Nepali Times ePaper
Nepali Times ePaper
Dear Nepali Times Reader,
In Season 3 Episode 2 of Nepal's political saga, Prime Minister Dahal has switched partners from the Nepali Congress to the UML, reviving a leftist coalition. Dahal's ministerial appointments haveraised concern about the integrity of the individuals. The provinces are feeling the impact of central decisions, showing that federalism hasn't really devolved decision-making. The convergence of leftist parties suggests a formidable front for the 2027 election, pleasing China but potentially worrying the US-India bloc. Kunda Dixit on page 1 this week. Also read Sonia Awale's editorial.
Other highlights from this week's issue:
Pokhara Epicenter of Sino-Indian Rivalry
In Pokhara Nepal's attempts to delicately balance the interests of big neighbours India and China are on full display. China's investments, such as the Prithvi Highway and the Pokhara International Airport, have strengthened ties with Beijing. Similarly, India has helped with the Siddhartha Highway and infrastructure projects around Phewa Lake. Recent political developments in Nepal, such as the shift towards a Communist-led coalition, have further intensified the competition between India and China in the region. Durga Rana Magar reports from Pokhara.
Meet four Nepali women: Divya Dahal, Pratikcha Karki, Vedica Gajurel and Sirjana Sizzu, who are venturing off the beaten trek and vlogging their adventures. Shristi Karki's profiles on International Women's Day.
Marinel de Jesus, a former Washington-based public prosecutor, and Mingmar Dolma Sherpa, a Nepali mountain guide, bonded over their shared desire to challenge societal norms and explore the Himalaya. They have embarked on the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT), facing blizzards and personal challenges, but remain determined to complete the 140 day traverse. Pinki Sris Rana spoke to them about the journey.
Water hyacinth, an invasive Amazonian aquatic weed, poses a threat to Nepal's waterways, choking indigenous plants and disrupting ecosystems. But a Nepali handicraft group has found a solution by using its fibres to craft everyday household items. Led by Maya Rai the Nepal Knotcraft Centre promotes women's entrepreneurship and helps restore the native ecosystem. The story of Maya Rai, who herself is a daughter of a weaver from Dhankuta.
Anbika Giri kicks off her monthlu column 'Angrezi' with a reflection on being slapped by their father for misspelling a word in English. Despite excelling in academics, the incident left a deep emotional scar, leading to resentment towards the English language.
An interview with Linda Sue Park, an American children’s book author of Korean heritage. Her book A Single Shard, about an orphaned boy in 12th century Korea who wants to become a potter, was awarded the John Newberry medal in 2002. She was recently in Kathmandu for Bal Sahitya Mahotsav at Rato Bangala School, and spoke with Nepali Times about reading, writing, specifically for children, and learning English.
This and more at nepalitimes.com.
Have a great week ahead.
Nepali Times