- Tuesday, 19 November 2024
Bhaktapur, April 5: This year’s School Education Exam (SEE) towards regular stream concluded on Friday, while of technical stream is continuous.
According to the National Examination Board, the exams were held from March 28 to April 5. The SEE towards a general stream concluded on Friday, according to Controller Nanda Lal Paudel of the Office of the Controller of Examinations, Grade 10.
The exams were held peacefully except for some sporadic incidents. The exams were commenced simultaneously in 2,064 centres across the country and exams for grade improvement (old course) towards a technical stream are to continue till April 9.
Around 100 students, six superintends and 16 invigilators were expelled for violating the examination code of conduct.
A total of 504,414 students from 10,806 schools had filled up the registration forms for SEE-2080 BS and among them, 250,772 are girls, 253,627 are boys and 15 are others. Among the total students, 15,749 from 506 schools belong to the technical stream.
According to the Controller of Examinations, students are required to obtain a minimum of 35 in theory and 40 in practical in each subject. It means 35 in each 100-mark subject and 27 in 75 full marks are needed to be upgraded and eligible for getting enrolled in class eleven. A student getting below 35 in two subjects is allowed to sit for the grade improvement exam next year.
The opportunity to participate in the grade improvement exams will be given three times.
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Curfew clamped in five local levels of Sunsari
Inaruwa, April 5: A curfew order has been issued for five local levels in Sunsari district. According to the notice issued by the District Administration Office, Sunsari, the order effective from 5:00 pm on Friday is for the Inaruwa municipality and Harinagar, Devgunj, Jhokraha Narsingh, and Koshi rural municipalities.
The curfew is ordered in accordance with Clause 6 (A) of the Local Administration Act, 2028 BS, bearing in mind the security sensitivity and possible loss of lives and properties. It is to remain in effect until next notice.
The implementation of curfew follows a tension due to a clash between two local communities, it is said.
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New political equation remains intact: Chair Oli
Syangja, April 5: CPN UML Chair KP Sharma Oli has pledged to keep the existing ruling equation consolidated.
In his address to the Ninth District Convention of CPN UML, Syangja on Friday, he claimed the existing coalition would remain intact. He took time to question the foundation of the previous alliance, which as he argued, collapsed due to its weakness.
The new coalition aims to bring political stability and end anarchy in the nation, he said
As he claimed, the party will keep fighting against corruption to build good governance.
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NA members for safe loan release
Kathmandu, April 5: The members of the National Assembly have advocated for safe and easy release of loan.
During a discussion on the ‘Bill to Amend Safe Transactions Act, 2063’ held on Friday, President of the Legislation Management Committee, Jayanti Devi Rai, suggested amendment in the bill so that loan release could be made easier and safer.
“Lawmakers’ stress is on ensuring effective loan flow”, she said, viewing that policy arrangement should be in place for it.
Likewise, lawmaker Bhagawati Neupane has suggested amendment of the bill to ease multiple loans on the same mortgage.
Taking part in the discussion, lawmaker Kiran Babu Shrestha pointed out the need for developing a standard for mortgage assessment. In lawmaker Padam Pariyar’s view, new legal procedure was needed to guarantee marginalized communities’ easy access to loans.
On the occasion, financial expert Suman Acharya said financial transactions should be more secure in the changed context of economic activities which are influenced by globalization, liberalization and information technology impacts.
According to him, cereals and minerals could also be kept as collateral.
Meditation awakens life to essence: DPM Shrestha
Lumbini, Apr 5: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha has said meditation wakes us to essence of life. Meditation practice is inspirational for truth, justice, equality and progression, he stressed.
Addressing a programme organized on the occasion of the World Meditation Day at Mayadevi Temple here Friday, DPM Shrestha viewed meditation is such musing that prods us to shed off illusion and move towards truth, from darkness to light. It is a self-empowerment tool, he observed.
The DPM viewed Buddha and Buddhism are essential studies of peace.
He further argued that those involved in corruption and criminal activities can not engage with meditation.
On the occasion, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, said Nepal and China are linked not only with mountains and river but also with Buddha and Buddhism. Araniko and Bhrikuti are the pride not only of Nepalis but also of China, according to him.
A special message can be spread from Lumbini for peace and bliss to people living in the modern age. The fraternity and friendliness between Nepal and China helps spur tourism promotion in Lumbini, he added.
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Govt for innovative budget and policies: PM Dahal
Gorkha, April 5: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said the government had focused its attention on the preparations of the new budget and polices and programmes.
In his address to a press meet organised by district chapter of the Press Centre Nepal, Gorkha on Friday, the Prime Minister shared government’s preparations for presenting the budget adopting new approach. As he said, the government is switching to an advanced process to formulate the budget and polices and programmes.
The traditional approach will be discontinued, he said, pledging to give priority to productivity and job creations. The federal government will be responsible only for the projects above Rs 30 million. Projects below Rs 30 million will be handled by the province and local governments, PM Dahal shared.
As per government head, the government has implemented a new approach to promote good governance, prosperity and social justice. “The issues of victims of mismanagement of micro finances have been addressed through talks,” he argued.
The severe issues concerning usury have also been resolved and the government is at work to address problems relating to cooperatives.
Sharing the government’s success in reclaiming around 142 ropani of public land of Lalita Niwas, he said these are all the government measures for good governance. The government’s move against the fake Bhutanese refugees is another case reflecting the government’s commitment to fight corruption, he added. As he argued, the government’s response to the wide-body scam indicates that corrupts will be caught at any time.
PM Dahal also took time to say that the government had already instructed the bodies concerned to ensure a foundation stone laying ceremony for the Budhigandaki Hydro Power Project.
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Patan High Court orders to summon disputants on Sandeep Lamichhane’s case
Kathmandu, April 5: The Patan High Court has issued an order to summon disputants on the case of cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane. Lamichhane was earlier convicted in a rape case by the Kathmandu District Court (KDC).
A division bench of Chief Judge Nripadhwaj Niraula and Justice Krishna Ram Koirala issued the order in response to a writ filed at the court, demanding the overturning of KDC order.
The Kathmandu District Court had sentenced cricketer Lamichhane, who was found guilty in the rape case, to eight years in prison, a fine and compensation of Rs 500 thousand on January 10.
Lamichanne had reached the high court against the district court’s verdict. The High Court on Friday issued the order to summon both sides of case coming April 15.
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Coordination among sub-national govts strengthens federalism: Chief Minister Yadav
Dhanusha, Apr 5: Chief Minister of Madhes Province, Saroj Kumar Yadav, has said success of federalism depends on how effective the coordination is between province and local levels.
Addressing an interaction programme on ‘coordination and cooperation among sub-national governments’ in Janakpurdham on Friday, CM Yadav even though constitution envisages a three-level government it has lacked mention on coordination between the provincial and local levels. It has weakened federalism, he argued.
There is no option but to ensure robust coordination between the local and provincial governments to reinforce federalism. He further viewed federalism is essential more for Madhes, as it has empowered people in Madhes.
On the occasion, Chief Attorney of Madhes Province, Birendra Kumar Thakur, presented a working paper on the situation and challenges of law enforcement enacted by the Madhes government.
Programme Director of Nepal Law Society Mohan Lal Acharya presented a working paper on the state of coordination between the provinces and local levels. Representatives from local levels and other stakeholders were present in the programme.
The event was jointly organized by the Office of the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers, Madhes Province and the Nepal Law Society.
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Home Minister to address business community’s concern
Kathmandu, April 5: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Rabi Lamichhane, has said the concerns of locals and business community at Thamel and Durbar Marg areas would be addressed before deciding to open the areas round-the-clock.
During a meeting with stakeholders concerned at the Ministry on Friday, the Home Minister said the voices against the concept of opening the areas 24 hours would also be addressed before deciding on the issue. As he said, the rights of natives will be ensured if the plan is implemented.
He said, “It will be significantly different to open the areas for 24 hours informally and through an official decision.” According to him, preparations for opening the areas round the clock is for boosting local business and tourism. He also shared that the government was working on an ‘action plan’ to combat hooliganism reported at Thamel and other parts of the country.
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Govt committed to promote local media: Communications Minister
Palpa, April 5: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said the government was committed to promoting the local media.
Addressing the silver jubilee celebration of Community Radio Madanpokhara of Palpa on Friday, Minister Sharma said all three layers of government should work seriously for the physical and professional security of journalists and strengthening of the media houses.
“There is no lack of the media houses for instant dissemination of national and international news. But, only the community radio and local media houses can discharge the duty of presenting community people’s voices and aspirations in the local languages,” she added.
Stating that attraction of community radio will further increase, Minister Sharma suggested that the local media houses should be community-centric.
She argued that the local media have witnessed additional challenges due to rising number of the media houses and massive changes in the information technology and asked the local media to focus more on local contents.
Minister Sharma stressed that the local media should prioritize positive aspects of the society by doing away with the negativities.
On the occasion, she said that the province and local level governments should prioritize the local media in the dissemination and publication of the local advertisements by unveiling advertisement laws.
She, however, admitted that some confusions were seen for lack of federal laws for the systematizing the mass media sector and added that the government was preparing to preparer laws for this area.
“Media council bill is in the final stage for its registration in the federal parliament by its approval from the cabinet meeting,” Minister Sharma shared.
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‘Budget should address existing challenges of economy’
Kathmandu, April 5: Experts and stakeholders have suggested that the new budget should be unveiled in a way to troubleshoot the existing challenges of country’s economy.
Speakers at the Third National Economist’s Conference-2024 organized by National Economic Concern Society (NECS), Nepal, the speakers said the budget should be achievable and result-oriented.
Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives (HoR) Indira Rana viewed the budget should be brought by accepting feedback from all sectors after holding intensive discussions on principle and priorities of the appropriation bill. She argued that the government should bring the new budget by incorporating the aspirations of all regions, classes and communities.
Likewise, former Finance Minister and UML Vice Chairman Bishnu Prasad Poudel claimed that economy won’t improve until country’s political situation was stable. Poudel was of the view that country’s economy will come on track with the change in the political course and formation of the new government.
He stated that there will not be reform in economy until economic growth rate and added that investment should be upped to increase economic growth rate.
Similarly, Member of National Planning Commission Dr Ram Kumar Phuyal shared that the upcoming annual budget will be achievable and will align with the 16th periodic plan.
Deputy Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank Dr Nilam Dhungana stated that indicators of the economy have been positive and the inflation in the current fiscal year’s first eight months is 4.82 per cent against the government target to maintain it 6.5 per cent.
Remittance inflow, foreign exchange reserve and foreign direct investment have increased and the interest rate of the bank and financial institutions has sharply decreased, she said.
Also speaking at the event, Finance Minister Barsha Man Pun’s chief economic advisor Prof Dr Surya Bahadur Thapa said that the government was preparing to make the pro-people budget. Making the economy dynamic will be the objective of the new budget, he added.
Likewise, former Vice Chairman of National Planning Commission Deependra Bahadur Kshetri argued that the nihilistic sentiment on the country’s economy was unfortunate. Kshetri said enabling environment should be created to use the skills and capital gained by Nepali youths in the foreign countries within the country.
On the conference, former chief secretary and ambassador Leela Mani Paudyal stressed development of self-reliant and prosperous economy.
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Price of yellow metal decreases
Kathmandu, April 5: Price of the yellow metal, which had set a record on Thursday, has decreased today in the domestic market. It has decreased by Rs 1,300 per tola (11.66 grams).
According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of hallmark gold has been fixed at Rs 132,700 per tola today as against Rs 134,000 on Thursday.
Similarly, worked gold is being traded at Rs 132,050 per tola today. It was Rs 133,350 on Thursday. Likewise, the price of silver has slightly gone down. It is deceased by Rs 35 per tola and being traded at Rs 1,615.
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PM Dahal stresses on implementation of timely curriculum based on
innovation
Kathmandu, April 5: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has stressed on the need of developing and implementing timely curriculum based on innovation.
Addressing the 14th Senate Meeting of the Mid-West University, the PM called on the University to pay attention to restructuring the curriculum and the development of the physical and human resources.
“The guiding principles, policies and programmes adopted by the University for attaining educational excellence, economic growth, curriculum restructuring, international relations and exchanges, and infrastructure development are also praiseworthy,” he said, adding that adoption of the policy of conducting all the academic activities as per the pre-determined calendar is an aspect of reform.
The PM added that the government will extend support to the University in implementing its policy of reforming the existing examination system, and conducting the examinations and publishing the results as per the academic calendar.
On the occasion, he suggested the University accorded additional priority to all the academic programmes and curricula as per the changing world scenario, the national, regional and local development policies and approaches, and the demand of the labour market.
The Head of Government expressed the commitment for cooperation on behalf the government in formulation of the national policy and laws required for marketing, and sale and distribution of goods, services and information produced by the University’s various laboratories.
Stating on the need of formulating socialism-oriented educational policy, strategy and programme based on the principles of good governance and social justice as embodied by the republican state system stipulated in the Constitution, Prime Minister Dahal expressed the confidence that the University will play a positive role, encouraging the Nepali students to pursue higher studies within the country and supporting the country in attaining prosperity.
He further stressed on running academic and vocational programmes based on land, water, forest, herbs and human resources, taking into consideration the geographical, social and economic condition of the entire Nepal, particularly of Karnali province, in the agriculture and forestry sciences. The PM believed that various programmes and projects would be implemented synthesizing the modern and indigenous agricultural system and the knowledge skills.
He said the Mid-West University, which is established in Karnali province that is rich in terms of cultural diversity and natural resources but lags behind in terms of physical infrastructure development, industrialization and human development index, has made important contribution to the academic progress, physical development and the promotion of work system along with information technology in a short period of its establishment.
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President Paudel arrives in Tanahu
Damauli (Tanahu), April 5: President Ramchandra Paudel has arrived in his home district, Tanahu, today.
He arrived here to inaugurate the newly constructed building of Jana Jyoti Campus, Bhimad municipality-6 in Tanahu, and to grace its 16th anniversary and fifth convention.
A procession would be performed at the participation of different organisations, Ama Samuha (the mother’s group) and youth clubs at Bhimad bazaar. The foundation stone for the construction of the building was laid in 2073 BS and the building was completed in 2079 BS.
The convention would elect a new leadership of Campus Board of Directors.
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Over Rs 8 billion paid from Social Security Fund so far
Kathmandu, April 5: The Social Security Fund has so far paid over Rs 8 billion to the contributors under various facilities.
The Fund made payment worth Rs 8.48 billion to altogether 135,843 contributors as of last Thursday with highest payment made under the old age security scheme at over Rs 7.25 billion, according to the Fund.
Similarly, more than Rs 980 million was paid under the medical treatment, health and maternity scheme while Rs 110 million towards accident and disability security scheme and over Rs 130 million for dependent family protection scheme, informed Fund’s Spokesperson Bibek Panthi.
So far, 135,843 contributors have availed facilities under various schemes from the Fund, shared Spokesperson Panthi, adding that Rs 52.63 billion contribution has been collected in the Fund till date.
There are altogether 1,257,799 workers from various sectors such as formal, informal, foreign employment and self-employment, it was shared. The government has made it mandatory for the workers going abroad to register themselves in the Fund.A total of 18,819 employers are affiliated to the Fund.
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Forest fire started at different community forests of Myagdi still out of control
Galeshwor (Myagdi), April 5: A forest fire that spread at Bagarphant community forest at Beni municipality-2 in Myagdi district from Tuesday has not yet come under control.There is shortage of drinking water after the forest fire spread from surrounding areas of Udaino and Kopre waterfalls of Bagarphant village destroyed pipeline of Beni drinking water project and Bagarphant drinking water project.
Similarly, forest fire has destroyed hundreds of hectares of forest as well as wildlife, birds and forest fodders.
The fire has spread to nearby forests including Bagarphant of Beni-2, Lareni and Birkhani forests of Beni-3, said Top Bahadur Karki of Bagarphant.
He shared, “The fire is out of control. There is no possibility of bringing the forest fire under control from human efforts. The smoke has created problem to locals. It has spread up to lower settlement of Bhakimle of Beni-3.”
The locals of lower belt of Bhakimle have been requested to adopt precaution in view of risk of spreading forest fire at human settlement, said ward chairperson, Padam Bahadur Pun.
The forest fire has damaged small plants, trees as well as habitat of wildlife and birds. Though locals tried to douse the fire started at different community forests of Myagdi district, it was not successful in lack of resources and human resources, it is said.
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Mechi-Mahakali walk for environment conservation
Jhapa, April 5: Five local youths have set out on a Mechi-Mahakali walk today with the goal of raising nation-wide awareness on environment conservation and on urgent need of addressing the pressing issues as global warming and climate change.
The five youths on this mission are Subas Subedi, Hari Neupane, Padam Bhandari, Dinesh Bhandari and Umesh Kumar Rai. They started the walk from the Mechi Bridge on the eastern border of the country.
Subedi said the trek that has been initiated carrying the water from the Mechi river will conclude upon reaching the Mahakali river on the western border of the country after 60 days.
According to him, during the course of their walk they will be organizing discussions in over 50 cities along the East-West major national highway on the theme of environmental conservation, along with the participation of local people’s representatives, various communities, students, and social and political personalities. They will also collect suggestions from the participants.
Subedi shared on the occasion that the main objective of the campaign with the theme, ‘Let us plant eight plants per person and contribute to nature conservation’, is to hold discussion on this topic with more than 12 thousand people and prepare over a thousand volunteers.
He added that during the 60-day journey they will also produce documentaries on the initiatives being made at the local level for environment conservation as well as organize workshops on promotion of renewable energy, waste management and addressing other environmental problems.
The documents and achievements from the walk would be handed over to the President and the Prime Minister, according to Bhandari.
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324 runners participate in 100 mile Manjushree Trail Race that kicks off from today
Kathmandu, April 5: The fourth edition of Manjushree Trail Race has kicked off from today morning with 324 national and international runners.
Claimed as country’s first 100 miler ultra marathon along the ridge of the Kathmandu Valley, the race started from SingleTree at Ichangu Narayan.Organized by the Manjushree Trail Race in association with Trailmandu, the runners including 40 runners from 8 countries will pass through Jamacho, Mudkhu, Garje Bhangjyang, Baghdwar, Chisapani, Jhule, Nagarkot, Kalamashi Baspark, Sanga bridge among others places before ending up at where it started, said the organizers.
The three-day event will also feature three races of various categories such as 100-km, 50-km and 10-km. While the 100-km race will start from the
Hill Vision Resort at Jhule at 3 pm today itself, the 50-km race will kick off from the Hotel Pateshwor Lodge at Badikhel from 6 am on coming Wednesday. Similarly, the 10-km race will commence and from the Solid Rock Lodge at Dolu at 8 am on coming Wednesday, informed Director of the Race, Ashish Mishra.
Among the runners, 289 are female and remaining are males, added Director Mishra. There are 19 check points in the trail to facilitate the runners where food, water and basic medicines have been put in place for those needing them.
The trail was first envisioned by renowned runners like Lizzie Hawker, Seth Wolphin and Roger Henken in 2015 while Jimmy Oostrom, Raj Pradhan and Narayan Acharya had repeatedly mapped the trail with alternative routes.
The first runner in the 100 mile race will receive a medal and Rs 60,000 cash prize while those coming second will take home a medal and Rs 40,000 while those finishing third will get a medal and Rs 20,000, it was shared.
The first five runners winning the 100-mile, 100-kilometre and 50-kilometre race will be automatically qualify for the Asia Trail Masters, which is an internationally-recognized trail race series in Asia. It is held in Hong Kong and managed by Kuai Sports Promotions Limited. Asia Trail Masters is also an annual championship based on transparent and easy point system.
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Technical, quality education need of hour: President Paudel
Damauli (Tanahu), April 5: President Ramchandra Paudel has stressed that technical and quality education was the need of the hour.
Addressing the 16th anniversary of the Bhimad municipality-6-based Jana Jyoti Campus and inauguration of its newly constructed building today, President Paudel laid emphasis on changing the model of traditional education.
“Education producing technical and professional human resources should be prioritized, changing the model of education imparting in a traditional manner. The government should make policy towards it,” he underscored.
The President expressed happiness over imparting quality education to students of neighbouring districts, not only of Bhimad by Jana Jyoti Campus. Sharing that unstable politics has obstructed country’s development, he urged the political parties to unite for country’s development.
“I have told all political parties to unite for development. Unstable politics is hampering country’s development,” the President said, adding consensus and collaboration among all parties was necessary for country’s development. He clarified that he would honestly involve to safeguard the constitution and federal democratic republic.
The President mentioned that he has two concepts and programmes to make Tanahu a specific district—upgrading GP Koirala Respiratory Centre to teaching hospital and Bhanu Literary Park, which every Nepali should visit it once in their life.
The Head-of-State opined that it is necessary to ensure adequate budget, physical infrastructures and arrangements of technology, trained and capable teachers, and well-managed governance system in the education sector which is the backbone for the nation’s development.
According to him, a national vision and a clear, transparent and objective and timely education policy is required in that connection.
Stating that guarantee of easily accessible, affordable and quality education as stipulated by the Constitution is today’s need, he reiterated that the knowledge capital is the biggest capital which lays the foundation of physical development, culture and civilization.
The President said it is a matter of happiness that this Campus was established one and a half decades ago through the unrelenting efforts of social leaders and educationalists with the goal of providing quality higher education in the rural area. “It is but natural that the Campus’ glory is enhancing as a destination of higher studies for students from Tanahu, Syangja, Nawalpur and even Palpa,” he added.
President Paudel said he has been continuously playing a role of a watchdog for the district’s development. “The works are progressing well on the 140-megawatt Tanahu Hydropower Project and the Buddhasingh Road. I have drawn attention of all the agencies concerned on the need of completing these projects on time,” he said.
House of Representatives lawmaker Shankar Bhandari said there should be no politics in development, stressing on the need of cooperation and collaboration among the political parties.
President of the Campus Board of Directors, Jit Prakash Ale said the Campus has been providing education in tune with the time. Campus Chief Keshav Raj Kafle said the Campus has 300 students.The Campus building has been constructed at a cost of Rs 11.8 million.
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Quartz crystal has contributed in tourism promotion in Gorkha: PM Dahal
Gorkha, April 5: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said that the precious stone quartz crystal had added a new brick in promotion of tourism in Gorkha district.At a programme organized by Gorkha Municipality to place quartz crystal at Gorkha Palace today, PM Dahal reiterated that installation of precious quartz crystal in the district of historical and archeological significance would play an important role in tourism promotion.
Expressing his confidence that the precious stone’s placement would widely establish the importance and role of Gorkha, the PM instructed the concerned authorities for security arrangement of the quartz crystal and further manage the historical place.
Prior to placing the quartz crystal in the room where the throne of erstwhile King Prithvi Narayan Shah is housed, it was worshipped in the premises of the palace.
“While the precious stone is being placed in the Gorkha place of historical and archeological importance, I got an opportunity to visit the palace premises for the first time since the declaration of Republic of Nepal,” said PM Dahal, expressing his happiness for the opportunity.
Pledging to play his part in preservation of the historicity of Gorkha, the Head of the Government shared that he had prioritized development of infrastructures such as road and bridge in the district.
He added, “The citizens of Gorkha district want to witness some historic developmental works. There is a scope to deliver on the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project, Gorakhkali rubber industry and construction of industrial park among others.”
Stating the uneasiness on the part of the government to include some issues of this area in the policy and progrmames and budget of the current fiscal year, he assured that the new budget would be development-oriented and it would excite the citizens.
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Ireland ‘A’ clinches ODI cricket series
Kathmandu, April 5: Ireland ‘A’ has clinched the one-day international cricket series before playing the final match. It won the series defeating Nepal ‘A’ by 114 runs in the second match held today at Kirtipur-based TU ground.
Ireland had won the first match by 21 runs. Chasing the target of 175 runs posted by Ireland ‘A’, Nepal was limited to 60 runs in 16.5 overs.
No batters of Nepal ‘A’ except Bhim Sarki and Binod Bhandari could gather double digit runs. Sarki made 17 runs while Bhandari 16 runs. Batters Dev Khanal, Arif Sheikh, Rijan Dhakal, Kamal Airee and Mausam Dhakal returned pavilion without any score while Naren Bhatta made six runs, Arjun five runs and Basir Ahmad six runs.
Likewise, Shahab Alam scored only one run. For Ireland ‘A’, Matthew Humphreys alone took six wickets while Fionn Hand and Thomas Mayes two wickets each. Earlier, invited to bat first after losing the toss, Ireland ‘A’ made 174 runs losing all wickets in 38.4 overs. Gavin Hoey made the highest 50 runs in 59 balls while Neil Rock 45 runs, Liam McCarthy 35 runs and Peter Moor 17 runs.
For Nepal ‘A’, Rijan Dhakal and Shahab Alam took three wickets each while Mausam Dhakal two wickets and Kamal Airee one wicket.
The final match of the series would be held on Sunday.
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Advanced and prosperous Nepal alone is Nepali people’s desire: President
Lamjung, April 5: President Ramchandra Paudel has said fulfilling the people’s aspiration for prompt development of the country by making the economy strong and vibrant is the nation’s need after the political changes.
Addressing the inaugural programme of the Eighth Lamjung Festival, 2080 and the Declaration of the Visit Lamjung Year, 2081 in Besisahar today, he underscored the need of paying special attention to import substitution through enhanced production and employment within the country itself.
The theme of the Eighth Lamjung Festival, 2080 is –’Local products, industries, tourism, and infrastructure: Indigenous art and culture are the basis of prosperous Lamjung.’
“It is inevitable to cultivate the culture of respecting labour for the speedy development of the country. We can pave the way towards industrialization mainly through the development of agriculture, tourism, water resources and industries and business alone, which is also the goal of our constitution and the federal democratic republic achieved through great sacrifices, dedication and struggle,” the President said.
The Head-of-State reminded that the political parties, the government and the policy-makers should not forget that a strong republic, solid economy and an advanced and prosperous modern Nepal is the desire of the Nepalis.
On the occasion, the President stressed on the need of unleashing through the combined efforts from all sectors the economic, tourism and socio-cultural potentials of Lamjung.
Lawmaker Urmila Majhi said the government is moving ahead to change the living condition of the people while the Gandaki Province Assembly member Bhesh Bahadur Paudel spoke of the tourism and hydropower potentials of the district.
Lamjung Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Bharat Kumar Shrestha expressed the belief that the Festival and the Visit Lamjung Year 2081 would be a shot in the arm for reviving the tourism industry of the district.
There are 201 stalls exhibiting the local products, herbs and additional skills and technology. The organizers hope that around 200 thousand people will visit the Festival. It is estimated that the Festival will see transaction of around Rs 10 million. The Festival will run till April 15.
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Discussion on Bill to amend some Nepal Acts held with five ministries
Kathmandu, April 5: The Committee for Law, Justice and Human Rights under the House of Representatives has today held a clause-wise discussion on the Bill made to amend some Nepal Acts on the issues related to five ministries.
Discussions were held with Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Ministry of Drinking Water and Ministry of Forest and Environment.
During the discussion, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Rabi Lamichhane, Minister for Education, Science and Technology Sumana Shrestha, Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Shakti Bahadur Basnet, Minister for Forest and Environment Nawal Kishore Shah Sudi expressed their respective views related to their ministries in the committee’s discussion.
They aired their opinions on the issues presented by the Committee members on the amendment and additions to be made on the Act.
Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Padam Giri has already voiced that the Bill to amend the Act should be finalized within a week.
The Bill is integrated one brought to amend various 79 laws.
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Mahara appointed Chief Minister of Lumbini Province
Lumbini, April 5: Parliamentary party leader of the CPN (Maoist Centre) in Lumbini province assembly, Jokh Bahadur Mahara has been appointed as Chief Minister of Lumbini Province government.
Province Chief Amik Sherchan appointed Mahara to the post.
Mahara has the support of 48 province assembly members including 47 of political parties and one independent member.
A press release issued by Spokesperson of the Office of the Province Chief, Bhumishwor Dhakal, reads that Province Chief Sherchan appointed Mahara as the Chief Minister in accordance with Article 168 (2) of the constitution.
There is support of 29 PA members of the CPN (UML), 10 of CPN (Maoist Centre), four of Nagarik Unmukti Party, three of Janata Samajbadi Party, one of CPN (Unified Socialist) and one independent member to Mahara.
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School constructed in Khotang with Indian aid
Kathmandu, April 5: The school and hostel building of the Sharada Secondary School at Rawabesi rural municipality of Khotang has been constructed. The building was constructed with the grant assistance of Rs 36.1 million under the ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation’.
Chief of District Coordination Committee San Bahadur Rai, Chairperson of Rawabesi rural municipality Phatik Kumar Shrestha and first secretary of the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu Suman Shekhar jointly inaugurated the building amidst a programme held at Rawa Besi on Thursday.
The Indian government itself has arranged necessary furniture for the two-storied school and hostel building, the embassy said in a statement. The school and hostel building construction project has been implemented in coordination with the District Coordination Committee Khotang.
Established in 1952 AD, the school has been running classes from grade 1 to plus two level. Among a total of 365 students, around 50 percent are girl students.
Since 2003, more than 550 community development projects have been implemented in different parts of Nepal, out of which 488 projects have been completed, the embassy said.
At present, 85 projects are being implemented in different areas of Koshi Province with the grant assistance of India. People’s representatives, government officials, social workers, representatives of school management committees, teachers, teachers, parents and students were present on the occasion.
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Birat Gold Cup: Machchhindra Club into final
Morang, April 5: Machchhindra football club has entered the final of the Birat Gold Cup Football Tournament underway in Biratnagar.
In the semifinal match played at the Martyr Stadium on Thursday night, Machchhindra beat Sikkim Dragon to reach the final.
With this win, Machchhindra will play against the home team, Shangrila Morang FA, in the final.
It may be noted that the Shangrila had reached the final beating the Armed Police Force (APF)’s departmental team on Wednesday.
Ayush Ghalan’s 94th minute goal turned decisive to steer Machchhindra’s win in the semi-final. Ghalan also won the ‘man of the match’ title in the tournament.
The winner of the gold cup will be awarded a cash prize of Rs 1.1 million, while the runners-up will get Rs 550,000, the host informed.
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Collective commitment to prevent child marriage in Madhes
Mahottari, April 5: Various stakeholders have expressed their shared commitment to end social anomalies such as child marriage and dowry propping up as a key challenge in Madhes.
The participants at a discussion ‘Role of religious preachers for ending child marriage’ held in Bardibas on Thursday expressed collective commitment to play lead role in preventing child marriage in their areas.
In the discussion organized by Madhesi Commission in collaboration with the Plan International, Madhes Province Assembly Speaker Ramchandra Mandal and other participants signed the commitment paper for the same.
“We express our collective commitment to end social evils like child marriage and dowry,” the commitment letter reads. Speaker Mandal, Chair of Madhesi Commission Dr. Bijay Kumar Dutta, member Jivchha Saha, Secretary of the Commission Basanta Adhikari and Hindu, Islamic and Buddhist leaders, media persons and social leaders who participated in the programme signed the commitment paper.
On the occasion, Speaker Mandal said child marriage and dowry were not only crimes but also a stigma of Madhes and all walks of life should launch a campaign to stop such malpractice.
Citing the National Census 2078 data, Speaker Mandal said more than 75 percent of premature marriage were found in Madhes despite country’s legal framework stating marriage below 20 a punishable offence.
At the programme attended by gurus of different religions, sects, human rights activists, social activists and media persons from all eight districts of Madhes Province, the participants said child marriage and dowry have increased many social crimes and family disputes.
Commission Chair Dr Dutta and member Saha shared the commission has been focusing on expanding legal literacy and enforcement of laws to stop child marriage in Madhes.
According to the National Census 2078 BS, over 75 per cent of the people in Madhes get married before the legally stipulated age for marriage.
The census has revealed that 39.5 percent were found married in between 18 below 20. Of them, 42 percent are men and 37 percent women.
Similarly, 27.7 per cent of them are aged between 15 and 17 years; 9.3 per cent of those aged 10 to 14 and 0.2 per cent of those below 10 years of age.
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Weather to remain partly cloudy this afternoon
Kathmandu, April 5: The weather across the country is likely to remain partly cloudy due to the influence of westerly wind and local wind.
According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, it will be generally cloudy throughout the country this afternoon. Weather will be generally clear in other places.
Meteorologist Rojan Lamichhane said light rain with thunderstorm is likely to occur at some places of the hilly regions of Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.
Light snowfall will possibly take place at some places of the high hilly and mountainous regions of Gandaki and Karnali provinces, he shared. It will be partly cloudy across the country tonight.
Light rain followed by thunder and lightning is likely to occur at some places of the hilly regions of Gandaki and Karnali provinces.
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Nepal bowling against Ireland ‘A’
Kathmandu, April 5: Nepal ‘A’ team has won the toss and chose bowling against Ireland ‘A’ in the second one-day tournament.
Nepal ‘A’ Captain Binod Bhandari has invited Ireland ‘A’ for batting in the match to be held at the Kirtipur-based TU cricket ground today. Ireland had won the first match of the series by 21 runs.
In earlier T20 series, Ireland ‘A’ had secured its win with 2-1 against Nepal.
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Constitution is a shared principle of political parties-Lawmaker Dhakal
Kathmandu, April 5: Federal parliamentarian Eknath Dhakal said lack of majority of a single political party in the federal and provincial parliament has imparted a message that the political parties should move ahead together.
Talking to RSS, he said the key political parties should forge consensus on the issues of nation, nationality and public welfare.
“Nepal’s parliamentary exercise is not very long. Yet, the parliament has performed well in several critical situations in the short span amidst available limited resource, means and facilities”, Dhakal claimed.
Law-making did not gain momentum in the past when the government was unable to create business for the parliament, he said, adding the parliament formed after the last general elections got entangled on many issues.
The election of the Prime Minister, formation of the government and parliamentary committees, delay in addressing the questions raised in the parliament by the government and House disruption had created bottlenecks in the law-making process, he mentioned.
“But now several bills have been registered in the House. Some are in the pipeline for moving forward while some are under discussion. Some bills have also been enacted”, lawmaker Dhakal said, stressing the need to impart a positive message that political parties in Nepal can work together during the national crisis.
an idea to govern the country on the basis of consensus and collaboration among the key political parties considering Constitution as a shared principle.
Dhakal, also the founder of Nepal Pariwar Dal, was elected the House of Representatives member under the Proportional Representation system on behalf of the CPN (UML).
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