Kathmandu:



Landing difficulties caused by dense fog at Bhairahawa’s Gautam Buddha International Airport have been resolved with the introduction of a new navigation system.



The airport has implemented the Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required (RNP AR) system from today.



This advanced technology allows aircraft to land with visibility as low as 800 meters, significantly lower than the 1,800-meter visibility required under the current Very High Frequency (VHF) Omni-Directional Range (VOR) system.



Airport Chief Pratap Babu Tiwari stated that the new system was introduced to address the severe disruptions in flight operations caused by thick fog during winter.



Airlines can now operate flights under low-visibility conditions after obtaining approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).



However, airlines must train their pilots and equip their aircraft with specialized instruments to utilize the RNP AR system, according to CAAN.



This satellite-based navigation system is already in use at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, ensuring safer and more efficient flight operations.

New navigation system eases landing issues at GBIA

Kathmandu: Minister of Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has proposed collaboration with hospitals operated by security agencies to reduce the patient burden in government hospitals.



During a meeting with the Inspector General of Police, senior military officials, and heads of health services run by security forces, Minister Paudel suggested utilizing vacant operation wards in these hospitals to provide services to patients during high-demand periods in government facilities.



“We are working to manage patient load by adding shifts in federal hospitals and extending working hours,” said Minister Paudel. “Support us by exploring how patients can be referred to security agency hospitals when government hospitals are overwhelmed.”



The minister also sought suggestions on making services, not currently available to the general public, accessible at government rates. Additionally, he requested input on improving the effectiveness of the health insurance program in security agency hospitals.



Last week, Minister Paudel formed a task force led by Additional Secretary Dr. Tanka Barakoti to outline a framework for cooperation between the Ministry of Health and security agency hospitals. The initiative aims to provide treatment assistance and better manage the patient load in government hospitals.



The meeting was attended by Inspector General of Police Basanta Kunwar and senior officials from the Nepali Army.



Minister Paudel praised the Nepali Army for its role in providing emergency services, including maternity care for pregnant women in critical conditions.



“We are open to collaborating with the Army for air ambulance services,” he said. “This can save lives in emergencies and ensure timely treatment for those in remote areas.”



He also commended the Army for its efforts in treating snakebite cases in the Terai region and emphasized the Ministry’s willingness to work closely with the Army to leverage its expertise for public health services.



The proposals aim to enhance healthcare delivery by integrating the resources of security agency hospitals and addressing critical gaps in emergency and specialized care.

Health Minister proposes collaboration with security forces to ease patient load

Kathmandu: South Korean Special Envoy Lee Jeongkyu, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, recently visited Nepal to strengthen bilateral cooperation. During his visit, he held high-level discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Bishnu Prasad Paudel, Minister of Labour, Employment, and Social Security Sharat Singh Bhandari, and Foreign Affairs Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai.



The meetings coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and South Korea. Both sides underscored the significance of sustained high-level exchanges, reflecting on recent interactions such as a foreign ministerial meeting during the UN General Assembly and the visit of Nepal’s Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, to Korea last month.



Discussions highlighted a shared commitment to enhancing economic, development, employment, and tourism cooperation. A key focus was the Korea-Nepal Trade and Investment Promotion Framework (TIPF), signed last December, which aims to boost trade, investment, and industrial collaboration while supporting Korean companies operating in Nepal.



Employment cooperation through the Employment Permit System (EPS) and efforts to strengthen development cooperation and people-to-people exchanges were also emphasized. Since the signing of the Korea-Nepal EPS MOU in 2007, over 110,000 Nepali workers have found employment in Korea, contributing significantly to economic growth in both nations. The Korean government has also supported reintegration programs for returnee workers, fostering entrepreneurship and resettlement in Nepal.



Korea has designated Nepal as a priority partner for Official Development Assistance (ODA) for 15 years, focusing on key sectors such as agriculture, health, vocational training, and climate change. Major Korean companies, including Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motor, have made substantial contributions to Nepal’s manufacturing and energy sectors, with notable investments like the Upper Trishuli-1 Hydroelectric Project.



The visit by Special Envoy Lee Jeongkyu underscores South Korea’s commitment to reflecting on five decades of friendly ties and setting the foundation for the next 50 years of collaboration. The delegation is also scheduled to visit Korean business operations and development project sites during their stay.



This milestone visit reaffirms the strong partnership between the two nations and their dedication to mutual growth and development.

Korean special envoy visits Nepal, highlights 50 years of diplomatic relations

Kathmandu: The Supreme Court has dismissed a writ petition demanding a halt to the implementation of the National Identity Card, paving the way for the government to enforce the system for various services.



A three-member bench comprising Chief Justice Prakashman Singh Raut and Justices Abdul Aziz Musalman and Nripdhwaj Niraula rejected the petition filed by advocate Ram Bahadur Raul, who argued that implementing the card nationwide could inconvenience service recipients.



The court had earlier issued an interim order halting the government’s decision to make the National Identity Card mandatory for receiving social security allowances. The government responded by requesting the court to revoke the interim order.



The case was subsequently referred to a full bench, which heard the arguments and scheduled a decision date. While the Supreme Court has issued some directive orders, their details are yet to be disclosed.



With the Supreme Court’s decision, the government can now proceed with the implementation of the National Identity Card system, ensuring its use in public services and programs across the country.

Supreme Court clears way for implementation of NID

Kathmandu: A special cultural program blending Nepali and Chinese traditions was held in Bhaktapur on Saturday to mark the announcement of Visit Nepal Year 2025 and the Chinese New Year.



The event was graced by Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song, Bhaktapur Mayor Sunil Prajapati, and Nepal Tourism Board Head Deepak Raj Joshi. The highlight of the celebration was a series of vibrant cultural performances by artists from both nations, showcasing their rich heritage.



The initiative aims to strengthen Nepal-China relations through cultural exchange while promoting tourism in the lead-up to Visit Nepal Year 2025. Organizers emphasized the event's role in fostering goodwill and collaboration between the two countries.

Nepal-Chinese Educational & Cultural Center celebrates Visit Nepal Year 2025

Kathmandu: In an effort to address Madhes-related concerns, leaders from six Madhes-centric political parties convened on Tuesday, signaling renewed dialogue on issues such as constitutional amendments. The meeting, held at the Samarpan Academy in Dhumbarahi, aimed to establish a framework, objectives, and a common agenda for forming a united front.



Although no concrete decisions were reached, participants expressed optimism about progress. 



The working group formed by the parties agreed to continue their dialogue, emphasizing the importance of resolving long-standing communication gaps. 



Constitutional amendments and the government’s ordinance bypassing Parliament were among the key issues discussed. Madhes-centric parties have been pushing for amendments that address regional grievances. The Jana Pragatisheel Party, led by Hridayesh Tripathi, coordinated the meeting as part of ongoing efforts to bring the parties together.



Representatives from Janamat, Loktantrik Samajwadi Party-Nepal, Rashtriya Mukti Party, Jana Pragatisheel Party, Tarai Madhesh Loktantrik Party, and independent legislator Ameresh Kumar Singh participated in the discussions. However, the Janata Samajwadi Party-Nepal, led by Upendra Yadav, was notably absent.



Party leaders, including Renu Yadav, Rajkishore Yadav, Abdul Khan, Sharad Yadav, and Keshav Jha, were tasked with bridging dialogue gaps and advancing the agenda for Madhes issues. The next meeting is expected to solidify the framework for collaboration.

Madhes-Centric parties push for unity to address regional issues

Kathmandu: A parliamentary sub-committee under the Law, Justice, and Human Rights Committee of Nepal's House of Representatives has proposed reducing the legal marriage age from 20 to 18 years. The recommendation, which has sparked a nationwide debate, stems from findings highlighting a disconnect between existing laws and societal practices in rural areas.



The sub-committee's report is based on a study conducted in Madhesh, Lumbini, and Sudurpaschim Provinces. It notes that strict enforcement of the Civil Code, 2074 BS—which sets the legal marriage age at 20—has led to unintended consequences. These include criminal charges such as rape or kidnapping filed against young couples who live together consensually but are below the legal marriage age.



The report suggests that lowering the legal age to 18 would address these legal complexities while aligning with the social realities of rural Nepal. 



However, the proposal has drawn criticism from child rights advocates, who warn that it could undermine efforts to combat child marriage. They argue that lowering the legal age might encourage early unions, putting adolescents at risk of health, education, and social disadvantages.



The sub-committee has also called for clearer legal definitions of consent and criminal offenses to address cases where consensual relationships later lead to accusations of rape or other serious crimes. The debate now awaits further discussion in Parliament.

Lawmakers proposes lowering Nepal’s legal marriage age to 18

Kathmandu: The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie, are scheduled to visit Nepal next month as part of their first international tour of 2025. According to the British Royal Family's official website, the royal couple will arrive in Kathmandu on February 4 for a five-day state visit following Prince Edward’s stop in India, where he will attend an event in his capacity as chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation.



A highlight of their visit will be their presence at the attestation parade for new Gurkha recruits at the British Gurkha Camp in Pokhara on February 7. During their time in Pokhara, they will meet with Gurkha recruits and their families. The Gurkhas, who have served in the British Army for over 200 years, are celebrated for their bravery and have been deployed in various countries, including Cyprus, Germany, Japan, and Australia.



The Duke and Duchess will also engage with high-level Nepali government officials and families of Gurkha veterans, inspect UK-funded development projects, and partake in activities showcasing Nepal’s natural beauty. Plans are underway for the couple to enjoy a mountain flight in the Everest region and trek in the Annapurna foothills, particularly around Ghandruk.



The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the visit, emphasizing the historical ties between the UK and Nepal. “Such high-level visits underscore the importance of the enduring relationship between the two nations,” a MoFA official stated. The detailed itinerary will be finalized in coordination with the British Embassy in Kathmandu.



This visit continues a legacy of royal engagement with Nepal. Prince Harry visited Nepal in 2016, while Prince Philip made a trip in 2000, reinforcing the longstanding bond between the British monarchy and the people of Nepal.

Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh set to visit Nepal in February

Kathmandu: Nepal Government has called on Qatar and Egypt to help secure the release of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who is being held hostage by the Hamas group.



Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba made the appeal to both countries’ ambassadors in Nepal following reports that Hamas plans to release 34 hostages, including women, children, and the elderly.



Minister Deuba urged the governments of Qatar and Egypt—who are mediating with Hamas—to take immediate action. Deuba also contacted Qatar's Ambassador Mishal Mohammad Ali Al-Ansari, who said he would discuss the matter with Qatar’s foreign minister.



The government continues its diplomatic efforts, having also raised the issue with Israel’s ambassador.



Bipin Joshi was taken hostage during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, which killed over 1,000 people, including 10 Nepali nationals.

Nepal urges Qatar and Egypt for action on release of Nepali hostage deld by Hamas

Kathmandu: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has made the submission of a national identity card (National ID) mandatory for individuals wishing to open bank accounts, effective from January 14, 2025. This directive is part of an amended unified regulation aimed at enhancing financial security and customer verification processes.



According to a circular issued by NRB on Thursday, banks and financial institutions (BFIs) are now required to use the National ID or Nepali citizenship certificate details from the electronic record system when opening new accounts. The central bank has emphasized that BFIs may utilize electronic means to verify customers' identities in line with existing regulations, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering and fraud prevention standards.



However, the National ID requirement does not apply to individuals receiving payments under the government’s social security scheme. In such cases, while the ID is not necessary for account opening, BFIs must still verify the customer’s identity when funds are withdrawn.



NRB has also specified that BFIs must verify the authenticity of mobile numbers registered with bank accounts to confirm they belong to the account holder. Additionally, banks must monitor financial transactions linked to individuals, groups, or organizations flagged by the Ministry of Home Affairs. If any transactions involve suspicious entities, the accounts must be frozen, and the NRB’s Money Laundering Prevention Supervision Division must be notified within three days.



Furthermore, the NRB has instructed BFIs to maintain detailed records for government high-ranking officials and individuals linked to international organizations. These records should be preserved for up to 10 years after the officials' retirement to track any post-retirement financial activity and associations. BFIs are also required to categorize customers based on their risk profiles, particularly those associated with corruption, tax evasion, human trafficking, and other illicit activities.



The central bank has emphasized that transactions involving high-risk individuals, including real estate traders, casino entrepreneurs, and cooperative accounts, should be closely monitored. Any suspicious transactions must be reported to NRB’s Financial Information Unit. Banks and financial institutions are also instructed to establish separate units to oversee and monitor such financial activities.

NRB mandates National ID for opening bank accounts

Kathmandu: Nepal’s passport ranks 101st in the Henley Passport Index for the first half of 2025, granting holders visa-free access to just 39 countries. This positions Nepal among nations with weaker passports compared to global leaders such as Singapore, whose passport remains the world’s most powerful, offering visa-free access to 195 countries.



The Henley Passport Index, a global ranking of passports based on their visa-free access, highlights Singapore’s passport at the top, followed by Japan in second place with access to 193 countries. South Korea, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Finland share the third position, with their passports offering visa-free entry to 192 countries.



In comparison, South Asian passports remain relatively weak. Nepal’s passport, ranked 101st, trails behind Bhutan (90th) and India (85th), which grants its citizens visa-free access to 57 countries. However, India’s ranking has dropped by five places since the previous year.



Notably, Pakistan holds the 103rd position, granting visa-free access to only 33 countries. Other countries with weaker passports than Pakistan include Iraq (104th), Syria (105th), and Afghanistan (106th). Meanwhile, Somalia and Palestine rank above Pakistan, with Somalia’s passport placed at 102nd.



Countries such as Nepal and Pakistan continue to struggle with passport strength, highlighting the challenges faced by citizens from these regions in terms of international travel opportunities.

Nepal’s passport ranks 101st in Henley Passport Index for 2025

Kathmandu: An earthquake with its epicenter in Shigatse, Tibet, China, caused minor damage in parts of Nepal. Tremors were felt across Kathmandu Valley as well as eastern and central Nepal.



While the earthquake did not cause significant destruction, the Ministry of Home Affairs reported minor damage in some areas. According to the Provincial Police Office in Biratnagar, six houses were damaged in Solukhumbu, Sankhuwasabha, Okhaldhunga, and Taplejung districts.



In Kathmandu's Syuchatar, one individual was injured after jumping from the roof of a house during the tremors. Additionally, in Kalaiya Sub-Metropolitan City Ward No. 1, 11 students from grades 7 and 8 at Tri-Chandra Secondary School fainted. They were treated for minor injuries and have since returned home.



The police are still gathering detailed information on the damage caused by the quake.



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