural disaster or natural hazard? Even experts interchangeably use these terms</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-87140568200771860952024-03-12T17:45:00.001-07:002024-03-12T17:45:51.272-07:00Times A and Lalitpur A wins Open 3×3 Basketball Tournament <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="726" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/3x3-basketball-winner-times-A-lalitpur-A-1024x726-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555258" /></figure>
<p>Kathmandu, March 12</p>
<p>Times A and Lalitpur won the Open 3×3 Women and Men’s Basketball Tournament on Monday in the Covered Hall at Dashrath Stadium.</p>
<p>Jointly organised by the Nepal Basketball Association and 3×3 Nepal Basketball, Times A won the tournament from the men’s category and Lalitpur A from the women’s category. </p>
<p>Times A, which included players like Sadush Pradhan, Manish KC and Bijaya Burja l, won the final against Army B by 21-17.</p>
<p>Similarly, in the women ‘s category Lalitpur A won against IIMS with a 17-14 score.</p>
<p> The winner of the men’s category won Rs 100,000 and a trophy and the 1st runner-up received Rs 50,000. Similarly, the winner of the women’s category won Rs. 50,000 and a trophy and the 1st runner up won Rs. 25,000. </p>
<p>Manish KC of Times A and Garisma Silwal of Lalitpur A were announced the Most Valuable Players of men’s and women’s category respectively. Both of them won Rs. 15,000, a trophy and a gift hamper. In the competition, there were 32 teams in the male category and eight teams in the women’s category.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/times-lalitpur-basketball-tournament.html">Times A and Lalitpur A wins Open 3×3 Basketball Tournament </a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-44718554807270718792024-03-12T00:45:00.003-07:002024-03-12T00:45:38.234-07:00Navigating the intersections of global political economy and technological dynamic<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="900" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Rohej-Khatiwada-.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555186" /></figure>
<p>Working as a journalist in Nepal, Rohej Khatiwada has translated numerous articles into the Nepali language. These articles addressed topics such as global politics, economics, and technological advancements. He pursued this passion without realising that one day these articles would come together to form a book.</p>
<p>“I did not write these pieces to publish a book,” says Khatiwada. </p>
<p>These translations served diverse purposes, primarily for publication in the media. All the articles featured in Khatiwada’s debut book Ekkaisau Shatabdi Ma Nigrani Ra Swatantrata (Surveillance and Freedom in the 21st Century) have been translated in the last couple of years. The book contains selected articles from his collection of translated pieces.</p>
<p>“The translated articles depict the opinion of the brilliant and critical thinkers of the contemporary world,” says Khatiwada. “They show how those brilliant minds have been analysing the developments that are occurring presently.” </p>
<p>The book also includes information about specific events. For instance, Debashish Roy Choudhury has expressed about the <a href="https://www.state.gov/summit-for-democracy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Democracy Summit</a>, hosted by the USA. According to Khatiwada, the articles in the book feature the major characteristics of the first quarter of the 21st century. </p>
<p>Khatiwada hopes that these articles will serve as valuable resources for analysing present developments in the future.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Calling</h2>
<p>As Rohej Khatiwada reviewed his writings, one day he entertained the idea of compiling them all in one place. The intriguing aspects of his articles motivated Khatiwada to gather them together and publish them as a book. He shared this idea with a few friends, all of whom responded positively and bolstered his confidence.</p>
<p>He recalls one of his friends, LB Basnet, currently pursuing a PhD in the USA, expressing the opinion that Nepali readers should be aware of how brilliant thinkers around the world perceive the contemporary world.</p>
<p>“That’s why you must work on this book as soon as possible,” Basnet advised, urging Khatiwada to proceed with the project.</p>
<p>The publisher of the book, Bishnu Poudel, equally motivated him to publish this book through his publication, Indigo Ink.</p>
<p>“He then said, this is going to be an interesting book, readers are searching for such books,” says Khatiwada. </p>
<p>Most of the essays were translated randomly, with some selected after the decision to publish the book. The article by Paul Mason and Yanis Varoufakis was also translated after deciding on the theme of the book.</p>
<p>Khatiwada’s interest in the issues of global economic politics and technological advancement additionally helped him to select appropriate essays for a book. </p>
<p>Most of the articles featured in the book have already been published in various media outlets, but a couple of them have not. Nevertheless, Khatiwada believes that reading those articles separately in different media and within a single book can provide a different and enriching experience.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Book for intellect</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3360" height="2240" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/WhatsApp-Image-2024-02-29-at-1.32.13-PM.jpeg" alt="Rohej Khatiwada " class="wp-image-555187" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohej Khatiwada</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Some of the resources from which the articles for the book have been obtained are from international media such as The Guardian, Financial Times, and Project Syndicate. Articles have also been transcribed from speeches. </p>
<p>Akin to various other books this book also has its targeted readers. According to the author, for people who are interested in global political economics and the advancement of technology and its impact, this book can be a good read. </p>
<p>In the 21st century, the world saw a revolution in technology. The 19th and 20th century was about a revolution in engines. In the late 20th century, the innovation of computers and the internet caused a revolution in technology. The development of technology directly impacted global economics and politics. The book interestingly covers all of these matters. </p>
<p>Regarding the takeaways that the readers from this book can grab, Khatiwada says it will be based on readers’ interest, background and the book they have read earlier. </p>
<p>But in general, one can learn about the political and economic structure of the first quarter of the 21st century. Some essays in the book can be an entry point for the readers to explore the global political order, he says. </p>
<p>“People are curious about the rise of Donald Trump, Javier Milei, Narendra Modi and other powerful figures of the world. Reading this book can answer their curiosity.” </p>
<p>The title of the book Ekkaisau Shatabdi Ma Nigrani Ra Swatantrata is named by considering the meeting point of all the essays, which is mostly about global political economics and technological changes. </p>
<p>Talking to the Onlinekhabar, Rohej Khatiwada also discusses how technological development has strengthened surveillance, drawing from his knowledge gained through reading and translating articles on global political economics and technological progress.</p>
<p>“Each and every time we are under surveillance, freedom is shrinking. From giant tech to small apps to the government, everyone can keep us under surveillance,” he says. “It has made authoritarian companies easy to put into citizen surveillance.” </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="820" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DSC08246.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555188" /></figure>
<p>Khatiwada further says, such a thing has made politicians extremely powerful. It has violated the freedom of the citizens and the politicians have been able to control the citizens and manipulate the people. </p>
<p>The book features articles from 11 individuals. According to the author, each of them is related in a way that they are all brilliant critical thinkers of contemporary times. Their perspectives collectively aim to make readers aware of the present economic and political conditions of the world.</p>
<p>Unlike for English readers, Nepali readers face a dearth of books that delve into global political economics and the impact of technological advancements. Khatiwada’s “Ekkaisau Shatabdi Ma Nigrani Ra Swatantrata” has attempted to fill this gap. However, the demand for books on such topics is relatively low, which automatically demotivates publishers.</p>
<p>As the book talks a lot about data and artificial intelligence, regarding the future of these two subjects, Khaitwada says, “I am not in the position to assume the future of technology. But some articles of the book indicate their future.” </p>
<p>An article by Paul Mason revolves around how the development of technology can serve humanity. The articles in the book discuss big data and the significance of information in the 21st century. </p>
<p>“If we can distribute the information through the right channel and system, poverty in the world can end. If big data has community ownership, it can serve all of humanity.” </p>
<p>Khatiwada informs both Yuval Noah Harari, who is a liberal thinker and Yanis Varoufakis, who is a Marxist thinker argue that the private or government ownership of data is dangerous.</p>
<p>The private ownership of data can oppress people economically. It creates disparity among the people and causes poverty. The wealth will be only with those who own big data, says both thinkers. </p>
<p>Another interesting thing that this tells is how the development of information has enriched Artificial Intelligence. </p>
<p>With the development of AI, it is also taking the jobs of humans, says Khatiwada, referring to how the restaurant has been operating AI waiters and hospital operating AI nurses.</p>
<p>“If this continues unemployment is going to be a big problem. If we do not develop proper channels to distribute the information generated from big data, unemployment will be everywhere,” says Khatiwada. </p>
<p><em>Ekaisau Satabdi Ma Nigrani Ra Swatantrata was launched in March in Umoja Coffee, Kathmandu.</em></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/rohej-khatiwada-ekkaisau-shatabdi-ma-nigrani-ra-swatantrata.html">Navigating the intersections of global political economy and technological dynamic</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-29464977834781414152024-03-12T00:45:00.001-07:002024-03-12T00:45:37.677-07:002024 Best Hybrid cars available in Nepal<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2901" height="1591" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Hybrid-Electric-cars-available-in-Nepal.jpg" alt="2024 Best Hybrid cars available in Nepal" class="wp-image-555129" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">2024 Best Hybrid cars available in Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The recent boom in the electric car market can be seen worldwide and in Nepal too. Tesla and BYD have become the top companies in the electric car market. However, many still have not chosen <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/best-electric-cars-nepal-2023-jan.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric cars</a> for one main reason: range. Range in electric vehicles has always been a major issue due to the lack of proper infrastructure and developing charging networks. With that in mind, hybrid cars have been gaining the market slowly with the benefits and mileage they offer.</p>
<p>Toyota, the Japanese car company which is known for its high-quality reliability has been quite known in the hybrid market. Toyota just recently released its first-ever fully electric car, the Toyota bZ4X. Before that, Toyota had not been in the electric market and used hybrid technology with the <a href="https://global.toyota/en/detail/7905316" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toyota Prius hybrid</a> back in 1997 which also is the first mass-produced hybrid car. But the history dates back over 100 years with the Lohner-Porsche Mixte, designed by Ferdinand Porsche as the first hybrid car.</p>
<p>Nepal has also got some hybrid cars recently over the years with the increasing fuel prices. So here we have listed the best hybrid cars available in Nepal.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">List of best Hybrid Cars available in Nepal</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>S.N.</strong></td>
<td><strong>Models</strong></td>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Honda City e-HEV</td>
<td>Rs 9,040,000 (VCVT)<br />
Rs 9,730,000 (ZXCVT)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid</td>
<td>Rs 12,200,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Mitshubishi Outlander PHEV</td>
<td>Rs 15,500,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Kia Sorento Hybrid</td>
<td>Rs 16,990,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid</td>
<td>Rs 18,100,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Toyota Camry Hybrid</td>
<td>Rs 18,500,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Nissan X-Trail E-power</td>
<td>Rs 18,700,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Honda City e-HEV</h2>
<p>The Honda City is a favourite sedan in Nepal, loved for its comfort and features. Now in its fifth generation, it is getting great feedback. The first on the list of hybrid cars and Honda’s recent addition is the Honda City e-HEV, which looks similar to the regular ICE option but has some important changes. It comes in two versions: VCVT and ZXCVT.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="585" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Screenshot-2024-01-31-161452.png" alt="2023 Honda City e-HEV. Photo: Honda Car India" class="wp-image-552254" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">2023 Honda City e-HEV. Photo: Honda Car India</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,583mm<br />
Width: 1,748mm<br />
Height: 1,489mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kerb weight</td>
<td>1,261-1,280 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,600mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>165mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turning circle radius</td>
<td>5.3m</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seats</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank capacity</td>
<td>40 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine type</td>
<td>Atkinson Cyclem i-VTEC DOH with VT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine capacity</td>
<td>1498 cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (engine)</td>
<td>72kW @ 5,600-6,400 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum torque (engine)</td>
<td>127Nm @ 4,000-5,000 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Electric drive motor</td>
<td>AC Synchronous (Permanent Magnet)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (drive motor)</td>
<td>80kW @ 3,500 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum Torque (drive motor)</td>
<td>253Nm @ 0-3,000 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Electric generation motor</td>
<td>AC Synchronous (Permanent Magnet)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (generation motor)</td>
<td>70kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery type</td>
<td>Advanced High-Voltage Battery (lithium-ion)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery voltage</td>
<td>172.8V</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>e-CVT (Electrically-coupled Continuously Variable Transmission) with Engine-Linked Clutch (Wet-type Multi-Plate)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Power transfer type</td>
<td>Parallel-hybrid / Series-hybrid / Engine Direct-Drive operation (auto-select)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: McPherson Strut with Coil Spring<br />
Rear: Torsion beam with Coil Spring<br />
Anti-Roll Bar: Torsion Bar Type<br />
Shock Absorbers: Telescopic Hydraulic Nitrogen Gas-filled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brake</td>
<td>Front: Disc (Ventilated)<br />
Rear: Disc (Solid)<br />
<br />
Regenerative Braking: Electric Regenerative Braking System (through Electric Servo Brake)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheel</td>
<td>16×6 J Alloy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyre size</td>
<td>185/55 R16 87H</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Obsidian Blue Pearl | Radiant Red Metallic | Platinum White Pearl | Golden Brown Metallic | Meteoroid Grey Metallic | Lunar Silver Metallic</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 9,040,000 (VCVT)</strong><br />
<strong>Rs 9,730,000 (ZXCVT)</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Honda City e-HEV presents a sleek exterior design with subtle modifications, featuring LED headlights, LED fog lamps, and alloy wheels. It is available in VCVT and ZXCVT variants, both versions have sporty accents and luxurious touches like leather seats and a panoramic roof in the ZXCVT variant. Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with soft-touch materials and ambient lighting, housing an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless connectivity options.</p>
<p>With a 1,498cc engine, the Honda City e-HEV generates a peak power of 72 kW at 5,600-6,400 rpm and a torque of 127 Nm at 4,000-5,000 rpm. As a hybrid, it includes an electric drive motor with 80 kW of power at 3500 rpm and a torque of 253 Nm at 0-3,000 rpm. Additionally, it features an AC Synchronous electric generation motor, producing 70 kW of power. The hybrid car is equipped with an Advanced High-Voltage Battery, a lithium-ion unit with a voltage of 172.8V for seamless transitions between different power sources.</p>
<p>The hybrid car is available in six colour options and priced at Rs 9,040,000 for the VCVT and Rs 9,730,000 for the ZXCVT in Nepal.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid</h2>
<p>The most recent addition from Toyota to the hybrid cars list is the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid. The name of Toyota in this list of hybrid cars will be repeated for quite some time with the range of premium hybrid electric cars Toyota offers in Nepal.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1365" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image-658.jpg" alt="2024 Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid. Photo: Toyota" class="wp-image-553209" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">2024 Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid. Photo: Toyota</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,310mm<br />
Width: 1,770mm<br />
Height: 1,655mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kerb weight</td>
<td>1,850 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,620 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>210 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine type</td>
<td>4-cylinder in-line DOHC 16 valves, Dual VVT-i</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine capacity</td>
<td>1,496cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (engine)</td>
<td>67 kW @ 5,500 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum torque (engine)</td>
<td>121 Nm @ 4,000-4,800 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor</td>
<td>PMSM Motor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor power</td>
<td>59 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor torque</td>
<td>141 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Combined engine and motor power</td>
<td>82 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>Type: Li-Ion<br />
Voltage: 177.6 Volt<br />
Electrical capacity: 4.3 Ah</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>Automatic e-CVT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive Type</td>
<td>Front Wheel Drive (FWD)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Top speed</td>
<td>170km/h</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank capacity</td>
<td>36 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: Independent MacPherson strut with anti-roll bar<br />
Rear: Torison Clamp and Coil Spring with stabilizer bar</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>215/55 R18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheel</td>
<td>18-inch alloy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: Disc brake<br />
Rear: Disc brake</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Red | Silver | White | Pearl | Green | Black | Turquoise</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 12,200,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid has a similar design to its older sibling, the Toyota Yaris Hatchback. It has LED headlights and fog lamps, emphasized by chrome details. Inside, comfort reigns with soft-touch materials and blue stitching highlighting its hybrid nature. The spacious interior includes a 10.1-inch infotainment system, an eco-friendly leather-wrapped steering wheel, and ample storage options.</p>
<p>Performance-wise, the Hybrid car combines a 4-cylinder engine with a PMSM Motor, offering three driving modes for efficiency and smooth gear shifts with its e-CVT transmission. Safety features include six airbags, stability control, and a 360-degree camera for peace of mind. The Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid is available in Nepal for Rs 12,200,000.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Mitshubishi Outlander PHEV</h2>
<p>Next on the list of hybrid cars is the Japanese heavy hitter, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. The Outlander PHEV for its price range has been quite popular with the heavy SUV look and the mileage.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1472" height="670" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-11-212740.png" alt="Mitshubishi Outlander PHEV. Photo: Mitshubishi Nepal" class="wp-image-555167" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mitshubishi Outlander PHEV. Photo: Mitshubishi Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,675mm<br />
Width: 1,800mm<br />
Height: 1,710mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kerb weight</td>
<td>1,880 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,670 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>190 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine capacity</td>
<td>1,496cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (engine)</td>
<td>94kW @ 4500 RPM</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum torque (engine)</td>
<td>199Nm @ 4500 RPM</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor</td>
<td>2x Permanent Magnet Synchronous</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor power</td>
<td>Front: 60 kW<br />
Rear: 70 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor torque</td>
<td>Front: 137 Nm<br />
Rear: 195 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>Lithium-ion / 300 V / 13.8 kWh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Electric-only range</td>
<td>Up to 55 Km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>Twin-Motor 4WD with Optional Petrol Engine Engagement</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive Type</td>
<td>4WD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank capacity</td>
<td>45 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>225 / 55R18 98H</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheel</td>
<td>18″ Silver Alloys with Machine-Finish</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>16″ Discs, Front Ventilated with 2-pot Callipers and Electric Park Brake with Brake Auto-Hold</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Ruby Black | Sterling Silver | Cardrona | Red Diamond | Titanium</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 15,500,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a ground clearance of 190 mm and a 4WD drive type to tackle various terrains, ensuring a smooth ride wherever you go. It has a powerful 1,496cc engine, delivering 94kW of maximum power and 199Nm of torque. The hybrid part, has two Permanent Magnet Synchronous motors, with the front motor providing 60 kW of power and 137 Nm of torque, while the rear motor offers 70 kW of power and 195 Nm of torque.</p>
<p>The hybrid car is paired with a lithium-ion battery of 13.8 kWh and can travel up to 55 km on electric power alone. It has a spacious interior with modern sets such as an infotainment system and safety all around. It runs on stylish 18″ silver alloy wheels. It is available in a range of like Ruby BlackRuby Black, Sterling Silver, Cardrona, Red Diamond and Titanium. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is available for the price of Rs 15,500,000 in Nepal.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Kia Sorento Hybrid</h2>
<p>Kia has one hybrid car available in Nepal, the Kia Sorento Hybrid. With four generations from 2002 till date, the Kia Sorento started its hybrid journey in 2020. The hybrid option has been well-liked in the premium category with a positive response.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1372" height="777" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-11-212853.png" alt="Kia Sorento Hybrid. Photo: Kia Nepal" class="wp-image-555169" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kia Sorento Hybrid. Photo: Kia Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,810mm<br />
Width: 1,900mm<br />
Height: 1,695mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>2,610 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,8115 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>190 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine type</td>
<td>16-valve. DOHC, 4-Cylinder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine capacity</td>
<td>1,598cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (engine)</td>
<td>179.7 Ps @ 5500 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum torque (engine)</td>
<td>265Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor</td>
<td>44.2 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Combined Max Power</td>
<td>230 Ps</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Combined Max torque</td>
<td>350 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>Lithium Polymer Battery<br />
Voltage: 270 V<br />
Capacity: 1.5 kWh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>6-Speed AT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive Train</td>
<td>AWD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank capacity</td>
<td>67 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>235 / 60 R19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheel</td>
<td>19″ Alloys</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: 325mm Ventilated disc<br />
Rear: 325mm Ventilated disc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: McPherson Strut<br />
Rear: Independent Multi-link Stabilizer Bar</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Runaway Red | Gravity Blue | Steel Grey | Snow White Pearl | Arora Black Pearl</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 16,990,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Kia Sorento Hybrid has an aggressive look with the full LED setup and wide-body stance. The interior is also luxurious with Nappa leather seats which are heated and ventilated. The dash has a modern touch with the infotainment system and digital display. Under the hood, the hybrid car features a 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine with a capacity of 1,598cc, delivering a maximum power of 179.7 Ps at 5500 rpm and a torque of 265Nm at 1500-4500 rpm.</p>
<p>Alongside the engine, a 44.2 kW motor contributes to its combined maximum power of 230 Ps and combined maximum torque of 350 Nm, ensuring a smooth and efficient drive. It is powered by a Lithium Polymer Battery with a voltage of 270 V and a capacity of 1.5 kWh, it provides the necessary energy for the hybrid system. On the exterior, the Kia Sorento Hybrid rolls on 19″ Alloy wheels fitted with 235 / 60 R19 tyres. Its brakes feature 325mm ventilated discs both at the front and rear and the suspension system uses a McPherson Strut at the front and an Independent Multi-link setup at the rear with a stabilizer bar for a comfortable and stable ride.</p>
<p>The hybrid car is available in various colours including Runaway Red, Gravity Blue, Steel Grey, Snow White Pearl, and Arora Black Pearl and costs Rs 16,990,000 in Nepal.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid</h2>
<p>The Toyota Corolla has become a brand of its own with the various types of vehicles Toyota has produced using the name. The Corolla has come in hatchback, sedan and sub-compact SUV forms. The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid falls under the sub-compact SUV form. The compact SUV is available in two petrol variants and a hybrid variant.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/toyota-corolla-cross.jpg" alt="Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Photo: Toyota Nepal" class="wp-image-555171" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Photo: Toyota Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,460mm<br />
Width: 1,825mm<br />
Height: 1,620mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>1,850 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,640 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>161 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine type</td>
<td>4-cylinder hybrid electric, in-line, 16-valve DOHC, chain drive with Dual VVT-i</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine capacity</td>
<td>1,798 cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (engine)</td>
<td>97 bhp @ 5,200 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum torque (engine)</td>
<td>142 Nm @ 3,600 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor power</td>
<td>53 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor torque</td>
<td>163 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>Nickel Metal-Hydride (Ni-MH)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>CVT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive Type</td>
<td>Front Wheel Drive (FWD)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank capacity</td>
<td>36 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: MacPherson strut<br />
Rear: Torison beam</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>225 / 50 R18 aluminum</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheel</td>
<td>18-inch alloy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: Ventilated disc with floating calliper 1-cylinder<br />
Rear: Solid disc with floating calliper 1-cylinder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 18,100,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is a compact SUV designed to deliver a blend of fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness with its sporty looks with off-road capability, resembling SUVs like the RAV4. Inside, it offers a comfortable cabin with ample space and modern features, including an 8-inch touchscreen and luxurious touches. Under its hood, the hybrid car has a 4-cylinder hybrid electric engine, featuring 16 valves and a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) configuration with a capacity of 1,798 cc. This engine produces a maximum power of 97 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and a maximum torque of up to 142 Nm at 3,600 rpm.</p>
<p>This hybrid car incorporates a 53 kW electric motor and has a Nickel Metal-Hydride (Ni-MH) battery system supporting the electric motor’s operations. It is mated with a CVT Transmission and has Front front-wheel drive (FWD) drivetrain. It has a 36-litre fuel tank capacity that allows for extended journeys with the hybrid system. It has a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a Torsion beam setup at the rear. It features 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 225 / 50 R18 tyres while the braking system consists of ventilated discs with floating calipers at the front and solid discs at the rear.</p>
<p>The hybrid car is available in 5 colour options. It is available in Nepal with a price tag of Rs 18,100,000.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Toyota Camry Hybrid</h2>
<p>Another hybrid sedan on the list is from Toyota, the Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Toyota Camry is very popular in the American market competing at the top level. The hybrid car looks sleek and boasts a premium feel on both the exterior and the interior.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/toyota-camry.jpg" alt="Toyota Camry Hybrid. Photo: Toyota Nepal" class="wp-image-555173" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Toyota Camry Hybrid. Photo: Toyota Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,885mm<br />
Width: 1,840mm<br />
Height: 1,455mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>2,100 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,825 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>155 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine type</td>
<td>4-cylinder hybrid electric, In-line type, 16-valve DOHC with VVT-iE (Intake), VVT-i (Exhaust)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine capacity</td>
<td>2,487 cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum power (engine)</td>
<td>178 bhp @ 5,700 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maximum torque (engine)</td>
<td>221 Nm @ 3,600-5,200 rpm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor power</td>
<td>88 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor torque</td>
<td>202 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>Nickel metal hydride battery</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>CVT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive Type</td>
<td>Front Wheel Drive (FWD)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel tank capacity</td>
<td>50 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: MacPherson strut<br />
Rear: Multi-link</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>215 / 55 R17 aluminium</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheel</td>
<td>17-inch</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: Ventilated disc with floating calliper 1-cylinder<br />
Rear: Solid disc with floating calliper 1-cylinder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Red | Blue | Black</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 18,500,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Toyota Camry Hybrid car has a luxurious exterior with a large wheelbase of 2,825 mm. The LED headlights and sleek finish give a premium-ness. Being a sedan, it has a slightly lower ground clearance of 155mm. The interior continues the luxurious aspect with the comfortable seats and modern touch. The hybrid car has a 4-cylinder hybrid electric engine, paired with a CVT transmission, which delivers a maximum power of 178 hp at 5,700 rpm and 221 Nm of maximum torque with the 2,487 cc engine. The engine has 16 valves and a DOHC configuration. The hybrid system includes an 88 kW electric motor and a nickel metal hydride battery, contributing to its eco-friendly profile and reducing fuel consumption.</p>
<p>The hybrid car offers a smooth and efficient driving experience with its CVT transmission and Front front-wheel drive system. Its 50-litre fuel tank capacity ensures ample range for long journeys, while the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension provide a comfortable ride. It is equipped with 17-inch aluminium wheels and 215 / 55 R17 tyres, It has ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear.</p>
<p>The hybrid car is available in Red, Blue, and Black colour options and has a price tag of Rs 18,500,000 in Nepal.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">7. Nissan X-Trail E-Power</h2>
<p>Nissan also launched its first hybrid car in Nepal this year, the Nissan X-Trail E-Power. The hybrid car is quite different from the ones in the list with how the hybrid system works. The large SUV has got positive reviews in the international market too.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1440" height="1280" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22TDIEULHD_XT_TEKNA_PS_001_pace016-d.jpg.ximg_.l_12_h.smart_.jpg" alt="Nissan X-Trail e-Power. Photo: Nissan" class="wp-image-549728" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Nissan</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Length: 4,680 mm<br />
Width: 1,840 mm<br />
Height: 1,725 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wheelbase</td>
<td>2,705 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground Clearance</td>
<td>220 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kerb weight</td>
<td>1,870-1,954kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel Tank</td>
<td>55 litres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine type</td>
<td>1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine with e-Power</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine displacement</td>
<td>1,498 cc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine Power</td>
<td>106 kW at 4,400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Engine Torque</td>
<td>250 Nm at 2,400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>Li-Ion</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>e-Power Max power</td>
<td>157kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>e-Power Max torque</td>
<td>Front electric motor: 330 Nm<br />
Rear electric motor: 195 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Transmission</td>
<td>CVT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive Type</td>
<td>e-4orce 4WD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fuel consumption (Litres/100km)</td>
<td>6.4-6.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Top speed</td>
<td>187-190km/h</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brakes</td>
<td>Front: Disc<br />
Rear: Disc</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyre</td>
<td>235/55 R19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: Independent suspension<br />
Rear: Independent Multi-Ink suspension</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seat</td>
<td>7 seats</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Boot Space</td>
<td>575 litres (third row folded)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Black | Grey | Red | White | Red | Blue</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 18,700,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>The Nissan X-Trail e-Power has a sleek exterior design with aerodynamic enhancements, highlighted by its bulky appearance and chrome accents. It is equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels and a generous 220mm ground clearance, it exudes both premium style and practicality. Its LED headlights and signature V-Motion grille add a nice touch to the front, while the spacious interior offers luxurious features such as soft-touch materials, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Safety features include rear-view cameras, parking sensors, and six airbags, ensuring peace of mind on the road.</p>
<p>The hybrid car features a 1.5-litre petrol engine acting as a generator to charge the Li-Ion battery pack. This innovative setup delivers smooth and efficient performance, with the electric motor directly driving the wheels for a refined driving experience. It provides a maximum torque of 330 Nm and 195 Nm offering a top speed of around 187-190km/h and a fuel consumption of 6.4 to 6.5 liters per 100km.</p>
<p>The Nissan X-Trail e-Power is available in five colour options; Black, Grey, Red, White and Blue. It costs Rs 18,700,000 for the available option in Nepal.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/2024-best-hybrid-cars-in-nepal.html">2024 Best Hybrid cars available in Nepal</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-23933432811450802032024-03-11T01:45:00.001-07:002024-03-11T01:45:56.815-07:00The Nepali economy explained in 10 graphs<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3500" height="2333" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/world-economy-stock-market-graph.jpg" alt="stock market - global economy - economic indicator " class="wp-image-546132" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash</figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="https://www.nrb.org.np/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nepal Rastra Bank</a> publishes updated details of various economic indicators every month which shows the state of the country’s economy.</p>
<p>Based on the data released by the apex bank on Sunday, Onlinekhabar has attempted to present a snapshot of the economy in 10 graphs.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="1000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Inflation-rate.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555108" /></figure>
<p>In the fiscal years 2021/22 and 2022/23, inflation which was 8 per cent and 7.5 per cent respectively, dropped to 5 per cent in the first seven months of the current fiscal year.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1255" height="913" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/decreasing-Export-rates-in-10-years.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555117" /></figure>
<p>The contraction in the country’s export trade, which commenced in the last fiscal year 2022/23, persists. However, there has been a slight decrease in the rate of contraction</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1151" height="820" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/decrease-in-import-rates-in-10-years.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555124" /></figure>
<p>The trend of declining business in exports is mirrored in imports as well. Even in the first seven months of the current fiscal year, imports have decreased by 2.3 per cent.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="1000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Remittance.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555102" /></figure>
<p><a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/remittance-nepali-economy-foreign-reserves.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Remittances</a> have surged while imports and exports have contracted. Compared to mid-January last year, remittances have increased by 22 per cent in the same period this year.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Balance-of-payment.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555098" /></figure>
<p>The decline in imports and the rise in remittances have affected the balance of payments. In the first seven months of this year, the balance of payments has turned positive by Rs 298 billion.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="900" height="500" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Foreign-exchange-reserve.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555104" /></figure>
<p>Foreign exchange reserves are also on a continuous rise. As of mid-January, Nepal’s foreign exchange reserves stand at USD 13.89 billion, which can cover 12.3 months of goods and services.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="1000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Foreign-investment.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555105" /></figure>
<p>However, foreign investment remains disappointing. Until the fiscal year 2021/22, FDI over Rs 19 billion were received annually. However, only Rs 7.77 billion were received in the last fiscal year, and a mere Rs 5.19 billion were received in the first seven months of the current fiscal year.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="1000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Money-Spent-on-education-and-travel.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555107" /></figure>
<p>The amount of money Nepalis spend abroad for travel and education has increased significantly. By mid-February 2023, Rs 69.89 billion were spent under this category, whereas this year it has reached Rs 105 billion during the same period.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1102" height="763" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Interest-rates-after-covid.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555122" /></figure>
<p>In the current financial year, bank interest rates have been continuously decreasing. In mid-January, the average weighted interest rate of commercial banks’ loans dropped to 11.08 per cent. This is lower than the pre-Covid levels of 2018/19.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1198" height="916" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/slow-credit-to-private-sector.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555103" /></figure>
<p>Despite the decrease in interest rates, credit expansion remains sluggish. By mid-Februday, credit to the private sector had only expanded by 5.4 per cent. During the Covid period, it had increased by 26 per cent.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/nepali-economy-explained.html">The Nepali economy explained in 10 graphs</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-44583712491236788812024-03-10T23:45:00.001-07:002024-03-10T23:45:15.569-07:00Families rearing buffaloes have shrunk in Dang, their future remains a question<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="6000" height="4000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/buffalo.jpg" alt="buffalo" class="wp-image-555089" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Nathan Cima on Unsplash</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>By the end of November 2023, winter had already started in Gadhawa of Dang district. After travelling miles in the village area, we reached the house of 80-year-old Kanhaiyalal Yadav. There were some huts, haystacks, and barns with buffaloes tied in the courtyard, and two cows were in the shed. In the family, all members who can work are devoted to the care of the buffaloes. The men milked the buffaloes, while the women cooked and cleaned the pantry.</p>
<p>That morning, in Parnaha in Gadhawa rural municipality 6, Kanhaiyalal went ahead to milk the buffalo with a bucket. Maybe because the buffalo saw a new face, the milking ended earlier than usual.</p>
<p>“Now the calf will eat the rest,” said Kanhaiyalal, showing half a bucket of milk.</p>
<p>His elder son, Anurag Yadav, 62, and nephew, Lal Bahadur, 31, were already milking buffaloes. Even before the sunlight broke through the morning fog, they had finished milking the buffaloes, fetching water for them, and even collecting grass and hay for them to feed on.</p>
<p>After completing their tasks, they sat down to drink tea. Around half past seven, Lal Bahadur collected the milk in the cans and rode towards the dairy on a motorcycle.</p>
<p>While sipping tea in the courtyard, Kanhaiyalal called his wife, Chhatrapati Yadav, to bring a bell. Waiting, he said, “It was not like this before. By this time, these buffaloes would have gone to the forest.” </p>
<p>Sitting on a chair, he held up the iron bell, which he could hardly fit in his fist, and reminisced, “After we finished eating in the morning, we would head to the forest, searching for the herd of buffaloes, listening to the sound of bells hanging around their necks.”</p>
<p>Now, however, with no place for the buffalos to graze and a lack of water in the rivers, they just take the buffalos out on a stroll.</p>
<p>“This bell is useless now,” he said.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Times are changing</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="6000" height="4000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/03-buffalo-dang.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554737" /></figure>
<p>Kanhaiyalal of Gadhawa has witnessed wholesale changes when it comes to buffalo rearing in the village. The bell, now collecting dust in one corner of Kanhaiyalal’s house, is not only a symbol of his ancestral profession but also a witness to the changes he has seen along the way.</p>
<p>As times change, questions arise about how long the Yadav community, considered descendants of the Mahishpal dynasty, will continue their traditional livelihood of rearing buffaloes. For Kanhaiyalal, the bell serves as a constant reminder of this perplexing question.</p>
<p>Buffalo rearing is facing a crisis not only in Dang but also across Nepal. This is thanks to rapid urbanisation, changing lifestyles, the youth not being interested and lack of grazing area and water resources. The Yadav community in Dang is currently grappling with an environmental crisis as water sources such as forests, streams, rivers, and ponds in the Terai region are being destroyed.</p>
<p>Despite the looming threat, they have been unable to find any study or data that could explain the decreasing number in their profession. However, during the field study conducted for this report, we observed that they have undoubtedly been affected by changes in the environment and the exploitation of natural resources.</p>
<p>The experience of three generations of some families in Gadhawa and Rajpur rural municipalities of Dang, where the Yadav community is predominantly settled, indicates that traditional animal husbandry has been facing a crisis for the past few years. And the data also corroborates this.</p>
<p>The concerning issue is that the elderly here are worried that this profession will vanish in a few years, while the youth are seeking alternatives. However, at the three tiers of government and the community level, there are no new programmes or public awareness initiatives to address the issue.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The harrowing data</h2>
<p>According to the <a href="https://moald.gov.np/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Statistical-Information-on-Nepalese-Agriculture-2078-79-2021-22.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Agriculture Census 2021/22</a>, over the last 10 years, the number of farmer families rearing buffaloes and cattle across the country has decreased from 1,669,000 to 1,417,000. Similarly, the total number of buffaloes and cattle has also decreased. According to the 2011/12 census, there were 3,174,000 buffaloes and cattle in the country, but by 2021/22, this number had dropped to 2,923,000.</p>
<p>Locals say the number of livestock is decreasing due to the shrinking of grazing areas and rivers being encroached upon in many places. </p>
<p>Kanhaiyalal, who grew up watching his father Kallu Yadav graze buffaloes, took over the reins. Following suit, his son Anurag and other family members have supported him. However, the number of buffaloes has continued to decrease.</p>
<p>“During my father’s time, we had around 100 buffaloes,” he said. “Now we only have 20. I know this number will go down in the coming years.”</p>
<p>Researchers say that seasonal activities directly impact agriculture and animal husbandry. According to Hemu Kafle, a scientist who has been studying the effects of drought on agriculture, the alteration in rainfall patterns during monsoons and winters is affecting village wells, rice fields, and <a href="https://www.himalkhabar.com/news/134416" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feeding ponds</a>.</p>
<p>“Small ponds used to be a common sight in the fields of Tarai. Now, there are very few,” Kafle said. Chandra Kishore, an independent journalist working in the region, agrees with Kafle and says the water levels have also gone down in many ponds and streams.</p>
<p>“These buffaloes need water. People use ground water to cool them off but it is not the same and buffaloes sense that,” said Chandra Kishore.</p>
<p>Back at Kanhaiyalal’s home, the family is preparing to take the buffaloes out to graze. As he cannot do it due to his old age, Kanhaiyalal takes his nephew Lal Bahadur’s help.</p>
<p>After a while, Lal Bahadur began loosening the rope around the buffaloes, with Kanhaiyalal following slowly behind. About 100 meters south, they reached the Sikrahawa River. Standing on the riverbank, Kanhaiyalal remembered how the buffaloes used to enjoy themselves in the river 10 years ago. But now, there was only ankle-deep water in the river, running slightly to one side, infested with algae.</p>
<p>Once in the water, some of the buffaloes started playing while others drank from the river, however little was left there. Lal Bahadur began bathing the buffalo near the bridge, where the water level was slightly higher. Splashing the water with his hands, he bathed the buffaloes. After a while, the buffaloes stood up and moved on.</p>
<p>Lal Bahadur walked behind him, picked up the slippers he had taken off, and started shouting ‘rah rah’ and ‘jha jha’ (a local way to guide the buffaloes while they graze and roam) with a stick in his hand. His knees were damp with the water, to which he adds, “We couldn’t come to this place even five years ago. The buffaloes would play in the water themselves, and we would swim in this river.”</p>
<p>Along with Lal Bahadur, buffaloes from other houses in the village also climbed up from the river and left the road. Gwalas (buffalo shepherds) were walking with their herds of buffaloes. Guiding and guarding the mustard fields in the nearby houses from the buffaloes, they reached the Sikrahwa River, which is about 500 meters to the north (both rivers that join the Rapti are named Sikrahwa).</p>
<p>The buffalo roamed around the riverbanks between the two bridges, about one kilometre apart. Around four in the afternoon, Lal Bahadur brought the buffalo home. “It’s enough for today. This is the current way buffaloes go around,” he said.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The shrinking fields</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="512" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/04-buffalo-dang-768x512-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554736" /></figure>
<p>Water and forests are indispensable for rearing buffaloes. However, due to increasing urbanisation and exploitation of natural resources, the grazing areas for buffaloes are shrinking. Simultaneously, the time for buffaloes to roam around in a clean environment and roam/ play in the water is also decreasing. </p>
<p>Kanhaiyalal, a witness to the village’s transformation before his eyes, says, “The once rivers and forests are now settlements, so where can the grass grow? Where is the grazing area?” He leaves the question hanging and walks along the road to return home.</p>
<p>The condition of all seven families in that village who reared buffaloes is the same. Devraj Yadav, 36, from another village of Parnaha, used to go buffalo grazing with his grandfather. Now, his father Gurudayal Yadav, 72 is overseeing the grazing for buffaloes.</p>
<p>“Previously, our cattle rearing relied entirely on grazing. However, raising buffaloes solely through grazing is no longer feasible; now, grass and straw must be provided at home,” said Devraj adding that this has been the case for the past decade.</p>
<p>Recalling how he used to travel within a five-kilometre radius to feed buffaloes all day, he says that now they are taken no more than two kilometres away, and only for grazing. Due to the shrinking of water and grazing areas, the farmers here are compelled to raise livestock at home.</p>
<p>He also recounts that not only did they have to go far in search of the river for water, but they also had to take the buffalo to Rapti further than before. “Some 20-25 years ago, buffaloes were taken to Rapti only after April/May, but now they must be taken at the end of February. Kakrahwa River dries up around January/February.”</p>
<p>This is why many families have started to set up water pumps, which cost around Rs 25,000. However, that too is not a viable option as the area also suffers from underground water scarcity.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Taking care of buffaloes</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="4000" height="3000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Gadhawa-municipality_animal-husbandary-27.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554739" /></figure>
<p>A buffalo needs at least 70 litres of water a day, for which they depend on the water pumps.</p>
<p>“We could also do farming without bore water. It rained well during the rainy season. It seems that there is less rain now. On top of that, the settlement grew, and the water is drying up,” Devraj said.</p>
<p>Located on the route from Gadhawa towards the southern Nepal-Indian border, in Rajpur Rural Municipality 4, is the Khardaria village. Each household here has around 100 buffaloes, and the majority of women’s time is spent providing water and grass to the buffaloes.</p>
<p>Anjana Yadav, who tends to 150 buffaloes, was about to go and cut grass in the afternoon.</p>
<p>Two women were drawing water while seated on a log positioned above the well. Anjana’s neighbour was coming to fetch another bucket of water for her house. “At least seven family members and over 400 buffaloes rely on this well, This is the water that sustains the buffaloes; we drink it too,” she said.</p>
<p>Since their livelihood is based on buffalo rearing and farming, and they are not only concerned about water; it takes a whole day to collect a heavy load of grass.</p>
<p>“We go to that lake to gather a heavy load of grass,” she said, pointing to the forest of the Mahabharata hills, which is connected to the Indian border in the south. They leave at 8 am and return at 5 pm carrying a heavy load of grass (about 50/60 kg).</p>
<p>Sohan Sah, who has been studying the social and economic conditions of Tarai residents, says that this has a direct impact on human productivity as well as the possibility of advancement of economically backward communities.</p>
<p>“If they spend the day gathering heavy grass, their productivity is limited to that task,” says Sah, a researcher at Martin Chautari, “If so, the standard of living can be raised, and productivity will also increase.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">No targeted programme</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="4000" height="3000" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/rajpur-rural-municipality_water-source-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554738" /></figure>
<p>The local government is yet to introduce a programme targeting this community. Since last year, the Small Farmers and Youth Entrepreneurship Partnership Project has been running in Rajpur and Gadhawa rural municipalities in collaboration with <a href="https://www.heifer.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heifer International</a>. </p>
<p>The cost of this program, which will run for 42 months, is Rs 62 million per municipality, with 70 percent of the investment coming from the municipality.</p>
<p>Yam Narayan Pokharel, chairman of Gadhawa rural municipality, claimed that through this programme the shed waste management and advanced seeds are being looked at.</p>
<p>“But there is no targeted programme for the Yadav community,” he said.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, in Rajpur rural municipality, Yadavs have been targeted and assisted under the programme, said Dhanpatidevi Yadav, deputy chair of the municipality.</p>
<p>“It is incorrect that buffalo-rearing farmers are not included in the programme carried out in conjunction with Heifer,” she said regarding the complaints of farmers from the Yadav community, “Alongside goat rearing, we have also supported the improvement of buffalo sheds.”</p>
<p>The Yadav community, traditionally vegetarian and not involved in goat or chicken farming, comprises the majority of Rajpur and Gadhawa rural municipalities. The locals are displeased that the programme has been introduced specifically for agriculture and animal husbandry. The partnership programme initially focused on goat rearing. However, considering the farmers’ needs, the livestock improvement programme was also partially included, said Mahesh Acharya, Senior Program Officer of Heifer.</p>
<p>Both municipalities have distributed advanced varieties of grass seeds to set water pumps for farmers and address the grass problem. “These programmes were not designed specifically for the Yadav community, but they are also included,” said Gadhawa chair Pokharel.</p>
<p>Anurag Yadav, a farmer from Gadhawa Parnaha, alleges that the municipality provides water pumps, road improvements, and high-grade seeds to people they know rather than to those with actual needs. However, he also acknowledged to avoid repeating past mistakes, they have formed a farmers’ group, and support is now provided solely based on the group’s recommendations.</p>
<p>Kanhaiyalal, a prominent farmer well-versed in the recurring tale of accusations and defences, glanced at the buffalo and remarked to us, “If my lalabalas (referring to his buffaloes as children) cease to exist, what becomes of our identity?” While identity pertains to the livelihood of the Yadav community intertwined with animal husbandry. Despite assertions from the rural municipality regarding improvement in the situation, there are no discernible signs of such progress in the lives of local farmers.</p>
<p><em>(Prepared in collaboration with Center for Data Journalism Nepal and Earth Journalism Network, alongside Dasharath Ghimire, Dang.)</em></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/buffalo-rearing-climate-change.html">Families rearing buffaloes have shrunk in Dang, their future remains a question</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-41274910184590179082024-03-09T22:45:00.001-08:002024-03-09T22:45:39.283-08:00The impact of signature training for visually impaired educators<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="845" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/visually-impaired-student.jpg" alt="visually impaired student" class="wp-image-526716" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/visually-impaired-student.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/visually-impaired-student-300x248.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/visually-impaired-student-768x634.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People writing exams for visually impaired students. Photo: Bindaas Madhavi/Flickr</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Initiatives aimed at inclusivity and empowerment often stem from acknowledging long-standing issues that have been conveniently swept under the rug. Take, for instance, the glaring problem of authenticating signatures for individuals with visual impairments.</p>
<p>This obstacle not only strips away their autonomy but also shackles them to a perpetual cycle of dependence. Yet, amidst this bleak scenario, <a href="https://prayatnanepal.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prayatna Nepal</a> emerged with a glimmer of hope in the form of its signature training programme.</p>
<p>Launched in 2017, this initiative, spearheaded by Sundip Gyawali in partnership with the organisation, stands as a bold attempt to break free from the chains of fingerprint reliance.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The significance of signature training</h2>
<p>Signature training, an often overlooked facet in the field of accessibility, holds undeniable importance, particularly when addressing the formidable challenges faced by visually impaired individuals attempting to navigate and reproduce signatures.</p>
<p>The hurdles they confront go beyond mere inconvenience, emerging as substantial barriers that impede their autonomy across pivotal domains such as education, finance, and parenting. The ramifications of this struggle are not confined solely to general visually impaired individuals; even educators with vision impairment, armed with academic qualifications, find themselves ensnared in a web of marginalisation due to the difficulties they encounter in signing documents.</p>
<p>This predicament not only hampers their professional advancement but also inflicts damage on their self-esteem. The urgency of finding effective solutions in this often neglected facet of accessibility is glaring, as it directly impacts the lives and opportunities of those grappling with the challenges of signature replication.</p>
<p>Furthermore, the issue goes beyond education, plaguing visually impaired parents with comparable obstacles when it comes to navigating bureaucratic red tape concerning their children’s schooling and welfare.</p>
<p>The struggle does not stop there; mundane tasks like attending events or conducting banking affairs turn into veritable minefields due to the inability to wield a traditional signature. This lack of a functional autograph not only erects barriers but also subjects individuals to feelings of ostracisation and degradation.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gandaki province-specific training</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="799" height="533" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/visually-imparied.jpg" alt="visually impaired educators" class="wp-image-555014" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Global Partnership for Education</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The prerequisite to cater to the distinct demands of teachers, particularly those with visual impairments, in the task of independently signing documents was acknowledged as a challenge.</p>
<p>In response, Prayatna Nepal organised specialised signature training sessions tailored specifically for educators in <a href="https://gandaki.gov.np/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gandaki province</a>. These sessions were designed to address the <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/teachers-visually-impaired.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique needs of the province’s teachers</a>, ensuring that they could confidently carry out their daily responsibilities without dependency.</p>
<p>Through strategic alignment with their typical work routines, the objective of Prayatna Nepal was to not only impart necessary skills but also to ensure self-assurance and autonomy among the teaching community.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The technique</h2>
<p>Signature training employs a unique technique where participants practice writing alphabets using slates and styluses on <a href="https://braillo.com/what-is-braille-paper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">braille paper</a>.</p>
<p>Initially, the focus is on mastering alphabet formulas, progressing to writing them with a pen on a slate board. Once proficiency in writing their names independently is achieved, participants are encouraged to create personalised signatures on plain paper, tapping into their creativity.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Understanding the signature guide</h2>
<p>A vital tool in this training is the signature guide, a wooden square providing a small writing space that allows participants to write in a straight line without relying on a slate board. This innovation empowers visually impaired individuals by offering them a tangible guide to develop and refine their signatures independently.</p>
<p>In conclusion, the strides made by initiatives like Prayatna Nepal’s signature training programme underscore a crucial shift towards inclusivity and empowerment for visually impaired individuals, particularly educators. By addressing the often overlooked challenge of signature replication, these initiatives dismantle barriers to autonomy and pave the way for greater participation in essential aspects of life such as education, finance, and parenting.</p>
<p>The specialised training sessions tailored to the unique needs of educators in Gandaki Province exemplify a targeted approach that not only imparts necessary skills but also strengthens self-assurance and independence. Embracing innovative techniques and tools like the signature guide not only enables individuals to operate bureaucratic complexities with confidence but also affirms their dignity and worth. Moving forward, such efforts must continue to be championed, ensuring that no individual is left behind in the pursuit of a truly inclusive society.</p>
<p>It is high time to realise and inculcate the practical essence of inclusion guided by the principles of equity and empathy when striving to empower visually impaired educators and individuals alike to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the collective effort towards progress and inclusivity.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/training-visually-impaired-educators.html">The impact of signature training for visually impaired educators</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-37288232161766616522024-03-09T21:45:00.003-08:002024-03-09T21:45:52.632-08:00Compound annual growth rate: Understanding the math of how your money can grow<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/money-saving.jpg" alt="economic empowerment money saving - ways to save money - Compound annual growth rate" class="wp-image-456555" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/money-saving.jpg 1000w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/money-saving-300x200.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/money-saving-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">CAGR can be used to assess the average annual growth rate of various investments, including stocks, bonds, real estate, cryptocurrencies, and retirement accounts. Photo: Pexels/ Cottonbro</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Imagine your money going on a rollercoaster ride in the stock market or any investment. That is the same factor that pulled people into <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/basics-stock-market-trading-in-nepal.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">investing in the stock market</a> today. But what they look for is an immediate growth. But getting rich in the stock market is all about the long game, a little bit of luck and a lot of patience. </p>
<p>In the long run, one can get rich in their investment, stock or otherwise, without doing anything. You just use the power of math and let that bank in the money for you while you focus on your life. In other words, it is the steady growth rate that helps you see the big picture without the financial rollercoaster.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">So what is the big secret? It is all about Compound Annual Growth Rate or CAGR.</h3>
<p>Technically, CAGR is a measure used to determine the annual growth rate of an investment over a specified period, assuming that the investment has been compounding over that period. It provides a smoothed annual rate of growth, taking into account the effects of compounding.</p>
<p>In any moment of confusion about different investment options, it is like the much-needed sense of which investment is worth pursuing in the long run. CAGR can be used to assess the average annual growth rate of various investments, including stocks, bonds, real estate, <a href="https://www.oswego.edu/cts/basics-about-cryptocurrency#:~:text=What%20is%20cryptocurrency%3F,as%20a%20virtual%20accounting%20system." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cryptocurrencies</a>, and retirement accounts.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to calculate CAGR</h2>
<p>The formula for calculating CAGR is:</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/gQ3BlCQB0SuI_nCdTAItMhWImKXVvtzwxAQB0ksU6eaFcxmnxp3xwp2AbVXYkryd0E-zkaS4RwgeiieqAb05E5dfeZEksa_G5WGx71pQ9Arhaf2amsUSDmEwYyjr4W3IcO4GbJ7D4VJh9RopzuzAQWg" alt="" /></figure>
<p>In the formula:</p>
<p>Ending Value or EV represents the ending value of the investment or asset. </p>
<p>Beginning Value or BV represents the beginning value of the investment or asset.</p>
<p>N represents the number of years.</p>
<p>Assuming an initial investment of Rs 1,000,000 and an end value of 3,000,000 (rounded off), we’ll calculate the CAGR after 15 years.<img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/lOnDqUtqIa2HmJQu1dxJKNP7ijP99LGjqJ_8Ft3UcBRWAmfyQbAhD2r4DQSVsOTNIZ04LQ8NC-RzR3jO_atnurTr-Bwj9HK9tXALM26A0903uVrLV2y-_HDT0LXuOcEQOJAvSV41cc-RUl4ld4lDDaA" width="488" height="333" /></p>
<p>So, the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for this investment, with an initial value of Rs 1,000,000 and an ending value of Rs 3,000,000 over 15 years, is approximately 7.7 per cent. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Analysing the end game</h2>
<p>But you want to find out the end value or how much you will acquire from your initial investment. So the formula to use here would be: </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/xJCynUcHpX13MI11Mm1PpnzioFsyPWzWcIvmbI9w-KEm9TXxTVTwZYPCzAbXmrLfL7hiJTme0VSvYjp418DDvl7TIxTp_L52GguvQpwgMeuebWQqUlArRKt2RsJnuDiAMSK_RZzpUm8h-e5wu5xwAJo" alt="" /></figure>
<p>Here, assuming an initial investment of Rs 1,000,000 and a CAGR of 5 per cent, we will calculate the Ending Value after 15 years.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/ULCYtz5yHaKalajtbT87t8_3TzZrvo62xtlk2yDX2OFiUrV4FfWZE7V15MLC4ImTVcDVrGLE6Ftj9SYbZsJUSzOu7BLk4-03J5x_LDwnqFJn73tMO5gyiZ_FRbAL8Ck3ubKub1X5J8241KrOeX2p9DU" alt="" /></figure>
<p>Therefore, assuming there is an annual growth rate of 5 per cent, the future value of a Rs 1,000,000 investment after 15 years would be approximately Rs 2,078,928. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Power of compounding </h2>
<p>You might be asking why use CAGR in the first place. The interest rates given by your current banks are enough. Because they calculate the return in simple interest. </p>
<p>Your savings and fixed deposits are of course not bad, they are your safest bets and you should have them and diversify your assets. But the difference does lie in the results. So in comparison, for your savings and fixed deposits, the total amount you earn at the end is calculated like this:<img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/I6ig71OdAcY4SjlPMZsMoErfuhiVv3ni7QUg_xUeScUnre8uD9cuOJCohoAJilOnzLpQvkjei-_aFiLxVb1HpQvKUzR47fzzamrzVsfDbFqQYM0HLWrYN3T6sWwqSXtIMV7fRUwAreU7S1osvJu-3Xs" width="717" height="76" /></p>
<p>Earnings = 1,000,000+(1,000,000×5×15)</p>
<p>Earnings = Rs 1,750,000</p>
<p>Considering that the average interest rates, given by the Nepali banks, in the savings and fixed deposits are 6 per cent and 9 per cent respectively. </p>
<p>Here is what you would earn in a year for the same.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-table">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Savings</strong></td>
<td><strong>Fixed Deposit</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rs 1000000+(1000000×6×1)</td>
<td>1000000+(1000000×9×1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rs 1,060,000</td>
<td>Rs 1,090,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>And, at the same rate, this is your earnings in 15 years (simple vs compound):</p>
<figure class="wp-block-table">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2"><strong>Savings</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Simple</strong></td>
<td><strong>Compound Earnings</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1,000,000+(1,000,000×6×15)</td>
<td>1,000,000×(1+ 6/100)15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rs 1,900,000</td>
<td>Rs 2,350,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>Meanwhile</p>
<figure class="wp-block-table">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2"><strong>Fixed Deposit</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Simple</strong></td>
<td><strong>Compound Earnings</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1,000,000+(1,000,000×9×15)</td>
<td>1,000,000×(1+ 9/100)15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rs 2,282,764.24</td>
<td>Rs 3,472,697.81</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>You can see the difference in just two years.</p>
<p>For Rs 1,000,000 with a 5 per cent interest rate for 2 years, the total earnings (principal and the interest) would be: </p>
<p>Simple Interest = Rs 1,100,000</p>
<p>Compound Interest = Rs 1,102,500</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key takeaways:</h2>
<p>So why is Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) preferred?</p>
<p>CAGR represents the overall growth rate of an investment, considering both positive and negative fluctuations. It provides a holistic view of how an investment has performed over time. It is often used for investments with market exposure, and the returns can be influenced by market conditions.</p>
<p>As it provides a smoothed annual growth rate, mitigating the impact of volatility and short-term fluctuations in investments, there is a more stable and realistic assessment of performance over time, with a standardised metric.</p>
<p>It applies to a wide range of investments where the value can fluctuate over time, especially in market-driven assets. It’s commonly used in finance and investing to evaluate the performance of investments such as stocks, mutual funds, and portfolios. For that, understanding CAGR becomes indispensable for making informed decisions.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/cagr-nepse-sharemarket-nepal.html">Compound annual growth rate: Understanding the math of how your money can grow</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-51754465833352205982024-03-09T21:45:00.001-08:002024-03-09T21:45:52.042-08:00Vivo V30 5G: Mid-range option with beautiful design and performance launched in Nepal<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1866" height="948" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/vivo-v30.jpg" alt="Vivo V30 5G. Photo: Vivo Nepal" class="wp-image-554804" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vivo V30 5G. Photo: Vivo Nepal</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Vivo Nepal has launched the mid-range option, the <a href="https://www.vivo.com/np/products/param/v30" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vivo V30 5G</a> in Nepal. The mid-range option is the successor of last year’s <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/vivo-v29-5g.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vivo V29 5G</a>. The V30 5G shares the stage with its elder sibling, the Vivo V30 Pro 5G.</p>
<p>Vivo’s recent mid-range options are being widely popular in the Nepali and Indian markets mostly because of its design. Vivo has given extra care to the design along with the weight and thickness. The V series also has the aura ring light feature which has become a signature part of the series.</p>
<p>There are a few major differences between the V30 5G and V29 5G including IP rating, chipset, camera features, Wi-Fi, battery size, charging features and colour options. Along with the changes in the specs, there has also been a significant change in the design and the aura ring light.</p>
<p>Let us see what the smartphone offers in terms of specs.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Specifications of Vivo V30 5G</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>64.36mm x 75.1mm x 7.45mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>186 grams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Display type</td>
<td>AMOLED</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Display size</td>
<td>6.78-inch</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Resolution</td>
<td>2,800 x 1,260</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Refresh rate</td>
<td>120 Hz</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peak brightness</td>
<td>2,800 nits</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IP rating</td>
<td>IP54 dust and splash-resistant</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chipset</td>
<td>Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 (4nm)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CPU</td>
<td>Octa-core (1×2.63 GHz Cortex-A715 & 3×2.4 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4×1.8 GHz Cortex-A510)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GPU</td>
<td>Adreno 720</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OS</td>
<td>Funtouch 14 based on Android 14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RAM</td>
<td>12GB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Storage</td>
<td>256GB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rear camera</td>
<td>50MP main camera<br />
50MP ultra-wide camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Selfie camera</td>
<td>50MP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wi-Fi</td>
<td>Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 | dual-band</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bluetooth</td>
<td>5.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Network</td>
<td>LTE | 5G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SIM</td>
<td>Dual SIM</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Audio</td>
<td>Mono-speaker</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sensors</td>
<td>Accelerometer | Ambient light sensor | E-compass | Proximity sensor | Gyroscope | In-display optical fingerprint sensor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>5,000 mAh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charging</td>
<td>80W wired<br />
Reverse wired</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Lush Green | Noble Black</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 60,999</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Design and Display</h2>
<p>The Vivo V30 5G has a slightly updated design from its predecessor the Vivo V29 5G. The camera module with two circular bumps in the V29 is now changed to one single camera module which houses the two sensors in the V30. The circular aura ring light is now in the same shape as the camera module in the V30. The back is made of glass and has a matte finish on both the colour options giving a very premium look.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1800" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/color-collection-bg.jpg.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554937" /></figure>
<p>The frame on the other hand is made up of plastic and has a shiny metal finish. The back and the display both curve into the frame. The phone is thin at 7.45mm making it comfortable to hold. Even though having a huge 5,000 mAh battery on the back, the V30 5G has maintained an overall thin design.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/soft-light-ring-concept-bg3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554938" /></figure>
<p>On the front, the display of the Vivo V30 5G is subtly curved to the frame with almost no bezels on the sides and slight bezels on the top and the chin. It features a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen that delivers stunning visuals with a resolution of 2,800 × 1,260 with a pixel density of 452 PPI. Users also have the flexibility to choose between a 60 Hz or 120 Hz refresh rate. The display can reach an impressive brightness of 2,800 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="5120" height="1536" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/gallery-pc-img3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554939" /></figure>
<p>The display covers 100 per cent of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and 105 per cent of the NTSC colour saturation. The use of A22 (Q9) light-emitting material enhances colour reproduction while the capacitive multi-touch screen offers responsive and accurate touch input. The smartphone also has IP54 dust and splash resistance which is a downgrade from the V29 5G which has IP68 dust and water resistance.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1566" height="857" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-07-102932.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554940" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance and Storage</h2>
<p>The Vivo V30 5G is powered by the flagship chipset of a few years back, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, built on a 4nm process. Its octa-core CPU has a powerful 2.63 GHz Cortex-A715 core, three 2.4 GHz Cortex-A715 cores, and four 1.8 GHz Cortex-A510 cores for multitasking and smooth operation of various tasks. The Adreno 720 GPU ensures graphics performance. It runs on Funtouch 14, based on Android 14. The software experience is pretty neat with the simple Funtouch UI.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/chip-bg.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-554941" /></figure>
<p>There are a couple of memory options available globally for the Vivo V30 5G but Nepal only gets one memory option which is 12GB RAM and 256GB of storage.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Camera</h2>
<p>The camera setup on the Vivo V30 5G features a dual rear camera system consisting of a 50 MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and a 50 MP ultra-wide camera. The main camera has a wide aperture of f/1.88 while the ultra-wide camera has an aperture of f/2.0. For low-light situations and better colour, it is equipped with the rear Aura Light with dual colour temperature. The temperature of the ring light can be adjusted from the camera app itself.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1726" height="872" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-07-102430.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554942" /></figure>
<p>The rear camera offers a wide range of scene modes including High resolution, Live Photo, Night mode, Portrait mode, Photo, Video, Micro Movie, Dual View, Pano, Documents, Slo-mo, Time-lapse, Supermoon, Astro, Pro, Snapshot and Food. The rear camera of the Vivo V30 5G supports video recording in 4K resolution at 30 fps as well as 1080p resolution at 30 fps, with gyro EIS for smoother footage.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/outsole-bg.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554943" /></figure>
<p>On the front, there’s an impressive 50 MP autofocus camera with an aperture of f/2.0. The front camera also has a range of scene modes including High resolution, Live Photo, Night, Portrait, Photo, Video, Micro Movie and Dual View. The front camera also offers video recording capabilities, allowing users to capture videos in both 4K and 1080p resolutions at 30 fps.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Battery and Others</h2>
<p>The Vivo V30 5G is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery providing ample power for all-day use. The battery size has increased from the V29 5G which has 4600 mAh capacity. Charging is fast with 80W wired charging support. Additionally, it supports reverse-wired charging, allowing users to charge other devices.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1780" height="793" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-07-102831.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554944" /></figure>
<p>For connectivity, the V30 5G features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, supporting dual-band networks for fast and reliable internet access and Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless wireless connections with other compatible devices. It supports LTE and 5G networks for fast mobile data connectivity. It also offers dual SIM support for added convenience. Audio is delivered through a mono-speaker setup, providing clear sound output. It is also equipped with various sensors including an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, E-compass, proximity sensor, gyroscope, and an in-display optical fingerprint sensor.</p>
<p>The Vivo V30 5G is available in two colour options in Nepal; Lush Green and Noble Black.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2238" height="1536" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/gallery-pc-img1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554945" /></figure>
<p><strong>The Vivo V30 5G is official in Nepal at Rs 60,999 for the available 12GB RAM and 256GB storage option.</strong></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/vivo-v30-5g-price-nepal.html">Vivo V30 5G: Mid-range option with beautiful design and performance launched in Nepal</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-18799902640953446932024-03-07T23:45:00.001-08:002024-03-07T23:45:54.046-08:00Santoshi Bankariya’s initiatives ignite social change in Nepal’s endangered ethnic group<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1230" height="820" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Santoshi-Bankariya.jpg" alt="Santoshi Bankariya" class="wp-image-554967" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Santoshi Bankariya</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In the Kabuliyati Forest of Musedhap, Manhari Rural Municipality-4, Makwanpur District, 92 Bankariyas reside in 21 houses. This is the only village in Nepal where one of the most <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/national-parks-no-bankariya-rights.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered ethnic groups</a> in Nepal lives. For most of their history, Bankariyas used to live in forest dens and huts, but now they are socialising to a considerable extent.</p>
<p>The community, which once kept its distance from others, has now opened its doors to visitors through homestays and has even established a soap factory. Emphasising the importance of education for both children and the elderly, they are striving to foster social change. Leading this effort is 29-year-old Santoshi Bankariya.</p>
<p>No one ever thought that a girl who used to run away from people and was afraid to go to school could lead a community towards prosperity. Here we present her story of how Santoshi Bankariya brought change within her community.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Life in the unknown</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="821" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Santoshi-Bankariya-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554969" /></figure>
<p>This village settlement does not boast a long history. The dense forest of the Chure Hills acts as a barrier between Madhesh and the inner Madhesh region. Initially, they resided in the Chureghacha forest, situated approximately 22 kilometres south of Hetauda. According to one of the senior members of this community, the late Thule Bankariya, the history of the Bankariya community remained unknown until they settled in Chureghacha in 1983.</p>
<p>“In 1994, journalist Mahendra Shrestha from <a href="https://nepaltvonline.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nepal Television</a>, Pusphahari Camparai along with me, went to Chure Ghaan in search of Bankariya community for the news. After the news, their existence was discussed for the first time in the country,” said journalist Pratap Bishta, the author of Chheliyeka Anuhar based on Bankariya’s life. According to him, nobody had enquired about them before that. </p>
<p>However, the Bankariya community, with its obscure history and uncertain present, has now found its footing, largely thanks to the efforts of Santoshi Bankariya. Her tireless struggle has been instrumental in elevating the community’s lifestyle and prospects. Her journey, marked by numerous hardships, serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination required to effect meaningful change.</p>
<p>Santoshi Bankariya, born in October 1995, has seven siblings. She first went to school in 2006, where she encountered initial nervousness as people viewed her differently.</p>
<p>“I was a Bankariya and there I was stepping into the unknown,” she says.</p>
<p>She was the eldest among her classmates and did not even know how to hold a pen.</p>
<p>“It was embarrassing,” she says.</p>
<p>As time passed, the school became more manageable for Santoshi Bankariya, and in 2016, she passed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE), becoming the second person from her community to do so. Pampha Bankariya had been the first person to pass SEE in 2015. Following her success in the SEE, Santoshi Bankariya continued her educational journey and successfully passed the exam for Junior Technical Assistance (JTA) in crop science, equivalent to grade 12. With this achievement, she made history as the first woman in the Bankariya community to pass the JTA exam.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Soaps, homestays and adult literary classes</h2>
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<p>The Bankariya community, traditionally reliant on the forest for sustenance, is now charting a course towards self-reliance by diversifying into three key areas: the soap industry, hospitality, and education. Santoshi Bankariya has been the driving force behind these initiatives, spearheading efforts to establish these ventures within the community. Through her leadership and vision, the community is gradually transitioning from dependence on the forest to economic independence through entrepreneurship and education.</p>
<p>The soap factory is being led by Santoshi and has 25 women from the Bankariya and Chepang communities who work under her. They make bath soaps and mouthwash using locally available herbs which are usually wasted in the village such as titepati, neempatta and ghyukumari. </p>
<p>Soap-making has emerged as a viable alternative source of income for members of the Bankariya community who do not rely on agriculture for their livelihood. In the past year, the <a href="https://niwfnepal.org.np/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Indigenous Women Forum</a> provided soap-making training to the women of the community. Inspired by this training, and under the leadership of Santoshi, the Bankariya Chepang Women’s Soap Industry was established. This initiative, with a paid-up capital of Rs 1 million, was registered with the Small and Cottage Industries Office.</p>
<p>“We learned how to make soap during the training, and now we produce and sell soap worth Rs 4,000 to 5,000 daily,” says Santoshi. She further disclosed that she recently sold soap worth Rs 25,000 at the Manahari Mahotsav festival.</p>
<p>In 2019, a homestay project was initiated in the Bankariya community with the support of the Manhari Rural Municipality. Santoshi took the lead in organising this as a homestay was established in her own house, funded by an investment of Rs 800,000 from the municipality.</p>
<p>The Covid pandemic, however, affected the homestay operation as Nepal and the world went under lockdown. A from Switzerland was coming but had to cancel. To encourage the community, former prime minister Baburam Bhattarai spent a night there.</p>
<p>“We made a homestay but no one came to stay except for one or two groups. That is why, now we have started the soap industry,” said Santoshi.</p>
<p>The introduction of the Social Security Allowance played a significant role in catalyzing positive change within the Bankariya community within a remarkably short time. With a monthly allowance of Rs 4,000, women in the community began engaging in vegetable farming and animal husbandry, utilizing the savings from household expenses.</p>
<p>According to local resident Suntali Bankariya, the women began saving their monthly allowances and deposited them into the local cooperative. Despite lacking formal education and financial literacy, Santoshi’s guidance in adult literacy classes on the importance of saving prompted them to take action.</p>
<p>“After Santoshi taught us about saving our money in a cooperative in the adult literacy class, we went to the cooperative,” says Suntali.</p>
<p>Santoshi’s classes also educated the locals about the importance of seeking medical care at hospitals when they fell ill. This practice discouraged people from consulting shamans when they were sick. Notably, Pampha, a member of the community, works as a technician at a laboratory.</p>
<p>Since she was 15, Santoshi has been providing free education to local children. However, realising that her efforts alone were insufficient, she initiated adult literacy classes. It was through these adult literacy classes that many women, like Suntali, have transformed their lives.</p>
<p>To date, six individuals from the Bankariya community have successfully passed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE), and 15 children regularly attend Pashupatinath Secondary School.</p>
<p>“Pratap sir used to warn me that if I stopped studying and got married, he would involve the police. I pursued my studies out of fear. Now I understand that it was for my own good,” says Santoshi.</p>
<p>Among those educated by Santoshi, some have pursued journalism while others have enrolled in technical schools.</p>
<p>“Previously, most of them would opt for work, but now many are prioritising education. Some have even ventured abroad,” she says. “I have realised that there is nothing more empowering than education in life.”</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A changed settlement</h2>
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<p>The way of life of the Bankariya community has upgraded. Their thatched roof huts have transformed into temporary buildings with zinc sheets on the roof. Now, they grow their food through farming and animal husbandry.</p>
<p>“I survived eating yams and berries/fruits from the forest. I had not seen rice until I was 10,” says Santoshi. “As we lived in the forest, no one knew about farming and growing crops and vegetables. Only after we came to Musedhap, we started farming by turning the river bank into a field.”</p>
<p>She understands the importance of farming which is why she completed an 18-month course of JTA. After that, she worked as a volunteer in the Rural Municipality in 2019.</p>
<p>“After studying JTA, even if there was a job opportunity, I did not want to leave the settlement. I stayed in the village to do as much as possible for my community,” she says.</p>
<p>Although Santoshi Bankariya could have personally benefited from leaving her community, she felt that leaving meant abandoning her community. What helped her say was regular funds given to her by various organisations to stay and help the community grow.</p>
<p>In the past, integrating the Bankariya community, who relied on forest resources for their livelihoods, into agriculture was a challenging task. Additionally, they faced risks due to the presence of a nearby national park. Santoshi Bankariya took the initiative by bringing seeds to the village, cultivating them, and distributing them among the community members. She provided agricultural training to village women, resulting in increased agricultural productivity. Now, the community can sustain itself with the produce from their fields for approximately seven months.</p>
<p>When asked about the next challenge, Santoshi highlighted that no one in the Bankariya community owns land. Despite a government programme aiming to construct houses for marginalised tribal communities, including theirs, they have yet to receive these homes. Despite continuous allocation of funds over several years, houses have not been built due to procedural issues that hinder progress.</p>
<p>“We had already tried to build a house but the law does not allow us as they do not own the land,” said Ekraj Upreti, outgoing chairman of Manhari Rural Municipality.</p>
<p>In 2005, the government allocated 10 acres of Kabuliyati forest to the Bankariya community for cultivation, with the agreement set to expire in April 2026. With only two years remaining, Santoshi expressed concerns about the community’s future, stating that if the Parsa National Park demands their departure after the agreement ends, they will have no choice but to return to the forest.</p>
<p>In May 2022, Santoshi, accompanied by local representatives, visited Kathmandu seeking a resolution. Then Minister of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation, Shashi Shrestha, pledged to address the issue at the ministerial level. However, despite assurances, no progress has been made. Santoshi emphasized that with support in education and enterprise for the community, they could develop their community and livelihoods.</p>
<p>”Hopefully we can find someway to solve this issue,” she says.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/santoshi-bankariyas-endangered-ethnic-group.html">Santoshi Bankariya’s initiatives ignite social change in Nepal’s endangered ethnic group</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-5363198920134910682024-03-07T22:45:00.001-08:002024-03-07T22:45:52.562-08:0050 trailblazing women shaping Nepal’s future<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2090" height="1176" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Women-in-Politics-strong-woman.jpg" alt="Women in Politics - strong woman" class="wp-image-544634" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Miguel Bruna on Unsplash</figcaption>
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<p>Women play a vital role in shaping our society. However, throughout history, they have faced discrimination. Unfortunately, this discrimination persists to some extent even today in countries like Nepal, where women are denied access to education, excluded from household decision-making, and offered limited leadership opportunities in organizations.</p>
<p>One hundred and fifteen years ago, the movement of women textile workers in the United States demanding equal wages and other benefits expanded to focus on achieving women’s political rights. Today, this movement has evolved beyond various stages of struggle and interaction, now encompassing issues related to intersexuality and diverse sexualities. It is not merely a concern of the privileged; it is about the rights, struggles, and existence of women from marginalised classes and communities.</p>
<p>In this context, the sense of womanhood extends beyond just the pursuit of equality; it is now a constitutionally guaranteed right, as seen in Nepal. Gender rights are ensured through coexistence and the mandatory inclusion and ideological cooperation of women in all sectors of society.</p>
<p>Keeping that in mind, on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Onlinekhabar wants to celebrate those who challenged the patriarchy and broke the shackles to do influential things in life. Today, we want to bring attention to the significant presence of women in Nepali politics, society, culture, sports, academics, and beyond.</p>
<p>To compile a comprehensive list, our newsroom colleagues, various stakeholders, and sources have collaborated, gathering suggestions from individuals across different levels of government, including the province, district, municipality, and diaspora communities.</p>
<p>The preliminary list, comprising over a hundred names, was then submitted to the selection committee for their evaluation. Their deliberations and recommendations have led to the publication of the final list of 50 influential women.</p>
<p>It is important to clarify that ‘influential’ in this context does not solely denote women who wield power. Rather, the final selection reflects individuals who demonstrate the capacity to overcome obstacles, showcase talent, and continually strive for new accomplishments through their dedication and perseverance.</p>
<p>This initiative is not aimed at any particular group or class; rather, it seeks to represent every unit of Nepali society. We are proud to announce the 50 names selected among our esteemed readers, reflecting our first attempt at this endeavour.</p>
<p>While we tried to include important contributors, we acknowledge that some individuals may have been left out due to various factors such as unavailability. We recognise the many women whose contributions could not be included in this list, despite their significant efforts and struggles. Their importance is undeniable, and we appreciate the role played by every woman striving for change.</p>
<p>Moving forward, we remain committed to representing diverse voices and experiences in our news content, ideological articles, interviews, and other platforms. We welcome constructive suggestions, feedback, and criticism as we continue to refine and expand our efforts to celebrate and uplift the contributions of women in Nepali society.</p>
<p>This is only the start, as we aim to do this every year honouring the women who play an important role in our society by proving to be influential figures for the forthcoming generation.</p>
<p>Let us embark together on the journey towards equality and coexistence, ensuring that every day can be like March 8—a day of celebration and recognition of the contributions of women in our society. Together, we can strive for a more inclusive and equitable future for all.</p>
<p><em>This list is not ranked.</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meera Sah – Activist</h2>
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<p>For over 14 years, Meera Sah’s life has revolved around children. Operating an orphanage in Janakpur, Sah relentlessly looks after abandoned children as if they were her own. There are days she barely gets enough sleep but that does not deter her as she selflessly looks after the children. Her day starts with them and ends with the 13 children that she is looking after at the orphanage. </p>
<p>Sah’s transformation from Meera to mother Meera came in July 2005 when an English professor Satyanarayan Mahato ‘Alok’ asked her to take care of a child he had found on the roadside. Mahato had gone through a lot to save the child and asked Meera, who came to his ashram regularly, to look after her. The mother in Meera could not say no and the rest is history. </p>
<p>Since then, every time a baby is abandoned, they are taken to the ashram where Mother Meera welcomes them with open arms. The ashram has transformed into a shelter for children who survived attempted abortions, those who were abandoned due to social and economic circumstances, and those who were discarded for any other reason.</p>
<p>Now, as she nears her twilight years, all Sah wants is to see these 13 children thrive in life. Although she could not pursue education beyond grade 9 herself, she dreams of her children achieving everything they aspire to, and more.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Santoshi Bankariya – Entrepreneur and social activist</h2>
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<p>The Bankariya community is one of the most endangered ethnic groups in Nepal. For much of their history, the community lived a nomadic lifestyle. But things are changing and in the forefront of the change is one Santoshi Bankariya. Under her leadership, the community has started to run a homestay and even set up a soap factory. </p>
<p>The only second person to pass SEE, she understood the importance education had on her life. This is why, along with the homestay and soap factory, she also stressed providing tuition service to the young boys of girls of the community. She also extended the tuition classes to adults. Since these classes, six others have passed SEE.</p>
<p>Even though she completed her high school as a junior technical assistant (Pre-Diploma in Agriculture), she decided to stay with the community. She started training them to grow produce that would no longer force them to go into the forest for food. Now the challenge is to get land from the government and vows to fight for that right until her last breath.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pragati Rai – Writer</h2>
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<p>What does a writer need to write? A pen, notebook, or a laptop? Well, for Pragati Rai, her determination was enough to kickstart her writing career. It was her sheer will that compelled finish what she started working as a school teacher in Kathmandu. Her dream of becoming a writer hit a speedbreaker when a manuscript she was working on was deleted from the shared computer at school. Life took her to South Korea and life got busy and writing came to a halt.</p>
<p>A little push then forcer her to get back into writing. She remembered why she wanted to write as a young girl and got back into it. Her first novel, Lekhak ki Swasni (A Writer’s Wife) tells her story and how her life was interconnected with her husband Rajan Mukarung. It was penned out of frustration having had to endure a flawed relationship with her husband. The writer’s wife officially transformed into a writer.</p>
<p>Despite her success, some people questioned whether Rai herself had written the book, with some even suggesting that it was her husband who had penned it instead. However, such doubts have not deterred her, and she has emerged as one of the best storytellers in Nepal. Her works like Birsieko Mrityu and Thangra have also been well-received.</p>
<p>Rai believes that although Nepali literature continues to evolve from various perspectives, women still struggle to share their stories. Many women across different castes, cultures, and regions share common experiences of suffering, yet their unique struggles often go untold. These stories cannot be adequately expressed solely through the narratives of others. Hence, the stories of women from marginalised areas and communities in Nepal remain largely unwritten. Rai says there is a need for women to start telling their own stories, empowering them to voice their experiences and perspectives.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ranju Yadav – Artist</h2>
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<p>For Mithila artist Ranju Yadav, art is more than a means to express herself, it is a medium through which can tell stories of the evils in society. A national award winner, Yadav has been involved in Mithila art for over a decade and since the start has used it as a platform to call for change. Her art revolves around issues like child marriage, female feticide, dowry, untouchability and gender-based violence.</p>
<p>She feels content with her work in the folk art style, not just because it allows her to express her voice against harmful social practices, but also because her art has been instrumental in creating positive change in society. Yadav has observed that her artwork effectively raises awareness among people.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sumana Shrestha – Politician</h2>
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<p>Sumana Shrestha had no particular interest in politics until she became a lawmaker. Now that she is here, she is making a major mark through her call for new policing and voicing opinions against the status quo. </p>
<p>Shrestha often says she entered politics out of frustration. She is not like the politicians from the 90s; she is a breath of fresh air. Many even say that Shrestha is unfamiliar with Nepali politics. However, ever since she was nominated to be a member of the House of Representatives through proportional representation, there is an argument she has done more than many lawmakers who were directly elected.</p>
<p>Highly opinionated, she speaks with facts in hand and has shown the important role the parliamentary committees play. She is part of the education committee and says she is interested in working in areas related to IT education and job creation. Shrestha can also be seen focused on fulfilling her duties as a member of Parliament, which operates on taxpayers’ money. She believes that lawmakers’ inability to effectively carry out their responsibilities amounts to nothing less than corruption.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dawa Yangzum Sherpa – Mountaineer</h2>
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<p>When <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/dawa-yangzum-sherpa.html">Dawa Yangzum Sherpa</a> told her family that she wanted to become a mountaineer, everyone took it as a joke. Even though a lot of men in her village went on expeditions to Everest, for a woman to even think about doing that was far-fetched.</p>
<p>Fast-forward 20 years, Sherpa has become one of Nepal’s leading female mountain guides and a sponsored athlete by North Face and Rolex. But that is not all; she has also successfully climbed 13 out of the 14 8,000-meter mountains, with just one mountain remaining to achieve the remarkable feat of being the first Nepali to climb all 14 8,000-meter peaks.</p>
<p>She is also the first woman in Asia to become an International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) guide. Over the past few years, Sherpa has been helping young girls who also dream of climbing mountains like her. Every year, she takes time out to take them climbing or trekking around Khumbu or Rolwaling.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sunmaya Budha – Trail runner/ultra runner</h2>
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<p><a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/sunmaya-budha-nepal-trail-running.html">Sunmaya Budha</a> was on the verge of getting married off by her parents when she was in her early teens. Things were almost certain but she ran away and established herself as one of the top trail runners in Nepal.</p>
<p>With a never-say-die attitude and an ego to prove her doubters wrong, Buddha has created history by becoming the first Nepali woman to win various races across the globe including The North Face 100 Hong Kong, Translantau by UTMB and Golden 100 Hong Kong. </p>
<p>In 2022, she even finished second in one of the toughest trail races in the world, the UTMB Mont Blanc – CCC, etching her name in the history books. Trained by Olympian Hari Bahadur Rokaya, Buddha has come a long way as she now is part of the North Face Adventure Team which looks after her training. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sabitra Bhandari – Footballer</h2>
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<p>Sabitra Bhandari, popularly known as Samba is one of the most successful sportspersons in Nepal. She is a marvel in Nepali football who, since her debut in 2014, has taken Nepali football by storm.</p>
<p>Coming from a humble background, Bhandari developed a keen interest in football from a young age. But little did she know that her fondness would one day take her to the peak of Nepali football.</p>
<p>Recently, Bhandari scored her 50th international goal for Nepal. She is the first footballer in the country to do so. She also ticked off another first as she became the first Nepali to score in a major European league as she scored for En Avant Guingamp against Lille on March 2. On June 13 last year, Bhandari <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/sabitra-bhandari-israel.html">signed to play for an Israeli club</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RaananaWomensFootballClub/posts/pfbid0QCkCDY53vV8UAUN7MPMarA6QpMSLa7nnSVq3rPnAKVzZ91xmoHPG65bHbPyp2fXMl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hapoel Raanana Women’s FC</a> in the <a href="https://www.football.org.il/Leagues/Pages/LeagueDetails.aspx?LEAGUE_ID=637" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Israeli Women’s League</a> ‘Ligat Nashim’. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shilshila Acharya – Entrepreneur and climate activist</h2>
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<p>Almost every student who does well academically in their school and high school opts to become either a doctor or an engineer. But Shilshilia Acharya, who despite getting a government scholarship to study MBBS, decided to study environmental science. Many questioned her decision to leave behind a career in medical science to pursue one in environmental science. However, Acharya remained in her choice, believing that high-achieving students should not feel compelled to follow conventional paths and instead should explore subjects that resonate with their passions and values.</p>
<p>Her pursuit of excellence took her to Norway where she completed her master’s degree. The Scandinavian country offered insights into the functionality of socialism and women empowerment, highlighting its differences with its application in Nepal. Thus, she returned with the hope of creating change in Nepal. After her return, you could often see her in the street demanding action against issues of climate change and women’s rights.</p>
<p>The founder and director of Avni Ventures, Acharya has made a career in mitigating the causes of climate change. Through various projects, she and Avni focus on making people aware of the impact caused by climate change and training the youth along with women on its mitigation.</p>
<p>Recognising plastic as a primary contributor to pollution, she initiated a campaign aimed at curtailing its usage, which has gained significant momentum. Kathmandu has now fully prohibited the use of single-use plastic below 40 microns. Moreover, after encountering young women coerced into the sex trade, Acharya launched an initiative to empower and rehabilitate them.</p>
<p>Now she hopes what she has done in Kathmandu with waste management can be replicated in other local levels in Nepal. She believes climate change is a major problem and a pressing issue for human survival. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Krishni Tharu – Politician</h2>
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<p>Krishni Tharu is a woman who has, for most of her life, shown utmost resilience. A former Kamlari, an indentured girl child labourer, from the Tharu community, she has risen to become a voice of change in Nepal. </p>
<p>After 18 years as a Kamlari and Brukeni, she actively advocated against Kamaiya/Kamlari practices and led protests realising the need to break free from slavery. That journey led her to become the national chairperson of Kamaiya Mahila Jagaran Samaj and work for the rights and welfare of the freed Kamaiyas.</p>
<p>Despite facing hardships and societal stigma, she persisted, advocating for education, employment, and empowerment of women and marginalised communities. She never received a formal education. However, it did not discourage her from learning to read and write in Nepali and English by enrolling herself in an adult literacy class. Now she effectively convenes assembly meetings and is known for her zeal to encourage the participation of women in politics and judicial and legal services. </p>
<p>Her determination and willingness to create change caught the eyes of the UML who then nominated her to become a member of the Lumbini Provincial Assembly and even made her the deputy speaker.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mohanmaya Dhakal – Politician</h2>
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<p>Mohanmaya Dhakal is out to prove to the entire country how capable women can be when given the chance at leadership positions. Dhakal is the mayor of Birendranagar Municipality in Karnali. After proving herself as a deputy mayor, Dhakal was asked to run for mayor by the people of Birendranagar.</p>
<p>Her career in politics started as early as when she was 14 years old. Since then, there has been no stopping her as she has often been the voice of change in party meetings within the province and at the central level.</p>
<p>Now a central committee member of the UML, she aims to make Birendranagar safe for women and children as she believes that a city like that will be safe for everyone. Several programmes aimed at women’s health, maternal safety, daughters’ birth savings accounts, women’s self-employment, and support for women farmers, among others, are currently operational under the mayor’s leadership, encompassing more than a dozen initiatives dedicated to empowering women.</p>
<p>In addition to these initiatives, free sanitary pads distribution for women, a free ambulance service for pregnant women, and a free video x-ray programme have been implemented, all of which are touted to be highly effective. Notably, some of these programs were initiated during her tenure as deputy mayor.</p>
<p>With the aim of setting up Birendranagar as an education hub, Dhakal and her municipality have also initiated a 10-year plan that focuses on curriculum development, teacher management, and community empowerment. That is not all, in her leadership, the municipality has also aimed to solve the drinking water issue by lifting water from the Bheri river and has earned recognition as the country’s best municipality for environmental efforts.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sangita Chepang – Activist and politician</h2>
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<p>Sangita Chepang, a female ward member in Gajuri Rural Municipality Ward 6 of Dhading, has been re-elected for her second term. Hailing from Gajuri-6, Syangmaidanda, Chepang has dedicated her life to uplifting the marginalised Chepang community in Nepal. This is why she is known beyond the small borders of her ward.</p>
<p>Growing up, she always felt the Chepang community were discriminated against and wanted to do something that would end that. She started calling for the community to have their own forest and water supply system. Slowly, her voice grew larger and that paved the way for her to get into politics.</p>
<p>Even before she got into politics, she led the way as a leader as she was a major person who called on the community to save their forest. Everyone, including her own people, ridiculed her. They asked how one woman save a forest could. But gradually, things changed. Women in her community stopped instigating wildfires and initiated an afforestation campaign.</p>
<p>She also played a major role in the village getting access to water. There was a time when women had to queue up for hours for water but now every household in her village has a tap and that is all thanks to a determined Chepang who did not take no for an answer.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dr Banira Karki – Doctor</h2>
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<p>Dr Banira Karki never liked people doubting her. Established as one of the finest breast onco-surgeons in the country, Karki had to smash patriarchy to get to where she is today. Spending years away from Nepal, she was always inclined to get back to Nepal and give back.</p>
<p>Ever since she joined med school, she always wanted to become a surgeon. As years passed by she saw how women were suffering from breast cancer after which she became a specialist in breast surgery.</p>
<p>Recently, many new techniques have been introduced to treat breast cancer. With the help of new technology, Karki has brought laughter and smiles to the faces of many women who do not have to remove their breasts altogether.</p>
<p>This is the message she is trying to portray recently. She says women no longer need to feel anxious as Nepal now has the skills and technology to treat breast cancer effectively. She also has been pushing women to restart their lives after cancer. She can often be heard motivating women who may have lost hope in life to rise and embrace it once again.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Miruna Magar – Actor</h2>
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<p>As a majority of youth leave Nepal for the riches and grandeur of abroad, some come back to Nepal aiming to leave a mark in the country. One such person is Miruna Magar. Born in Hong Kong and brought up in the United Kingdom, Magar has, over the past few years, left a major mark in the Nepali film industry. This can be seen from her back-to-back super hits in Jaari and Kabaddi 4.</p>
<p>The indigenous community along with many Nepali women seems to have embraced Magar. Most women see themselves in the characters she plays. It is safe to say, she has touched the lives of many in her short film career. Her professionalism and hard work have also set her apart, say directors who have worked with her.</p>
<p>A researcher, Magar, has seen Nepal and now wants to make films based on women. As she plays the role of different women, she hopes one day she will be able to understand them and make a film based on her understanding. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Surakshya Panta – Actor</h2>
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<p>Even though she started her career nearly a decade ago, Surakshya Panta has not starred in many Nepali films. Yet she has the ability to carry a film. Whether portraying Aarti Aama, Heera Bulaaki, or a rebellious character in Bahaab, Panta has shouldered the weight of these films with finesse.</p>
<p>Her peers call her a method actor; someone who can easily adapt to the role given to her. She’s disciplined and extremely hardworking. How? If she has to play a certain role, she spends as much time with these women as possible. For Bulaki, she spent months in Sudurpaschim to give justice to the role she was playing. During Julebi, she was seen spending time with sex workers in Kathmandu getting to know them and their trade.</p>
<p>Panta has filled the void present for female actresses in mainstream Nepali cinema. As an artist, she thrives on playing different characters, constantly seeking to experience different lives through her craft. Notably, she made history as the first Nepali actress to grace the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival. Her participation was in the representation of her role in the Italian movie The Eight Mountains, marking a significant milestone in her career.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rubina Chhetry Belbase – Cricketer</h2>
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<p>For a little over a decade, Rubina Chhetry Belbase has demonstrated exceptional leadership in Nepali cricket. Since 2009, she has showcased outstanding performances representing Nepal on the cricket field.</p>
<p>As a successful all-rounder and captain of the Nepali women’s cricket team, she holds a rare world record of taking all five wickets in five balls and achieving the first century by a Nepali female cricketer. Her contributions have been crucial for the success of the Nepali cricket team.</p>
<p>Now part of the leadership group of the team, she aims to take Nepali cricket to the next step and in doing so inspire a new age of female cricketers who will represent the country in the future.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Upasana Poudel – CEO, Himalayan Re-Insurance</h2>
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<p>Upasana Poudel always wanted to do something new when she was young. She wanted to be successful and leave behind a legacy. In Nepal, instances of women leading public organisations, especially at a young age, are scarce. Poudel defies this trend as the CEO of Himalayan Re-Insurance. In her role, she spearheads the management and leadership of reinsurance, navigating the international market to promote Nepal and drive business growth. Despite coming from an educated background, Poudel stands out as one of the few women to achieve remarkable success at a young age.</p>
<p>With over a decade of professional experience in the insurance and telecom industries across the Indian and Nepali markets, Poudel has proven her capabilities in both countries. She notably served as the CEO of United Insurance, a non-life insurance company in Nepal, where she showcased exceptional leadership. Before this, she held various leadership positions in marketing, strategy, product development, underwriting, and technology departments at renowned Indian market giants such as Vodafone, ICICI Lombard, and Bharti AXA General Insurance.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Namrata Baral (Nami) – Entrepreneur/Innovator</h2>
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<p>Having graduated in medicine from Havard University and working in one of the best laboratories that research ovarian cancer, Namrata Baral had a sudden change of heart. She wanted to get into the financial sector and started studying economics and mathematics.</p>
<p>Working as an investment banker, Baral soon invested in a start-up company and created MoPub, a mobile ad platform allowing app developers to monetise their applications. The app was an instant success and earned around USD 100 million in six months. As X (formerly Twitter) acquired the company, she worked there for six years as the head of Twitter’s Revenue and Partnership Department. She made over USD 1 billion for Twitter.</p>
<p>Baral over the past decade has established three successful startups in the US. Her latest is Niural which is an all-in-one payroll, team management and compliance platform that helps companies streamline their hiring process, manage global payroll, and keep tabs on compliance. She is continuously working with a vision to create a multibillion-dollar company with a Nepali workforce.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Karvika Thapa – Founder, Kimbu Tech</h2>
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<p>After 15 years in the US, Karvika Thapa wanted to make a difference in Nepal and returned in 2017. As she got here, she realised the potential Nepal had in IT and how the country’s workforce could cater to American clients. With that in mind, Thapa founded Kimbu Tech which not only brought foreign currency to Nepal but also worked in bridging the gender gap as it prioritised female employment. </p>
<p>There were challenges, but she persisted in her vision and has been calling for educational reforms believing that IT skills should be nurtured from a young age. She has also been promoting a change in working culture highlighting the importance of a work-life balance. She has also been spreading the message that Nepali talent is abundant, and with the right support and innovation, the future is bright. Thapa dreams of harnessing AI advancements to drive national development, creating opportunities for young people, particularly women, along the way.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bhakta Kumari Tamang – Principal, Chandrawati Basic School</h2>
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<p>Bhakta Kumari Tamang has an extraordinary tale of dedication and transformation. She is a beacon of hope in Nepal’s education system whose journey is nothing short of remarkable. Tamang is the principal of the government-run Chandrawati Basic School. She started her career in 1995 as a primary teacher in the school and has been there for nearly three decades. She’s been an instigator for the school to extend its classes from 5 to eight and has been calling for more change which will help the young children in Bhojpur.</p>
<p>She has faced various challenges from the Maoist conflict to the recent Covid pandemic but she remained resilient as her work has been recognised by various people over the past few years.</p>
<p>Even facing a decline in student numbers due to migration, she is on a mission to make her school the top choice for local families and 100 per cent passed results in district-level examinations in recent years is the evidence. One thing is crystal clear: Tamang is not just shaping minds, she is shaping futures.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alisha Sijapati – Heritage recovery campaigner</h2>
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<p>Working as a journalist in Kathmandu, Alisha Sijapati got really close to the valley’s tangible and intangible heritage. That is what led her to become a part of the Nepal Heritage Recovery Campaign, which, for the past few years has been actively working to bring back stolen heritage from Nepal.</p>
<p>Sijapati is at the forefront of the campaign and does most of the documentation work. She, with her team of researchers, finds out which heritage was stolen and where it currently is. Sijapati and her team at the Nepal Heritage Recovery Campaign also coordinated with the Department of Archaeology to bring back the stolen artefacts by preparing all the necessary documents. That is not all, the campaign also focuses on how to return the artefact to the community.</p>
<p>She knows this work is not easy, but she is not in it for the ease. With a deep passion for heritage conservation, she has been putting in extra hours to ensure Nepal reclaims its gods and goddesses.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ruby Raut – Entrepreneur/Innovator</h2>
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<p>Ruby Raut is a Nepali who is known globally for her innovative ideas. She is especially known for her work in aiding women who encounter challenges with traditional menstrual hygiene products like pads and tampons, as well as those who experience premenstrual discomfort. Wanting to change that, Raut came up with period panties which aim to give women peace of mind during menstruation.</p>
<p>The period panties produced by her company WUKA are for women of all ages and are environment friendly. That has helped take the back global as these panties are now available in 48 countries including the UK, France, the US and Canada.</p>
<p>Thanks to her product, Raut has garnered increasing recognition and respect. She has been honoured with more than 19 awards for her role as a woman entrepreneur and her creation of environmentally friendly products. Notable among these accolades are the ‘Best New Business Award’, the ‘Innovation Award’, and the Queen’s Award for Sustainable Development, bestowed upon her business in the UK in April 2022.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Devi Khadka – Human rights activist</h2>
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<p>Devi Khadka, born 44 years ago in a remote village in Dolakha, has emerged as a fearless advocate for the rights of rape survivors in Nepal. Devi has devoted her life to seeking justice for over 3,000 <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/armed-conflicts-impact-nepali-women.html">women who fell victim</a> to sexual violence by both the government and rebel forces.</p>
<p>Khadka’s journey began with personal struggles, including the loss of her brother, and experienced the horrors of gang rape and torture in police custody herself. After the peace process, she transitioned into political life, becoming a member of the Constituent Assembly and serving as a federal government minister. </p>
<p>In March 2022, Khadka founded the National Organisation of Wartime Rape Victims, rallying nearly 3,000 women to demand justice. Despite societal prejudices and governmental indifference, she tirelessly worked to shed light on the plight of survivor, challenging the patriarchal mindset and advocating for survivor/victim-friendly laws.</p>
<p>Many wartime rape cases have been kept in the shadows until now. But through her organisation’s initiative, a bill to amend the Act on Commission on Investigation of. Disappeared Persons, Truth and Reconciliation, <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Countries/NP/OHCHRTechnical_Note_Nepal_CIDP_TRC_Act2014.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2014</a>, became more victim-friendly. Her contribution to crafting laws for justice has been recognised, offering hope for recognition, justice, compensation and relief for women survivors of conflict.</p>
<p>Devi Khadka’s unwavering commitment and courage have brought the sufferings to the forefront and paved the way for a dignified and just future. A life where women did not have to suffer for not having citizenship, marriage registration, or birth registration of children, amid economic deprivation and social humiliation.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sabita Upreti – Social welfare activist (autism)</h2>
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<p>Sabita Upreti, known as the “mother of autistic children,” started helping autistic kids 13 years ago. She was moved when she saw a tied-up, dirty boy, covered in faeces, in a squatter area. Deeply bothered by the scene, she began contemplating the necessity of caring for such children.</p>
<p>Born in Baiteshwor rural municipality of Dolakha, Upreti’s family believed that their daughter should be educated and empowered. So she got the opportunity to study. Moved by the need to care for special children, however, she left her job, learned about autism and opened the Special School for Disabled and Rehabilitation Center (<a href="http://martindturner.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SSDRC</a>) in Kathmandu in 2010.</p>
<p>Her school not only teaches but also gives therapy to autistic children. She believes in breaking myths about autism and helping kids with daily tasks like dressing or washing hands.</p>
<p>Even though people doubted her, and Upreti faced many challenges, she kept going and her school today is helping 60 kids and has grown to three branches in Narephant, Gothatar, and Bhaktapur. In total, she has helped over 500 autistic children.</p>
<p>Upreti’s work got her awards like the <a href="https://www.spotlightnepal.com/2023/11/25/sabita-upreti-chosen-international-women-courage-award/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">International Courageous Women Award-2023</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SSDRC.Autism/posts/congratulations-we-would-like-to-extent-our-heartfelt-congratulations-to-our-cha/3924824097553739/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Janasewa Shree Padak</a> and National Youth Talent Award. She sees these kids as her own and wants the government to help more because there are more kids with autism now. Sabita Upreti is making a big difference in the lives of autistic children and their families.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Menuka Poudel – Singer</h2>
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<p>This year, Menuka Poudel emerged as the standout sensation from the musical reality show Indian Idol. Her journey garnered significant attention in Nepal for several reasons. Firstly, being Nepali, she represented her homeland proudly on an international platform. Secondly, Poudel cannot see. Thirdly, rather than seeking sympathy, she captivated audiences with her mesmerising voice, commanding attention and admiration through the sheer beauty of her melodies.</p>
<p>She does not like it when people feel sorry for her. She believes she is capable of doing most things and does not give up. That is why she jumped from one singing reality show to another as she was adamant about making a mark in the music scene. Now, having touched the hearts of Nepalis and Indians, Poudel is aiming to touch the hearts of people throughout the world.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shanti Lama – Civil service officer</h2>
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<p>Shanti Lama is the Chief Administrative Officer in a village called Sarkegad. She is groomed her image to be of a hardworking government officer, who chose to work in a remote area of Humla in Nepal, unlike others. Even though the village office has a clock that says it’s open from 10 to 5, Lama works around the clock to help the people there.</p>
<p>Lama had a tough childhood as she grew up when the civil war in Nepal at brewing. Her dad got arrested, and her family faced many problems–from threats to her mother and grandmother to depriving them of basic needs. But after the war stopped, her dad came home, and that’s when she started dreaming big.</p>
<p>Lama first wanted to be a teacher, then got interested in journalism, and finally became a <a href="https://psc.gov.np/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">government worker.</a> Her job is not easy given she chose to work in a place with no proper roads or electricity. </p>
<p>Initially, she had to put extra effort into working in a conducive environment, but now she loves every bit of her work. In her job, she focuses mostly on health issues, holds conducive talks with the local leaders, and tries to improve the lives of farmers. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Goma Kunwar – Entrepreneur</h2>
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<p>There was a time when many ridiculed Goma Kunwar for opening a vehicle workshop. Eleven years later, people tip their hats to Kunwar for persevering in an industry dominated by men. Yam Motor Parts, her workshop in Burtibang in Baglung, has been with her in both her good and bad times. It has given her strength during her dark days and shown her how great life can be during her good days. </p>
<p>The workshop was set up in memory of her husband who died in Afghanistan and is one of few women who work in the trade. Some continue to ridicule her and ask her why she is in the business. But Goma does not care. All she cares about is carrying on this business which has given her a stable income. </p>
<p>While some ridicule her, others applaud her bravery and resilience. Through the workshop, she has also been providing employment opportunities to four mechanics and pays them well. In the trade for nearly a decade, Kunwar is now hailed as an expert. The number of cars and buses that line up outside her workshop is a testament to that.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Niranti Tumbapo – Indigenous rights activist</h2>
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<p>For much of the past few years, Niranti Tumbapo has been frequenting Biratnagar, a city that she did not like growing up. That is slowly changing as the city has grown on her thanks to the many protests she’s been part of in the city. </p>
<p>Tumbapo is the general secretary of the Kirat Yakthum Chumlung. Ever since the government cut down public holidays dedicated to the indigenous people and after Province 1 was named Koshi, Tumbapo and others like her have been calling for changes as it undermined the struggles of their ancestors who have been native to the land for centuries. </p>
<p>Tumbapo was seen at the forefront of this identity movement that went on in the province for a year. She has proved herself to be a rebel and is a great orator. Currently, she is deeply committed to ensuring the success of the identity movement that has gained momentum in rural areas. However, this is far from straightforward. While the movement commands a strong presence on the streets, its voice within the legislative chambers remains subdued. </p>
<p>Nevertheless, there is optimism that even if the current parliament fails to adequately address the concerns of the movement, future parliamentary sessions may offer opportunities for progress. Despite the challenges, there remains hope that the movement’s aspirations will eventually be acknowledged and addressed, potentially paving the way for meaningful change.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Anuradha – Author</h2>
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<p>Everybody loves to listen to stories as they have the ability to transform people’s lives. Anuradha, through her stories, has been able to do just that. A children’s book writer, Anuradha, through her writings, has made Nepal proud. </p>
<p>This is all thanks to her picture book, The Story of Babur: Prince, Emperor, Sage published by international publishing house Scala Arts and Heritage, which has been printed in English, French, Uzbek, Russian, German, Chinese and other languages. The book was so successful, that a braille edition has also been published.</p>
<p>She has written around 40 books so far dedicated to children. She never thought she would be a published writer as she mostly wrote for herself and not for anyone else. But with push and encouragement, Anuradha published her first book and has not looked back.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sonika Manandhar – Social Entrepreneur </h2>
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<p>When Sonika Manandhar said she was going back to Nepal after working in the Silicon Valley, many called it her stupidest decision. But she has proved everyone wrong as the same people applaud her decision calling it the best she’s ever made.</p>
<p>Manandhar is a computer engineer who transitioned into an impact entrepreneur. Using her learnings working for various companies in the US, Manandhar has designed tools to bridge the financing gap for microentrepreneurs, particularly women in Nepal.</p>
<p>Manandhar is the founder of Aloi, a fintech company which has won many awards from organizations such as the United Nations Capital Development Fund, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), and Welthungerhilfe. </p>
<p>She was also named a Young Champions of the Earth 2019 by the United Nations Environment Programme and an Emerging Explorer by the National Geographic Society.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Goma Karki – Innovator</h2>
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<p>The Ministry of Home Affairs’ BIPAD portal is undertaking significant efforts to collect information about disasters and risk reduction at the grassroots level throughout the nation. There has been substantial involvement of youth in the management of this information. At the forefront of this initiative is Goma Karki, whose dedication and leadership have been instrumental in driving this important work forward.</p>
<p>Through the collaborative efforts of individuals like Karki and the active participation of youth, the BIPAD portal is playing an important role in enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities across the country.</p>
<p>Karki has worked with over 65 municipalities in Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces for disaster risk reduction. This has not only earned her plaudits in Nepal but has been nominated for an international award as well.</p>
<p>Karki currently serves as the head of the ‘Nepali Youth in Climate Action Green Growth Project,’ which is affiliated with the Youth in Innovation Lab. Through this initiative, she has played a major role in offering technical support for collecting data aimed at disaster risk reduction. Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in driving forward this vital project, which holds significant promise for enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience in these regions.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pushpa Chaudhary – Journalist</h2>
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<p>Journalist Pushpa Chaudhary runs Nepal’s first community radio operating in the Tharu language, Gurubaba FM in Bardiya. Working as a journalist for over two decades, Chaudhary has played a unique role in the economic, social, and cultural transformation of the Tharu community. She actively advocates for the welfare of freed Kamlari and is engaged in the campaigns to empower women. She has also played an important role in the male-dominated community to bring change and empower women.</p>
<p>In the Tharu community, the Badghar tradition holds a position of paramount importance, akin to the law itself. Each year, during the festival of Maghi, a new Badghar is selected. The Badghar plays a crucial role in upholding social, cultural, and economic cohesion within the community. Traditionally, this role has been fulfilled by men, but a notable shift has occurred, with women now also assuming the mantle of Badghar.</p>
<p>Chaudhary has been the major catalyst for this change advocating for and encouraging women to take the role of Badghar. Her efforts have been key in reshaping the community and preserving its rich cultural heritage. Her contributions have not only empowered women but have also strengthened the fabric of Tharu society, fostering greater inclusivity and diversity in its governance structures.</p>
<p>Not only that, she is also involved in a campaign to document the language, culture and traditions of the Tharu community. She aims to operate a museum on the language, culture and traditions of the Tharu community for future generations.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pradasani Kumari- Civil servant </h2>
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<p>Pradasani Kumari, an under-secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, is the first female Chief District Officer from Madhesh Province. Growing up, Kumari wanted to become a doctor. However financial constraints meant she had to give up on the dream. Her father, however, pushed her to get into civil service. </p>
<p>The push was enough for her to start preparing as she was selected as a section officer, the first from her community. Her first posting was in the Ministry of Home Affairs. At the Home Ministry, she worked for the Border and Immigration Administration Section. After working there for a year, her next posting was in the Drug Control Section. </p>
<p>Currently, Pradasani is leading the Citizenship and NID Management Section. Pradasani, who is waiting for the result of the joint secretary, believes that joining the civil service enhanced her understanding of society. She wants to continue pushing herself as she wants to prove that women, if given the chance, can excel at the administrative level.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Khairun Nisa Syed – Muslim rights activist</h2>
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<p>Khairun Nisa Syed has proved to be a formidable force against societal injustices, particularly those faced by women, in her community. Khairun’s impact extends beyond breaking taboos; she is now recognised as a Muslim rights activist.</p>
<p>Born and active in Surkhet, Syed had faced challenging entrenched religious superstitions and gender discrimination, Khairun embarked on a transformative journey that began with self-initiated social awakening.</p>
<p>Her fearless campaign for reform within the Muslim community, bound by strict adherence to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-27307249" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sharia law</a>, faced staunch opposition. In 2008, Khairun <a href="https://thehimalayantimes.com/business/nisa-gets-alba-ratna-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">received an award</a> for her commendable societal contributions, leading to backlash for publicly discussing family planning within the Muslim community. Undeterred, she faced a challenging confrontation in a mosque, Nepali Sunni Masjid Gulsane Madine, Education Center, refusing to apologise and demanding to be shot instead.<br />
She has not only spoken out against injustices but has actively contributed to education by leading adult literacy initiatives. Khairun’s efforts <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/help-us-provide-clean-drinking-water-5-villages-nepal-binsfeld" target="_blank" rel="noopener">empower individuals</a> to voice their opinions and stand up for their rights.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kunjani Pariyar (Pyasi) – Lawyer/Activist</h2>
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<p>Kunjani Pariyar became a lawyer out of frustration after being denied citizenship through her mother’s name. She understood how important it was to fight for the rights of women like her and those underprivileged.</p>
<p>There have been several incidents that have deeply influenced her. The mistreatment of a Dalit ward member in Pokhara was one that filled her with anger. Another incident that frustrated her with society was the lynching of Narawaj BK and others.</p>
<p>She was raised by a mother who was a singer, and from an early age, Pariyar understood the importance of hard work. Despite her initial aspiration to become a nurse, fate had other plans for her. She fought for herself first and got citizenship solely through her mother’s name. Now, she fights for injustice and discrimination against others like her.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sushila Chaudhary- Lawyer/Activist </h2>
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<p>Advocate and activist Sushila Chaudhary, who lost her brother and a sister during the Maoist insurgency, knows what war is and how it can tear families apart. This is why she has been actively involved in calling the government for changes in laws related to victims of the decade-long people’s war. </p>
<p>For the past 15 years, she has been an advocate for the victims of insurgency. Following Nepal’s transition to democracy in 2006, while the country embraced democratic reforms, justice eluded the family members of war victims. Demanding change, Chaudhary and others have been organising protests, demanding accountability and justice from those in power. Many individuals who were involved in the insurgency remain missing, prompting ongoing calls for thorough investigations by their families.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Srijana Sizzu – Traveller</h2>
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<p>Even though Srijana Sizzu loves travelling through Nepal and the world, her heart is well set around the hills and valleys of Karnali Provice. A solo traveller and a content creator, Sizzu, through her videos, has vigorously promoted destinations in Karnali.</p>
<p>The places she visits are raw and untouched. These places are not found on a website or YouTube. Only a few know about it and Sizzu through her videos is out to show it to Nepal and the world. She says she has been to over 150 places but it is safe to say, her heart lies in Karnali.</p>
<p>As a woman solo traveller, she has encountered challenges and faced scrutiny regarding her life choices and decision to travel alone. Despite these obstacles, she persists with a smile on her face, resolute in her belief that travelling, learning, and exploring are integral to understanding life. She remains undeterred, embracing each journey as an opportunity for personal growth and discovery, defying societal norms and stereotypes along the way.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dr Sobha Poudel – Researcher</h2>
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<p>As a child, all Sobha Poudel wanted to do was study. And she was able to pursue that dream thanks to her mother’s support. Fast forward to the present, Sobha Poudel has become a prominent figure in the fields of climate change and food security, establishing herself as an agricultural scientist. Her professional responsibilities include carefully recording the facts and figures necessary for comprehensive studies and data analysis. Additionally, she dedicates her focus to studying and researching topics related to agricultural economy, contributing valuable insights to the field.</p>
<p>She is also the recipient of the Marie Curie (Madame Curie) Fellowship awarded to her by the European Union (EU). Now living in Milan, Italy, Poudel is researching how farmers in Nepal, India and Sri Lanka have benefited from climate-friendly farming techniques. She has been awarded this fellowship to research the social and economic relevance of climate-friendly farming techniques in South Asia.</p>
<p>She believes her research will help researchers like her in the future and is calling on governments in developing countries like Nepal to opt for technology which is gender friendly.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Awani Mainali Bhattarai – Lawyer and judge</h2>
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<p>Abani Mainali Bhattarai is an experienced judge in Nepal who has made a big impact. In one year, she decided on 660 cases in two district courts–Chitwan and Kaski, which is a lot compared to other judges. She’s been a judge for eight years, has experience working in five districts, and is currently active in Makwanpur.</p>
<p>Before becoming a judge, Bhattarai faced many challenges in her personal life, struggling to get back to the workplace after marriage and pregnancy. But she decided to study law later on with younger classmates. Meanwhile, she passed her public service exams, worked in government organisations and became a deputy secretary before becoming a judge.</p>
<p>Bhattarai believes in being fair and neutral in her job. Her work shows her dedication to justice and making a positive change in Nepal’s legal system. She’s known for handling cases of gender violence well, where survivors feel comfortable talking to her in the courtroom. </p>
<p>In the legal world where women are still not well-represented, many question if females are even judges. Bhattarai is one of the few female district judges. In fact, in 2015, she was the only female district judge in the country. Currently, out of 263 district judges, there are only 18 female judges.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Jhuma Limbu – Musician </h2>
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<p>Jhuma Limbu is a remarkable figure in Nepali music. She didn’t just sing, she created her musical instrument called Dhela from a (khamer) tree during a lockdown, and other animal skins too. But Limbu didn’t stick to the usual way of singing about women in songs. She wanted to change that and encouraged women to sing for themselves, expressing their thoughts and feelings.</p>
<p>Using the instruments, she created her own music and showed that music can be powerful and express a range of emotions, not just soft tunes. With her work, she is also contributing to preserving culture–including different touches of communities like Sunuwar, Tharu, Deuda, and Karnali–and innovating new tastes in music. She also explored her cultural roots, delving into Limbu tribal music and reviving the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBrJLP-iOKo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Samsogha Mundhum</a> genre, which is sung continuously for several days.</p>
<p>And beyond the local boundaries, she didn’t only focus on Nepali music. Limbu also collaborated with musicians from around the world, connecting Nepali music with global influences, refining the craft and its presentation.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Radhika Khatiwada – Lawyer</h2>
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<p>Radhika Khatiwada has been practising law for the last ten years. During her college days, she got into student politics. In 2006 she was elected as a member of the Free Student Union of Mahendra Ratna Campus, Kathmandu. </p>
<p>As a student leader, she used to speak out against the misconduct that occurred in college. As a result, many of her demands were also addressed. This experience inspired her to study law and later become an advocate. In the legal system, she encountered numerous injustices, particularly the plight of financially disadvantaged service seekers who could not afford legal representatives.</p>
<p>Witnessing the challenges individuals face in accessing justice without the means to hire a lawyer, she decided to offer assistance to those in need. In her efforts, she developed her own policy: Khatiwada charges fees only to those who can afford to pay. For those who cannot, her services are provided voluntarily.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tulsi Shahi – Staff nurse / Medical personnel</h2>
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<p>Tulsi Shahi is a 29-year-old nurse who dedicated her life to the people in the remote village of Pulu in Mugu. She started working there in 2019 in a local health post, which was in a bad state at that time. </p>
<p>The road reaching Pulu was tough due to risky roads and bad weather. When she first got there, the villagers were not very aware of the importance of basic hygiene, and health checkups and, hence, did not visit the health centre. They would rather visit the local shamans in times of need.</p>
<p>So, Shahi faced the challenge starting from there–and others being organising gatherings, giving advice or counselling, and even providing meals as a lure to get their attention. Now, Shahi is not just a health worker; the villagers call her an incarnation of God because of the love, service and care she has imparted.</p>
<p>Shahi, while working, does not just stop at her regular responsibilities. She also helped people understand things like contraception and women’s health. Her efforts have reduced childbirth-related problems, home births and risks related to it, and encouraged people to stay healthy.</p>
<p>She faced many problems in her own life–having a difficult childhood and also tackling the challenges of being a single mom to her son. The work and her story are as inspirational.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sarita Sah – Actor</h2>
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<p>Sarita Sah’s life revolves around acting. Growing up in Madhesh Provice, she remembers having to pay a certain fee to go watch films at her neighbour’s house on a Saturday. But her love for acting grew deep when she became involved in radio skits.</p>
<p>This paved the way for her to venture into theatre, where she found herself standing in front of over 100 people at Shilpee Theatre. Acting in a play that shed light on gender-based violence, Sah realised the significant role such productions could play in society. This understanding motivated her to participate in productions that address issues of women’s rights, discrimination, and citizenship.</p>
<p>With over a decade of experience in the film and acting industry, Sah is a multifaceted talent, involved in acting, writing, and directing. She has worked on feature films, short films, and advertisements, showcasing her versatility and skill.</p>
<p>Currently, through her foundation, Sah is raising awareness about socioeconomic, political, and gender issues using storytelling tools, techniques, and media platforms. Her commitment to addressing these pressing issues through her creative work demonstrates her passion for social change and advocacy.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dr Sushila Maharjan – Researcher/Biochemist</h2>
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<p>A decade ago, Sushila Maharjan went to South Korea to pursue a PhD in biochemistry. While studying and conducting research there, she realised that similar research opportunities could also be pursued in Nepal.</p>
<p>After completing her PhD, she returned to Nepal and set up a research centre together with her husband. The Research Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology which was opened by Maharjan and eight other friends, has been researching bacteria ever since.</p>
<p>She believes chemistry is the core of all life and her career and has dedicated her life to researching it. Through the institute, she has researched around 200 bacteria found in Nepal’s mountains, hills, and plains. Research which focused on identifying antibiotics and anti-cancer drugs also earned her and her team an international award. It was remarkable how the institute which started in a small room in Kathmandu managed to win an award in a few years.</p>
<p>Now, Mahajan aims to do research according to Nepal’s sociobiological and demographic needs. However, currently, Maharjan is involved in researching the study of artificial cells capable of functioning as human organs. This research aims to revive human organs that are unable to function properly. The method, known as tissue engineering, involves techniques similar to the maintenance of human organs. By advancing this technology, it may become possible to restore the function of non-working organs and improve the overall health and well-being of individuals in need.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sharmila Kumari Ram – Local representative </h2>
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<p>In the Madhesh province, there is a feeling of resentment among the citizens towards the people’s representatives. But there is an exception and that is Sharmila Kumari Ram (34) because of her good work, trying to make life better for everyone. Working in <a href="https://barhathwamun.gov.np/en/content/ward-no-10" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barahathawa municipality-10</a>, in Sarlahi, she is the only Dalit ward chair there.</p>
<p>Even though she has the conventional obligation at home as a daughter-in-law, she has also worked hard outside as a leader, always ready to help when they need it.</p>
<p>Among the local representatives, she has been perceived as the one who uses the money wisely for the ward, prioritising education, and health, and making the ward better with better physical infrastructures. During the epidemic, she also conducted a relief campaign for the poor families who were in the grip of starvation. She has given more and has even used her salary to teach underprivileged kids who can’t afford it, distributing bags and stationeries to 800 children. Next, she plans to start teaching in English medium.</p>
<p>Sharmila Kumari Ram takes her father, who was politically active too, as the inspiration to do good for others. And even though he’s not around anymore, she’s carrying on his dream. </p>
<p>However, she believes that people in the community still face challenges in the social construct and the narrow mindset towards women, especially the Dalit community. She believes there is a lot to work on and is planning to run again as the ward president in the next election.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sunita Chaudhary – Ecosystem services specialist</h2>
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<p>Sunita Chaudhary is the first female from the Tharu community to complete a PhD. After completing her PhD from Macquarie University, Australia, Chaudhary has been actively working in the field of water conservation and the ecological system in the Himalayas.</p>
<p>Chaudhary is a member of the National Council for Environmental Protection and Climate Change Management. Currently, she decides the agenda to be presented on behalf of Nepal in international forums. Similarly, she is also an ecosystem services specialist, at ICIMOD. She is a researcher, studying issues affecting indigenous communities and climate change in the Himalayan region of Nepal.</p>
<p>Oceans and islands are always on the agenda at climate and environmental conferences like COP. But the issues of the Himalayan region are not well. Chaudhary has been constantly raising her voice about it. She believes that Nepal has not been able to hold discussions about the climate issue in the country where the world’s top officials participate. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Laxmi Ghimire- Province Assembly Member</h2>
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<p>Laxmi Ghimire was just 16 years old when she had an unfortunate incident in Ramechhap. She was gathering fodders when she fell from a hill and injured her spinal cord. After that life has never been the same for her. She is paralysed from the waist down and needs a wheelchair. However, she never lost hope and with the support from her parents, she educated herself and made her life meaningful.</p>
<p>The place she has reached now has given her life satisfaction because she has been able to raise the voices of people. Now, 30-year-old Ghimire is an Assembly member of the Bagmati Province.</p>
<p>Ghimire, who became a proportional member of parliament from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) in the election of November 4, 2022, has been participating meaningfully in the state assembly. She raised her voice in parliament to make the state assembly building disabled-friendly. As a result, a wheelchair-rolling structure was built for the disabled.</p>
<p>Ghimire, who first began her journey to the state assembly by creating a structure, expressed interest in the services and rights of the disabled on the bill to amend the Public Health Services Act, of 2018. Before that, she used to be a sportsperson who played sports like basketball, cricket and powerlifting. She even participated in the Powerlifting World Cup in 2018. </p>
<p>Ghimire, who went through a difficult journey after becoming disabled, is still worried about the change in society’s view of people with disabilities. She believes that politics is the last option for this concern and is willing to work in this field. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Srijana Karki – Human rights activist</h2>
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<p>Srijana Karki is a 49-year-old woman from Charikot, the headquarters of Dolakha, Nepal. She is considered a mother of over 1,500 people that she has taken responsibility for, in over a decade of her service. </p>
<p>Born in Tamakosi rural municipality-2 Jhule in an ordinary farming family, she grew up in a society that restricted women from getting an education and work. Despite limited formal education, she became a dedicated helper for those in need and was rejected by society. In 2012, she started a group called ‘Awaz Nepal’ to formally assist people of all ages, including women, kids, and elderly people, making sure they get justice and any legal help they might need as well. She also cares for girls who have survived rape (attempts) and shelters about 30 women, kids and homeless people currently.</p>
<p>Despite facing criticism, Srijana is in no mindset to stop helping those who need it. Her love and care have been recognised and she has various awards, including the Gauradevi Oli Memorial National Ideal Mother Award (2016) and <a href="https://n-peace.net/alumni-pages/alumni-2017/srijana-karki/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">N-Peace Awards (2017)</a>.</p>
<p>Witnessing many incidents of human rights violations, violence against women and violence against children in Dolakha, she continues to be a strong voice for the helpless.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> Nirkala Sharma- Social worker </h2>
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<p>Nirakala Sharma, 91, who is supposed to be living a retired life is still active and serving elderly people in her old age home Aashaya Briddha Kalyan Samaj, Chitwan. Sharma, a wheelchair user, has been taking care of 13 people in the old age home and is known as the Mother Teresa of Chitwan. </p>
<p>In 2005, in addition to her pension and salary, she collected funds from donors. With this money, she purchased a piece of land spanning 21,870 square feet. The ashram contains a temple within its premises. Currently, there are two helpers and one employee working at the site. Sharma has been residing in the ashram for the past 12 years.</p>
<p>Presently, the ashram is sustained through the support of donors. In addition to offering food and shelter, it also provides medical treatment to its residents.</p>
<p>Sharma is the first secondary teacher of Chitwan. In 1969 she was appointed as the English teacher at Nepal Secondary School. At that time Chitwan had only a few schools and all the teachers were male. </p>
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sharmila BC – Counsellor</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1480" height="1400" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Sharmila-BC.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554919" /></figure>
<p>When Sharmila BC was in her mid-teens, she was already advocating against child marriage, violence against women, and child trafficking. Little did she know later she would become a psychotherapist and a counsellor. From a young age, she actively participated in children’s clubs in Surkhet, where she engaged in street plays addressing various social issues such as women’s violence, domestic violence, trafficking, and child marriage. Despite initially not knowing about the profession of psychotherapy, she became involved in providing support and information to survivors of domestic violence and children in need through her work with the Awaz Theatre group and Awaz Sanstha in Birendranagar.</p>
<p>To date, BC has travelled extensively around the Karnali region. Her efforts have been instrumental in providing psychosocial counselling, suicide prevention, stress management, and promoting positive thinking to people of all ages, particularly children.</p>
<p>Additionally, she has played a crucial role in rescuing cases related to gender-based violence (GBV) and identifying and supporting child survivors within the district. BC’s commendable work has garnered recognition from the municipalities in the district.</p>
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/influential-women-nepal.html">50 trailblazing women shaping Nepal’s future</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-41665960091182576142024-03-07T01:45:00.001-08:002024-03-07T01:45:08.117-08:00Room to Read partners with Warner Bros. Discovery to premiere She Creates Change, award winning film series<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1311" height="1920" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Room_to_Read_She_Creates_Change_IWD_2024_poster.jpg" alt="Room to read" class="wp-image-554809" /></figure>
<p>Kathmandu March 7</p>
<p><a href="https://www.roomtoread.org/literacy-girls-education/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Room to Read</a>, an organisation that works in the sector of education and gender equality, announced a partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery for the premier of <a href="https://www.roomtoread.org/the-latest/you-can-create-change-with-room-to-read/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">She Creates Change</a>, an animation and live-action project to promote gender equality through the stories of young women around the world.</p>
<p>In celebration of International Women’s Day, the film series will premiere on March 8, 15 and 22 in Asia. Presented in a series of six animated shorts with an accompanying live-action mini-documentary, She Creates Change features the narrative of six courageous young women from historically low-income communities in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Vietnam. Episodes portray how each girl confronts challenges unique to her life- such as harassment, food scarcity or early marriage- by advocating for herself and her future.</p>
<p>“Room to Read’s partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery accelerates the goal of She Creates Change to reach all 432 million adolescent girls in the world with inspiring and informative content.,” said Dr. Geetha Murali, CEO of Room to Read. “As girls see other young women, who face challenges similar to their own, use their skills and knowledge to shape their future, they too will discover avenues to harness their power and potential.”</p>
<p>Murali further said She Creates Change will make its debut to not just inspire young girls to pursue their dreams and stand up for their rights, but also to encourage young boys and men to support the women and girls in their lives. </p>
<p>“The project’s launch is a significant step towards Room to Read’s goal of reaching adolescent girls with an empowering and informative story,” said Pushkar Lal Shrestha, Country Director of Room to Read in Nepal.</p>
<p>She Creates Change has been recognised as an official selection of Tribeca Festival (Tribeca X Award), Manchester Animation Festival (Best Short Film for Children), London Short Film Festival and the British Animation Awards (2024 Audience Award). The series will premiere as a feature-length film as an official selection of the SXSW EDU Film Program on March 5, 2024.</p>
<p>The release of She Creates Change aligns with the launch of Room to Read’s flagship fundraising campaign, You Create Change, to raise $10 million to support girls’ education and gender equality through Room to Read’s programs.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/room-to-read-she-creates-change.html">Room to Read partners with Warner Bros. Discovery to premiere She Creates Change, award winning film series</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-16223020288872099702024-03-06T20:45:00.003-08:002024-03-06T20:45:57.826-08:00Modern education system and role of library<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Interior_view_of_Stockholm_Public_Library-1024x683.jpg" alt="library" class="wp-image-463362" srcset="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Interior_view_of_Stockholm_Public_Library-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Interior_view_of_Stockholm_Public_Library-300x200.jpg 300w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Interior_view_of_Stockholm_Public_Library-768x512.jpg 768w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Interior_view_of_Stockholm_Public_Library-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Interior_view_of_Stockholm_Public_Library.jpg 1800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Wikimedia Commons</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>What is a <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/library" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">library</a>? A library is an institution with a quiet study place where books and many other important documents are compiled and preserved for reading. It is not just a source of knowledge and guardian of culture but also a vibrant hub of community engagement and indicators of human development.</p>
<p>Indeed, libraries are important sources of ancient, valuable, and rare documents preserved by our ancestors. They play a significant role in the documentary heritage of a nation.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The library</h2>
<p>Libraries also <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/ratna-pustakalaya-kathmandus-historic-library-loses-its-appeal-in-modern-times.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">need to evolve with</a> time. From ancient times to today’s digital archives, libraries have adapted to serve diverse societies’ needs. Their primary objective is to enhance the education system by providing information resources, services, and facilities to fulfil users’ informational, research, educational, cultural, and recreational requirements.</p>
<p>On February 26, 2024, an educational programme on “The Future of World Library” by G 30 K-Library and Naiel Newspaper was held at the National <a href="https://www.nlcy.go.kr/EN/main/index.do" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Library for Children and Adults</a>, Seoul, South Korea. The goal of this programme was to share the education and library systems of South Korea and other nations around the world. Thirty international students, including one Nepali student, participated and shared their experiences regarding libraries in their home countries.</p>
<p><a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/most-popular-public-libraries-among-kathmandu-bibliophiles.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The major libraries in Nepal</a> are the national library, academic library, public library, community library, school library, and special library. The library in Durbar School (1854) was Nepal’s first school library and Tri-Chandra Campus (1918) was the first academic library. However, these libraries were offered only to elite royals for a long time.</p>
<p><a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/national-library-jamal.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Nepal National Library</a> (1957), managed by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, was the first public library in Nepal. Tribhuvan University Central Library (1959) is the largest library in Nepal with more than 4 million collections.</p>
<p>Nowadays many libraries in Nepal have adopted digital services for users’ ease, unlike a decade ago. Tribhuvan University Central Library has started providing open study rooms for 24 hours. Desired books and materials can be searched and reserved from home through the library website. This saves the time and effort through the technical facility.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">South Korea’s education quality</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="5184" height="3456" src="http://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Books.jpg" alt="autobiography books" class="wp-image-540186" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by freestocks on Unsplash</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>South Korea is one of the countries that have been <a href="https://www.onlinekhabar.com/2022/12/1229034">working effortlessly</a> to provide these facilities through libraries. The country offers these services to attract all age groups, from children to the elderly as the country is facing a low birth rate and a high elderly population problem.</p>
<p>South Korea’s average birthrate is one of the lowest in the world and has <a href="https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2024/02/29/57XIL6EB6VF6LNEHBUGQMZUTUI/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">plunged to a</a> record new low (0.65 per cent), raising the concern of extinction. The country has over 19 per cent of the elderly population, facing a human resource problem. Therefore, South Korea offers many Asian countries to live and work to fulfil human resources.</p>
<p>Nepal is one of the countries where South Korea allows an EPS system. In 2023 South Korea announced 15,448 job openings in manufacturing, and a staggering number of 143,812 young Nepali applied for the post.</p>
<p>Many people are eager to apply for jobs in South Korea, showing continued high demand for employment opportunities due to good income, advanced infrastructure, and technology. Therefore, South Korea could be a good place to raise kids while working.</p>
<p>The country underwent a remarkable transformation in the past by implementing a focused programme to uplift <a href="https://www.onlinekhabar.com/2021/10/1028239" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">education quality and technology</a>. Central to this transformation was the establishment of well-equipped and efficiently managed public libraries. In 1945, South Korea had a literacy rate of 22 per cent and a per capita GDP of $94 in 1961. By 2024, its literacy rate soared to 99 per cent, and its GDP per capita exceeded $34,000.</p>
<p>The visit to the National Library for Children and Adults provided insights that libraries can be more than just books and study places. In today’s era of science and technology, libraries have become a core place that provides convenient and equitable access to useful resources for local citizens and people all around the world.</p>
<p><a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/your-phone-and-laptop-can-work-as-library-for-your-kids-during-lockdown.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Education systems are embracing digital innovation</a> globally to meet the needs of students in the digital age. By integrating various technologies, they provide accessible and entertaining services, benefiting Nepali of all ages and advancing their participation in the global arena.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/modern-education-system-and-library.html">Modern education system and role of library</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-18916368423695812422024-03-06T20:45:00.001-08:002024-03-06T20:45:57.402-08:00Nothing Phone (2a): Simplicity and performance at a midrange price<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1592" height="1038" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2560x2040_68b9802a-4cc9-4756-a6af-6bc6dc147b03_1592x.jpg" alt="Nothing Phone (2a). Photo: Nothing International" class="wp-image-554741" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nothing Phone (2a). Photo: Nothing International</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The British company Nothing has launched their mid-range option, the <a href="https://intl.nothing.tech/pages/phone-2a#nothingos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nothing Phone (2a)</a>. This is the brand’s third official smartphone after the Nothing Phone (1) and the <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/nothing-phone-2.html" data-type="post" data-id="535545" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nothing Phone (2)</a>. The Phone (2a) has got significant changes to be available in the mid-range market. However, the phone is significantly better than the Phone (1).</p>
<p>Nothing partnered up with CG recently to bring Nothing products to Nepal. The Nothing Phone (2) is set to be launched soon with CMF products which is the sub-brand of Nothing. With the partnership, we can also expect the Phone (2a) to launch soon in Nepal.</p>
<p>The smartphone was leaked with various renders coming out in the past few months. The Phone (2a) is set to compete against the Xiaomi Note 13 Pro, Realme 12 Pro and the POCO X6.</p>
<p>Let us see what the smartphone offers in terms of specs.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Specifications of Nothing Phone (2a)</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Height: 161.74 mm<br />
Width: 76.32 mm<br />
Depth: 8.55 mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>190 g</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Display type</td>
<td>AMOLED</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Display size</td>
<td>6.7-inch</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Resolution</td>
<td>2412 x 1084 (394 PPI)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Refresh rate</td>
<td>120 Hz</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IP rating</td>
<td>IP54 dust and splash reistant</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Glass protection</td>
<td>Corning Gorilla Glass 5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chipset</td>
<td>MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro (4nm)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CPU</td>
<td>Octa-core (2×2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 6x 2.0 Cortex-A510)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GPU</td>
<td>Mali-G610</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OS</td>
<td>Nothing OS 2.5 based on Android 14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RAM</td>
<td>8GB | 12GB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Storage</td>
<td>128GB | 512GB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rear camera</td>
<td>50MP main camera<br />
50MP ultra-wide camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Selfie camera</td>
<td>32MP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wi-Fi</td>
<td>802.11 a/b/g/n/ac or ax (Wi-Fi 6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bluetooth</td>
<td>Bluetooth 5.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Network</td>
<td>LTE | 5G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SIM</td>
<td>Dual SIM</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Audio</td>
<td>Stereo speakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sensors</td>
<td>In-display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery</td>
<td>5,000 mAh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charging</td>
<td>45W wired<br />
0 – 100%: 59 minutes<br />
0 – 50%: 23 minutes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>Black | White</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price (expected)</strong></td>
<td><strong>Rs 42,000 (8/128GB)</strong><br />
<strong>Rs 45,000 (8/256GB)</strong><br />
<strong>Rs 48,000 (12/256GB)</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Design and Display</h2>
<p>The design of the Nothing Phone (2a) is unique with mixed reactions. Some say it is good while others are confused about what it is. There are two parts on the back with the upper half containing the camera and the glyph interface and the lower half being a transparent back with a random cuved line. The plastic back is transparent when seen from the frame side, and some parts of the interior can be seen.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1069" height="1896" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Rectangle_496_f7457f8d-9bf2-4eea-8fbe-1aa9d2a9de7e_1069x.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554780" /></figure>
<p>The glyph interface includes three light bars surrounding the round camera bump. The glyph interface on the Nothing Phone (2a) works very much like the one on the Nothing Phone (1) and Phone (2) with a few extra optimisations. The glyph interface works for the camera, music, notifications, ringtones, timer and volume. Few ride-sharing apps’ timing can be seen from the glyph’s upper left corner. The glyph interface has always been one of the most interesting and important features. On the side, the plastic frame has a matte finish. The buttons on the side are black on both the available colour options, black and white which gives a unique look to it.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1592" height="1269" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2560_x_2050_1592x.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554781" /></figure>
<p>On the display front, the Nothing Phone (2a) has a hole-punch cutout which houses the selfie camera. The bezels are almost equal on all the sides which are thin increasing the viewing experience. It has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1300 nits. The adaptive refresh rate of 120 Hz ensures smooth scrolling and transitions. It features a wide colour gamut of 1.07 billion colours and 100% DCI-P3 coverage producing lifelike and accurate colours.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1550" height="897" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-06-113733.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554782" /></figure>
<p>It has a 91.65 per cent screen-to-body ratio and is certified with HDR10+ with a contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1. The display also has a touch sampling rate of up to 240 Hz and 2160 Hz PWM dimming minimizes eye strain for comfortable viewing. The Nothing Phone (2a) has IP54 dust and splash resistance and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection in the front. The back being made up of plastic is prone to scratches but is sturdy enough to protect against accidental drops.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance, Software and Storage</h2>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) delivers a powerful performance with its MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset built on a 4nm architecture. Its octa-core CPU combines two high-performance Cortex-A715 cores clocked at 2.8 GHz with six efficient Cortex-A510 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. It is paired with the Mali-G610 GPU to handle the graphics rendering for proper gaming and multimedia experience.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1368" height="1233" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/phone2a-exploded-view-desktop-video00174_2192x.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554783" /></figure>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) runs on Nothing OS based on Android 14. It is set to receive three years of major updates and four years of security updates. With Nothing OS, users can customize the smartphone for a faster and more intuitive experience with options to choose monochromatic themes and remove app labels for a clutter-free look, and access Nothing Widgets directly from home and lock screen, with swipeable views and animations.</p>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) features a 3,200 mm² extra-large vapour chamber for faster and more even heat distribution, complemented by a 12,000 mm² large cooling area with a thick 0.11 mm graphite layer for rapid heat dissipation.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="785" height="662" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-06-113335.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554785" /></figure>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) is available in two RAM options of 8GB and 12GB. The 8GB option is paired with 128GB and 256GB storage options whereas the 12GB option is paired with 256GB of storage.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Camera</h2>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) has a dual-rear camera setup. The main camera is a 50 MP sensor with a wide F1.88 aperture with optical and electronic image stabilization (OIS & EIS) and autofocus capabilities to capture steady and focused shots. The ultra-wide camera features another 50 MP sensor with a 114° field of view for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots. When it comes to video recording, the rear cameras can shoot in 4K at 30fps and 1080p videos at 60fps. You can also record slow-motion videos at 1080p at 60fps. The rear camera has features like Action Mode, TrueLens Engine Ultra XDR, Motion Capture, Night Mode, and Portrait Optimizer.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2160" height="1215" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Great_Shot_Camera_Close_up_d4c8fbd5-ca1e-49bd-81f6-7665a77f808d_2160x.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554786" /></figure>
<p>On the front, the Nothing Phone (2a) features a 32 MP selfie camera with an F2.2 aperture, ideal for capturing clear and vibrant self-portraits. The front camera can record 1080p videos at 60fps.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1316" height="650" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-06-113514.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554787" /></figure>
<p>The overall camera experience of the smartphone can be improved more in the future with software updates. The colour differentiation between the main rear camera and the ultra-wide camera is distinguishable. The rear camera also shoots two different kinds of photos in the same lighting conditions at the same time. Nothing can be improved on this part with further optimisation of the cameras.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Battery and Others</h2>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) ensures a day of performance with its 5000 mAh battery. For charging it supports 45W wired charging, taking around 59 minutes to reach 100 per cent and around 23 minutes to get to 50%. For connectivity, the smartphone supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac or ax (Wi-Fi 6) and Bluetooth 5.3. It has support for network connectivity for both LTE and 5G networks with dual SIM capability for added flexibility.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="803" height="1080" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-06-121914.png" alt="" class="wp-image-554784" /></figure>
<p>Audio is handled by stereo speakers which deliver a punchy and clear sound experience. It is equipped with a range of sensors including an in-display optical fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor and compass.</p>
<p>The Nothing Phone (2a) is available in two colour options; White and Black.</p>
<p><strong>The Nothing Phone (2a) can be expected soon in the Nepali market with a price tag of around Rs 42,000 for the 8/128GB option, Rs 45,000 for the 8/256GB option and Rs 48,000 for the 12/256GB option.</strong></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/nothing-phone-2a.html">Nothing Phone (2a): Simplicity and performance at a midrange price</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9044728435969033322.post-19775201637893083702024-03-05T21:45:00.003-08:002024-03-05T21:45:42.360-08:00Kollter ES1-S Pro and Kollter ES1-X Pro: Is Nepal ready for electric dirt bikes?<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="910" height="594" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/a3b542_3b47603e383c4d70a49b89898bf6df17mv2.jpg" alt="Kollter ES1-S Pro. Photo: Kollter USA" class="wp-image-554653" />
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kollter ES1-S Pro. Photo: Kollter USA</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Germany-based company, Tinbot Technology and China-based company Jiangsu Keyroad Transportation Technology came together to create Kollter Electric Motorcycles. And now Kollter has brought their first two electric motorcycles to Nepal, the <a href="https://www.kollterusa.com/es1-spro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kollter ES1-S Pro</a> and <a href="https://www.kollterusa.com/es1-xpro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kollter ES1-X Pro</a>. The two motorcycles are the same bikes with different purposes, leading to different parts and performance features.</p>
<p>The ES1-S Pro is a more road-focused option whereas the the ES1-X Pro is more off-road-focused. The wheel type, drive type, range and top speed differ. The difference will target people with different choices. The electric bike competes against the <a href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/yatri-motorcycles.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yatri P1</a> and Super Soco TC Max in Nepal. How can the two options perform with the increase in the electric two-wheeler market in Nepal?</p>
<p>Let us see what the electric bike offers in terms of specs.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Specification of Kollter ES1-S Pro and Kollter ES1-X Pro</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
<td>Tyres</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kerb weight</td>
<td>ES1-S Pro: 135 kg<br />
ES1-X Pro: 132 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ground clearance</td>
<td>320mm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Motor</td>
<td>11 kW Axial flux motor air-cooled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peak power</td>
<td>5 kW</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peak torque</td>
<td>220 Nm</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Top speed</td>
<td>ES1-S Pro: 115 km/h<br />
ES1-X Pro: 100km/h</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drive train</td>
<td>ES1-S Pro: Belt<br />
ES1-X Pro: Chain</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery type</td>
<td>Samsung Lithium Ion</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Battery capacity</td>
<td>72V, 32 Ah</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Range</td>
<td>ES1-S Pro: 150 km<br />
ES1-X Pro: 135 km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charging</td>
<td>3.5 hours</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Frame</td>
<td>Steel twin-spar</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suspension</td>
<td>Front: Upside-down telescopic forks, adjustable rebound<br />
Rear: Monoshock, adjustable preload</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brake system</td>
<td>Combined Brake System</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brake calipers</td>
<td>Front: 300mm disc with linked three-piston calliper<br />
Rear: 220mm disc with single-piston calliper</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyres</td>
<td>ES1-S Pro<br />
Front: 110/70-17<br />
Rear: 130/70-17<br />
<strong><br /></strong>ES1-X Pro<br />
Front: 90/90-21<br />
Rear: 4.10 x 18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Instrument cluster</td>
<td>LCD-display</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colours</td>
<td>White | Black</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Price</strong></td>
<td><strong>ES1-S Pro: Rs 775,000<br />
ES1-X Pro: Rs 775,000</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Design</h2>
<p>Design-wise the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro are similar with the main difference seen in the drive train, wheel type and tyre type. The ES1-X Pro being more dirt-focused has a chain drive system whereas the ES1-S Pro has a belt drive system being more road and street-focused. The wheels on the ES1-S Pro are alloy wheels whereas the ES1-X Pro are spoked wheels. The tyres on the ES1-X Pro are thin and dirt and off-road focused with knobs for better grip in the dirt whereas the ES1-S Pro has a bit thicker type of tyres which are street oriented.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1345" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/16524a125f512916942bff1c3fa731a5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554713" /></figure>
<p>On the front, both electric bikes have LED headlamps with LED headlights, indicators and DRLs. The rear continues the LED styling with an LED taillamp and indicators which are placed in a triangular shape. Both the electric bikes have a huge ground clearance of 320mm. The single seat is comfortable whereas the handlebars are quite wide with all the necessary buttons to operate the bike.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1338" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/b8dea4a7777da936d94841f58a659fa8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554714" /></figure>
<p>The Kollter ES1-X Pro and the Kollter ES1-S Pro have a thin LCD on the front. The display is decent enough which displays speed, battery, range and time. On the side, we can see the battery placement and the graphics. The charging port is on the top of the fuel tank of internal combustion engine(ICE) bikes. The batteries are also removable which can be accessed by taking off the single seat.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="2048" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/5e20af975c3da49006f96de4be6c11fa.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554718" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance</h2>
<p>Both the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro use 11 kW axial flux motors, providing a peak torque of 220 Nm. While the ES1-S Pro achieves a top speed of 115 km/h with its belt drive train, the ES1-X Pro reaches up to 100 km/h using a chain drive train, catering to different riding preferences. Both the electric bikes are powered by Samsung Lithium Ion batteries with a capacity of 72V and 32 Ah. The ES1-S Pro offers around 150 km of range whereas the ES1-X Pro gives around 135 km of range on a single charge. Recharging takes around 3.5 hours, ensuring minimal downtime between rides.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="2048" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/0c6731ab226ec97f6bb35be978e0231b.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554715" /></figure>
<p>Both the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro have steel twin-spar frames for stability and durability. The suspension systems are the same and feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock with adjustable preload at the rear.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1345" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2c8515d9d9a0339bf7a819a03325e73b.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554716" /></figure>
<p>The braking system is a Combined Brake System on both models and uses a 300mm front disc with a linked three-piston calliper and a 220mm rear disc with a single-piston calliper. While the Kollter ES1-S Pro’s tyre configuration consists of a 110/70-17 front and a 130/70-17 rear, the ES1-X Pro opts for a 90/90-21 front and a 4.10 x 18 rear.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1355" src="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/4710f66054eac82ff9d0da6c0e8dbb9e.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554717" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Features</h2>
<p>The features of the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro are as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>Drive Train: ES1-S Pro (Belt), ES1-X Pro (Chain)</li>
<li>Wheel Type: ES1-S Pro (Alloy), ES1-X Pro (Spoked)</li>
<li>Top Speed: ES1-S Pro (115 km/h), ES1-X Pro (100 km/h)</li>
<li>Battery Type: Samsung Lithium Ion (72V, 32 Ah)</li>
<li>Range: ES1-S Pro (150 km), ES1-X Pro (135 km)</li>
<li>Suspension: Upside-down telescopic forks (Front), Monoshock with adjustable preload (Rear)</li>
<li>Braking System: Combined Brake System</li>
<li>Front Disc Size: 300mm Rear Disc Size: 220mm</li>
<li>Tyre Configuration: ES1-S Pro (110/70-17 front, 130/70-17 rear) and ES1-X Pro (90/90-21 front, 4.10 x 18 rear)</li>
<li>Ground Clearance: 320mm</li>
<li>Thin LCD-display</li>
</ul>
<p>Both the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro are available in two colour options; White and Black.</p>
<p><strong>The price of the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro in Nepal is Rs 775,000.</strong></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Verdict</h2>
<p>So is Nepal ready for electric dirt bikes? The answer is yes and no at the same time. With the electric vehicle in both the two-wheeler and the four-wheeler segment increasing in number at a very high rate and the tax benefits, yes electric dirt bikes can be an option. However, as the charging network in the country is still not up to the mark, it might be quite difficult for people to rely fully on the range of these electric bikes. If it is for daily use travel on the city perimeters then the Kollter ES1-S Pro might be an excellent option to tackle the rough city roads, especially in the Kathmandu valley.</p>
<p>Both the Kollter ES1-S Pro and the Kollter ES1-X Pro have gotten pretty good responses in the European market. So how well can it perform in the Nepali market with the likes of other electric options available and new incoming in the future?</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com/kollter-es1-s-pro-kollter-es1-x-pro.html">Kollter ES1-S Pro and Kollter ES1-X Pro: Is Nepal ready for electric dirt bikes?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://english.onlinekhabar.com">OnlineKhabar English News</a>.</p>
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