We have seen this globally.
In Italy, fragile coalitions formed only to defeat a common enemy collapsed repeatedly, producing unstable governments.

In Israel, tactical alliances without ideological cohesion led to constant elections and policy paralysis.
In Pakistan, anti-incumbent coalitions united for removal, not governance resulting in political chaos.

Even in Sri Lanka, temporary political unifications created momentary hope but eventually accelerated institutional breakdown.

Unity, when driven by reaction rather than vision, rarely sustains.

Now, bringing this lens home to Nepal.

The recent unification signals around the Rastriya Swatantra Party, its alliance with Balen Shah, and later association with Kulman Ghising may look refreshing on the surface. New faces coming together is not a problem it is necessary.

But the fundamental question remains:

What is the political base of this unification?

What is the shared ideology, program, or long-term governance framework?

How will this coalition manage power, dissent, and responsibility?

From the outside, Kulman Ghising appears visibly uncomfortable in this alignment almost like a technocrat entering a political space that is slowly suffocating him.

It feels similar to an independent professional placed inside a noisy power room where slogans dominate over systems. One wonders whether he now feels trapped between expectation and compromise.

There are also signs that many party members themselves are not fully satisfied with this decision, which raises another red flag: unity imposed from the top without internal consensus weakens parties from within.

A political party is not formed merely by shared anger.
It is formed on the basis of ideology, policy direction, institutional discipline, and accountability.

Sadly, this recent unification trend seems to rely more on selling negativity against the old than offering clarity for the new. It feeds on frustration, not structure.

Even more troubling is the emotional capital being used the deaths of 74 members of our generation, the ashes of what has burned down, the collective trauma of loss. Pain is real, and anger is justified but can grief alone become a governing philosophy of this alliance?

The question is not whether they can rise.
The real question is how will they govern if they do?
How will they prove that this unity is more than a reaction?
How will they manage institutions, differences, and responsibility?

Because history is unforgiving.
Unification without foundation does not reform politics it only accelerates disappointment.

And Nepal cannot afford another experiment built on emotion alone.

आशिकाले फोहोर व्यवस्थापन र सार्वजनिक शौचालयहरूको दुर्दशा जस्ता समस्याहरूमाथि प्रकाश पारेर केही सकारात्मक परिवर्तनहरू ल्याउन सफल भएकी छिन्, उनको यस प्रयासलाई सराहना गर्नुपर्छ। तर हालै उनको "छापा" हान्ने शैलीले कानूनी र नैतिक प्रश्नहरू उठाएको छ।

पहिलो कुरा, कुनै पनि व्यक्तिलाई जहाँतहीँ क्यामेरा लिएर हिँड्ने र अरूको अनुमतिबिना भिडियो खिच्ने अधिकार छैन। उनका भिडियोहरूमा प्रायः मानिसहरूलाई अचानक क्यामेराको सामुन्ने ल्याइएको देखिन्छ, यो सहमतिमा आधारित संवादको मौलिक सिद्धान्तको उल्लंघन साथै गोपनीयताको उल्लंघन हो र कानूनी रूपमा यो गलत हो, उदाहरणका लागि, कुनै होटलमा अनुमतिबिना प्रवेश गर्नु र त्यहाँका कर्मचारीहरूलाई बलजफती भिडियो खिच्नु गैरकानूनी कार्य हो।

दोस्रो, आशिका सरकारी अनुसन्धान अधिकारी होइनन्। उनीसँग व्यवसायहरूको निरीक्षण गर्ने वा तिनीहरूलाई जवाफदेही बनाउने औपचारिक अधिकार छैन। आशिकाले आफूलाई कुनै सरकारी अनुसन्धान अधिकारी ठानेकी छिन्। यो कार्य स्पष्ट रूपमा गैरकानूनी र अनैतिक छ। यदि कुनै व्यवसायले नियम उल्लंघन गरेको शंका छ भने त्यसको उचित प्रक्रिया अपनाउनु पर्छ, जस्तै सम्बन्धित निकायमा उजुरी दर्ता गर्नु पर्छ।

तेस्रो, यस्ता अनधिकृत "छापाले"हरूले निर्दोष व्यक्ति र व्यवसायहरुलाई हानि पुर्‍याउन सक्छन्। उदाहरणका लागि, कुनै होटलको नकारात्मक भिडियो भाइरल भयो भने त्यसले त्यस व्यवसायलाई अपूरणीय क्षति पुर्‍याउन सक्छ।

उनले जटिल सामाजिक समस्याहरूलाई "आक्रमक" तरिकाले प्रस्तुत गर्छिन्। यसले वास्तविक समस्याको जरोसम्म पुग्न र दीर्घकालीन समाधान खोज्नमा बाधा पुर्‍याउँछ र उनका धेरैजसो कार्यहरू वास्तविक समस्या समाधानभन्दा पनि सामाजिक सञ्जालमा "भाइरल" हुने र आफ्नो प्रसिद्धि बढाउने उद्देश्यले मात्र प्रेरित जस्तो देखिन्छन्।

समस्या समाधानका लागि नेपालमा तीन तहका सरकार छन् ती अन्तगर्त सम्बन्धित निकायहरू र कानूनी प्रक्रियाहरू छन्। आशिकाले यी संयन्त्रहरूलाई पूर्णतः बेवास्ता गरेकी छिन्, जसले कानूनी राज्यको अवधारणालाई नै कमजोर बनाउँछ।

उनले आफूलाई समाजसुधारक भनेर दाबी गर्छिन्, तर उनका कार्यहरूमा सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्वको गम्भीर अभाव देखिन्छ। उनले आफ्ना भिडियोहरूमा देखाइएका व्यक्तिहरूको जीवनमा पर्न सक्ने नकारात्मक प्रभावहरूको कुनै वास्ता गरेको देखिएको छैन साथै उनका धेरैजसो "खुलासा"हरू सतही अवलोकनमा आधारित छन्। कुनै पनि गम्भीर मुद्दालाई उठाउनु अघि त्यसको विस्तृत अध्ययन र अनुसन्धान गर्नुपर्ने हुन्छ, जुन आशिकाले गरेको देखिंदैन।

आशिका तामाङको कार्यशैलीले उब्जाएको गम्भीर प्रश्नहरु:

१.आशिकाको "जनअदालत" शैलीले कानूनी प्रक्रियालाई कमजोर बनाउँछ। यसले मानिसहरूलाई आफ्नै हातमा न्याय लिने प्रवृत्तितर्फ धकेल्न सक्छ, जुन एक लोकतान्त्रिक समाजका लागि अत्यन्त खतरनाक हुन्छ।

२.उनका एकपक्षीय र अतिशयोक्तिपूर्ण भिडियोहरूले जनतामा भ्रम फैलाउन र गलत धारणाहरू स्थापित गर्न सक्छन्।

३.लगातार नकारात्मक र सनसनीपूर्ण सामग्रीको प्रसारणले समाजमा अविश्वास र भयको वातावरण सिर्जना गर्छ।

४.यस्ता अव्यावसायिक "सामाजिक अभियन्ता"हरूको बढ्दो प्रभावले गुणस्तरीय र जिम्मेवार पत्रकारितालाई प्रतिस्थापन गर्ने खतरा छ।

यस्ता घटनाहरुले हाम्रो राज्य असफल हुँदै गएको प्रष्ट हुन्छ , तथाकथित 'अभियन्ताले' सरकारको भूमिका खेलेको छ भने सरकार अनेकन फन्डामै व्यस्त छ। दोष जनताको हैन, उनीहरू हिजो नेता र पार्टीका प्रोपागान्डा पनि सही भन्दै थिए, आज आशिका तामाङ पनि सही भन्दै छन। समस्या:जस्ले जे काम गर्नु पर्थ्यो त्यो नगरेर भएको हो, आशिका तामाङको कार्यशैली एक 'पपुलिस्ट' प्रवृत्तिको प्रतिनिधित्व गर्छ जहाँ सामाजिक सञ्जालमा प्रसिद्धि र 'भाइरल' हुने चाहनाले कानून, नैतिकता र सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्वलाई लत्याउछ । यस्ता कार्यहरूले अल्पकालीन ध्यान त खिच्ला, तर दीर्घकालीन रूपमा समाजलाई थप क्षति पुर्‍याउँछ

वास्तविक समाज सुधारकहरूले धैर्य, विवेक र कानूनी मार्गको अवलम्बन गर्दै काम गर्नुपर्छ। समाज परिवर्तन एक जटिल र दीर्घकालीन प्रक्रिया हो, जसलाई सनसनीपूर्ण भिडियोहरू र अतिरञ्जित दाबीहरूले होइन, बरु ठोस अनुसन्धान, सहकार्य र निरन्तर प्रयासले मात्र हासिल गर्न सकिन्छ।

निष्कर्षमा, आशिका तामाङको कार्यशैली न त कानूनसम्मत छ, न त प्रभावकारी। उनले उठाएका केही मुद्दाहरू महत्त्वपूर्ण भए पनि, तिनलाई सम्बोधन गर्ने उनको तरिका पूर्णतः गलत र हानिकारक छ। समाज सुधारका नाममा कानून र नैतिकताको उल्लंघन गर्नु कदापि स्वीकार्य हुन सक्दैन। यदि आशिका वास्तवमै समाज परिवर्तनमा योगदान दिन चाहन्छिन् भने, उनले आफ्नो कार्यशैलीमा परिवर्तन ल्याउनुपर्छ। कानूनी र नैतिक मार्यादामा रहेर, उचित प्रक्रिया अपनाएर, र सम्बन्धित निकायहरूसँग समन्वय गरेर मात्र वास्तविक र दीर्घकालीन परिवर्तन सम्भव छ। अन्यथा, उनका यस्ता गैरजिम्मेवार कार्यहरूले समाजमा अराजकता र अविश्वासको वातावरण सिर्जना गर्नेछन्, जुन कुनै पनि हालतमा स्वस्थ समाजको लक्षण होइन।

On one channel, I'm thinking, "broo, I'm turning 24, I've got so many years ahead to climb Everest., and maybe even figure out how to use a pressure cooker without freaking out.

But then, faster than you can say "momo," the other channel kicks in: "Ram Ram! I'm already 24 and I still haven't learned how to make Bhaat and tarkari. My friends are getting married and having kids.

It's like my mind is playing a never-ending game of Luki-dum between excitement and panic "lukyera harauda ko excitement and bhettida ko tension" . One minute I'm dreaming about trekking to Everest Base Camp, and the next I'm stressing because I still can't make a decent cup of chiya.

Honestly, it's more tiring than climbing the steps to Swayambhunath on a hot summer day. My brain's jumping around more than a monkey at Pashupatinath, caught between "Look at all the adventures waiting for me!" and "Why haven't I become the next big thing in Kollywood yet?"

It's like being stuck in a Pack Sankhamul ko micro during rush hour - you're moving, but you're not sure if you're going forwards or backwards!

Honestly, I’m so confused about my life right now that I don’t even know how to answer that question. So I won’t try to right now.

So I’m finally giving up. I’m dropping my heightened expectations. More than that, what I’ve realized I need to really do is stop thinking about how old I am. I’ve been hyper-focused on what I have done and what I haven’t done every year that has passed since I turned 18. It’s partly the pandemic’s fault. I turned 20’s club in the idk which phase of luckdown, and now I’m 24. It really feels like that span of time just slipped from our hands. Whatever the reason may be—social media, the pandemic, or my high-achieving personality—I am realizing I really really need to let go of the idea of age because it’s doing me more harm than good.

You wanted to be living that Kanye West "Good Life" vibe. You know, popping bottles, feeling invincible, maybe even seeing visions of Maybachs in your driveway. More than any other birthday before, you had this wild idea that 21, 22 would be your golden years. (Yeah, I know thinking a rapper's song is gonna magically transform your life is kinda out there, but who cares, right?)

You had this unshakeable faith that by 21, you'd have your life all figured out. Fast forward to now, and you're 24, feeling more confused than ever. It's like, who knew having a good time could be such hard work?

and yea at last motivation time, the rest of the advice stays the same, focus on living your life, ditch the timelines, and remember that good things take time. you're alive, you're young, and you've got a whole lot of life ahead of you. so take a deep breath, forget about the numbers, and just do your thing. After all, age is just a number - and Kanye would probably agree that it's more about the attitude than the digits, right?

The updated Internship Procedure, by the Education Ministry led by Sumana Shrestha, attempts to simplify the internship procedure by addressing previous procedural inconsistencies. The new policy outlines a framework that is structured and intended to encourage a mutually beneficial interaction between government agencies and higher education institutions and the undergraduate students.

The procedure begins with describing terms in Chapter 1, explaining what is meant by "higher education," "higher education institutions," "interns," and "students."

In the procedure, "higher education" is described as education at the bachelor's level or beyond. It encompasses universities, institutes, or any institution offering advanced education. An "intern" is outlined as a trainee selected through this procedure to work within the Ministry. When referring to the "Ministry," it specifically denotes the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, "student" is defined as an individual enrolled in a higher educational institution, either actively pursuing higher education or awaiting the completion of their degree

Chapter 2 sets forth arrangements regarding interns, emphasizing the ministry's prerogative to provide practical skills and work experience relevant to its operational domain. Furthermore, it introduces the formation of committees tasked with evaluating prospective interns based on regional identity, student interest, and academic specialization.

Chapter 3 elaborates on the eligibility criteria for interns, mandating Nepali citizenship and an ongoing pursuit of higher education. The selection method, articulated in Chapter 3, underscores a merit-based approach, emphasizing academic proficiency and interview performance.

The recent realese of Procedure Relating to Internship in Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST) marks a significant stride towards encouraging the future workforce for the nation. However, the procedure has encountered unexpected backlash, reflecting the entrenched resistance to change within bureaucratic circles.

In the middle of the craze for the domestic debate, it's fruitful to take a quick look at international internship governance practices. Take, for instance, the United States federal internship programs. Within the Executive Office of the President, structured internship opportunities abound, offering students invaluable exposure to governmental operations. The Pathways Internship Program, in particular, serves as a beacon of meritocracy, providing paid internships and potential pathways to permanent employment.

In a comparable way, India's Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Corporate Affairs coordinate large internship programs that create an environment that is favorable to professional development and hands-on learning and The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations offers internships for young scholars to familiarize themselves with India's approach to multilateralism and handling of global issues at the UN.

These programs highlight how important government organizations are to developing the next generation of leaders and legislators.

Government ministry undergraduate internships are extremely valuable for students looking to add practical knowledge to their academics. These experiences not only improve their educational experiences but also give them priceless insights and abilities that are necessary in today's competitive environment.

Through internships, students have a personal understanding of the complexities of policy-making, administrative procedures, and public service delivery while immersed in the daily operations of government departments. Students can apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations. Not only that students can test out different career routes in the public sector. Interns can make educated decisions about their future career paths by identifying their interests, strengths, and preferences through a variety of positions and responsibilities.

To sum up, developing collaboration between bureaucracy and students is important for bringing about significant changes in the frameworks for government internships. Nepal has the potential to create internship programs that enable the younger generation to make significant contributions to the country's development by utilizing their insights and energy in alongside the knowledge and direction of experienced bureaucrats.

Nepal is able to fully capitalize on its young people's potential and create a better future for future generations by working together.

It is time for policymakers to appreciate the importance of student involvement and welcome their new viewpoints in order to create inclusive and innovative internship programs. Nepali internship model is still firmly established in bureaucratic authority, in contrast to global precedents. The bureaucracy's hesitation to support innovative ideas, like Minister Sumana Shrestha's, highlights the systemic opposition to change.

The National Assembly Business Advisory Committee has granted approval for calendars covering the months of Magh and Falgun. President Ram Chandra Paudel has convened a joint meeting of both houses on February 5, marking a significant step in the implementation of the agreed-upon parliamentary schedule.

In response to the development, Rastirya Swatanra Party MP Sumana Shrestha, along with other parliamentarians, who had demanded a parliamentary calendar a year ago, expressed satisfaction. Sumana Shrestha took to X to share her sentiments, stating, "It's taken a year, but we've succeeded - the parliamentary calendar is finally here. This marks our victory against the status quo, but its successful implementation requires unwavering commitment - let's give it our best effort."

Having recently participated in an insightful event organized by the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) on the Medical Use of Cannabis and its Social Implications, this opinion-ed piece explores the evolving discourse surrounding marijuana legalization in Nepal. The event brought together influential voices from academia, government, and industry, cultivating a nuanced understanding of the potential benefits of cannabis for medical use and economic development. This piece serves as a reflection on the insights gained during the event, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach to traverse Nepal's complex marijuana maze.

As conversations surrounding the legalization of marijuana gain momentum in Nepal, an intriguing paradox emerges. While influential voices from academia, government, and industry acknowledge the potential benefits of the plant for medical use and economic development, the discourse remains entangled in outdated stereotypes and stigmatization. This dissonance, particularly among lawmakers, presents a critical juncture for Nepal to navigate the marijuana maze with judiciousness and reason but despite its rich history and cultural ties to the plant, cannabis is currently illegal in Nepal. The Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act of 1976 prohibits the cultivation, production, sale, and distribution of cannabis and its products, including marijuana and hashish. However, the law has not always been strictly enforced, and the plant continues to grow in abundance in many parts of the country.

Photo from the event

Shattering Misconceptions: Science Takes Center Stage

The pervasive portrayal of marijuana users as lazy or apathetic stands in stark contrast to scientific findings. Research consistently demonstrates that marijuana poses fewer risks than alcohol, with a significantly lower mortality rate. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests neuroprotective properties associated with the plant, challenging the prevalent misconception of its detrimental effects on brain activity, especially when compared to the socially accepted substance, alcohol.

Professor Dr. Panna Thapa, Coordinator of Kathmandu University's Multi-Dimensional Cannabis Research Center, echoes the urgent need for a shift towards evidence-based policymaking. He highlights the dearth of government support for cannabis research, a significant barrier to scientific exploration. Even controlled research endeavors within secure facilities face impediments due to legal restrictions. Recognizing this limitation, Professor Thapa advocates for comprehensive scientific inquiry encompassing all cannabis varieties present in Nepal.

However, support for research goes beyond mere financial backing. It necessitates a rectification of existing legal frameworks that obstruct research initiatives. Laws criminalizing certain aspects of cannabis cultivation hinder researchers from studying the plant in controlled environments, effectively limiting the scope and depth of scientific inquiry. Adjusting these laws in accordance with the evolving understanding of cannabis is crucial for fostering a research-friendly environment. Such an adjustment would not only facilitate the work of dedicated researchers but also contribute to the growing body of knowledge that can inform responsible policymaking.

The involvement of esteemed institutions and renowned researchers like Professor Thapa in this advocacy underscores the collective desire to advance scientific knowledge and explore the potential benefits of cannabis in a controlled and regulated manner. His emphasis on the lack of governmental backing for cannabis research underscores a significant barrier to scientific exploration. Even attempts to conduct research within secure facilities, such as army barracks, have been impeded by the absence of government support. In light of these challenges, Professor Thapa advocates for a comprehensive scientific inquiry into all cannabis varieties present in Nepal. "By addressing the barriers to research, the government has the opportunity to not only support academic inquiry but also to contribute to a richer understanding of cannabis, thereby informing responsible policy decisions within the dynamic landscape of its use and regulation"

Photo from the event

Social Implications: A Pragmatic Assessment

As with any policy decision, the potential benefits and drawbacks of marijuana legalization merit careful consideration. The call for a rational approach gains support from various government bodies, including the Home Ministry and the Agriculture Ministry, which have established task forces dedicated to exploring the economic potential of marijuana. It is imperative to acknowledge that every policy decision involves a nuanced evaluation of its impact on societal dynamics, economic development, and public well-being.

The ongoing discourse on marijuana legalization in Nepal calls for a pragmatic and informed approach. Aligning personal experiences with evidence-based policymaking, dispelling stereotypes through scientific understanding, and ensuring comprehensive research with government support will pave the way for a rational and inclusive marijuana policy. This collective effort can contribute not only to individual freedom but also to the economic prosperity and well-being of the nation.

त्रेता युगमा यही दिनमा भगवान श्रीरामले सीताको हरण गर्ने रावणको बध गरेको सम्झनामा यस चाडलाई विशेष गरी मनाइन्छ। श्रीरामले दशैँ दिनमा रावणमाथि विजय हाँसिल गरेको भएर दशैलाई वडादशै एवम् विजयदशमीको नामले पुकारिन्छ । दशैंलाई असत्य माथि सत्यको बिजयको रुपमा हेरिन्छ। दशैं भन्ना साथ नेपालीहरुको एउटा विशिष्ट र साझा पर्व हो भन्ने बुझिन्छ।वास्तवमा दशैं हामी नेपालीहरुको एउटा संस्कृति मात्र नभएर पहिचान पनि हो। हाम्रा नेपाली दाजु भाइ दिदीबहिनी संसारका जुनुसुकै कुनामा रहेपनि दशैं मनाउँछन् र उमंगका साथ शुभकामना आदन प्रदान गर्दछन्।

यो महान चाडको विशेषता र महत्त्व धेरै छ । प्रस्तुत आलेखमा दशैंबारे म सानो छँदाको आफ्नो संस्मरण र अनुभवलाई समेटने कोशिश गरेको छु ।

भर्खरै युवा जीवन आरम्भ गरेको पाँचौ वर्षमा हिँडिरहेको मलाई हरेक वर्ष मनाइने दशैंको बारेमा सोच्दा अहिले अनौठो र आश्चर्यनै लाग्छ जिबनका २२ औं वर्ष विताईसक्दा आफू सानो छँँदा मनाएको दशैं र अहिले आफैले जिम्मेवारीपूवर्क दशै मनाउनुपर्दाको अनुभव र अनुभूतिमा आकाश जमिनको फरक पर्दो रहेछ । समयले ल्याएको यस परिवर्तनलाई आत्मसात गरेर अघि बढ्नु हरेकको कर्तव्य हो भन्ने ठान्दछु ।

त्यतिबेला जब दशैंका दिनहरू सुरू हुन्थे म आफुलाई एक प्रकारले स्वतन्त्र अनुभव गर्थें । स्वतन्त्र किनभने मुख्यतः पढ्नु पर्दैनथ्यो । केवल खाने र खेल्ने मात्र । घरको कुनै काम गर्नु नपरेपछि जहाँ गए पनि भयो, जति खेले पनि भयो । न कसैको बाधा न त कसैको रोकावट । त्यसबखत केटाकेटीको मनोरञ्जनको मुख्य साधन भनेकोनै बाहिरी वातावरणमा कुद्न पाउनु हो निधर्क साथ कुदिनथ्यो कहिले लुकि डुम लुक्न कुदियो , कहिले छोइ डुम खेल्दा साथीले नभएटायोस भनेर कुदियो, कहिले फुटबल खेल्दा गोल गर्न कुदियो तर बच्चाबेलाको त्यो कुदाई र आफ्नो भविस्य बनाउने गरेको अहिलेको यो कुदाईमा ठूलो भिन्नता रहेछ त्यो कुदाईमा निर्धक खुसीसाथ कुदिन्थ्यो अहिले आफैले प्रश्न गर्दै कुदिन्छ खैर जिन्दगीमा कुदाई त छदै छ फेरि दशै तिर जाउ है त

वर्षा सकिएपछि शरद ऋतुको आगमनपूर्व हिउँदका सुरूवाती दिनहरूको वातावरण यसै पनि रमाइलो हुने नै भयो । वारीबाट पारी हेर्दा नौविसे खोला पारीका खेतमा लहलह हरियो धान झुलेकोे दृश्य निकै रमणीय हुन्थ्यो । चारैतिर हरियाली र शान्त वातावरण अनि खुला नीलो आकाशले मानिसलाई एक किसिमले अदृष्य आनन्द प्रदान गरिरहेको हुन्थ्यो । विशेषतः दशैं सुरू भएपछि हामी केटाकेटीहरूको निम्ति खुसीको सीमा हुन्नथ्यो ।

दशैंमा मुख्यतया घरको सरसफाईको काम धेरै गर्नुपर्ने भएकोले मानिसहरू तेसैमा व्यस्त हुन्थे । गाउँमा धेरैजसो घरहरू कच्ची थिए । घरमा ढ्ङाको गारो र जस्ताको छानो हुन्थ्यो । सबैजसोको घर उस्तैउस्तै आकार प्रकारका थिए । कोहीकोहीको मात्र पक्की घर (बाहिर पोलेको ईंटा र भित्र काँचो इँटाले बनेको) टायल वा झिँगटीको छानो भएको हुन्थ्यो । अहिलेको जस्तो कङ्किर्टको घरको चलन बजारमा चलेपनी गाउँमा त्यति चलेको थिएन । प्रायः धनी मानिसहरूको मात्र पक्की घर हुन्थ्यो । त्यसैले पनि ऊनीहरू गाउँघरमा धनी कहलिन्थे । गाउँमा धनी र गरिबको पहिचान धरको आकार–प्रकार र छानोले नै दिन्थ्यो ।

दशै नजिकिन थाल्दा घरघरमा सरसफाईको काम सुरू हुनथालेपछि गाउँघरको वातावरण नै अर्कै हुन्थ्यो । कच्ची घरलाई रातो र सेतो माटोले पोतिन्थ्यो । दशैंमा प्रायः सबैले घरको बाहिरी र भित्री भागमा लिपपोत गर्नु अनिवार्यजस्तै थियो । घरभित्रका सबैजसो सामानलाई बाहिर ल्याएर आँगनमा राख्थे र घरभित्र सेतो र रातो माटोले लिपपोत गर्दथे । रातो र सेतो माटोबाट एक प्रकारको अलग्गै मीठो गन्ध आउँथ्यो । कुनैकुनै घरको बाहिरतर्फ माथिल्लो भाग सेतो कमेरो माटोले र त्यसभन्दा तलको भागलाई रातो माटोले पोत्ने चलन थियो । घर बनाउँदा घरको तला छुट्टिने गरी सानो घेराजस्तो बनाएको हुन्थ्यो । घरको भित्तालाई पोतेपछि पुरानो घर पनि नयाँजस्तै देखिन्थ्यो । घरमा लिपपोत नगरी कसैले पनि दशैं मनाउँदैनथे । कसैको घरमा त्यो वर्ष मान्छे मरेको छ भने मात्र दशैंमा घर लिपपोत गर्दैनथे । हाम्रो हिन्दु धर्म परम्परा अनुसार मान्छे मरेको घरमा एक वर्षसम्म जुठो बार्ने र कुनै पनि शुभकार्य गर्नुहुँदैन भन्ने परम्परागत चलन र मान्यता छ ।

दशैंमा जब अरूको घरमा खसी, बोका ल्याउँथे अनि म हाम्रो घरमा पनि कहिले खसी ल्याउने भनेर मनमनै सोचिरहन्थे सोध्ने आटनै हुदैन थियो त्यो बेला । दशैं आउनुभन्दा पहिलेदेखि नै दशैं आउँदैछ भन्ने चर्चा हुन्थ्यो र दशैं मनाउनको निम्ति गरिने तयारीका काम पनि सुरु हुन थाल्थे । घरबाट टाढाटाढा गएका मानिसहरू पनि दशैंमा घर आउँथे । दशैंमा सबैभन्दा ठूलो रहर हुन्थ्यो नयाँ लुगा लगाउने, मासु–भात खाने, टिका लाउने र मामाघरमा जाने । नयाँ लुगा र जुत्ता लगाउने रहरले छिटै दशैं आइदिएजस्तो हुन्थ्यो । किनभने त्यस बखतमा सबैले नयाँ लुगा लगाएर दशैंमा टीका लगाउनु पर्छ भन्ने परम्परा नै थियो । अरू बखत पुरानो र फाटेको, ठाउँठाउँमा टालेको लुगा लगाए पनि दशैंमा भने नयाँ लुगा लगाउन पाउने हुँदा खुसी नहुने कुरै भएन । तेसैले दशैंमा नयाँ लुगा लगाउन पाउने भन्ने कुरा नै हामी केटाकेटीको निम्ति सबैभन्दा खुसीको कुरा हुन्थ्यो ।

सोह्रश्राद्ध सुरू भएपछि नै गाउँमा दशैंको चहलपहल हुन्थ्यो । कहिले नयाँ लुगा किन्न ममिको पछि लाग्न पाईन्छ भनेर मनमा खुल्दुली भईरहन्थ्यो । दशैंको समयलाई सम्झँदा सबैभन्दा खुसीको क्षण भनेकै टिका लगाउँदा दक्षिणा बापत पैसा पाउनु हो । त्यती धेरै पैसा अरूबेला पाइन्नथ्यो र कसैले दिँदैनथ्यो पनि । त्यो पैसाले आफुलाई मनपरेको चिज खान र किन्न पाइने र कसैलाई दिनु पनि नपर्ने । आफुसँग एकै पटक त्यती धेरै पैसा हुनु भनेको ठूलै कुरा थियो । दशैंमा केटाकेटीले दक्षिणामा पाउने भनेको बढीमा ५० रुपैयाँ मात्र हो नत्र भने बिस,तीस रुपैयाँ मात्र । दक्षिणा जमा गरेर अलि पैसा भयो भने मेरो पनि खुट्टा भुईंमा हुन्थेन । अनि सबैलाई देखाएर यी मेरो त यति पैसा भयो भन्दै दङ्ग परिन्थ्यो ।

गाउँघरमा अरु पसल थिएन आफ्नै पसल थियो । तेसैले आफुसँग पैसा भए पनि किनेर खान पाइन्नथ्यो । जब स्कूल गइन्थ्यो अनि स्कूलसँगैको ठेलामा अनेक थरी खाईन्थ्यो । ठेलामा तितौरा, पिप्लामेन्ट, नरिवल, पुष्टकारी र तिलौरा आदि पाइन्थ्यो । बरफ बेच्नेले दुइ हातमा दुइवटा थर्मस झुन्डाएर ल्याउँथ्यो र ‘लौ आयो बरफ’ भन्दै कराएर हिँड्थ्यो । सिङ्गो बरफको ढिक्कालाई टुक्रा पारेर पाँच रुपैया र दस रुपैया जतिको माग्यो त्यही अनुसार बरफ दिन्थ्यो । मुखभित्र राखेर धेरै बेरसम्म चुसेर खाइन्थ्यो ।

दशैंमा खेलेर नै दिन बित्थे । बिहानै उठेर पिङ खेल्न जाने किनकि दिउँसो पालो पाईदैन थियो हाम्रो गौचरणमा पिपलको रुखमा हालिने पिङ यो क्षेत्रको चर्चित पिङ थियो चङ्गा उडाउने रहर पनि अचम्मकै थियो नौबिसेमा तिजको बेला बजारमा हाट जस्तो पसल लाग्थे र तिज देखि बजारमा चङ्गा पाईन्थे त्यो बेला देखि चङ्गा उडाईन्थियो मैले त खासै उडाउदैन थिए तर उठेर टाढा पुगिसकेपछी साथिहरुले लट्टाई सम्हाल्न दिन्थे, चङ्गा खस्यो भने टाढा पुगेको चङ्गा पनि खोज्न जाने गरिन्थ्यो । हावा नलागी चङ्गा उड्दैन भन्ने थाहा हुँदाहुँदै पनि बिहान भात खाईसकेपछि घरबाट लट्टाई र चङ्गा लिएर निस्कन्थ्यौ । चङ्गा उडाउनको निम्ति चौरमा घरिघरि दौडिरहन्थें । भदौ–असोजको चर्को घाममा चङ्गा उडाउन दौडिदादौडिता जिउ पसिनाले निथु्रक्क भिज्थ्यो । अनुहार पनि रातोरातो हुन्थ्यो । जब दिउँसोको एक डेढ बज्न थाल्थ्यो अनि अलिअिलि हावा चल्न सुरू हुन्थ्यो । तर त्यति हल्का हावामा चङ्गा उड्दैनथ्यो । सानो चङ्गा यतिकै नउड्ने र अलिकति माथि आकाशमा पुगेपछि फनफनी घुम्ने मात्र । त्यसरी फनफनी घुमेको चङ्गामा पुच्छर गाँस्नु पर्दथ्यो । कागजको पुच्छर हालेर भए पनि चङ्गा उडाउनै पर्दथ्यो । एउटा चङ्गा च्यातिएपछि वा कसैले काटेर पठाईदिएपछि भने चङ्गा हुँदैनथ्यो । आफूसँग पैसा नहुने र घरिघरि चङ्गा किन्न पैसा नपाइने । त्यसैले उडाउँदा उडाउँदा ठाउँठाउँमा च्यातिएको चङ्गालाई पानी टेपले टालेर पनि उडाउनु पर्दथ्यो ।

पीङ् खेल्ने प्रसंग झन रमाइलो छ । मलाई पनि दशैंमा पीङ् खेल्ने ठूलो रहर हुन्थ्यो । मेरो गाउँमा बाटोको डिलमा एउटा विशाल पिपलको रूख थियो । तल स्कुल र अगाडि हाम्रै पसल थियो पिङ खेल्ने पालो पाईनु कठिननै थियो तर पालो कुरि कुरि भने पनि खेलिन्थ्यो र अरु साथिले खेलेको बेला साहिलामथुरी भन्दै पिङमा झुडिएर गईन्थ्यो एउटा दाईले त नवमीको दिन साहिला मथुरि जादा हातनै भाचेका थिए त्यसपछी हामी केही सर्तक भएका थियौ।

जब दशैं आउँथ्यो त्यही पिपलको रूखमा पिङ हालेको हुन्थ्यो । पिङ कसले हाल्थ्यो त्यो हामी केटाकेटीलाई थाहा हुन्थेन । पिङ् खेल्न केटाकेटीदेखि ठूला ठूला लोग्नेमान्छे र महिला भेला भएपछि ठूलै भीड हुन्थ्यो । पिङ् खेल्नकोलागि घन्टौं पालो कुर्नुपर्र्दथ्यो । आफ्नो पालो आए पनि अरूले नै पालो मिचिदिन्थे । कोही एक्लै पिङ् खेल्थे भने कोहीकोही दुईजना सँगै आमनेसामने उभिएर खेल्थे । त्यसरी पिङ् खेल्नुलाई दोहरी खेल्ने भन्थे । पिङ मच्चाएर यति माथिसम्म पुग्थे कि हेर्नेलाई नै कहाली लाग्थ्यो । एक्लै खेल्नेहरु मध्येका एक पुशपती दाईले त पातनै टिप्थे सायद उनीनै धेरै माथी पिङ मच्चाउन सक्थे र बिहानै पिङ खेल्न आउने पनि उनै हुन्थे । मच्चिएको पिङ्बाट रूखको पात टिप्न सक्नु त्यति सहज र सजिलो थिएन वर्षिनै त्यही मात्र एउटा ठाउँमा पिङ हालिन्थ्यो । किनकि अन्त पिङ् खेल्न हुने ठाउँ र रूख पनि थिएन । अहिले अब त्यो पिपलको बोट ईतिहास भईसक्यो सायद हामिले बचाउन सक्थ्यौ होला पहल भएन खैर राजनीतिक व्यवस्था परिवर्तन भएसङै गाउँ शहरमा परिणत हुँदै गएपछि विधालयको सरचना बनाउने पर्ने भयो र त्यस क्रममा त्यो शताब्दीको ईतिहास बोकेको रूख पनि माटोमा परिणत भयो । अन्ततः हाम्रा अघिल्ला पुस्ताले जोगाएर राखेको त्यो विशाल रूखलाई काटेर त्यसको अस्तित्व नै समाप्त पारियो र त्यहाँ विधालयको संरचना र पसल बनाइयो । गौचरण भन्ने गाउँको एउटा चिनारी नै सदाको निम्ति मेटियो तर फेरि ती यादलाई मेटाउन वर र पिपल रोपिएको छ त्यसलाई नढलाईयोस।

मलाई पनि दशैंमा मामाघर जाने ठूलो रहर हुन्थ्यो । मामाघर टाढा भएकोले गइरहन पनि सकिन्थेन अहिलेको जस्तो यातायातको साधन पनि थिएन । प्रत्येक दशैंमा म पनि ममिसँगै मामा घर जान्थें । साथमा बहिनी पनि हुन्थी काठमाडौंको पश्चिमस्थित हालको ककनी गाउँपालिकाको नेपालथोकमा थियो मामाघर । मामाघर डाँडाको सबैभन्दा तल थियो । अन्तिम घर नै मेरो मामाघर थियो । उत्तर–दक्षिण लम्बाई भएको सेतो पोतेको मुकुन्देश्वरी स्कुल नजिकको घर बाटोबाट नै प्रष्ट देखिन्थ्यो । मामाघर जाँदा पनि हिँडेर नै जानुपर्दथ्यो । बालजुबाट जानेबाटो भए पनि अहिलेकोजस्तो सार्वजनिक यातायात थिएन कोल्पुसम्म बसमा अनि त्यहाँबाट हिडेर जानुपर्थो । कुनैकुनै महिलाको पिठ्यूँमा भारि र अघिल्तिर सानो दुधे बच्चा पनि हुन्थ्यो । सायद घरमा बच्चा हेरिदिने मान्छे नभएर होला सानो बालकलाई समेत आफैसँग लिएर हिँड्नु पर्ने वाध्यतामा जीवन बिताइरहेका महिलाहरुलाई देख्दा म सानै उमेरको भए पनि अचम्म लाग्थ्यो

दशैंमा मामा घर गएपछिको रमाइलो बेग्लै हुने नै भयो । मामाघरमा सबैले माया गर्ने हुनाले त्यसैत्यसै मन दङ्ग हुन्थ्यो । सबैजना रमाइलो गर्ने भएकोले खेल्ने र खानेकाममा कसैले बाधा हाल्दैनथे । जे मन लाग्यो त्यही खायो, जहाँ मन लाग्यो त्यहीँ गयो । कामधाम पनि गर्नु नपर्ने पढु्नु पनि नपर्ने भएपछि क्या मज्जा भनेजस्तो भैहाल्यो । मामाको छोराहरू रन्जन मेरो जोडि खुब जम्थ्यो र मामाघरभन्दा तल वनमा गोरु चराउन पनि जान्थें । सानो सानो बुट्यान र झाडी भएको वनमा खेल्दा निकै रमाइलो हुन्थ्यो । ती दिनको सम्झनाले मात्र पनि रोमाञ्चित हुन्छ अहिले । तर बितेको समय फर्केर आउँदैन । समयले बिस्तारै बिस्तारै आफन्तबाट टाढा पारिरहेछ । अब मामाघर पनि सम्झनामा मात्र रहेको छ।

लाग्छ । बाल्यकालमा बिताएका ती दिनहरू जसरी बिताईयो अब आजका दिनहरू पनि त्यसरी नै बिताउन सकिन्न यो पक्कै हो । धेरै कुरामा परिवर्तन आईसक्यो । विज्ञान र प्रविधिले मानिसलाई धेरै सुविधा दिइसक्यो समय उस्तै हो तर आफू बाँचेको समय सधैँ उस्तै हुँदैन रहेछ । अब मेरो दैनिकी र व्यवहार नै अर्कै भइसक्यो । विद्यालयमा पढ्दै गरेका दिन र स्नातक तह सक्किन लागेको जीवनको दिन उस्तै कसरी हुन्छ र ?

निर्धारित समय तालिकामा बिताएका दिनहरू र फुर्सदमा बिताउने दिनहरू नितान्त फरक हुन्छन् । जिम्मेवारी र दायित्वपूर्ण जीवन बिताउनु भनेको एक प्रकारले आफ्नो पारिवारिक कर्तव्य पूरा गर्नु हो । जो मेरा बाबु–बाजेले गरेका थिए । त्यसैले लाग्छ म पनि बाबु–बाजेले गरेकै कार्यलाई निरन्तरता दिईरहेछु ।

सम्पुर्णमा विजया दशमीको शुभकामना।

On the flip side, pull factors in destination countries, including the promise of economic opportunities with higher wages and better employment prospects, political freedom, cultural affinity, and access to education, make these foreign nations more appealing. The allure of these pull factors has attracted a substantial number of Nepalis to explore opportunities abroad.

The scale of emigration is a growing concern. Approximately 500,000 Nepali already depart for international labor markets annually, and this number could potentially double to 1 million, leaving the country grappling with labor shortages. The trend is indicative of a concerning phenomenon referred to as "depression," suggesting that many Nepalis are seeking opportunities elsewhere due to a lack of prospects in their home country.

Economic productivity is closely tied to labor force participation, and when a significant portion of the young workforce chooses to leave, it signals economic distress. The consequences of this emigration trend are multifaceted, potentially leading to economic slowdown, recession, and, in some cases, depression.

As Nepalis seek opportunities abroad, the country increasingly relies on imported labor, paralleling its dependence on imported fuel and food. This growing dependency raises concerns about the nation's economic resilience and self-sufficiency.

While emigration has led to increased remittance inflow, benefiting the country's economy, it has also highlighted the urgency of addressing the root causes of mass departure. A recession can have adverse effects on employment, income levels, and economic inequality. The long-term consequences of this trend could be detrimental to Nepal's overall economic well-being.

It's important to recognize that the economic downturn and subsequent migration wave did not occur overnight but are the result of a series of events, including political instability, inflation, corruption, and a lack of inclusive policies. It is essential for the government to focus on economic diversification, good governance, and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to create opportunities for its citizens and reverse the current trend.

During the session, Nepali Congress MP Sunil Sharma and UML MP Manveer Rai shared their viewpoints. Sunil Sharma has demanded the resignation of Home Minister Narayankaji Shrestha. Speaking in the House of Representatives meeting, Sharma said that if the Home Minister does not resign, he will go on a hunger strike.

"The current Home Minister made me look like a terrorist and arrested me. He should resign unconditionally," he said. "Through the Speaker, I want to reiterate that if the Home Minister does not resign, I will go on a hunger strike."

He also stated that the Prime Minister should apologize for his arrest. MP Sharma had previously demanded the resignation of both the Home Minister and the Finance Minister. He was arrested by the CIB on charges of obtaining fake educational certificates and was released after a court order.

Taking the lead to address the impasse caused by the UML's persistent disruptions demanding a high-level inquiry committee regarding the gold case, the Speaker initiated efforts to reconvene the House. The Speaker's Secretariat indicated that an earnest deliberation took place among the senior leaders, including the Prime Minister, aimed at resuming the parliamentary session today.

Following the inconclusive meeting, a resolution was reached to reconvene tomorrow at 10:30 AM, this time at the Prime Minister's Residence in Baluwatar, in the presence of the Speaker. The meeting initially scheduled for today has been deferred to 3 pm tomorrow due to the absence of an accord.

During the meeting, the Speaker asserted that arriving at an agreement seemed to be an unattainable option at the moment.

Expressing the sentiment, the Speaker articulated, "The silence of the people becomes palpable when the functioning of the parliament is impeded. Numerous crucial matters, including concerns about natural calamities, remain unaddressed before the House. I have demonstrated utmost flexibility and exerted positive pressure on the parties to reach an understanding. I have staunchly advocated for fostering mutual trust, unity, and collaboration among the parties. Consequently, I have postponed the meeting on multiple occasions by issuing notices. Nevertheless, I am disinclined to establish a precedent of delaying the notice to halt proceedings."

Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, announced following the meeting that the Cabinet has resolved to present the Bill in the Federal Parliament after obtaining Cabinet approval.

Being a lawyer demands dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Law school itself is a rigorous journey, requiring countless hours of study, research, and critical thinking. It challenges students to develop a deep understanding of the law and its applications. Many law students sacrifice personal time, juggling multiple responsibilities to excel in their studies.

Moreover, the path to becoming a lawyer extends beyond law school. Gaining practical experience through internships, clerkships, or pro bono work is crucial. Once they become lawyers, the challenges continue. The legal profession demands constant learning and staying up-to-date with ever-changing laws and regulations. Lawyers must navigate intricate cases, advocate for their client's interests, and handle the pressure that comes with high-stakes situations.

Despite these difficulties, being a lawyer can be incredibly rewarding. Lawyers play a crucial role in upholding justice, protecting people's rights, and influencing the course of society. The satisfaction of helping clients and making a positive impact is immeasurable.

Being a law student in Nepal is a journey that presents numerous challenges. While the pursuit of legal knowledge can be rewarding, it comes with its unique set of hurdles that students must navigate to succeed in this demanding field.

Academic Rigor: Law school in Nepal, like in many other countries, requires intense academic rigor. Students have to study complex legal principles, analyze case laws, and comprehend statutes. The workload can be overwhelming, demanding long hours of reading, research, and preparation for exams.

Limited Resources: Law schools in Nepal face resource constraints, including access to legal databases, libraries, and research materials. This scarcity of resources can hinder students’ ability to conduct in-depth research and develop a comprehensive understanding of legal issues.

Societal Pressure: In some cases, aspiring law students of Nepal encounter societal pressure to pursue other career paths considered more prestigious or financially rewarding. Convincing families and communities about the importance of the legal profession can be a daunting task.

Political Influence: The legal system in Nepal, like in any country, can be influenced by politics. Law students may witness instances where political interference affects the administration of justice or leads to uncertainties in legal interpretations.

Nepal's Legal Landscape: Understanding and navigating Nepal's legal system, which incorporates various legal traditions, can be challenging. Students need to adapt to the intricacies of both customary and statutory law.

Gender Bias: In some instances, female law students in Nepal might face gender bias and discrimination within the legal community. Overcoming these barriers and advocating for gender equality within the profession is an essential aspect of their journey.

Access to Justice: Many parts of Nepal still lack access to proper legal representation and justice services. Aspiring law students may feel the responsibility to address this issue and work towards ensuring justice for marginalized communities.

Public Perception of Lawyers: Some students might face negative public perception of lawyers due to stereotypes or sensationalized media portrayals. Building trust and credibility in society can be a challenge that requires integrity and ethical conduct.

Networking and Internship Opportunities: Building a professional network and securing internships can be crucial for law students to gain practical experience. However, these opportunities might be limited in certain regions or for students with fewer connections.

While the journey to becoming and being a lawyer is undoubtedly tough, the fulfillment and meaningful contributions to society make it all worthwhile. So, if you're considering a career in law, remember that with determination and hard work, you can overcome the challenges and find great fulfillment in the legal profession.

हुन त देशले के दियो भनेर प्रश्न गर्न नहुने हो देशलाई के दिए भन्दै लामो लेखनै तयार गर्न पर्ने हो तर त्यो समय सायद अझै आएको छैन। मलाई माटोले श्राप दियो वा आशीर्वाद दियो त्यो म जान्दिन तर मलाई देशले काख लगाउन पर्नेमा पाखा लगाउने मात्र प्रयास गर्छ मलाई स्वदेशले परदेशिने बाटो मात्रै देखाउछ अग्रगमनले मलाई राहदानी विभाग देखाउछ र म जस्तै देशका युवाहरुलाई संविधानलेनै परिकल्पना गरेको समाजवादले वितृष्णा दिन्छ। मलाई कहाँ मन नभएको हो र यही माटोमा लडिबुडी गर्दै मेरो मातृत्वलाई अंगालो मारी प्रकृतिको मनोरमता स्पर्श गर्दै
आमाको काखमा न्यानोपनको आभास गर्दै बाबाको काधमा शिर ठाडो पार्न तर विडम्बना आखिर म के गर्न सक्छु मलाई थाहा छ आमाको फाटेको चोली बाबाको फाटेको स्टकोट अनि घरको चुहिने टिन फेर्नको लागि एकदिन राहदानी विभागको यात्रानै तह गर्नुपर्छ भनेर हो यो मन थाकेको छ , हतासिएको छ आँखामा उदासीनताको भाव छ ओठमा फिक्का हाँसो छ र मुहारमा मलिनता छ भविष्यको एकोहोरो चिन्ता छ बस्, योबाहेक केही छँदै छैन। सायद उमेरै यस्तै होला?

मलाई थाहा छ देशको माया सिद्धान्त होइन, व्यवहार हो । आदर्श होइन, यथार्थ हो । जन्मभूमि प्रतिको कर्तव्यबोध हो । नाट्यसम्राट वालकृष्ण समले देशभक्ति त मर्दैन चुत्थै देश भए पनि भनेका छन् । देश जति गरिव, पछौटे वा समस्याग्रस्त भए तापनि देशको माटोको सुगन्धले तानिरह्न्छ। देशलाई माया गर्ने व्यक्तिले मलाई देशले के दियो भन्ने कुरा सोच्दैन, बरु मैले मातृभूमिका लागि के योगदान दिन सके सक्छु भन्ने एंगलबाट सोच्छ र तदनुरूप कार्य गर्छ।

त्यसैले तदनुरुप... प्रयास जारी छ। धन्यवाद

The e-commerce bill has garnered attention and support as it seeks to create a secure online environment for consumers and businesses alike. Transparency in product information and the provision for unconditional refunds are welcome steps in building consumer confidence in the digital marketplace.

However, some provisions have raised concerns, particularly the requirement for prior payment when exporting products or services. This rigid condition may hinder opportunities for smaller businesses to expand globally and limit the growth potential of local entrepreneurs. Policymakers need a deeper understanding of cross-border trade nuances to foster international business collaborations effectively.

Additionally, the bill places significant responsibilities on e-commerce platforms, making them liable for faulty products and services. While consumer protection is essential, this shift may lead to increased compliance costs and hesitation among e-commerce companies to offer diverse product ranges.

The requirement for e-commerce businesses to submit an online application for listing on the government-established "e-commerce portal" within three months of the Act's commencement also raises concerns. Non-compliance may result in penalties, restrictions, or fines. Such provisions might be irrelevant and impractical compared to other countries with well-developed IT and network infrastructures that are excelling in e-commerce.

Moreover, the stipulation for a software-based ticket generation system could burden Small and Medium Enterprises entering the e-commerce arena with limited resources. Aspiring entrepreneurs and young minds eager to participate in the e-commerce revolution may face hurdles due to these requirements.

While consumer protection remains paramount, the bill's potential impact on Small and Medium Enterprises and startups calls for attention. The complex registration process and the burden of fulfilling all mandatory fields for product definitions could deter newcomers from venturing into e-commerce.

To strike a balance between consumer protection and business growth, policymakers must simplify registration procedures, support compliance, and provide incentives for small businesses and startups. Regular consultations with industry stakeholders and market leaders can offer valuable insights for effective policy amendments.

The introduction of the concept of an "e-commerce number" and the need for registration at multiple places could make the process cumbersome and discourage potential participants in the e-commerce revolution. Additionally, startups with limited resources might struggle to meet the mandate for a software-based ticket-handling system, affecting their growth and customer service capabilities.

While the e-commerce bill signifies progress in creating an organized and secure digital marketplace, it is crucial to consider the needs of small businesses and startups. Policymakers must demonstrate flexibility and encourage provisions that support entrepreneurship and foster a thriving e-commerce ecosystem in Nepal.

As the bill goes through the legislative process, it is essential to strike the right balance, protecting consumer interests while encouraging e-commerce growth. Regular consultations with industry stakeholders and incorporating feedback will be crucial in shaping a sustainable e-commerce landscape in Nepal. By nurturing innovation, empowering Small and Medium Enterprises and fostering growth, Nepal can build a vibrant and thriving e-commerce ecosystem that benefits both consumers and businesses alike.

सुरुमा राजनीतिक प्रभावका कारण थलिएको नेपालका विश्वविद्यालयहरु २०६२–६३ को आन्दोलन र अहिलेको संघीय गणतान्त्रिक नेपालको लोकतान्त्रिक पद्धतिसम्मको यात्राका क्रममा राजनीतिक पार्टीको भागबन्डा र विभिन्न स्वार्थ शक्ति झुण्डको दबाबमा अयोग्य जनशक्ति भर्ती गर्ने , आन्दोलन र तालाबन्दीले नेपालका सबै विश्वविद्यालय अस्तव्यस्त छन्  ।बेथितिले आक्रान्त भएपछि विश्वविद्यालयका लागि नयाँ कार्यक्रमहरू ल्याउनु, अध्ययन/अध्यापनका नयाँ विधिहरू अनुशरण गर्नु तथा अनुसन्धानका क्रियाकलापलाई अघि बढाउनु महत्त्वहीन कुरा बनेका छन् । नियमित कक्षा संचालन, अध्ययन र अनुसन्धान कुनै पनि प्राज्ञिक संस्थाका गहना र आधारभूत पहिचाननै हो। उच्चस्तरको जनशक्ति उत्पादन गर्ने विश्वविद्यालयमा र यसले सम्बन्धन दिएको कलेजहरुमा गुणस्तरीय शिक्षा र अनुसन्धानका क्रियाकलापहरूले नै महत्त्व पाउनुपर्छ,विद्यार्थी र शिक्षक कर्मचारीका गैरप्राज्ञिक र पेसागत वृत्ति विकासभन्दा भिन्न किसिमका माग राख्ने अनि तालाबन्दी गर्ने कामले शिक्षा प्रदान गर्ने मन्दिरलाई दिनानुदिन रूग्ण बनाउनु हुँदैन।

विश्वविद्यालयका पदाधिकारीहरूका कार्यकक्षमा विभिन्न समूहका अनेकौँ तालाहरू र मागपत्र झुन्डिएका देखिन्छन् के हाम्रो विश्वविद्यालयहरुमा समस्यानै छ त? यस्ता कतिपय मागमा विश्वविद्यालयको पठनपाठन, शैक्षिक सुधार र अनुसन्धान गतिविधिलाई प्राथमिकता दिनुपर्ने कुरा कहीँकतै उठेको देखिँदैन। कर्मचारी भर्ना, बढुवा र स्थायी गर्ने मागहरूले प्राथमिकता पाउनु विश्वविद्यालयलाई प्राज्ञिक संस्थाभन्दा आफ्नो मान्छे भर्ती गर्ने स्थानको रूपमा लिनुको उपज हो भन्दा अतिशयोक्ति हुँदैन। दिनानुदिन प्राज्ञिक गरिमा स्खलित हुँदै जाँदा विश्वविद्यालय बहुआयामिक समस्याहरूबाट ग्रस्त बन्न थालेको छ। प्रत्यक्षरूपमा पठनपाठनका क्रियाकलापहरूसमेत ठप्प हुँदा कसैले पनि चासो नदेखाउँदा विधार्थीहरुको भविष्य अझ झनै गम्भीर संकटउन्मुख हुन थालेको अनुमान गर्न सकिन्छ।

अहिले खुलेका वा खुल्ने चरणमा रहेका विश्वविद्यालयहरुको ऐन हेर्दा सबैले त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालयकै नक्कल गरेको देखिन्छ। अधिकांशको नयाँ खुलेका विश्वविद्यालय छुट्टै उद्देश्य र निश्चित एवं निर्धारित मापदण्ड देखिँदैन र सबैजसो कार्यक्रम मुलुकको आवश्यकता र अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय विकाससँग मिल्दोजुल्दो पनि छैन। कुशल व्यवस्थापनको अभाव रहेको छ। समय सापेक्ष पाठ्यक्रम नहुँदा तिनको गुुणस्तर निकै कमजोर छ। प्राज्ञिक वातावरण बन्न सकेको छैन। अनुसन्धानलाई विकाससँग जोड्न सकिएको छैन शिक्षकले पढाएको नपढाएको, विद्यार्थीले पढे नपढेको, परीक्षा व्यवस्थित एवम् मर्यादित तरिकाबाट सञ्चालन भए नभएको, परीक्षाफल समयमा प्रकाशित भए नभएको विषयमा खासै ध्याननै दिईएको हुँदैन। विश्वविद्यालयका पदाधिकारीलाई पठनपाठनको अवस्था हेर्ने फुर्सतनै छैन, यही कारण विश्वविद्यालयीय शिक्षा व्यापार बन्दै गएको छ। राज्यले पनि विश्वविद्यालय र यस अन्तर्गत संचालित कलेज के–कसरी व्यवस्थित गर्ने भन्ने दूरदर्शी र फराकिलो सोच राख्नसकेको छैन। मुलुकमा उच्च शिक्षा संस्थाहरूको संख्यात्मक विस्तार हुँदै आएको छ तर उच्च शिक्षण संस्था (विश्वविद्यालय) हरूको स्थापना, व्यवस्थापन एवं नियमन गर्नका लागि एकीकृत उच्च शिक्षा नीति छैन।

विधार्थी सङ्ख्या एउटा क्याम्पसलाई व्यवस्थापन गर्न र गुणस्तर कायम राख्नका लागि दबाबपर्ने सङ्ख्या त होईन तर त्यसो हुन नसकेको तथ्यांक र सूचनाहरुबाट प्राप्त निष्कर्षले देखाउछ। प्रादेशिक अवधारणामा स्थापना भएका विश्वविद्यालयको पनि सुरुआत कमजोर देखिएको छ। गण्डकी विश्वविद्यालयको विधार्थी भर्ना अन्य विश्वविद्यालयहरुसङ शैक्षिक कार्यक्रमको दोहोरपन नहुने विषयहरुको सुरुआत तथा पुर्वाधार सरचनामा लक्ष्यअनुरुप विकास र प्रगति हुन सकेको छैन।संचालित विश्वविद्यालयहरुको तहगत विधार्थी भर्ना निकै देखिए पनि गुणस्तरीय जनशक्ति उत्पादनका दृष्टिकोणले त्यति सन्तोष गर्ने ठाउँ छैन ।उच्च शिक्षाको भर्नादर स्नातक तहको ८९.२०, स्नातकोत्तर तहको १०.२०, एम.फिल तहमा ०.२९ र विधावारिधी तहमा ०.३५ प्रतिशत छ।

गुणस्तर, पहुँच , प्राध्यापक , शिक्षाको धार (प्राविधिक वा साधारण), छात्रवृत्ति लगायतका विषयहरुको दृष्टिकोणले विश्वविद्यालयको स्नातक तहमा सबैभन्दा धेरै विधार्थी अध्ययन गर्दछन भने यो जनशक्तिनै धेरै विधार्थी अध्ययन गर्दछन भने यो जनशक्तिनै श्रम बजारमा प्रवेश गर्न भएकाले यस तहमा बढी ध्यान दिनुपर्छ । साथै मुलुकलाई आवस्यक पर्ने थप जनशक्ति निर्माण गरि तिव्र आर्थिक विकास र सामाजिक रुपान्तरणमा गती दिन एक अविच्छ्न्न स्वायत सस्थाको रुपमा विश्वविद्यालय रहनुपर्दछ।

यसैगरी विश्वविद्यालयको सङठनमा सरचनागत कमजोरी रहेको र यसको सुधार तथा प्रभावकारिता अभिवृद्धि गर्नका लागि विधीमा अधारित बोर्ड अफ ट्रस्टी मोडेल नेपालको सन्दर्भमा उपयुक्त हुन्छ। विश्वविद्यालयको सर्वोच्च निकायको नेतृत्व राजनीतिक नियुक्तिबाट हुनुहुदैन भन्ने धारणा बलियो रुपमा आएको छ। विश्वविद्यालयभित्रको राजनीतिले समग्र प्राज्ञिक वातावरण, क्रियाकलाप र शैक्षिक क्यालेन्डरलाई प्रभावित गर्दछ। विश्वविद्यालयमा राजनीति प्रभावी हुन नदिने विषयसमेत प्राज्ञिक स्वायत्ता सङ जोडिएको छ।

नेपालमा विश्वविद्यालयहरुको स्थिति र बौद्धिक पलायन

एसियाली विकास बैंकको एक अध्ययनअनुसार उच्च शिक्षामा हालका दिनमा त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालयको एकाधिकार मात्र घटेको होइन सँगसँगै सङ्ख्यात्मक र गुणात्मक दुवै पक्ष घट्दो क्रममा छ । अहिले पनि उच्च शिक्षाको ठूलो भार थेगिरहेको त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालयले विश्वबजार र देशको लागि आवश्यक दक्ष जनशक्ति विकासको तुलनामा गुणस्तर तथा विद्यार्थी सङ्ख्यामा कमी र उत्पादित जनशक्ति प्रतिस्पर्धी हुन नसकेको देखिन्छ (ADB, 2016, p.xi) विश्वविद्यालयहरूको सङ्ख्यात्मक रूपले विकास भएको छ तर गुणस्तरको दृष्टिकोणले हेर्दा सुधार गर्नुपर्ने धेरै ठाउँहरू छन् । गुणस्तरीय उच्च शिक्षाको खोजीमा वर्षेनी लाखौंको सङ्ख्यामा नेपाली विद्यार्थीहरू विदेशिने गरेको तथ्य पनि यसको नतिजा हुनसक्छ यसरी विदेशिने नेपाली विद्यापीहरूको सङ्ख्या शिक्षा मन्त्रालयबाट नी अब्जेक्सन सर्टिफिकेट प्राप्त गर्ने विद्यार्थीहरूको सङ्ख्या हेर्दा स्पष्ट हुन्छ। वि.स २०७९ सालको चैतसम्म पछिल्लो आठ महिनामा मात्र ७२ हजार ६ सय १० जना विधार्थीले विदेशमा उच्च अध्ययनका लागि अनुमती लिएका थिए र यी विधार्थीहरुबाट ४३ अर्ब ७४ करोड रुपैयाँ बाहिरिएको छ। यसरी हेर्दा पछिल्ला वर्षमा NOC लिनेको सङ्ख्या १ लाखभन्दा धेरै छन् तर विदेशमा अध्ययनपछि स्वदेश फर्किएको अभिलेख भने सरकारसङ कहिँ केही छैन। उनिहरु उच्च शिक्षासङै कामको बजारमा प्रवेश गर्न विदेशिने गरेका छन् त्यसैले नेपालको वर्तमान शिक्षा प्रणाली र यसबाट उत्पादित जनशक्तिलाई दक्ष र सिपयुक्त किसिमले तयार गर्नु आर्थिक , सामाजिक र विकासका दृष्टिकोणबाट बढी उपयुक्त बुद्धिमता पुर्ण हुने देखिन्छ।

के गर्न सकिन्छ त नितिगत सुधार?

नीति अनुसन्धान प्रतिस्ठानले नीति विश्लेषणका लागि नेपालको संविधान , राष्ट्रिय शिक्षा नीति २०७६, विभिन्न विश्वविद्यालयका ऐन तथा विनियमहरुको समिक्षा गरिएको थियो, साथै विश्वविद्यालयका लागि आवश्यक न्युनतम पुर्वाधार तथा सङगठनात्म्क स्वरुपजस्ता विश्वविद्यालयहरुका आधारभूत विभिन्न सुचकहरु सम्बन्धमा नेपालमा विश्वविद्यालयहरुको अवस्था प्रतिवेदन तयार पारेको थियो जसमा पदाधिकारी छनोटमा सुधार गर्नुपर्ने , प्राज्ञिक स्वायत्ताको निर्माण र अभ्यास गरिनुपर्ने, योग्यता प्रणालीको कार्यन्वयन र प्रतिस्पर्धा , अनुसन्धान र प्रकाशन , शैक्षिक क्यालेन्डरको नियमितता , विश्वविद्यालयको अन्तरास्ट्रियकरण र विश्वविद्यालयहरुबिच समन्वय र सहकार्य जस्ता नीतिगत सुचारका परिसूचकहरु समेटिएको थियो जसले विश्वविद्यालय सुधारमा उल्लेखनीय भुमिका खेल्न सक्छ।

नेपालको वर्तमान शिक्षा प्रणाली र यसबाट उत्पादित जनशक्तिलाई दक्ष र सिपयुक्त किसिमले तयार गर्नु आर्थिक , सामाजिक र विकासका दृष्टिकोणबाट बढी उपयुक्त बुद्धिमता पुर्ण हुने देखिन्छ। शिक्षण र अनुसन्धानमा सुधार नगरी विश्वविद्यालयहरूले फड्को मार्न सक्दैनन् । हाम्रो शिक्षण पद्धतिलाई थप सिर्जनात्मक र वैज्ञानिक बनाउनुपर्ने खाँचो छ । पुस्तकमा मात्र सीमित भएको ज्ञान र आफ्नो वशमा नरहेको सम्पत्तिको कुनै अर्थ हुँदैन । काम लिन सकिएका खण्डमा मात्रै तिनले शक्तिको सञ्चार गराउँछन्  शिक्षाको आवश्यकता भनेको पनि यही हो । सिकेको ज्ञानका कारण जब वैज्ञानिक चिन्तन, कार्यकुशलता र अनावश्यक वस्तुहरूलाई छोड्दै जाने प्रवृत्तिको विकास हुन्छ, हाम्रो शिक्षा प्रणाली सही बाटोमा आउँदै जान्छ।

Reference: https://kms.pri.gov.np/dams/pages/view.php?ref=17859&k=e4e36bf8f9

Photo: Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy College of Law suited at Bijulibazar, Kathmandu

Admission Quota Violation and Fee Controversy:

Chakrabarti Law College, affiliated with Purvanchal University, has been admitting more students than the prescribed quota of 100 seats set by the university. This violation raises concerns about the integrity of the admission process and compromises the quality of education provided. Additionally, the college has charged significantly higher fees for the entrance exam compared to the fee set by the university, raising questions about financial transparency and fairness.

Absence of Leadership and Concentration of Power:

Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law has been operating without a principal for the past three years, with the owner, Devendra Bahadur Bhandari, assuming multiple roles within the institution. This concentration of power raises concerns about transparency, accountability, and the effective administration of the college. It is crucial to appoint a qualified and impartial leader to guide the institution and ensure fair practices.

Student Protests and College Response:

When students raised concerns about admission quotas and fees, Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law responded by shutting down the institution, suppressing the voices of the students. This oppressive behavior stifles dialogue and creates an environment of fear and intimidation. The college should engage in open communication with the students, address their legitimate grievances, and foster an atmosphere of respect and collaboration.

Legal Battles and Ongoing Issues:

Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law filed a petition at Biratnagar High Court to seek justice and protect student right to education for 78/29 batch,although the court ruled in favor of allowing the students to sit for exams and now the university is refusing to publish the results, undermining transparency and fairness. Furthermore, the college admitted an additional 300 students for the subsequent academic year, surpassing the allocated 100 seats, which demonstrates a blatant disregard for regulations.

Call for Immediate Action:

In light of the situation, it is imperative for the Nepal Bar Council, Purbanchal University, and Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law itself to take immediate and decisive action. The Nepal Bar Council should engage with students, address their concerns transparently, and enforce regulations to ensure quality legal education. Purbanchal University should release a comprehensive press statement addressing the expulsions, admission quota violation, and fee controversy, demonstrating their commitment to upholding educational standards and protecting students' interests. Chakrabarti Law College should acknowledge their shortcomings, collaborate with regulatory bodies, and work towards rectifying the existing issues.

Proposed Solutions:

Legal Validity and Registration:

Purbanchal University should provide legal validity to the affected students of Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law, ensuring their educational journey is not hindered. This step would safeguard their rights and allow them to continue their studies without further complications.

Temporary Ban on New Student Enrollment:

To address the college's blatant violation of admission quotas, Purbanchal University should impose a temporary ban on Chakrabarti Law College's new student enrollment for a period of two years. This measure would serve as a deterrent and promote adherence to regulations while protecting the integrity of legal education.

Transparency and Accountability:

Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law should ensure transparency in the admission process and adhere to the prescribed admission quota. Financial practices should be fair and transparent, with fees aligning with the regulations set by the university.

Appointment of a Qualified Principal:

Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law should prioritize the appointment of a qualified principal who can lead the institution with transparency, accountability, and fairness. This step will ensure effective administration and foster a conducive learning environment.

Student Inclusion and Dialogue:

Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law should establish channels for open communication and meaningful dialogue with students. Their concerns and grievances should be heard, respected, and addressed through constructive measures.

Compliance with Regulations:

Regulatory bodies, such as the Nepal Bar Council and Purbanchal University, should enforce regulations and hold Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law accountable for their actions. Regular audits and oversight should be conducted to ensure adherence to educational standards and protect the rights of the students.

The crisis in Nepal legal education system demands urgent action and collaboration between the Nepal Bar Council, as the governing body responsible for legal education in Nepal, the Nepal Bar Council holds the power to regulate and oversee the operations of law colleges. Given the gravity of the crisis, it is crucial for the Bar Council to assert its authority and intervene in the affairs of Chakrabarti HaBi Education Academy, College of Law. The violation of admission quotas, exorbitant fees, and the suppression of student voices underscore the need for transparency, accountability, and student inclusion. The proposed solutions, including transparency in admission processes, appointment of a qualified principal, student dialogue, and regulatory compliance, provide a roadmap for rectifying the situation. It is crucial for all concerned parties to prioritize the well-being and rights of students pursuing legal education in Nepal, ensuring they receive a quality education in a fair and conducive environment.

Article Published on Nepal Press: https://english.nepalpress.com/2023/07/06/crisis-in-legal-education-urgent-action-required-from-nepal-bar-council-and-purbanchal-university/

We find ourselves in our twenties, a phase where it may feel as if our lives hang in the balance. It's natural for many people to express their frustrations and exhaustion on social media. I, too, have found myself in such situations. After all, complaining is part of our human nature and helps distinguish us from other creatures.

In my view, the root of our anxiety, sadness, anger, and disappointment lies in our lack of clarity about our priorities. Most individuals in their twenties, like you and me, engage in similar activities. Many are students, recent graduates, or juniors in their respective fields, and we have officially entered adulthood. Congratulations!

On social media, particularly on platforms like TikTok, we often come across content where people share their experiences with college entrance exams. They sit with their families, anxiously logging into their accounts, hoping to be accepted into their dream universities. However, sometimes that red color appears on the screen, accompanied by the message

"Don't give up and keep your spirit."

I empathize with their feelings. I experienced a similar situation. Despite investing all my efforts, I faced rejection. It made me feel like I had let down my family, spending their hard-earned money on courses, and sacrificing time with my parents for studies. Is this the harsh reality we face? In response, I shifted my perspective, practiced meditation, and reevaluated my priorities, much like you described encountering rejection from a company or experiencing disappointment in exams or relationships.

We often treat these events as if they mark the end of our lives as if everything is falling apart. But wake up! Life offers countless ways to be experienced. Remember how tirelessly your mother worked to teach you how to walk as a baby? Would you give up on life because of rejection? Where is your human dignity?

Take a moment to sit down and reflect. Your twenties mark the beginning of your adult life. To navigate this challenging phase, we must establish our priorities and define our goals. For instance, if you were rejected by a college, ask yourself: Is it more important to get into your dream college or to bring happiness to your parents? Is landing a dream job more significant than leading a happier life? Is it winning the love of your crush or fulfilling your need for self-validation?

There are infinite paths to achieving our goals, but we often become fixated on a single approach. Many people abandon their potential because they grow weary of the process. Remember, changing your perspective can change your reality. Yes, we are in our twenties, but we often sigh as if we were living in the 1900s, amidst World War I, the Spanish Flu, World War II, economic crises, and other global challenges.

"Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe," said Abraham Lincoln. Like him, my priority at this age is to learn as much as possible. Our twenties are the prime time for learning. Education extends beyond the classroom, where we sit half-awake, taking notes from lecturers. Lessons can be learned anywhere, at any time. Engaging in internships, volunteering, participating in college organizations, discussing with experts, and embracing extracurricular activities are all valuable learning experiences. As John C. Maxwell said, "Live to learn, and you will learn to live."

I wrote this two years ago when I was 20, and I would like to offer a few suggestions. Firstly, be patient with yourself. Life is a journey, and it's okay to face setbacks and rejections. Embrace them as opportunities for growth. Secondly, remember that your worth isn't determined by external validation. Focus on your own personal growth and happiness. Lastly, surround yourself with positive influences and supportive individuals who can uplift you during challenging times.

Keep exploring, learning, and pursuing your passions. Your twenties are a precious time for self-discovery and building a foundation for the future and remember that the challenges you face today will shape the resilient individual you become tomorrow.

Wishing you the best,

Sakar Koirala