Nepali Times ePaper
Dear Nepali Times Readers,
In the last two years, the pandemic has brought into sharp focus the key role migrant workers play in Nepal’s economy. Remittances from overseas workers make up nearly a quarter of Nepal’s GDP, placing it seventh among countries most dependant on migrants after Tonga, Lebanon, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Honduras and El Salvador.
But the Covid-19 pandemic has also highlighted the terrible risks our overseas workers face to find and keep their jobs. Today as we mark International Migrants Day, it is time to take a good look at the Nepali workers who supports the country’s economy. Read our special Editorial to mark the occasion.
On page 10-11 Kunda Dixit reports on how the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 puts a spotlight on the poor labour conditions in Qatar for workers from countries like Nepal.
Read an interview with Narad Nath Bharadwaj who till recently was Nepal’s ambassador to Qatar. On page 5 he talks about the new opportunities for Nepali service sector workers during and after the FIFA World Cup.
Also read about Nepalis working in Korea who were stranded in Kathmandu due to the pandemic, but are finally able to rejoin their jobs.
Other highlights from this week’s issue:
On page 1, Mukesh Pokhrel analyses the recent and upcoming party conventions and what it means for the elections next year.
Let’s Only Use Biodegradable Prayer Flags:
On 18 December, Boudhanath is getting a green makeover — prayer flags made from synthetic material will be replaced biodegradable alternatives. Ashish Dhakal interviews the Ang Dolma Sherpa who manufactures the eco-friendly flags.
Also watch the video:
Centennial of Nepal-Britain Hunting Diplomacy:
Tom Robertson looks at how Nepal’s Rana rulers regularly hosted British royalty on hunting expeditions to lobby for a new bilateral treaty guaranteeing Nepal's independence in 1923.
Backside
This week on the Ass: journalism license examinations for all aspiring scribes to ensure self-reliance, self-righteousness, and self-censorship.
This and more at nepalitimes.com. Write to us with your comments and suggestions at nepalitimes.nt@gmail.com.
Stay Safe.
Sahina Shrestha
Nepali Times