Kathmandu: Nepal and Thailand signed six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) today, strengthening ties in trade, tourism, education, and cultural cooperation during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s official visit to Thailand.



The agreements include two MoUs at the government level and four from non-government entities. Before the signing, Prime Minister Oli met with his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to discuss political relations, trade, aviation, tourism, and regional cooperation.



Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba and Thailand’s Minister for Culture, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, signed an MoU promoting cultural cooperation, while another agreement on tourism collaboration was inked between Dr. Deuba and Thailand’s Minister for Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong.



Among the private sector agreements, Nepal Netra Jyoti Sangh partnered with Thailand’s Mahidol University, and Janata Agro and Forestry Nepal (JFL) signed an MoU with Kasetsart University. The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry also reached an agreement with Thailand’s Board of Trade, while Kathmandu University partnered with Siam University.



Additionally, the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) signed an MoU with the Federation of Thai Industries, and the Nepal Chamber of Commerce formalized cooperation with the Tourism Council of Thailand.



The MoUs aim to expand bilateral collaboration in education, trade, and industry, reinforcing Nepal-Thailand ties.

Nepal, Thailand sign six MoUs to boost bilateral cooperation

Kathmandu: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has decided to provide Rs 1 million each to the families of two individuals killed during the pro-monarchy protest in Tinkune on March 28.



Protester Sabin Maharjan was shot dead by police during the demonstration, while journalist Suresh Rajak lost his life in a fire that broke out as he covered the event. A source at MoHA confirmed that the government has already recommended the Ministry of Finance to release the funds.



Meanwhile, the Home Ministry has directed the Police Headquarters to enhance security measures for journalists. The police have started implementing necessary steps in response.



The protest, organized by pro-monarchy groups, turned violent, prompting police intervention. Authorities have yet to release a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Govt to compensate families of Tinkune protest victims

Kathmandu: The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) called on the Nepal government to implement clear laws and provide proper citizenship provisions to encourage investment in the country. Speaking at the 16th Europe Regional Conference in Malta, NRNA members emphasized the need for political stability and a more favorable investment environment.



During a meeting with Nepal's Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhattarai, the association urged the government to address the challenges hindering investment. Bhattarai acknowledged the need for policy reforms and announced that, in the future, industries could be registered online from abroad.



Meanwhile, internal disputes within the NRNA escalated as the high-level committee, led by Shesh Ghale, distanced itself from Badri KC's group, claiming it obstructs their work. The committee confirmed the unification convention would take place in Kathmandu from May 3 to 5, 2025, warning that failure to update the organization by May 18, 2025, could lead to its dissolution.

NRNA urges Nepal govt to improve investment climate

Kathmandu: Authorities have initiated a statewide manhunt for Durga Prasai, the leader of the pro-monarchy procession in Tinkune on Friday, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left several others injured. Prasai, who fled the scene following the chaos, is currently in hiding as authorities ramp up efforts to apprehend him.



As of now, 17 people have been arrested in connection with the violence, including several political figures and suspected associates of Prasai. Among those detained are prominent members of the Rastriya Prajantra Party (RPP), including Senior Vice Chairman Rabindra Mishra, General Secretary Dr. Dhawal Shamsher JBR, and activist Swagat Nepal.



The unrest erupted during the procession, leading to clashes that escalated into violence, prompting a swift government response. Authorities are working to track down Prasai and any remaining individuals involved in the deadly incident.

Statewide manhunt launched for pro-monarchy leader after fatal Tinkune violence

Kathmandu: Kathmandu is bracing for heightened tensions on Friday as two opposing groups prepare for simultaneous protests. Monarchist demonstrators, led by the Monarchy Restoration Joint People’s Movement Committee, are calling for the restoration of the monarchy, following former King Gyanendra Shah’s video message on Democracy Day. The protest will take place in Tinkune.



In response, the Socialist Front, including the CPN (Maoist Center) and CPN (Unified Socialist), will rally in defense of the republic system. Their protests will start at various locations around the capital, culminating in a rally at Exhibition Road.



Police have increased security, with over 3,000 officers deployed to maintain order. The District Security Committee has designated separate protest sites to prevent clashes. Both groups claim they will bring over 100,000 participants to the streets.

Tension rises in Kathmandu as monarchist and republican groups plan rival protests

Kathmandu: Nepal’s population is projected to reach 33.5 million by 2108, an increase of 4.3 million from the current 29.2 million, according to the National Statistics Office (NSO). The projection is based on thematic reports from the 2021 census, which indicate a declining population growth rate.



NSO estimates the annual growth rate will fall from 1.94% to between 0.35% and 0.55% over the next 30 years due to lower fertility rates. The total fertility rate has dropped to 1.72, below the replacement level, with more young people delaying marriage and opting for fewer children.



The report also highlights shifting demographics, with an increasing elderly population and a decline in the working-age group due to migration. The absent population, primarily young men, is expected to rise from 1.82 million to 2.5 million by 2108.



Meanwhile, life expectancy is projected to improve, reaching 77 years, though men’s life expectancy will remain lower than women’s. Officials stress that the findings will help guide policy, particularly in health, migration, and economic planning.

Nepal’s population to reach 33.5 million by 2108: NSO Report

Kathmandu: The government is considering two potential changes to the legal marriage age as part of an amendment to the Child Act, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak said on Sunday.



During a discussion in the Law, Justice, and Human Rights Committee of the House of Representatives, Minister Lekhak stated that the Cabinet is reviewing an amendment bill that could either lower the marriage age to 18 or introduce the ‘Romeo-Juliet’ model.



The proposed model would permit consensual physical relationships between individuals aged 16 to 18 without being classified as statutory rape, provided certain conditions are met.



Lekhak cited international references for both approaches but stressed the need for careful deliberation before any decision is made. He urged lawmakers to provide further input on the matter.

Nepal govt considers lowering marriage age, introducing ‘Romeo-Juliet’ model

Kathmandu: Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba, has called on the Ukrainian government to release seven Nepali nationals currently being held captive by the Ukrainian military. Minister Rana made this appeal during a meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, India.



According to Minister Rana’s Secretariat, the issue was raised after reports indicated that the seven Nepali citizens are being held as prisoners of war by Ukrainian forces. She clarified that Nepal does not allow its citizens to enlist in foreign armies, including the Russian military, and emphasized that these individuals had been trafficked and forcibly recruited by human traffickers into the Russian army without the consent or knowledge of the Nepali government. Minister Rana explained that these individuals were taken from remote regions of Nepal.



In response, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha assured that the necessary legal procedures would be completed, and the individuals would be released shortly.



In addition to the plea for the release of the Nepali nationals, Minister Rana also sought Ukraine's support for Nepal’s candidacy for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term 2027–2029.



The two ministers also signed an agreement allowing visa-free entry for holders of official and diplomatic passports between Nepal and Ukraine, further strengthening bilateral ties.

Nepal urges Ukraine to release 7 Nepali nationals held captive by military

Kathmandu: The government has introduced exemptions allowing children, persons with disabilities, the helpless, and citizens above 90 years of age to access essential services even without a national identity card.



Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak announced the decision during a House of Representatives meeting on Monday, stating that the move aims to prevent barriers in service access for vulnerable groups.



The government had recently mandated the use of a national identity card for all public services.



The policy, enforced in phases since July 16, 2024, initially applied to social security allowance renewals in 28 districts, later expanding to 38 more districts in January 2025. From July 17, 2025, the requirement will cover all 77 districts.



Despite the nationwide mandate, Minister Lekhak emphasized that the exemption ensures no citizen is deprived of essential services due to the lack of a national identity card.

Nepal govt eases NID requirement for vulnerable groups

Kathmandu: Police have arrested a 25-year-old man on charges of raping an eight-year-old girl in Baijanath Rural Municipality-8, Pipiri.



According to the Area Police Office, Dhanauli, Nim Bahadur BK was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon after a complaint was filed alleging that he had assaulted the minor on Saturday evening.



The victim was reportedly threatened before the crime was committed.



Authorities said an investigation is ongoing, and further legal action will be taken based on the findings.

Man arrested for raping 8-year-old in Banke

Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has announced that it will host the Sagarmatha Dialogue from May 15 to 17, inviting more than 350 representatives from various countries to participate in discussions on climate change and environmental sustainability.



Foreign Secretary Amrit Rai stated that over 150 guests are expected to attend the event. Invitations have been extended through Nepalese embassies abroad and the respective embassies of invited nations in Nepal.



Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal emphasized Nepal’s commitment to leading discussions on Himalayan issues, particularly the impact of climate change. He highlighted that the dialogue would serve as a platform to address climate-induced losses and damages, reinforcing Nepal’s advocacy for global climate action.



The event will feature discussions on pressing environmental concerns. The first day will focus on glacier conservation and the immediate actions required. There will also be discussions on connecting island nations with high-altitude regions and strategies for food security, agricultural revitalization, and community-led initiatives in mountainous areas.



The second day will center on climate-related disasters, risk mitigation, and recovery efforts. Experts will present monitoring strategies, achievements, and approaches to reducing the impact of environmental degradation in the Himalayas.



On the final day, participants will have the opportunity to take an aerial tour of the Everest region to gain firsthand insight into the environmental changes affecting the world’s highest peak.



Chief Secretary Aryal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making the Sagarmatha Dialogue a high-priority initiative, reflecting Nepal’s leadership in addressing global climate challenges.

Nepal to host Sagarmatha Dialogue with over 350 international invitees

Kathmandu: The Ministry of Health and Population has signed an agreement with the Nepal Eye Program Tilganga Institute to enhance access to eye care services for Nepali citizens.



The agreement was formalized in the presence of Health Minister Pradeep Paudel and Tilganga’s Executive Director, renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Sanduk Ruit. As per the agreement, the ministry will support the expansion of Tilganga’s services and capacity, while the institute will provide its locally produced lenses at a 10% discount for citizens in remote areas and at further reduced rates for others.



Tilganga’s lenses, recognized for their high quality, are exported to multiple countries. With this agreement, these lenses will now be made available to Nepali citizens at subsidized prices. Additionally, the institute will focus on training specialized eye care professionals and expanding services to rural areas to combat blindness.



The agreement also includes provisions for coordination with provincial and local governments to ensure the effective implementation of eye care programs. The ministry has pledged to facilitate the import of raw materials and equipment necessary for cataract surgery lenses by providing customs and value-added tax exemptions in accordance with existing laws.



Furthermore, the ministry will assist in enhancing the technical skills of healthcare workers at hospitals where Tilganga operates eye care programs. Speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Minister Paudel acknowledged Dr. Ruit’s contributions to Nepal’s eye care sector and emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting his work.



“Dr. Ruit has earned global recognition for his work in eye care,” said Minister Paudel. “His leadership has made Nepal a trusted name in lens production, and we are ready to extend further support in the coming days.”



Dr. Ruit, in response, praised Minister Paudel’s proactive approach to healthcare improvements and expressed Tilganga’s willingness to collaborate with the government. “We are prepared to work together. We seek support to compete at an international level,” he stated.

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