Lalitpur: A new study has revealed that 85 percent of Nepali parents have never discussed online sexual exploitation and abuse with their children, raising concerns about the level of awareness and preparedness among families in protecting children in the digital space.



The research, conducted by ChildSafeNet, was formally launched at an event in Lalitpur. Titled “Enhancing the Role of Parents in Protecting Children from Online Sexual Exploitation and Abuse in Nepal,” the study was unveiled jointly by Indra Devi Dhakal, Member-Secretary of the National Child Rights Council, and Anil Raghuvanshi, Founder and Chairperson of ChildSafeNet.



Speaking at the event, Dhakal emphasized the growing risks children face due to increased online access and rapid technological development, stressing the crucial role of parents in ensuring children's safety. She commended ChildSafeNet’s leadership in addressing such a sensitive and pressing issue.



The study was carried out in Kathmandu and Lalitpur districts using a mixed-methods approach, including a survey of 900 parents of children aged 6 to 17, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews with parents, children, experts, and stakeholders. The research was supported by the Safe Online Fund and the Tech Coalition.



Lead researcher and primary author Anil Raghuvanshi said the study examined parents’ understanding, attitudes, and behaviors in keeping their children safe from online sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA). It also captured the experiences of single parents, caregivers of children with disabilities, and others in vulnerable situations.



“While many parents expressed concern about online risks, they also reported lacking the knowledge, information, and support needed to protect their children effectively,” Raghuvanshi said.



Tulsa Khadka, co-author of the report, highlighted that even though many children do not own mobile devices, they frequently use the internet through family members’ phones. “Forty-five percent of children use their own devices, while 34 percent have their own social media accounts. Around 29 percent use family members' accounts, with most accessing their mother’s account,” she said.



The study found that most parents were unaware of their children’s online activities, leaving them vulnerable to adult content, online grooming, and other risks. Additionally, many parents had limited understanding of issues such as online grooming, child sexual abuse, and exposure to explicit content.



Sulav Ratna Bajracharya, another co-author, noted that 85 percent of parents had never spoken to their children about CSEA. Reasons included discomfort, lack of information, and the belief that such discussions were not age-appropriate. The research also shed light on discrimination faced by queer children, including hatred and abuse from within their own families.



The study also included parental suggestions for digital safety education and technical solutions. Seventy-three percent of parents had never used any parental control tools, while 70 percent said they preferred in-person awareness sessions led by cyber safety experts. Additionally, 31 percent favored tools such as videos, apps, online courses, websites, and printed materials like brochures and booklets.



At the launch event, parenting educator Disu Bhandari Manandhar and pediatric surgeon Dr. Nrupesh Rajbhandari engaged in a fireside chat to discuss how parents can play a more active and informed role in protecting children from online sexual harm.

Majority of Nepali parents never discuss online sexual exploitation with their children: Study

Kathmandu: The Patan High Court has issued a directive ordering the government to lift restrictions on the import and sale of electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vapes.



A Division Bench comprising Justices Kabi Prasad Neupane and Hemant Rawal delivered the verdict in response to a writ petition filed by Vape Mandu Traders against multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, the Department of Customs, and the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection.



The court’s ruling effectively paves the way for the resumption of vape imports and sales in Nepal, reversing a de facto ban imposed by government agencies in recent months.



The ban originated from a circular issued by the National Health Education, Information and Communication Center under the Ministry of Health and Population. Citing Sub-rule 3 of Rule 28 of the Tobacco Products Control and Regulation Directive, 2015, the circular instructed relevant authorities to prohibit the production, import, distribution, public consumption, and advertisement of electronic cigarettes.



Following the circular, customs offices began halting the clearance of imported vapes, disrupting the vape trade nationwide.



However, the High Court ruled that the government's actions lacked sufficient legal grounds to justify a blanket ban. The verdict now requires the concerned government offices to resume processing vape imports and to cease enforcement of the restrictions.



Government data reveals a growing market for electronic cigarettes in Nepal. In the fiscal year 2023/24, customs revenue from vape-related imports exceeded Rs 230 million, underscoring the sector’s expanding commercial footprint.



The decision is expected to have wide-reaching implications for public health policy and regulatory enforcement, as well as for businesses engaged in the vape trade.

Patan High Court overturns government ban on vapes

Kaski: The Supreme Court has asked the Gandaki Provincial Government not to suspend the enforcement of the ‘Ride Sharing’ regulations. Responding to a writ petition filed against the provincial government’s decision to suspend the implementation of the Ride Sharing regulations, the court issued an order in the name of the provincial government to not implement its decision to suspend the regulations for a month. The division bench of Supreme Court Justices Til Prasad Shrestha and Mahesh Sharma Poudel handed down the order on Tuesday. This has paved the way for implementation of the Ride Sharing Regulations in the Province, Chief Attorney of the Gandaki Provincial Government, Chiranjivi Sharma said. It may be noted that the Ride Sharing (Regulation and Management) Regulations-2082 was introduced by the Province Government and published it in the Provincial Gazette on May 13. But the Federation of Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs staged a nationwide public transport strike against the Regulations, following which the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers wrote to the Gandaki Provincial Government to suspend the implementation of the Regulations. Accordingly, the provincial government decided to suspend the regulations for one month on June 3.

Supreme Court orders not to suspend Ride Sharing regulations

Kathmandu: Cimex Inc. Pvt. Ltd., the authorized distributor of BYD in Nepal, has officially launched the 2025 edition of the BYD Dolphin electric hatchback, introducing significant upgrades, including the industry-first Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Low Voltage Battery (LVB), aimed at enhancing durability, performance, and sustainability.



Replacing the conventional lead-acid battery, the new LFP LVB is six times lighter, offers five times lower self-discharge, and boasts a lifespan of up to 15 years. It comes with a warranty of six years or 150,000 kilometers, according to the company.



Built on the BYD e-Platform 3.0 and featuring the company’s signature Blade Battery technology, the Dolphin 2025 delivers a WLTP-certified range of 340 kilometers. The vehicle supports DC fast charging, allowing it to charge up to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.



The 2025 model also features several performance and convenience upgrades. These include sport-tuned suspension for improved handling, brighter LED headlights, an enhanced air conditioning system, and advanced access features like Mobile Phone NFC Key, Bluetooth Key, and a Passenger Door Switch. A new color variant, Atlantis Grey, has been added to the existing palette, which now includes Urban Grey and Ski White.



Despite the upgrades, the price of the BYD Dolphin 2025 remains competitive at Rs 41.15 lakh, inclusive of a 7kW home charger.



During the launch event, Cimex shared that the BYD Dolphin has achieved global deliveries of 830,000 units, with 2,490 units sold in Nepal alone, making it the country’s best-selling electric hatchback.



Cimex Managing Director Yamuna Shrestha stated that the launch represents the company’s continued commitment to sustainable mobility. “The BYD Dolphin 2025 is not just an upgrade in features — it represents our continued pursuit of excellence in driving a greener future for Nepal,” she said.



Sahil Shrestha, CEO of Cimex Inc., emphasized the vehicle’s role in promoting an electric lifestyle. “With every launch, we're creating a stronger ecosystem that promotes domestic energy use, zero emissions, and a refined customer experience from showroom to service,” he said.



The BYD Dolphin 2025 is now available for test drives and bookings at BYD showrooms and dealerships across Nepal.

BYD Dolphin 2025 launched in Nepal with major upgrades and new technology

Kathmandu: The Chairman of the National Assembly (NA), the upper house of the Federal Parliament, Narayan Prasad Dahal, has said that the state should take the initiative for the development of entrepreneurship based on science and technology.



Addressing the youth scientist conference organized by the National Youth Council in Lalitpur today, he emphasized the need for a clear state policy, adequate investment, a system of cooperation, and infrastructure development for the promotion of entrepreneurship based on scientific research and technology.



"Nepal is unable to achieve significant success at the international level in the field of scientific research and innovation due to the lack of conducive research structures and infrastructure, insufficient government investment, and the absence of a system to transform innovations into businesses; thus, the state must take these issues seriously," he said.



He stressed on the need to utilize the creative plans, skills, and capabilities present in the youth for nation-building.



The National Assembly Chair emphasized the need to build a clear legal framework for research grants, innovation funds, strengthening technical education, and protecting intellectual property rights.



He expressed his commitment to take the initiative to make science and technology-related laws youth-friendly.



NA Chair Dahal expressed confidence that the bills, including the Information Technology and Cyber Security Bill, the Social Media Bill, the National Forensic Science Laboratory Bill, and the Media Council Bill, are currently under discussion in the federal parliament and will be passed soon.



The conference organized in collaboration with the National Youth Council, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Robotics Association of Nepal, among other organisations, had participation from young scientists, researchers, and youth innovating in technology.



The Executive Vice President of the National Youth Council, Surendra Basnet, said that the conference will include an exhibition of innovative technologies along with a programme for exchanging ideas on various scientific topics by the experts.

NA Chair stresses on entrepreneurship based on science and technology

Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has said that collaboration between all three levels of government is necessary for the development of the information technology sector.



At a program held to review the National Information and Communication Technology Day-2082 at the ministry today, Minister Gurung emphasized that the development of information technology should be expanded up to the local level.



The government should celebrate IT Day as a festival and introduce programs to attract and encourage the younger generation towards it, he said. Also the spokesperson of the Government, Minister Gurung shared that the government is in the final stage of drafting the Digital Nepal Framework.



“The government is ready to build necessary infrastructure for the development of the IT sector and is looking forward to support from the private sector towards that end,” he said.



Communications Secretary Radhika Aryal said that the ministry has allocated funds for IT internships to encourage youth in the IT sector.

Inter-tier collaboration necessary for development of IT sector: Minister Gurung

Kathmandu: On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, Huawei Nepal, in collaboration with GadiCharge Pvt. Ltd. and Nepal Ekarat Engineering Company (NEEK), officially launched its FusionCharge smart EV charging network. The initiative marks a significant step in promoting green mobility and sustainable energy infrastructure across Nepal.



The first FusionCharge station was inaugurated in Hetauda by Honorable Chief Minister of Bagmati Province, Bahadur Singh Lama. This station is the first of a planned network of nine smart EV charging stations to be established across the country by the end of 2025. The goal is to lay the foundation for a cleaner, smarter, and future-ready transportation system in Nepal.



FusionCharge is Huawei’s next-generation electric vehicle (EV) charging solution that integrates solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with energy storage systems (ESS). It features liquid-cooled, modular architecture and multi-level power pooling, supporting ultra-fast charging up to 500 kW. The system is designed to be safe, efficient, and scalable, capable of serving everything from private vehicles to large public transport fleets.



In addition to speed and compatibility, FusionCharge offers grid-friendly charging, intelligent energy management, and a quiet operation under 50 dB. The stations are built to endure extreme weather, ranging from -35°C to 45°C, and are designed with a lifespan of over 10 years. With features like OTA updates, reactive power control, and virtual power plant (VPP) readiness, the system enables advanced energy models such as peak shaving and time-of-use optimization.



Huawei Nepal emphasized that this initiative reflects its long-term commitment to digital empowerment and environmental sustainability. Established in Nepal in 1999, Huawei has worked to expand digital inclusion and infrastructure while contributing to job creation and economic development.



The launch of FusionCharge is set to play a crucial role in supporting Nepal’s transition to electric vehicles and a greener energy future.

Huawei Nepal launches smart EV charging network

Kathmandu: The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) today filed cases at the Special Court against 18 individuals, including Nepal Telecom's the then Managing Director Sunil Poudel and then Chief Business Officer (incumbent Managing Director) Sangeeta Pahadi.



CIAA spokesperson Rajendra Kumar Poudel said that a case has been filed against them alleging of irregularities in the billing of services including Nepal Telecom's GSM mobile, fiber internet, leased line, wire line, and wireless due to the illegal purchase and sales. The CIAA has argued that there was bad faith in the purchase of related equipment and also the misappropriation of public assets.



The CIAA filed a case against the then Managing Director of Telecom Sunil Poudel, Managing Director Pahadi, then Chief Technical Officer Pratibha Shrestha, and Financial Officer Rajendra Shrestha, claiming recouping Rs 334 million 817 thousand 430 from them all.



Similarly, a case has been filed against the then Chief Operating Officer Jhabindra Lal Upadhyay, then Director Binita Shrestha, Acting Director Amul Pradhan, Manager Devendra Khatiwada, Deputy Manager Rajiv Kumar KC, Santosh Kumar Shrestha, Nawal Chaudhary, Mukti Prasad Aryal, Hemprabha Rampratap Karna, and Paramatma Bhattarai, claiming recouping Rs 334 million 817 thousand 430 from them all.



The Commission has stated that a claim for compensation amounting to Rs 334 million 817 thousand 430 has been made against three Chinese companies supplying goods and their representatives based in Nepal.



The CIAA claimed that a five-year agreement had been reached for an integrated billing system with the aim of causing losses to public corporation through mutual collusion.



The Commission's spokesperson Poudel informed that a lawsuit has been filed today demanding action according to the loss and damages caused to Nepal Telecom.

CIAA files cases against 18 people including Nepal Telecom then MD

Kathmandu: The Gandaki Province government has suspended its newly introduced Ride-Sharing Regulation 2082 BS for a month following pressure from transport entrepreneurs, who had launched a nationwide strike earlier this week. The move led to the immediate resumption of public transport services across the country.



The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Tuesday directed the provincial government to halt implementation of the regulation, citing public inconvenience. Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey and the provincial negotiation committee agreed to suspend the regulation and initiate further dialogue with transport stakeholders.



The regulation, which allowed various vehicles to provide ride-sharing services under an online system, had sparked protests from transport entrepreneurs, who demanded its immediate repeal.

Gandaki Province suspends ride-sharing regulation after nationwide transport strike

Kathmandu: The density of internet users has reached 144.23 per cent. As per the Economic Survey presented by Finance Minister, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, the population of internet users reached 144.23 per cent till the end of Falgun, 2081 (March 13, 2025).



"The access of information technology has reached in general areas and governance system is being expanded at three-tier governments. The access of broadband internet services has been expanded at 6,566 ward centres of local levels," Finance Minister Paudel mentioned.



Similarly, 72.0 per cent households have access to digital television, reads the survey.

Population of internet users reaches 144.23 per cent

Kathmandu: With the government actively preparing the new fiscal year's budget, a surge of electric vehicles (EVs) has entered Nepal. Fears that taxes on EVs might increase in the upcoming budget—set to be announced on Jestha 15 (May 28)—have led importers to bring in large numbers of vehicles in advance. As a result, the parking area of the Chobhar Dry Port is now filled with EVs.



Most electric vehicles in Nepal are imported from China. Along with Chobhar, Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi customs points have also seen a heavy influx of EVs. The customs yard in Tatopani alone currently holds over 900 EVs, while Rasuwagadhi has received around 600.



According to the Department of Customs, by the end of the month of Chaitra, Nepal had imported 7,967 electric vehicles, out of which 5,889 came from China.



Importers fear that these rates may rise further in the upcoming budget, leading to the current rush in vehicle imports.

Massive influx of electric vehicles amid fears of tax hike in upcoming budget

Kathmandu: The Gandaki Province government has legalized the ride-sharing services to operate in the province. From now onwards, the private four-wheeler and two-wheeler vehicles can offer ride-sharing services by fulfilling all required process including insuring the passenger.



Province's Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transportation Prakash Bahadur KC shared that ride-sharing service was formally recognized after the meeting of the Province Government, Council of Ministers endorsed the law related to the vehicle and transport management.



The Council of Ministers meeting convened on last Tuesday had endorsed the Vehicle and Transportation Management Regulation-2080 BS. The regulation will be enforced very soon, assured Minister KC.



The Supreme Court earlier had ruled that the ride-sharing services could be run within the legal framework in considering of the consumer rights and their labour and employment issues.



The regulation brought forward after extensive discussions with stakeholders and preparation will legalize the service as well as regulate it, said Minister KC.



According to him, the ride-sharing service has been legalized within the Province by putting in place legal framework as, he added, transportation management falls under the jurisdiction of the province government. At present, various ride-sharing services like In-Drive, Sajilo, Taximandu and Pathao are operating in Nepal.

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