KATHMANDU, Sept 1 - Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said restoring peace, formulation of new constitution and economic development are the main challenges and opportunities for the new government.
PM Dahal was speaking on Sunday at an economic summit on 'Double Digit Growth: A National Commitment' organized by Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) in the capital.
"We are committed to bring the peace process to a logical conclusion within six months and the new constitution will have to be drafted in two years, then we will concentrate on economic development," Dahal said. "But achieving these three things are both challenges and opportunities for us," said Dahal.
"The new constitution will be a document against feudalism," Dahal, who is also the chief of former Maoist rebels, said.
At a time when international communities are skeptical about the Maoist led government's economic policy, Dahal clarified that the newly formed government was committed to the current international economic phenomena - liberalization, privatization and globalization.
"But, it is challenging for us to utilize these for people's welfare and economic development of our country," added Dahal.
Stating that international communities are both skeptical and optimistic about the present government, he said the government will be effortful to win their confidence in the days to come by spurring economic growth. He also stressed the need for equal private and public sector involvement in economic development.
"We have no dearth of resources, what we need are vision and planning for investment, so we are committed to creating conducive environment for investment," said Dahal. Dahal, who visited China recently, said there are high possibilities of formulating common understanding with China and India for Nepal's prosperity.
Jhalanath Khanal, general secretary of CPN (UML) underlined the need to devise long and short term national vision to achieve economic growth in a short span of time.
He categorically mentioned hydro power, tourism, agriculture and industrialization as tools for economic development.
"We have to eliminate feudalism in the agriculture sector through scientific land reform," added Khanal.
Binod Kumar Chaudhary, president of CNI, urged that economic agendas should be put at the center in the task of building 'prosperous new Nepal' through collective strength of the government, political parties and their sister organizations.
Chaudhary said social and political stability cannot be gained in the absence of economic prosperity as both aspects are complementary.
He stressed the need to increase national investment significantly in order to raise the income level of Nepali people.
"Annual national investment has to rise to Rs 400 billion from Rs 176 billion in the next 10 years to increase per person monthly income to Rs 12,000 from the existing Rs 3,500," he said.
He made it clear that the summit was organized in a bid to explore ways to arrange additional Rs 225 billion annually, besides seeking political commitment and necessary policies to incorporate such investments in future.
Gopal Man Shrestha , vice president of Nepali Congress and Sharat Singh Bhandary, leader of Madhesi People's Rights Forum, stressed prioritization of economic agendas for economic development.
More than half dozen working papers are going to be presented on economic issues during the three-day summit.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Thursday, July 31, 2008
news
majority of central leaders of the CPN (Maoist) has urged the party leadership to lead the next government only if the party's three 'conditions' are fulfilled.Deliberating Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal's political proposal during the party's central committee meeting Thursday, the party leaders said the party won't be able to function effectively in government if its conditions
Saturday, July 19, 2008
News
16 killed,24injured in bus mishap
CHITWAN, July 19 - At least 16 people died when a passenger bus plummeted into the Trishuli River at Narayangadh-Mugling road section on Friday night.
The bus (Lu 1 Kha 3803) heading towards Bhairahawa from Kathmandu got uncontrollable and skidded off the bridge over the Khahare River at around midnight.
According to the police involved in the rescue operation, some eight people are suspected to be missing.
13 people had died in course of rescue and three while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Bharatpur. 11 bodies which were recovered from the bus have been taken to Bharatpur, the police informed.
Three people had died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Bharatpur. Six of the deceased have been identified as Suman Lama of Jorpati, Kathmandu, Dr Bharat Shrestha of Tansen municipality-10, Palpa, Padam Bahadur Saru of Chahare, Palpa, Lok Bahadur Baral of Nawalparasi, Somat Seikh of Nelagunj-10 and Hom Bahadur Gurung.
The police said the identification of the deceased ones has been delayed as rescue operation is still ongoing.
About 24 people have been injured; among which six have been reported to be in critical state.
The injured are undergoing treatment at Chitwan District Hospital and Medical College in Bharatpur.
The bus conductor informed that a total of 52 people were on board among which only 35 had paid the bus fare.
The police believe that the death toll could rise since the water level in the Trishuli River has increased due to rainfall and dead bodies may have flown into to River unnoticed.
CHITWAN, July 19 - At least 16 people died when a passenger bus plummeted into the Trishuli River at Narayangadh-Mugling road section on Friday night.
The bus (Lu 1 Kha 3803) heading towards Bhairahawa from Kathmandu got uncontrollable and skidded off the bridge over the Khahare River at around midnight.
According to the police involved in the rescue operation, some eight people are suspected to be missing.
13 people had died in course of rescue and three while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Bharatpur. 11 bodies which were recovered from the bus have been taken to Bharatpur, the police informed.
Three people had died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Bharatpur. Six of the deceased have been identified as Suman Lama of Jorpati, Kathmandu, Dr Bharat Shrestha of Tansen municipality-10, Palpa, Padam Bahadur Saru of Chahare, Palpa, Lok Bahadur Baral of Nawalparasi, Somat Seikh of Nelagunj-10 and Hom Bahadur Gurung.
The police said the identification of the deceased ones has been delayed as rescue operation is still ongoing.
About 24 people have been injured; among which six have been reported to be in critical state.
The injured are undergoing treatment at Chitwan District Hospital and Medical College in Bharatpur.
The bus conductor informed that a total of 52 people were on board among which only 35 had paid the bus fare.
The police believe that the death toll could rise since the water level in the Trishuli River has increased due to rainfall and dead bodies may have flown into to River unnoticed.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
CA passes guideline to elect
KATHMANDU, July 15 - The Constituent Assembly (CA) meeting Tuesday passed the guidelines for electing the president and vice-president which is scheduled to take place on Saturday (July 19).
As the major political parties locked horns over the presidential candidate and power-sharing in the soon-to-be formed government, the parties finally decided to put the issues to a vote at the 601 member CA.
As per the guidelines, both candidates need five CA members as their supporters and five members should propose their candidacy.
The candidates for the posts should file their candidacy by Wednesday (July 16) and the final list of the candidates would be published on Thursday.
The CA procedure advisory committee today decided to hold the elections for electing the new president and vice-president on July 19.
Likewise, the political parties have intensified their homework to elect the first president of the country and form a new government.
According to leaders, the parties have intensified consultations in a bid to form the new government within this week.
As the major political parties locked horns over the presidential candidate and power-sharing in the soon-to-be formed government, the parties finally decided to put the issues to a vote at the 601 member CA.
As per the guidelines, both candidates need five CA members as their supporters and five members should propose their candidacy.
The candidates for the posts should file their candidacy by Wednesday (July 16) and the final list of the candidates would be published on Thursday.
The CA procedure advisory committee today decided to hold the elections for electing the new president and vice-president on July 19.
Likewise, the political parties have intensified their homework to elect the first president of the country and form a new government.
According to leaders, the parties have intensified consultations in a bid to form the new government within this week.
Nepal is not part of India
There has always been a controversy between Nepal and India in case of territory. The controversy has been nicely addressed by a documentary called “Greater Nepal”. The documentary shows the land taken by India from Nepal. A recent controversy hit the fire when Indian news, an Indian Hindi news channel showed Nepal and Bhutan inside the Indian border in the logo of their program “Yeh Mera India” , which telecast at 6.30 pm Indian time. In response to that, Sagarmatha, a Nepali news channel broadcasted a program in the protest of such act done by the Indian channel.
Now, the Indian channel has accepted their mistake and has said that there have been certain misgivings and misconceptions with regard to one of its programs called ‘Yeh Mera India’. In the letter to the Nepalese Ambassador, the Indian news channel has clarified about their junior graphic designer committed the mistake by drawing a wrong line.
This is not just the first case; India has stated Nepal as its land as we can see plenty of such cases in the past. On each case, citizens of Nepal have protested back and said that Nepal has always been an independent country but still they love to make such mistakes. Now too we want to say Nepal has never been a part of India and will never be a part of India.
Now, the Indian channel has accepted their mistake and has said that there have been certain misgivings and misconceptions with regard to one of its programs called ‘Yeh Mera India’. In the letter to the Nepalese Ambassador, the Indian news channel has clarified about their junior graphic designer committed the mistake by drawing a wrong line.
This is not just the first case; India has stated Nepal as its land as we can see plenty of such cases in the past. On each case, citizens of Nepal have protested back and said that Nepal has always been an independent country but still they love to make such mistakes. Now too we want to say Nepal has never been a part of India and will never be a part of India.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Tourism
The trip begins several thousand miles to the North of Mt. Elbrus in Moscow—the political, economic, and cultural heart of Russia. We will walk across the cobblestones of Red Square, in the shadows of St. Basil’s onion-shaped domes; cross beneath the thick walls of the Kremlin and visit the seat of Russian power; and visit many of the city’s other famous sites like the Pushkin Museum and Tverskoy Boulevard.
We then fly south the town of Mineralnye Vody, well known for its abundant mineral springs. For the South side route, we leave the high plains of Mineralnye Vody and head towards the Baksan Valley (7,000 feet). It is a beautiful drive that passes through many small villages and fields before the plains give way to glacier-scoured foothills. Once past the foothills, we make our way through steep valleys of the lower Caucasus and pine forests until reaching the foot of Mount Elbrus. To approach the North side, we drive to the neighboring town of Kislovodsk, which marks the transition from the fertile high plains of Russia, to the lush green foothills of the Caucuses. After spending a night in Kislovodsk, we drive south into the heart of the of the wild and barely inhabited Caucuses steppe to reach our Basecamp.
Upon returning from our climb we fly to St. Petersburg. Situated far to the North of the country on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, St. Petersburg is a true Russian gem, often described as the “Venice of the North”. We spend a full day exploring St. Petersburg’s stunning architecture, amazing works of art, and many canals. The city tour includes; The Hermitage, which has over three million works of art, and some of the most beautiful interiors of any building the in the world, St. Issac’s Cathedral, one of the world’s largest cathedrals and has been fully restored inside an out, and the Church of the Savoir on the Spilled Blood which is still one of the city's most beautiful landmarks. Our time in St. Petersburg is the ideal way to end our adventures in Russia.
Both the South Side and North Side routes involve very little technical climbing, though a prior knowledge of rope travel, the use of crampons, and ice axe arrest are necessary. A review of these basic mountaineering techniques is included in the itinerary.
Team members should be in excellent physical condition and posses a positive mental attitude, two factors that are vital to the success of any climbing expedition. This climb is ideal for mountaineers eager to take their climbing to a new level—for many it will be a new altitude record!
We then fly south the town of Mineralnye Vody, well known for its abundant mineral springs. For the South side route, we leave the high plains of Mineralnye Vody and head towards the Baksan Valley (7,000 feet). It is a beautiful drive that passes through many small villages and fields before the plains give way to glacier-scoured foothills. Once past the foothills, we make our way through steep valleys of the lower Caucasus and pine forests until reaching the foot of Mount Elbrus. To approach the North side, we drive to the neighboring town of Kislovodsk, which marks the transition from the fertile high plains of Russia, to the lush green foothills of the Caucuses. After spending a night in Kislovodsk, we drive south into the heart of the of the wild and barely inhabited Caucuses steppe to reach our Basecamp.
Upon returning from our climb we fly to St. Petersburg. Situated far to the North of the country on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, St. Petersburg is a true Russian gem, often described as the “Venice of the North”. We spend a full day exploring St. Petersburg’s stunning architecture, amazing works of art, and many canals. The city tour includes; The Hermitage, which has over three million works of art, and some of the most beautiful interiors of any building the in the world, St. Issac’s Cathedral, one of the world’s largest cathedrals and has been fully restored inside an out, and the Church of the Savoir on the Spilled Blood which is still one of the city's most beautiful landmarks. Our time in St. Petersburg is the ideal way to end our adventures in Russia.
Both the South Side and North Side routes involve very little technical climbing, though a prior knowledge of rope travel, the use of crampons, and ice axe arrest are necessary. A review of these basic mountaineering techniques is included in the itinerary.
Team members should be in excellent physical condition and posses a positive mental attitude, two factors that are vital to the success of any climbing expedition. This climb is ideal for mountaineers eager to take their climbing to a new level—for many it will be a new altitude record!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
About tourism
Adventure travel to remote locations around the world; mountaineering in the Himalayas, trekking through the Andes and climbing the Rockies is now not just the domain of a select few, indeed more and more people from all walks of life are venturing into the world's majestic wilderness locations to re-acquaint themselves with nature.
Whilst this may well be a soul rejuvenating experience it can also come at a high price. More than one person over the years has succumbed to the effects of "AMS" or Acute Mountain Sickness. Athletes have long known that to perform to their full potential they need to spend a minimum of 2-3 weeks acclimatising to the "thinner" air at elevations of 1400 metres and above. For mountaineers attempting to summit peaks of the world's great mountains (often at elevations of greater than 7000 metres) spending extended periods of time trekking up to progressively higher altitudes to accustom their bodies to the rigours of high altitude exposure, before returning to lower lying areas to recover, has been the only way to achieve these objectives.
Ambient air at sea-level (ie. at a pressure of 760mmHg) contains 20.9% Oxygen and about 79% Nitrogen with the remainder being a mixture of gases known as Argon. At 3000 metres of elevation the Oxygen (Nitrogen and Argon) content of the air remains constant, however the pressure gradient decreases effectively only allowing us access to about 14.5% Oxygen. The higher you go, the "thinner" the air becomes as the partial pressure decreases. At 6500 metres the Oxygen availability approximates less than half that which is available at sea-level.
The human body is however a highly adaptive mechanism and over time, in many instances, can be taught to cope with this lower Oxygen availability. However get that adaptation process wrong at an altitude of 5000 metres and the consequences can be fatal.
That was of course until recently.
Now the potential to assess a person's susceptibility to being adversely affected by altitude can be done before they even leave sea-level with the use of a go2altitude hypoxicator.
First used in the mid 1980's in the Russian aero-space program to prepare fighter pilots and cosmonauts for the rigours of extreme altitude exposure, these devices are now successfully being used throughout the world by mountaineers, trekkers and climbers to prepare for high altitude exposures of up to 6500 metres before even leaving sea-level.
Using an hypoxicator prior to travelling to altitude provides two distinct safeguards:
Firstly, it provides a safe and practical method of assessing those individuals who may be susceptible to the adverse (and potentially catastrophic) effects of moving from sea-level directly to altitude.
Secondly, it provides a practical and cost effective mechanism to safely acclimatise at home, over a 3-4 week period, before travelling to high altitude locations around the world.
"IHT" or Intermittent Hypoxic Training is a scientifically proven method helping to ensure that upon arrival at altitudes of up to 6,500 metres (ie. Well beyond the level of the Base Camp at Mount Everest) individuals are acclimatised to the rigours of high altitude exposure, minimising risks to their safety.
How does it work?
IHT is the most advanced form of "altitude" training where the "dose" of altitude can be controlled via the use of pulse oximetry (ie. a device with a finger clip sensor that monitors the concentration of oxygen in the blood via a light sensitive beam).
IHT exposes the recipient to "hypoxic air" containing 16 - 9% oxygen (equating to an altitude exposure of 2,000 to 6,500 metres above sea level) intermittently at 4-6 minute intervals alternated with breathing normal (sea-level). The 45-90 minute session is conducted once or twice a day while the participant sits comfortably, perhaps while reading or watching television. A course of acclimatisation requires 15 – 20 sessions.
Exposure to altitude in the aforementioned manner stimulates the various biochemical and physiological adaptations necessary to ensure an increased oxygen carrying capacity within the body, ensuring the user is adapted to the altitude of the proposed destination before even leaving sea-level
Whilst this may well be a soul rejuvenating experience it can also come at a high price. More than one person over the years has succumbed to the effects of "AMS" or Acute Mountain Sickness. Athletes have long known that to perform to their full potential they need to spend a minimum of 2-3 weeks acclimatising to the "thinner" air at elevations of 1400 metres and above. For mountaineers attempting to summit peaks of the world's great mountains (often at elevations of greater than 7000 metres) spending extended periods of time trekking up to progressively higher altitudes to accustom their bodies to the rigours of high altitude exposure, before returning to lower lying areas to recover, has been the only way to achieve these objectives.
Ambient air at sea-level (ie. at a pressure of 760mmHg) contains 20.9% Oxygen and about 79% Nitrogen with the remainder being a mixture of gases known as Argon. At 3000 metres of elevation the Oxygen (Nitrogen and Argon) content of the air remains constant, however the pressure gradient decreases effectively only allowing us access to about 14.5% Oxygen. The higher you go, the "thinner" the air becomes as the partial pressure decreases. At 6500 metres the Oxygen availability approximates less than half that which is available at sea-level.
The human body is however a highly adaptive mechanism and over time, in many instances, can be taught to cope with this lower Oxygen availability. However get that adaptation process wrong at an altitude of 5000 metres and the consequences can be fatal.
That was of course until recently.
Now the potential to assess a person's susceptibility to being adversely affected by altitude can be done before they even leave sea-level with the use of a go2altitude hypoxicator.
First used in the mid 1980's in the Russian aero-space program to prepare fighter pilots and cosmonauts for the rigours of extreme altitude exposure, these devices are now successfully being used throughout the world by mountaineers, trekkers and climbers to prepare for high altitude exposures of up to 6500 metres before even leaving sea-level.
Using an hypoxicator prior to travelling to altitude provides two distinct safeguards:
Firstly, it provides a safe and practical method of assessing those individuals who may be susceptible to the adverse (and potentially catastrophic) effects of moving from sea-level directly to altitude.
Secondly, it provides a practical and cost effective mechanism to safely acclimatise at home, over a 3-4 week period, before travelling to high altitude locations around the world.
"IHT" or Intermittent Hypoxic Training is a scientifically proven method helping to ensure that upon arrival at altitudes of up to 6,500 metres (ie. Well beyond the level of the Base Camp at Mount Everest) individuals are acclimatised to the rigours of high altitude exposure, minimising risks to their safety.
How does it work?
IHT is the most advanced form of "altitude" training where the "dose" of altitude can be controlled via the use of pulse oximetry (ie. a device with a finger clip sensor that monitors the concentration of oxygen in the blood via a light sensitive beam).
IHT exposes the recipient to "hypoxic air" containing 16 - 9% oxygen (equating to an altitude exposure of 2,000 to 6,500 metres above sea level) intermittently at 4-6 minute intervals alternated with breathing normal (sea-level). The 45-90 minute session is conducted once or twice a day while the participant sits comfortably, perhaps while reading or watching television. A course of acclimatisation requires 15 – 20 sessions.
Exposure to altitude in the aforementioned manner stimulates the various biochemical and physiological adaptations necessary to ensure an increased oxygen carrying capacity within the body, ensuring the user is adapted to the altitude of the proposed destination before even leaving sea-level
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Madhesi meeting on sunday
KATHMANDU, June 28 - Saturday’s Constituent Assembly (CA) meeting was suspended immediately after it began after Madhesi lawmakers chanted slogans and picketed the rostrum.
The meeting has been called for 2 PM Sunday.
The disgruntled CA members of three Madhes-based parties obstructed today’s CA accusing the government of acting indifferently to key Madhes demands.
As part of their protests, the lawmakers also pressed the government to include the points of agreement—reached with the government in February last year—in the fifth constitution amendment proposal.
Earlier today, coordinator of the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF) Upendra Yadav said that the issue of an autonomous Terai, approved by the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) in the 22-point agreement, cannot be termed unacceptable now.
The coalition government and the MPRF had reached a 22-point agreement on August 30 last year which mentions ensuring a federal state structure with autonomy without affecting national sovereignty and integrity.
In his speech in Birgunj, MPRF chief Yadav warned of resorting to firm protests if the government ignores the deals reached earlier and acts indifferent towards the demands raised by Madhes-based parties.
Also today, the SPA meeting held at the Prime Minister’s official residence at Baluwatar in the capital to seek a solution to the new political crisis could not arrive at a common viewpoint regarding the implementation of the Madhesi demands after the Madhesi parties stuck to their stance, a source reported.
Emerging from the meeting, CPN-Maoist leader Dev Gurung said although the Madhes-based parties have not budged from their demands, they have agreed not to disrupt the proceedings of the Constituent Assembly.
The top leaders of the SPA held the meeting today following the Madhesi lawmakers’ warning to prevent the CA meets from convening if their demands go unaddressed.
The Madhesi lawmakers had disrupted the parliamentary proceedings of the Constituent Assembly (CA) held in the capacity of the legislative parliament on Thursday also.
The meeting has been called for 2 PM Sunday.
The disgruntled CA members of three Madhes-based parties obstructed today’s CA accusing the government of acting indifferently to key Madhes demands.
As part of their protests, the lawmakers also pressed the government to include the points of agreement—reached with the government in February last year—in the fifth constitution amendment proposal.
Earlier today, coordinator of the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF) Upendra Yadav said that the issue of an autonomous Terai, approved by the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) in the 22-point agreement, cannot be termed unacceptable now.
The coalition government and the MPRF had reached a 22-point agreement on August 30 last year which mentions ensuring a federal state structure with autonomy without affecting national sovereignty and integrity.
In his speech in Birgunj, MPRF chief Yadav warned of resorting to firm protests if the government ignores the deals reached earlier and acts indifferent towards the demands raised by Madhes-based parties.
Also today, the SPA meeting held at the Prime Minister’s official residence at Baluwatar in the capital to seek a solution to the new political crisis could not arrive at a common viewpoint regarding the implementation of the Madhesi demands after the Madhesi parties stuck to their stance, a source reported.
Emerging from the meeting, CPN-Maoist leader Dev Gurung said although the Madhes-based parties have not budged from their demands, they have agreed not to disrupt the proceedings of the Constituent Assembly.
The top leaders of the SPA held the meeting today following the Madhesi lawmakers’ warning to prevent the CA meets from convening if their demands go unaddressed.
The Madhesi lawmakers had disrupted the parliamentary proceedings of the Constituent Assembly (CA) held in the capacity of the legislative parliament on Thursday also.
News
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FURTHER INFO AND BROCHURE - TO PRINT OFF OR VIEW
Patriot T.R.I.P.SM - Provides trip insurance coverage for individuals or groups
Patriot ExtremeSM - Designed for the adventurous international traveler, Patriot Extreme provides benefits for those traveling abroad who also intend to participate in a select group of athletic activities
Patriot Group Travel Medical Insurance® - Provides coverage for a group of 5 or more primary applicants (coverage period between 10 days and 12 months)
We also offer:
Patriot International
Travel Medical Insurance for U.S. Citizens traveling abroad.
Patriot America
Travel Medical Insurance for non - U.S. Citizens traveling outside their country of citizenship.
Expatriot-Plus
Long Term Medical Coverage for all International Travelers.
Patriot Executive - Travel Medical Insurance:
If you are an Executive that travels outside of the United States frequently throughout the year, don't risk finding yourself ill or injured in a foreign country without adequate resources to assist with securing medical care and covering the associated costs.
Friday, June 27, 2008
News
KATHMANDU, June 27 - Nepali inflation is picking up pace and inching close to double-digit figures, threatening to make some serious dent in the household budget of consumers. Fresh data released by the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) shows that the inflation based on the consumer price index rose to 9.2 percent in mid-May, the tenth month of the current fiscal year, up from 4.6 percent of the same time last year.
The central bank said the rising prices of food items led to the rise. Still, the inflation based on wholesale price index increased to 10.1 percent.
NRB officials said inflation would further rise in the coming months, as the recent price hike of petroleum products would have to be considered.
On the import front, a rise of 21 percent was seen as people consumed more on the back of healthy inflow of remittance.
NRB said there had been significant rise in import of petroleum products, MS billet, vehicles and spare parts, gold, telecommunication equipment, videos, television and parts.
However, exports fell by 1.2 percent, widening the trade deficit. Of the total exports, the country experienced a decline of 7.5 percent in exports with India due to a fall in the export of vegetable ghee, textiles, chemicals, rosin and toothpaste.
Exports to other countries except India grew by 13 percent compared to a decline of 3.1 percent in the same period last year, on the back of increase in export of pulses, Nepali paper and paper products, herbs, wheat, packing materials of paper, cigarettes, electric wire and stationary, NRB officials said.
There is something to cheer about for the economy. The flow of remittance grew by 35.3 percent to Rs 108.64 billion. During the same period last year, remittance had gone up by just 3.1 percent.
As a result of the huge influx of remittance, Nepal's foreign exchange reserves increased by 19.3 percent to Rs 197.03 billion. The central bank said the current level of reserves is adequate for financing merchandise imports for 10.6 months, and merchandise and service imports for 8.6 months.
On the budgetary front, the government budget deficit was Rs 6.4 billion during that period, compared to a surplus of Rs 2.86 billion. To meet the growing requirement of Indian currency, NRB purchased the Indian units worth Rs 77.27 billion through a sale of US$ 1.21 billion.
The country received foreign cash grants of Rs 13.68 billion to boost development activities. It had got Rs 12.62 billion in the same period last year.
The central bank said the rising prices of food items led to the rise. Still, the inflation based on wholesale price index increased to 10.1 percent.
NRB officials said inflation would further rise in the coming months, as the recent price hike of petroleum products would have to be considered.
On the import front, a rise of 21 percent was seen as people consumed more on the back of healthy inflow of remittance.
NRB said there had been significant rise in import of petroleum products, MS billet, vehicles and spare parts, gold, telecommunication equipment, videos, television and parts.
However, exports fell by 1.2 percent, widening the trade deficit. Of the total exports, the country experienced a decline of 7.5 percent in exports with India due to a fall in the export of vegetable ghee, textiles, chemicals, rosin and toothpaste.
Exports to other countries except India grew by 13 percent compared to a decline of 3.1 percent in the same period last year, on the back of increase in export of pulses, Nepali paper and paper products, herbs, wheat, packing materials of paper, cigarettes, electric wire and stationary, NRB officials said.
There is something to cheer about for the economy. The flow of remittance grew by 35.3 percent to Rs 108.64 billion. During the same period last year, remittance had gone up by just 3.1 percent.
As a result of the huge influx of remittance, Nepal's foreign exchange reserves increased by 19.3 percent to Rs 197.03 billion. The central bank said the current level of reserves is adequate for financing merchandise imports for 10.6 months, and merchandise and service imports for 8.6 months.
On the budgetary front, the government budget deficit was Rs 6.4 billion during that period, compared to a surplus of Rs 2.86 billion. To meet the growing requirement of Indian currency, NRB purchased the Indian units worth Rs 77.27 billion through a sale of US$ 1.21 billion.
The country received foreign cash grants of Rs 13.68 billion to boost development activities. It had got Rs 12.62 billion in the same period last year.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
News
KATHMANDU, June 26 - The government tabled a 22-point constitution amendment proposal, which includes electing president, vice-president and prime minister through a simple majority and constitution amendment bill, at Parliamentary Secretariat on Thursday morning.
The Council of Ministers had passed the Fifth Amendment bill to interim constitution after ratifying the 22–point agreement reached among the Seven Party Alliance (SPA).
The statute amendment proposal will be presented at today’s meeting of Constituent Assembly (CA), in its capacity as the legislative parliament, for discussion.
After marathon dialogue on ending the political deadlock, the political parties still remain divided over the structure of the Security Council.
Nepali Congress (NC), Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF), Terai-Madhes Democratic Party (TMDP), CPN-ML and United Left Front have been maintaining their stance that opposition leaders must be inducted in the Security Council, whereas CPN- Maoist and CPN-UML are against the proposal.
Given that the UML and the Maoist Ministers have resigned from the government and the NC holds the majority at cabinet, the NC will now be forwarding the amendment bill including the provision of inducting opposition leader in the Security Council.
However, chances of the government proposal being passed remain slim since CA members representing the UML and the Maoist are enough to form a majority
The Council of Ministers had passed the Fifth Amendment bill to interim constitution after ratifying the 22–point agreement reached among the Seven Party Alliance (SPA).
The statute amendment proposal will be presented at today’s meeting of Constituent Assembly (CA), in its capacity as the legislative parliament, for discussion.
After marathon dialogue on ending the political deadlock, the political parties still remain divided over the structure of the Security Council.
Nepali Congress (NC), Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF), Terai-Madhes Democratic Party (TMDP), CPN-ML and United Left Front have been maintaining their stance that opposition leaders must be inducted in the Security Council, whereas CPN- Maoist and CPN-UML are against the proposal.
Given that the UML and the Maoist Ministers have resigned from the government and the NC holds the majority at cabinet, the NC will now be forwarding the amendment bill including the provision of inducting opposition leader in the Security Council.
However, chances of the government proposal being passed remain slim since CA members representing the UML and the Maoist are enough to form a majority
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Touri
Nepali tourism night organized in Egypt
June 11, 2008
The Embassy of Nepal in Egypt, in close cooperation with Ismailia Chamber of Commerce, organized "Nepal Tourism Night" in Ismailia, Egypt on June 8, 2008 with the aim of promoting Nepalese tourism, trade and foreign investment in Nepal. The program was inaugurated by H. E. General Salah Khatab, Secretary General of Ismailia Governorate of Egypt. Adressing the function he expressed his hope that the program would contribute to the promotion of Nepalese tourism in Egypt as well as open opportunities of more bilateral trade and investment.
Delivering welcome speech on the occasion, H. E. Dr. Rambhakta P. B. Thakur, Ambassador of Nepal to the Arab republic of Egypt, highlighted different aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment as well as incentives available there. Terming Nepal as an incomparable meeting point of tourism, culture and natural excellence, he called on the Egyptians to explore them.
At the program, an audio visual presentation on various aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment opportunities was also made. The program attended by distinguished personalities, government officials, businessmen, journalists, media representatives, travel agents and tour operators was followed by the screening of Nepalese touristic films and a dinner.
Appa atop for 18th times, 5 Nepali women scale Everest together
Appa Sherpa, smashing his own world record, climbed Mt Everest for the 18th time on May 22, 2008 when 75 more climbers made it atop the highest peak on the planet. This is a single day record for the Nepali side.
Appa, along with his team member, scaled the 8,848 meter mountain early morning, said Ang Tshering Sherpa, President of Nepal Mountaineering Association. A veteran guide, he is part of the Eco-Everest Expedition, which aims at highlighting the impact of glacial melt and global warming in the Himalayas.
For the first time in Nepal's mountaineering history, five Members of First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 have suscessfully climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation on May 22, 2008. Ms. Susmita Maskey, Ms. Maya Gurung, Ms. Nwang Phuti Sherpa, Ms. Pemba Diki Sherpa and Ms. Poojan Acharya are among the 10 members who climbed the Mt. Everest today. Five High Altitude Workers from the team: Mr. Pemba Dorje Sherpa, Mr. Kaji Sherpa, Mr. Phurba Tenzing Sherpa, Mr. Ang Gelu Sherpa and Mr. Karma Gyelije Sherpa also climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008 along with the team.
The 10 Inclusive Women Members First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 Team was permitted to climb the Mt. Everest from Normal Route for the period of 75 days from April 16, 2008 under the leadership of Ms. Susmita Maskey. The Government of Nepal waived all royalties equivalent to US$ 100,000(One Hundred Thousand and has granted financial assistance of Nrs. 10,00,000( Ten Hundred Thousand) to this team.
Also on May 22, 2008, 75 persons from seven expeditions scaled the peak. They are: Five-member team of David C Morton (USA), seven-member team of David Allen Hahn (USA), three-member team of Gu Hyung Jun (Korea), 18-member team of Ashok Abbay (India), eight-member team of James S Mc-Guinness (New Zealand), 12-member team of Vididnan Rojanapnich (Thailand), 22-member team of Atul Karwar and Shridhar Pokhariyal (India).
June 11, 2008
The Embassy of Nepal in Egypt, in close cooperation with Ismailia Chamber of Commerce, organized "Nepal Tourism Night" in Ismailia, Egypt on June 8, 2008 with the aim of promoting Nepalese tourism, trade and foreign investment in Nepal. The program was inaugurated by H. E. General Salah Khatab, Secretary General of Ismailia Governorate of Egypt. Adressing the function he expressed his hope that the program would contribute to the promotion of Nepalese tourism in Egypt as well as open opportunities of more bilateral trade and investment.
Delivering welcome speech on the occasion, H. E. Dr. Rambhakta P. B. Thakur, Ambassador of Nepal to the Arab republic of Egypt, highlighted different aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment as well as incentives available there. Terming Nepal as an incomparable meeting point of tourism, culture and natural excellence, he called on the Egyptians to explore them.
At the program, an audio visual presentation on various aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment opportunities was also made. The program attended by distinguished personalities, government officials, businessmen, journalists, media representatives, travel agents and tour operators was followed by the screening of Nepalese touristic films and a dinner.
Appa atop for 18th times, 5 Nepali women scale Everest together
Appa Sherpa, smashing his own world record, climbed Mt Everest for the 18th time on May 22, 2008 when 75 more climbers made it atop the highest peak on the planet. This is a single day record for the Nepali side.
Appa, along with his team member, scaled the 8,848 meter mountain early morning, said Ang Tshering Sherpa, President of Nepal Mountaineering Association. A veteran guide, he is part of the Eco-Everest Expedition, which aims at highlighting the impact of glacial melt and global warming in the Himalayas.
For the first time in Nepal's mountaineering history, five Members of First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 have suscessfully climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation on May 22, 2008. Ms. Susmita Maskey, Ms. Maya Gurung, Ms. Nwang Phuti Sherpa, Ms. Pemba Diki Sherpa and Ms. Poojan Acharya are among the 10 members who climbed the Mt. Everest today. Five High Altitude Workers from the team: Mr. Pemba Dorje Sherpa, Mr. Kaji Sherpa, Mr. Phurba Tenzing Sherpa, Mr. Ang Gelu Sherpa and Mr. Karma Gyelije Sherpa also climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008 along with the team.
The 10 Inclusive Women Members First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 Team was permitted to climb the Mt. Everest from Normal Route for the period of 75 days from April 16, 2008 under the leadership of Ms. Susmita Maskey. The Government of Nepal waived all royalties equivalent to US$ 100,000(One Hundred Thousand and has granted financial assistance of Nrs. 10,00,000( Ten Hundred Thousand) to this team.
Also on May 22, 2008, 75 persons from seven expeditions scaled the peak. They are: Five-member team of David C Morton (USA), seven-member team of David Allen Hahn (USA), three-member team of Gu Hyung Jun (Korea), 18-member team of Ashok Abbay (India), eight-member team of James S Mc-Guinness (New Zealand), 12-member team of Vididnan Rojanapnich (Thailand), 22-member team of Atul Karwar and Shridhar Pokhariyal (India).
Tou
Nepali tourism night organized in Egypt
June 11, 2008
The Embassy of Nepal in Egypt, in close cooperation with Ismailia Chamber of Commerce, organized "Nepal Tourism Night" in Ismailia, Egypt on June 8, 2008 with the aim of promoting Nepalese tourism, trade and foreign investment in Nepal. The program was inaugurated by H. E. General Salah Khatab, Secretary General of Ismailia Governorate of Egypt. Adressing the function he expressed his hope that the program would contribute to the promotion of Nepalese tourism in Egypt as well as open opportunities of more bilateral trade and investment.
Delivering welcome speech on the occasion, H. E. Dr. Rambhakta P. B. Thakur, Ambassador of Nepal to the Arab republic of Egypt, highlighted different aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment as well as incentives available there. Terming Nepal as an incomparable meeting point of tourism, culture and natural excellence, he called on the Egyptians to explore them.
At the program, an audio visual presentation on various aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment opportunities was also made. The program attended by distinguished personalities, government officials, businessmen, journalists, media representatives, travel agents and tour operators was followed by the screening of Nepalese touristic films and a dinner.
Appa atop for 18th times, 5 Nepali women scale Everest together
Appa Sherpa, smashing his own world record, climbed Mt Everest for the 18th time on May 22, 2008 when 75 more climbers made it atop the highest peak on the planet. This is a single day record for the Nepali side.
Appa, along with his team member, scaled the 8,848 meter mountain early morning, said Ang Tshering Sherpa, President of Nepal Mountaineering Association. A veteran guide, he is part of the Eco-Everest Expedition, which aims at highlighting the impact of glacial melt and global warming in the Himalayas.
For the first time in Nepal's mountaineering history, five Members of First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 have suscessfully climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation on May 22, 2008. Ms. Susmita Maskey, Ms. Maya Gurung, Ms. Nwang Phuti Sherpa, Ms. Pemba Diki Sherpa and Ms. Poojan Acharya are among the 10 members who climbed the Mt. Everest today. Five High Altitude Workers from the team: Mr. Pemba Dorje Sherpa, Mr. Kaji Sherpa, Mr. Phurba Tenzing Sherpa, Mr. Ang Gelu Sherpa and Mr. Karma Gyelije Sherpa also climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008 along with the team.
The 10 Inclusive Women Members First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 Team was permitted to climb the Mt. Everest from Normal Route for the period of 75 days from April 16, 2008 under the leadership of Ms. Susmita Maskey. The Government of Nepal waived all royalties equivalent to US$ 100,000(One Hundred Thousand and has granted financial assistance of Nrs. 10,00,000( Ten Hundred Thousand) to this team.
Also on May 22, 2008, 75 persons from seven expeditions scaled the peak. They are: Five-member team of David C Morton (USA), seven-member team of David Allen Hahn (USA), three-member team of Gu Hyung Jun (Korea), 18-member team of Ashok Abbay (India), eight-member team of James S Mc-Guinness (New Zealand), 12-member team of Vididnan Rojanapnich (Thailand), 22-member team of Atul Karwar and Shridhar Pokhariyal (India).
June 11, 2008
The Embassy of Nepal in Egypt, in close cooperation with Ismailia Chamber of Commerce, organized "Nepal Tourism Night" in Ismailia, Egypt on June 8, 2008 with the aim of promoting Nepalese tourism, trade and foreign investment in Nepal. The program was inaugurated by H. E. General Salah Khatab, Secretary General of Ismailia Governorate of Egypt. Adressing the function he expressed his hope that the program would contribute to the promotion of Nepalese tourism in Egypt as well as open opportunities of more bilateral trade and investment.
Delivering welcome speech on the occasion, H. E. Dr. Rambhakta P. B. Thakur, Ambassador of Nepal to the Arab republic of Egypt, highlighted different aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment as well as incentives available there. Terming Nepal as an incomparable meeting point of tourism, culture and natural excellence, he called on the Egyptians to explore them.
At the program, an audio visual presentation on various aspects of Nepalese tourism, trade and investment opportunities was also made. The program attended by distinguished personalities, government officials, businessmen, journalists, media representatives, travel agents and tour operators was followed by the screening of Nepalese touristic films and a dinner.
Appa atop for 18th times, 5 Nepali women scale Everest together
Appa Sherpa, smashing his own world record, climbed Mt Everest for the 18th time on May 22, 2008 when 75 more climbers made it atop the highest peak on the planet. This is a single day record for the Nepali side.
Appa, along with his team member, scaled the 8,848 meter mountain early morning, said Ang Tshering Sherpa, President of Nepal Mountaineering Association. A veteran guide, he is part of the Eco-Everest Expedition, which aims at highlighting the impact of glacial melt and global warming in the Himalayas.
For the first time in Nepal's mountaineering history, five Members of First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 have suscessfully climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation on May 22, 2008. Ms. Susmita Maskey, Ms. Maya Gurung, Ms. Nwang Phuti Sherpa, Ms. Pemba Diki Sherpa and Ms. Poojan Acharya are among the 10 members who climbed the Mt. Everest today. Five High Altitude Workers from the team: Mr. Pemba Dorje Sherpa, Mr. Kaji Sherpa, Mr. Phurba Tenzing Sherpa, Mr. Ang Gelu Sherpa and Mr. Karma Gyelije Sherpa also climbed the Mt. Everest on May 22, 2008 along with the team.
The 10 Inclusive Women Members First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition 2008 Team was permitted to climb the Mt. Everest from Normal Route for the period of 75 days from April 16, 2008 under the leadership of Ms. Susmita Maskey. The Government of Nepal waived all royalties equivalent to US$ 100,000(One Hundred Thousand and has granted financial assistance of Nrs. 10,00,000( Ten Hundred Thousand) to this team.
Also on May 22, 2008, 75 persons from seven expeditions scaled the peak. They are: Five-member team of David C Morton (USA), seven-member team of David Allen Hahn (USA), three-member team of Gu Hyung Jun (Korea), 18-member team of Ashok Abbay (India), eight-member team of James S Mc-Guinness (New Zealand), 12-member team of Vididnan Rojanapnich (Thailand), 22-member team of Atul Karwar and Shridhar Pokhariyal (India).
Thursday, June 19, 2008
News
KATHMANDU, June 20 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala on Thursday offered to step down if the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) asked him to do so and said Nepali Congress was ready to take up the role of main opposition.
But the five fringe parties in the alliance said the SPA should continue the politics of consensus and the parties should reach a package agreement on key issues.
CPN (ML), People's Front Nepal, Nepal Workers and Peasants Party and Nepal Sadbhawana Party also said the prime minister should remain in the post at least until a political settlement is reached. The two larger parties-- Maoists and UML-- however did not react to the prime minister's offer.
During the SPA meeting at the PM's residence in Baluwatar, Maoists, backed by UML, proposed that the issue of presidential candidate should be settled through Constituent Assembly following an amendment to the constitution.
"But we (five political parties) said that all issues including nomination of 26 members in the Constituent Assembly should be dealt with in a package," said Chairman of CPN-ML CP Mainali.
He said the five political parties argued that there would be a new polarization in politics if the current consensus broke down.
"Power should be shared among major political parties as per the people's mandate," Mainali said, adding, "People have given a mandate to the Maoists to take the first choice while NC and UML are left to pick up the second and third choices respectively among President, Prime Minister and Chair of the Constituent Assembly."
He also charged that UML was playing the politics of opportunism. "The UML, being the third largest political party, shouldn't have tried to take a chance for the post of president," he said.
Since five of the seven political parties held their stance to settle all key issues --amendment to constitution, implementation of peace agreement and power sharing-- in a package, the protracted meeting failed to reach consensus.
The meeting then directed a seven-party task force to prepare a consensus package Friday afternoon and submit it at the SPA meeting at 3 pm.
Thursday's meeting decided to settle the integration of armies-- Nepali Army and People's Liberation Army--in three months' time. A special committee of experts and representatives of political parties will follow standard norms to integrate PLA combatants into the national army.
NC leaders have proposed that integration of PLA should be based on the one-combatant-one arm formula, meaning that only combatants who have arms could join the national army. However, the Maoists insisted that all combatants should be integrated in the national army and separate battalions of former PLA should be formed. The meeting agreed to let the special committee take a decision on the integration of armies.
During the meeting, small leftist parties in the SPA criticized big parties for failing to control foreign intervention in Nepal's internal affairs.
United Left Front and Nepal Workers and Peasants Party leaders said it was unfortunate for the country that Indian political parties and ambassadors should start dictating to Nepal's parties in every aspect of government formation.
But the five fringe parties in the alliance said the SPA should continue the politics of consensus and the parties should reach a package agreement on key issues.
CPN (ML), People's Front Nepal, Nepal Workers and Peasants Party and Nepal Sadbhawana Party also said the prime minister should remain in the post at least until a political settlement is reached. The two larger parties-- Maoists and UML-- however did not react to the prime minister's offer.
During the SPA meeting at the PM's residence in Baluwatar, Maoists, backed by UML, proposed that the issue of presidential candidate should be settled through Constituent Assembly following an amendment to the constitution.
"But we (five political parties) said that all issues including nomination of 26 members in the Constituent Assembly should be dealt with in a package," said Chairman of CPN-ML CP Mainali.
He said the five political parties argued that there would be a new polarization in politics if the current consensus broke down.
"Power should be shared among major political parties as per the people's mandate," Mainali said, adding, "People have given a mandate to the Maoists to take the first choice while NC and UML are left to pick up the second and third choices respectively among President, Prime Minister and Chair of the Constituent Assembly."
He also charged that UML was playing the politics of opportunism. "The UML, being the third largest political party, shouldn't have tried to take a chance for the post of president," he said.
Since five of the seven political parties held their stance to settle all key issues --amendment to constitution, implementation of peace agreement and power sharing-- in a package, the protracted meeting failed to reach consensus.
The meeting then directed a seven-party task force to prepare a consensus package Friday afternoon and submit it at the SPA meeting at 3 pm.
Thursday's meeting decided to settle the integration of armies-- Nepali Army and People's Liberation Army--in three months' time. A special committee of experts and representatives of political parties will follow standard norms to integrate PLA combatants into the national army.
NC leaders have proposed that integration of PLA should be based on the one-combatant-one arm formula, meaning that only combatants who have arms could join the national army. However, the Maoists insisted that all combatants should be integrated in the national army and separate battalions of former PLA should be formed. The meeting agreed to let the special committee take a decision on the integration of armies.
During the meeting, small leftist parties in the SPA criticized big parties for failing to control foreign intervention in Nepal's internal affairs.
United Left Front and Nepal Workers and Peasants Party leaders said it was unfortunate for the country that Indian political parties and ambassadors should start dictating to Nepal's parties in every aspect of government formation.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
News
Tangyue Village is located near the southern foot of Huangshan Mountain is famous for its memorial archways (gates). More than 250 arches were constructed here during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Over 80 of these magnificent arches are still in good condition. The most notable are the Xuguo Stone Arch, and the set of seven Tangyue Memorial Arches, which were listed as a Key National Culture Protection Unit by the Chinese government.
The stone archway is a unique architectural form in China. They were built from many different materials including: wood, stone, and glazed tile. Each arch is built without the use of fasteners. They were ingeniously built using a mortise and tendon system, and were held together for centuries simply by their massive weight. They were usually erected at the entrance to a town, or a street. They were designed as the embodiment of moral standards. They were built to honor individuals who made great contributions to the dynasty, or were considered role models. The design and construction of each arch had to follow a rigid hierarchy. The number of pillars that supported the arch, the words, and designs carved into them were closely associated with the status of the person honored.
The stone archway is a unique architectural form in China. They were built from many different materials including: wood, stone, and glazed tile. Each arch is built without the use of fasteners. They were ingeniously built using a mortise and tendon system, and were held together for centuries simply by their massive weight. They were usually erected at the entrance to a town, or a street. They were designed as the embodiment of moral standards. They were built to honor individuals who made great contributions to the dynasty, or were considered role models. The design and construction of each arch had to follow a rigid hierarchy. The number of pillars that supported the arch, the words, and designs carved into them were closely associated with the status of the person honored.
News
Enjoy Snow in Huangshan
The snows that blanket Huangshan Mountain differ from snow found anywhere else in the world. It is still white, and cold and composed of an uncountable number of beautiful snowflakes. What makes Huangshan Mountain's snow different is the magic that occurs when the snow settles on the ancient pines, rocks, and pools of Huangshan Mountain. It forms a perfect union that makes this already amazing area even more beautiful.
The snow on Huangshan Mountain changes the appearance of the mountain and ads a new dimension to it
Snow forming on trees and rocks make everything look like a crystal wonderland
Sunsets on Huangshan
The sunsets on Huangshan Mountain are unforgettable. It is a photographer's paradise and one of the most outstanding features of Huangshan Mountain.
The beautiful sunset on Huangshan Mountain
Want to Take a Huangshan Tour
The snows that blanket Huangshan Mountain differ from snow found anywhere else in the world. It is still white, and cold and composed of an uncountable number of beautiful snowflakes. What makes Huangshan Mountain's snow different is the magic that occurs when the snow settles on the ancient pines, rocks, and pools of Huangshan Mountain. It forms a perfect union that makes this already amazing area even more beautiful.
The snow on Huangshan Mountain changes the appearance of the mountain and ads a new dimension to it
Snow forming on trees and rocks make everything look like a crystal wonderland
Sunsets on Huangshan
The sunsets on Huangshan Mountain are unforgettable. It is a photographer's paradise and one of the most outstanding features of Huangshan Mountain.
The beautiful sunset on Huangshan Mountain
Want to Take a Huangshan Tour
Sunday, June 15, 2008
News
Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) was formed and registered with the Kathmandu CDO Office in 1979 by a handful of trekking agents who realized that it was time to assemble and create an umbrella organization. Under which they could work together to meet their common goals and also assist the government by providing suggestions to develop trekking business into a revenue generating industry. Such a body was necessary for many reasons.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
About treaking
Are You A Trekker?
Trekkers' Information Management System(TIMS)
Nepal, aptly, has been called 'a Trekker's Paradise'. Its high standing mountains, scenic hills and the luxuriant Terai offers some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. Passing through the diverse culture and nature, trekking in Nepal is a life-time experience which involves a certain degree of physical risks owing to the rugged topography.
With the distinction of Nepal as a trekking destination and its growing charm, a provision of Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) has been implemented to control illegal trekking operations and ensure safety and security of the trekkers in general trekking areas through the mechanism of Prompt Information Service as and when required .
The past experiences have shown that difficulties have been faced while carrying out rescue operations promptly during the times of accidents and natural calamities. Because of lack of proper record system of trekkers, their exact whereabouts and the information about trekking routes, rescue and search missions used to face difficulties in spotting the trekkers missing.
The provision of Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) has come into force from Jan 01, 2008. Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) have started recording trekkers detail and issuing TIMS Card to trekkers.
Where & how to obtain TIMS Card ?
The visiting tourists, who are interested to general trekking areas of Nepal, are required to receive TIMS Card through any one of the following:
Kathmandu (NTB Office, TAAN Office, and Government registered trekking Companies), and
Pokhara (NTB Office, TAAN Office, and Government registered trekking Companies)
Opening Hour/s: TIMS counter at Government registered trekking Companies will remain open 12 hours a day all the seven days a week round the year,
TIMS counter at TAAN/NTB Office will follow government working hour/days.
To obtain TIMS Card you need copy of Passport and two copies of Passport-size Photographs.
Why is TIMS Necessary?
The following considerations have been taken into account in the process of issuing TIMS:
All important details of trekkers and trekking routes shall be maintained on a computerized Database Management System that may be useful for safety and security of trekkers. To help carry out search and rescue operations for trekkers in case of natural calamities and other accidents by means of Authentic Information Service . To maintain a record system that includes personal details of trekkers, trekking area, trekking routes, handling agencies, duration, etc. The data generated from the system will be useful to all stakeholders:- tourism organizations, Government agencies, diplomatic missions, tour operators, research institute, etc.
Unauthorized trekking operations will be controlled, thus, resulting into better management of trekking service and in benefit of all concerned :- trekkers, agencies, field staff, Government, etc. and also occasional untoward incidents will be better prevented.
To upgrade the service standard and contribute for better management of sustainable mountain tourism development of Nepal.
TIMS will not be required for:
The expedition members permitted to climb the mountains.
The visitors in the controlled areas permitted by the Department of Immigration.
The foreign guests invited by the Government of Nepal.
The authorities from different diplomatic missions in the country, who is holding official letter/s and traveling own risk .
Visitors on certain mission recommended by the concerned department of the Government.
Foreign Nationals having the residential visa.
Trekkers' Information Management System(TIMS)
Nepal, aptly, has been called 'a Trekker's Paradise'. Its high standing mountains, scenic hills and the luxuriant Terai offers some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. Passing through the diverse culture and nature, trekking in Nepal is a life-time experience which involves a certain degree of physical risks owing to the rugged topography.
With the distinction of Nepal as a trekking destination and its growing charm, a provision of Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) has been implemented to control illegal trekking operations and ensure safety and security of the trekkers in general trekking areas through the mechanism of Prompt Information Service as and when required .
The past experiences have shown that difficulties have been faced while carrying out rescue operations promptly during the times of accidents and natural calamities. Because of lack of proper record system of trekkers, their exact whereabouts and the information about trekking routes, rescue and search missions used to face difficulties in spotting the trekkers missing.
The provision of Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) has come into force from Jan 01, 2008. Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) have started recording trekkers detail and issuing TIMS Card to trekkers.
Where & how to obtain TIMS Card ?
The visiting tourists, who are interested to general trekking areas of Nepal, are required to receive TIMS Card through any one of the following:
Kathmandu (NTB Office, TAAN Office, and Government registered trekking Companies), and
Pokhara (NTB Office, TAAN Office, and Government registered trekking Companies)
Opening Hour/s: TIMS counter at Government registered trekking Companies will remain open 12 hours a day all the seven days a week round the year,
TIMS counter at TAAN/NTB Office will follow government working hour/days.
To obtain TIMS Card you need copy of Passport and two copies of Passport-size Photographs.
Why is TIMS Necessary?
The following considerations have been taken into account in the process of issuing TIMS:
All important details of trekkers and trekking routes shall be maintained on a computerized Database Management System that may be useful for safety and security of trekkers. To help carry out search and rescue operations for trekkers in case of natural calamities and other accidents by means of Authentic Information Service . To maintain a record system that includes personal details of trekkers, trekking area, trekking routes, handling agencies, duration, etc. The data generated from the system will be useful to all stakeholders:- tourism organizations, Government agencies, diplomatic missions, tour operators, research institute, etc.
Unauthorized trekking operations will be controlled, thus, resulting into better management of trekking service and in benefit of all concerned :- trekkers, agencies, field staff, Government, etc. and also occasional untoward incidents will be better prevented.
To upgrade the service standard and contribute for better management of sustainable mountain tourism development of Nepal.
TIMS will not be required for:
The expedition members permitted to climb the mountains.
The visitors in the controlled areas permitted by the Department of Immigration.
The foreign guests invited by the Government of Nepal.
The authorities from different diplomatic missions in the country, who is holding official letter/s and traveling own risk .
Visitors on certain mission recommended by the concerned department of the Government.
Foreign Nationals having the residential visa.
Monday, June 9, 2008
jocks
shopping Husband Mart
A store that sells husbands has just opened in Ottawa where a woman may go to choose a husband from among many men. The store is comprised of 6 floors, and the men increase in positive attributes as the shopper ascends the flights. There is, however, a catch. As you open the door to any floor you may choose a man from that floor, but if you go up a floor, you cannot go back down except to exit the building.
Bad Butler
The wife wasn't having a good time at the party. So, she came home early, alone. Her husband stayed on, socializing with important clients. As the woman walked into her house, she found Jervis by himself in the dining room. She called him to follow her, and led him into the master bedroom.
A store that sells husbands has just opened in Ottawa where a woman may go to choose a husband from among many men. The store is comprised of 6 floors, and the men increase in positive attributes as the shopper ascends the flights. There is, however, a catch. As you open the door to any floor you may choose a man from that floor, but if you go up a floor, you cannot go back down except to exit the building.
Bad Butler
The wife wasn't having a good time at the party. So, she came home early, alone. Her husband stayed on, socializing with important clients. As the woman walked into her house, she found Jervis by himself in the dining room. She called him to follow her, and led him into the master bedroom.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
About Rara lake
Today, when the lake is fighting a war for its existence and its lost beauty, the only the thing that we are able to do is watch and speed it to death. The lake is covered with the aquatic weeds and more than that the water is getting polluted day by day. Many NGOs and INGOs shows their interest on these issues but once that get bank for these issues, the issues just remain a issue.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
READ it
KATHMANDU, June 1 - Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) on Saturday deplored remarks by Maoist Chairman Puspa Kamal Dahal against Kantipur Publications and said these had cast serious doubts over his party’s commitment to press freedom.
Issuing a press statement, the umbrella organization of Nepali journalists said such remarks made by the Maoist chairman against the independent press cannot be taken as normal at a time when the Maoists are preparing to head the new government as the largest party in the Constituent Assembly.
Addressing a victory rally organized at the Open Air Theater on Friday to mark the declaration of republic, Dahal had warned of serious consequences if Kantipur Publications continued publishing news critical of his party. He had also asked journalists from other media houses as well to keep this in mind while writing news reports.
“This kind of pointed remarks against a particular publication from the chairman of the CPN (Maoist), the largest party in the CA, has raised serious doubts over Maoist commitment to a free press,” said the statement.
Referring to Dahal’s earlier remarks that the Nepali media had played a crucial role in making the democracy movement and Maoist people’s war a success, the journalists’ body said the recent statement from the top Maoist leadership has made it clear that the Maoists do have double standards in terms of press freedom.
It has also demanded that the Maoists make public their policy towards the independent press.
Issuing a press statement, the umbrella organization of Nepali journalists said such remarks made by the Maoist chairman against the independent press cannot be taken as normal at a time when the Maoists are preparing to head the new government as the largest party in the Constituent Assembly.
Addressing a victory rally organized at the Open Air Theater on Friday to mark the declaration of republic, Dahal had warned of serious consequences if Kantipur Publications continued publishing news critical of his party. He had also asked journalists from other media houses as well to keep this in mind while writing news reports.
“This kind of pointed remarks against a particular publication from the chairman of the CPN (Maoist), the largest party in the CA, has raised serious doubts over Maoist commitment to a free press,” said the statement.
Referring to Dahal’s earlier remarks that the Nepali media had played a crucial role in making the democracy movement and Maoist people’s war a success, the journalists’ body said the recent statement from the top Maoist leadership has made it clear that the Maoists do have double standards in terms of press freedom.
It has also demanded that the Maoists make public their policy towards the independent press.
news
Going against the spirit of the amendment to the Interim Constitution enacted Wednesday, Maoist leaders on Saturday insisted on an executive president to replace the king and staked their claim to the post of president as well as prime minister.At a meeting of the high-level taskforce of the ruling Seven-Party Alliance, senior Maoist leaders said their party would stay out of the government if
you want to read then you can to take intertnment.
you want to read then you can to take intertnment.
Monday, May 26, 2008
P.M koirelia
WALKING TALL: Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala walks through a throng of press and media men as various MPs look on from a marquee at the farewell programme for the old interim legislature parliament held on the grounds of the Parliamentary Secretariat, Singha Durbar on Monday. The first sitting of the new Constituent Assembly is scheduled for Wednesday.
news
Difference persists on statute amendment, head of state
KATHMANDU , May 27
The three largest parties in the Constituent Assembly on Monday agreed to implement the republic through Wednesday’s CA meeting despite their differences over the issue of head of state and amendment of the constitution. Nepali Congress, CPN (Maoist) and CPN-UML leaders agreed to implement the republic Wednesday and keep up negotiations to settle the remaining differences.The lead
KATHMANDU , May 27
The three largest parties in the Constituent Assembly on Monday agreed to implement the republic through Wednesday’s CA meeting despite their differences over the issue of head of state and amendment of the constitution. Nepali Congress, CPN (Maoist) and CPN-UML leaders agreed to implement the republic Wednesday and keep up negotiations to settle the remaining differences.The lead
Saturday, May 24, 2008
news
No mandate to supervise armed personnel: UNMIN
Kantipur Report
KATHMANDU, May 24 - Special Representative of the Secretary General Ian Martin has tried to disown weakness on the part of his office in Nepal in monitoring Maoists combatants in Shaktikhor cantonment in regard to the death of businessman Ram Hari Shrestha.
"There have been some suggestions that in some way it points to a weakness in UNMIN's monitoring role at the cantonments, but that really is without foundation," said Martin, who is head of the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN), at a press meet in New York on Thursday.
Replying to journalists, Martin further said on the killing of Shrestha by the combatants monitored by UNMIN, "We have a 24-hour surveillance of the weapons storage areas in the cantonments, but we are neither mandated nor resourced to supervise the personnel of the cantonments - around 20,000 of them in 28 sites - in addition to the Nepal Army installations."
Martin's remarks have come at a time when questions are being raised over the role of UNMIN in monitoring the combatants in Shaktikhor cantonment where Shrestha was beaten up severely resulting into his death in a hospital in Chitwan.
Despite Martin's remarks, the UNMIN mandate clearly states that UNMIN is responsible for management of arms and armed personnel in cantonments
Kantipur Report
KATHMANDU, May 24 - Special Representative of the Secretary General Ian Martin has tried to disown weakness on the part of his office in Nepal in monitoring Maoists combatants in Shaktikhor cantonment in regard to the death of businessman Ram Hari Shrestha.
"There have been some suggestions that in some way it points to a weakness in UNMIN's monitoring role at the cantonments, but that really is without foundation," said Martin, who is head of the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN), at a press meet in New York on Thursday.
Replying to journalists, Martin further said on the killing of Shrestha by the combatants monitored by UNMIN, "We have a 24-hour surveillance of the weapons storage areas in the cantonments, but we are neither mandated nor resourced to supervise the personnel of the cantonments - around 20,000 of them in 28 sites - in addition to the Nepal Army installations."
Martin's remarks have come at a time when questions are being raised over the role of UNMIN in monitoring the combatants in Shaktikhor cantonment where Shrestha was beaten up severely resulting into his death in a hospital in Chitwan.
Despite Martin's remarks, the UNMIN mandate clearly states that UNMIN is responsible for management of arms and armed personnel in cantonments
Friday, May 23, 2008
stress on amendment
KATHMANDU, May 23 - The three major Madhes-based Parties—Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF), Terai Madhes Democratic Party (TMDP) and Nepal Sadbhavana Party—Friday stressed on the need to make amendment to the interim constitution as per the agreement reached in the past to declare regions including Madhes autonomous.
A meeting of the three parties held at TMDP’s central office in Nayabazaar this morning reached an understanding to hold a common stance to include the points of agreement singed with the government in February while making the statute amendment in a package.
An agreement signed between the government and the United Democratic Madhesi Front, a joint front of the three parties, On Feb 28 stated that Nepal will be a federal democratic republican state complying with the demands of regional autonomy and a federal system of governance including an autonomous Madhes Pradesh.
The first ever meeting of the three Madhesi parties after launching an indefinite strike for over two weeks in Terai (southern plains) also reached an agreement to present the Madhes issues in the Constituent Assembly (CA) in an integrated manner, TMDP leader Hirdayesh Tripathi said.
The Madhesi parties also decided to make the constitutional provision so as to form or dismiss the government with a simple majority and to end the concept of the Seven Party alliance (SPA) mentioned in the interim constitution.
Similarly, the three parties reached a consensus to create a position of an interim head of state after the implementation of republic.
Meanwhile, the central committee meeting of the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF) which kicked off yesterday, to make preparations for the CA meeting and to formulate its future strategies is continuing today.
The meeting underway at MPRF central office at Sankhamul in the Capital is scheduled to discuss the statute of parliamentary party.
A meeting of the three parties held at TMDP’s central office in Nayabazaar this morning reached an understanding to hold a common stance to include the points of agreement singed with the government in February while making the statute amendment in a package.
An agreement signed between the government and the United Democratic Madhesi Front, a joint front of the three parties, On Feb 28 stated that Nepal will be a federal democratic republican state complying with the demands of regional autonomy and a federal system of governance including an autonomous Madhes Pradesh.
The first ever meeting of the three Madhesi parties after launching an indefinite strike for over two weeks in Terai (southern plains) also reached an agreement to present the Madhes issues in the Constituent Assembly (CA) in an integrated manner, TMDP leader Hirdayesh Tripathi said.
The Madhesi parties also decided to make the constitutional provision so as to form or dismiss the government with a simple majority and to end the concept of the Seven Party alliance (SPA) mentioned in the interim constitution.
Similarly, the three parties reached a consensus to create a position of an interim head of state after the implementation of republic.
Meanwhile, the central committee meeting of the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (MPRF) which kicked off yesterday, to make preparations for the CA meeting and to formulate its future strategies is continuing today.
The meeting underway at MPRF central office at Sankhamul in the Capital is scheduled to discuss the statute of parliamentary party.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
About tourism
Celebrating 1st International Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) Day
Government of Nepal has announced May 29 as International Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) Day to commemorate the heroic achievement of late Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary for their historic ascent of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) on May 29, 1953. Government of Nepal and Tourism Board in association with various tourism associations and stakeholders of tourism are jointly organizing different programs to celebrate this day on 28 and 29 May, 2008. (See the attachment for detail program)
Objectives of this event are: to pay tribute and remember the first climbers for their heroic achievement in human history, promote Nepal as a world-class adventure tourism destination, create awareness about the importance of our mountains for our livelihood, maximize the involvement of all stakeholders for their respective roles in preserving the mountain environment and help to preserve Sagarmatha (Everest) region as an icon of Nepal.
There will be a grand procession in the morning of 29 May followed by Inaugural program in Kathmandu. Similarly, a symposium on adventure and responsible tourism, a workshop on water painting of mountain theme, a wall climbing and quiz contest programs among school/college students, mountain film festival and various programs are being organized in association and leadership of the Ministry, Nepal Tourism Board, Tourism Associations and Non-governmental organizations based in Kathmandu and Sagarmatha area. Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon in Sagarmatha region is going to coincide the event. Likewise, many foreign dignitaries related with our mountains are also joining us in celebrating this day. UAAA council meeting is being organized in Kathmandu by NMA on 29 May. TAAN is taking the lead in organizing the morning procession on 29 May at 6.30AM from Bhadrakali, Sahid Gate. We invite all to join us and express your solidarity to make this celebration a success.
Being the first program to celebrate 29 May as International Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) Day, we look forward to receiving active support of the media and all our stakeholders/partners specially the Ministry, NMA and TAAN for the success of this event. We also request all concerned to provide their suggestion and comments to Nepal Tourism Board after completion of the event so that we can work to make our future celebrations more visible and effective.
Government of Nepal has announced May 29 as International Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) Day to commemorate the heroic achievement of late Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary for their historic ascent of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) on May 29, 1953. Government of Nepal and Tourism Board in association with various tourism associations and stakeholders of tourism are jointly organizing different programs to celebrate this day on 28 and 29 May, 2008. (See the attachment for detail program)
Objectives of this event are: to pay tribute and remember the first climbers for their heroic achievement in human history, promote Nepal as a world-class adventure tourism destination, create awareness about the importance of our mountains for our livelihood, maximize the involvement of all stakeholders for their respective roles in preserving the mountain environment and help to preserve Sagarmatha (Everest) region as an icon of Nepal.
There will be a grand procession in the morning of 29 May followed by Inaugural program in Kathmandu. Similarly, a symposium on adventure and responsible tourism, a workshop on water painting of mountain theme, a wall climbing and quiz contest programs among school/college students, mountain film festival and various programs are being organized in association and leadership of the Ministry, Nepal Tourism Board, Tourism Associations and Non-governmental organizations based in Kathmandu and Sagarmatha area. Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon in Sagarmatha region is going to coincide the event. Likewise, many foreign dignitaries related with our mountains are also joining us in celebrating this day. UAAA council meeting is being organized in Kathmandu by NMA on 29 May. TAAN is taking the lead in organizing the morning procession on 29 May at 6.30AM from Bhadrakali, Sahid Gate. We invite all to join us and express your solidarity to make this celebration a success.
Being the first program to celebrate 29 May as International Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) Day, we look forward to receiving active support of the media and all our stakeholders/partners specially the Ministry, NMA and TAAN for the success of this event. We also request all concerned to provide their suggestion and comments to Nepal Tourism Board after completion of the event so that we can work to make our future celebrations more visible and effective.
Gorkha recruitment may stop if Nepal wants’
NEW DELHI , May 21
Special envoy of the Indian prime minister and former Indian ambassador to Nepal Shyam Saran on Monday said India is ready to stop Gorkha recruitment if Nepal so desires. Saran also made it clear that India would suffer no "practical impact" by discontinuing recruitment of Nepali nationals in the Gorkha Regiments. Saran, however, added that the recruitment has been continued as a symbol of th
Special envoy of the Indian prime minister and former Indian ambassador to Nepal Shyam Saran on Monday said India is ready to stop Gorkha recruitment if Nepal so desires. Saran also made it clear that India would suffer no "practical impact" by discontinuing recruitment of Nepali nationals in the Gorkha Regiments. Saran, however, added that the recruitment has been continued as a symbol of th
Saturday, May 17, 2008
About nepali currency
KATHMANDU, May 17 - There is a reason to smile for over a million remittance earning families, as the persistent fall of the Nepali rupee against the dollar has raised the volume of money that they get from their dear ones working overseas.
On Friday, the rupee's loss hit a 13-month low with the greenback's strength against the Indian unit gaining momentum.
The loss in rupees also makes Nepali goods cheaper in the international market and supports export.
However, it causes the price of imported goods to go up, puts further strains on cash-strapped Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) to raise prices of petroleum products and expands the extent of public debt.
Monetary analysts said India's rupee is bracing a downturn on concerns that the near-record oil prices will boost India's import bill, widening the trade and current-account deficits. This has had a direct impact on the Nepali currency.
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has set the trading value of rupee at Rs 68.80 a dollar for Saturday. It was Rs 68.33 at today's trading. The rupee has lost almost 8 percent since January 2008.
“The rupee's persistent weakness is solely due to the Indian factor,” said Krishna Bahadur Manandhar, acting governor of the NRB. He told the Post that the rise is on a correction course, as the rupee had earlier gained substantially.
He said it would not have any substantial impact on the present state of the economy.
The Nepali currency versus the dollar was rising together with the Indian rupee, which was becoming one of the best performing Asian units in 2007. However, the Indian currency has fallen more than 8 percent in 2008 and is the worst performing currency after the Korean Won and the Pakistani rupee.
Analysts said there is a strong chance of further fall of the Nepali rupee because of the Indian currency.
Morgan Stanley predicted that the Indian rupee may fall by 5-7 percent against the US dollar by the end of 2008, dragged by a slew of factors such as a widening trade deficit, and soaring oil and commodity prices.
On Friday, the rupee's loss hit a 13-month low with the greenback's strength against the Indian unit gaining momentum.
The loss in rupees also makes Nepali goods cheaper in the international market and supports export.
However, it causes the price of imported goods to go up, puts further strains on cash-strapped Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) to raise prices of petroleum products and expands the extent of public debt.
Monetary analysts said India's rupee is bracing a downturn on concerns that the near-record oil prices will boost India's import bill, widening the trade and current-account deficits. This has had a direct impact on the Nepali currency.
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has set the trading value of rupee at Rs 68.80 a dollar for Saturday. It was Rs 68.33 at today's trading. The rupee has lost almost 8 percent since January 2008.
“The rupee's persistent weakness is solely due to the Indian factor,” said Krishna Bahadur Manandhar, acting governor of the NRB. He told the Post that the rise is on a correction course, as the rupee had earlier gained substantially.
He said it would not have any substantial impact on the present state of the economy.
The Nepali currency versus the dollar was rising together with the Indian rupee, which was becoming one of the best performing Asian units in 2007. However, the Indian currency has fallen more than 8 percent in 2008 and is the worst performing currency after the Korean Won and the Pakistani rupee.
Analysts said there is a strong chance of further fall of the Nepali rupee because of the Indian currency.
Morgan Stanley predicted that the Indian rupee may fall by 5-7 percent against the US dollar by the end of 2008, dragged by a slew of factors such as a widening trade deficit, and soaring oil and commodity prices.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
women seats of parliament
KATHMANDU, May 14 - Women leaders and women’s rights activists Wednesday submitted a memorandum to the government demanding the inclusion of women in the list of 26 Constituent Assembly (CA) members to be nominated by the cabinet.
Inter-party women network Chairman Uma Adhikari informed that she met with senior leaders of all the major parties today to seek their attention on the issue.
Women leaders and women’s rights activists organised a rally from Bhatbhateni to the Prime Minister’s Baluwatar residence in the capital to submit the memorandum.
The network sought the cabinet’s attention on the issue as there is no provision in the interim constitution for inclusion of women nominees among the 26 CA members to be elected by the cabinet
Inter-party women network Chairman Uma Adhikari informed that she met with senior leaders of all the major parties today to seek their attention on the issue.
Women leaders and women’s rights activists organised a rally from Bhatbhateni to the Prime Minister’s Baluwatar residence in the capital to submit the memorandum.
The network sought the cabinet’s attention on the issue as there is no provision in the interim constitution for inclusion of women nominees among the 26 CA members to be elected by the cabinet
P.M. koirala
Prime Minister and Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala Wednesday called for more restraint to be shown in both words and deeds stating the country is going through a sensitive stage in the transitional process.Hinting at the recent remarks made by the leaders of different political parties, PM Koirala urged everyone to think before speaking considering the situation.
P.M. koirala
Prime Minister and Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala Wednesday called for more restraint to be shown in both words and deeds stating the country is going through a sensitive stage in the transitional process.Hinting at the recent remarks made by the leaders of different political parties, PM Koirala urged everyone to think before speaking considering the situation.
Monday, May 12, 2008
About nepali congress
Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML have decided not to join the new government and have set preconditions for their support to a government led by Maoists.Central committee meetings of the second and third largest political parties in the newly constituted Constituent Assembly took the decision Monday after days of deliberation on whether to join a Maoist-led coalition or remain outside."N
nepali king
King Gyanendra and Queen Komal worship goddess Durga at the Dakshinkali temple, a famous Hindu shrine located 19 kilometers south-west of the capital, on Monday. The royal couple spent nearly an hour and a half worshipping the goddess, believed by Hindus to be the source of poKing Gyanendra and Queen Komal worship goddess Durga at the Dakshinkali temple, a famous Hindu shrine located 19 kilometers south-west of the capital, on Monday. The royal couple spent nearly an hour and a half worshipping the goddess, believed by Hindus to be the source of powerwer
Sunday, May 11, 2008
About Niruita
Famous Kollywood actress Niruta Singh browsing through books on Indian cinema at the ongoing book fair at Bhrikuti Mandap in the capital on Sunday. The fair, which started from Friday, has seen
..::Watch Photogallery and Modelwatch::..
..::Watch Photogallery and Modelwatch::..
Saturday, May 10, 2008
News Headlines
First CA meet to form new govt: Prachanda
KATHMANDU, May 11 - Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) said Saturday that the new government would be formed at the first meetin ... (more)
UML CC meeting finalises discussions on Bohara’s political report
KATHMANDU, May 10 - The CPN-UML central committee (CC) meeting Saturday finalised discussions on the political report submitted by Acting UM ... (more)
New constitution should honour martyr’s sacrifices: PM Koirala
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala Saturday said that the new constitution to be drafted should honour the martyrs⠮.. (more)
Maoists burn down Pranchanda’s effigy
RAUTAHAT, Jan 10 - CPN-Maoist activists of Rautahat district Saturday burnt down the effigy of party Chairman Prachanda and demanded for hi ... (more)
Taskforce for first CA meeting starting its work from today
KATHMANDU, May 10 - The taskforce formed to work out the procedure, working list and agenda for the first Constituent Assembly (CA) meeting ... (more)
2 killed in bike accident
KAPILVASTU, Jan 10 - At least two people were killed Saturday when a motorcycle collided with a passenger bus at Harpur VDC section of the Ea ... (more)
Tarai violence surges post election
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Incidents of murder, kidnapping, looting and other criminal activity have seen a resurgence in the eastern and central t ... (more)
2 youths murdered in capital; nine armed people arrested
KATHMANDU, Jan 10 - An unidentified gang killed two people at a guesthouse at Gongabu in the capital Friday night.20 year-old Purna Baha ... (more)
PM directs Home Minister to search ‘missing’ NSP-A chair Singh
KATHMANDU, Jan 10 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala Saturday directed Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula to seek information about ch ... (more)
Maoists indirectly call for PM's resignation
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Maoist chairman Prachanda indirectly called for the prime minister's resignation to pave the way for the Maoists to star ... (more)
NC demands action against Maoists
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Nepali Congress has demanded strong action against the Maoists who are involved in violent attacks against NC work ... (more)
Constitution should not be amended: Experts
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Constitutional experts have advised political parties not to amend the interim constitution as it will lead to delay in ... (more)
Changunarayan vulnerable to natural disasters
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Changunarayan Temple, a World Heritage Site (WHS), is highly vulnerable to natural disasters due to increased unplanned ... (more)
Reform customs administration: Entrepreneurs
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Entrepreneurs Friday asked the government to deepen reforms in customs administration in order to address infrastructure ... (more)
SPA forms taskforce to prepare CA meet
KATHMANDU, May 9 - A meeting the ruling Seven-Party Alliance (SPA) Friday reached an understanding to call the first Cons ... (more)
KATHMANDU, May 11 - Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) said Saturday that the new government would be formed at the first meetin ... (more)
UML CC meeting finalises discussions on Bohara’s political report
KATHMANDU, May 10 - The CPN-UML central committee (CC) meeting Saturday finalised discussions on the political report submitted by Acting UM ... (more)
New constitution should honour martyr’s sacrifices: PM Koirala
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala Saturday said that the new constitution to be drafted should honour the martyrs⠮.. (more)
Maoists burn down Pranchanda’s effigy
RAUTAHAT, Jan 10 - CPN-Maoist activists of Rautahat district Saturday burnt down the effigy of party Chairman Prachanda and demanded for hi ... (more)
Taskforce for first CA meeting starting its work from today
KATHMANDU, May 10 - The taskforce formed to work out the procedure, working list and agenda for the first Constituent Assembly (CA) meeting ... (more)
2 killed in bike accident
KAPILVASTU, Jan 10 - At least two people were killed Saturday when a motorcycle collided with a passenger bus at Harpur VDC section of the Ea ... (more)
Tarai violence surges post election
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Incidents of murder, kidnapping, looting and other criminal activity have seen a resurgence in the eastern and central t ... (more)
2 youths murdered in capital; nine armed people arrested
KATHMANDU, Jan 10 - An unidentified gang killed two people at a guesthouse at Gongabu in the capital Friday night.20 year-old Purna Baha ... (more)
PM directs Home Minister to search ‘missing’ NSP-A chair Singh
KATHMANDU, Jan 10 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala Saturday directed Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula to seek information about ch ... (more)
Maoists indirectly call for PM's resignation
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Maoist chairman Prachanda indirectly called for the prime minister's resignation to pave the way for the Maoists to star ... (more)
NC demands action against Maoists
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Nepali Congress has demanded strong action against the Maoists who are involved in violent attacks against NC work ... (more)
Constitution should not be amended: Experts
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Constitutional experts have advised political parties not to amend the interim constitution as it will lead to delay in ... (more)
Changunarayan vulnerable to natural disasters
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Changunarayan Temple, a World Heritage Site (WHS), is highly vulnerable to natural disasters due to increased unplanned ... (more)
Reform customs administration: Entrepreneurs
KATHMANDU, May 10 - Entrepreneurs Friday asked the government to deepen reforms in customs administration in order to address infrastructure ... (more)
SPA forms taskforce to prepare CA meet
KATHMANDU, May 9 - A meeting the ruling Seven-Party Alliance (SPA) Friday reached an understanding to call the first Cons ... (more)
Read it
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Friday, May 9, 2008
Nepali people victory
The Day of People’s Victory
April 10 was clearly a day of the Nepalese people’s victory. On this epoch-making day, the great people of Nepal proved false all the misgivings and apprehensions regarding the speculated violence during the polls through their courage, unity and long-cherished dream to be fully free and sovereign
April 10 was clearly a day of the Nepalese people’s victory. On this epoch-making day, the great people of Nepal proved false all the misgivings and apprehensions regarding the speculated violence during the polls through their courage, unity and long-cherished dream to be fully free and sovereign
Thursday, May 8, 2008
The news
KOL DISCUSSION
Title of Discussion: Is the seven-party alliance right in rejecting all elections under the current government headed by King Gyanendra?
Posted On : 2005-06-20
Parties are right at least in deciding to reject the municipal election. The royal government want to give a democratic cover to the autocratic rule. Going for any election without addressing the Maoist problem is nothing but a mere attempt to ameliorate the image of the autocracy. Parties should now try to accrue their political strength by bringing the Maoists to the political mailstream. Maoists too have to shun violence spread in the name of sedition. I wish the parties could be able to emancipate the country from the present political impasse.
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: Bishnu
It is wrong for the parties not to participate in elections. They are defying the very core principle of democracy is based on and they call themselves democratic?
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: Arun
Indeed the current government is "a continuation of absolutism," because there is no provision in Nepal's Constitution of 1990 that the King could form an artificial government with two chairmen. Also it was not envisaged that the political parties with 90% of the people's verdict would be neglected and declare the elections without their approval.
We are living in the 21st century. Who the hell is the king to go beyond the constitution and take decisions on his personal discretion.
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: PratapRana
Yes. Local elections under the present circumstances can never be free and fair. To think that municipal elections would serve as a step towards the restoration of full-fledged democracy in the country would be tantamount to refusing to learn our lessons from history. There is no half-way or shortcut to people's sovereign rights. But one troubling question that haunts many a mind even now remains: Will the seven parties would continue to remain united on their present agenda till the bitter end and not end up as always on a compromise remains to be seen?
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: P.P.Shah
If they believe in democracy they should not reject it.They should face the elections to normalise the pain of Nepal.
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: udhdab
Pages: 1
OTHER TOPICS
Do you support the two-week ultimatum given by the Home Minister to the agitating Terai groups to sit for talks or face action?
Which system of governance do you support?
What do you think of the king?s refusal to answer the Rayamajhi Commission?s questions?
How do you see the deferral of the govt-Maoist Summit Talks?
Do you think the summit talks between the government and Maoists to be held before the Dashain festival will sort out the overhanging political issues?
Do you agree with the Maoists' idea of another Jana Andolan?
Do you agree with the Maoists' idea of another Jana Andolan?
Nepal Rastra Bank has demanded action against 53 business houses yet to pay back loans worth over Rs. 25 billion to different government-owned banks. Do you think the government will be able to take a
How do you see the deferral of the Raymajhi Commission's summon by the army top brass?
Does this year's budget sound a positive and confident note and will it be popular?
Should the Maoists lay down arms before joining the interim government?
Do you agree with PM Koirala's recent statement that the monarchy should be given a ceremonial role?
Will the SC order banning smoking in public places be effectively implemented?
Will the PM's India visit bring in the expected assistance?
Do you think this round of government-Maoist talks will be a success?
What do you think of the House Proclamation-2063 B.S.?
What do you think of the arrest of five ministers of the erstwhile royal cabinet and suspension of the top security officials by the SPA government?
With the Maoists announcing a unilateral ceasefire as demanded by the seven-party alliance and the latter repeatedly expressing commitment for constituent assembly elections, are you convinced of the
Do you agree with the Royal Proclamation of April 21?
Do you think the ongoing peoples' movement will bring in complete democracy in the country?
What do you think of the second parties-Maoist understanding?
Do the allegations made by two Maoist central members against party leaders Prachanda and Dr Baburam Bhattarai and their subsequent expulsion indicate serious ideological differences in the Maoist par
Do you think the political consultations being held by the King in Pokhara will have any significant effect on the country?s politics?
Are you hopeful that the recent gestures by NC President Girija Prasad Koirala and NC-D President Sher Bahadur Deuba will lead to the unification of the two parties?
Is the Supreme Court verdict on the RCCC case a triumph for the rule of law?
What do you think of the King's address to the nation on Feb. 1, 2006?
Should the municipal elections be called off?
Is the government ban on public assembly in the Kathmandu valley justified?
What do you think of the Maoists and seven-party alliance blaming the government for the ceasefire breakdown?
The Supreme Court has set the final verdict on the constitutionality of the Royal Commission for Corruption Control for Jan.5. Should the Commission be given continuity?
Is an election to a constituent assembly, as agreed by the seven-party alliance and Maoists in their 12-point understanding, the solution to the country's current crisis?
Do you agree with the Supreme Court verdict on writs against the media ordinance?
Should Afghanistan be included in the SAARC?
The government has set the deadlines for municipal and parliamentary polls. Are free and fair elections possible given the current political situation in the country?
Do you think Nepalese spend more than they can afford during the Dashain festival?
Do you think Cabinet Vice-Chairman Dr. Tulsi Giri's recent remarks are preplanned and premeditative?
Will the latest cease-fire announcement by the Maoists pave way for permanent peace in the country?
Is the government’s decision to hike the prices of petroleum products justified?
Is the recent Supreme Court order against government attempt to ban Nepal FM an indication that the ban on news broadcasts from FM radios will soon be lifted?
Has the Royal Commission given the right verdict by convicting ex-Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and others on Melamchi case?
The talk offered by Maoist Chairman Prachanda to the seven-party alliance is a step forward to resolve the political stalemate in the country?
Will the government lift its ban on FM news following street protests by journalists?
Tulsi Giri, vice-chairman of the Council of Ministers, should resign after being blacklisted by Nepal Bank Limited for a loan default?
Does the worst Maoist attack on a civilian target yet signal that Prachanda has lost his grip over the Maoist command and control?
Should political parties open dialogue with Maoists?
Do you think the Indian authorities were aware of Maoist leader Baburam Bhattarai’s reported Delhi visit?
Is the seven-party alliance’s demand and protests for the restoration of Parliament justified?
Do you think the government is right to claim that it has been successful in its first 100 days?
Title of Discussion: Is the seven-party alliance right in rejecting all elections under the current government headed by King Gyanendra?
Posted On : 2005-06-20
Parties are right at least in deciding to reject the municipal election. The royal government want to give a democratic cover to the autocratic rule. Going for any election without addressing the Maoist problem is nothing but a mere attempt to ameliorate the image of the autocracy. Parties should now try to accrue their political strength by bringing the Maoists to the political mailstream. Maoists too have to shun violence spread in the name of sedition. I wish the parties could be able to emancipate the country from the present political impasse.
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: Bishnu
It is wrong for the parties not to participate in elections. They are defying the very core principle of democracy is based on and they call themselves democratic?
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: Arun
Indeed the current government is "a continuation of absolutism," because there is no provision in Nepal's Constitution of 1990 that the King could form an artificial government with two chairmen. Also it was not envisaged that the political parties with 90% of the people's verdict would be neglected and declare the elections without their approval.
We are living in the 21st century. Who the hell is the king to go beyond the constitution and take decisions on his personal discretion.
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: PratapRana
Yes. Local elections under the present circumstances can never be free and fair. To think that municipal elections would serve as a step towards the restoration of full-fledged democracy in the country would be tantamount to refusing to learn our lessons from history. There is no half-way or shortcut to people's sovereign rights. But one troubling question that haunts many a mind even now remains: Will the seven parties would continue to remain united on their present agenda till the bitter end and not end up as always on a compromise remains to be seen?
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: P.P.Shah
If they believe in democracy they should not reject it.They should face the elections to normalise the pain of Nepal.
Posted on: 2005-06-20 Posted by: udhdab
Pages: 1
OTHER TOPICS
Do you support the two-week ultimatum given by the Home Minister to the agitating Terai groups to sit for talks or face action?
Which system of governance do you support?
What do you think of the king?s refusal to answer the Rayamajhi Commission?s questions?
How do you see the deferral of the govt-Maoist Summit Talks?
Do you think the summit talks between the government and Maoists to be held before the Dashain festival will sort out the overhanging political issues?
Do you agree with the Maoists' idea of another Jana Andolan?
Do you agree with the Maoists' idea of another Jana Andolan?
Nepal Rastra Bank has demanded action against 53 business houses yet to pay back loans worth over Rs. 25 billion to different government-owned banks. Do you think the government will be able to take a
How do you see the deferral of the Raymajhi Commission's summon by the army top brass?
Does this year's budget sound a positive and confident note and will it be popular?
Should the Maoists lay down arms before joining the interim government?
Do you agree with PM Koirala's recent statement that the monarchy should be given a ceremonial role?
Will the SC order banning smoking in public places be effectively implemented?
Will the PM's India visit bring in the expected assistance?
Do you think this round of government-Maoist talks will be a success?
What do you think of the House Proclamation-2063 B.S.?
What do you think of the arrest of five ministers of the erstwhile royal cabinet and suspension of the top security officials by the SPA government?
With the Maoists announcing a unilateral ceasefire as demanded by the seven-party alliance and the latter repeatedly expressing commitment for constituent assembly elections, are you convinced of the
Do you agree with the Royal Proclamation of April 21?
Do you think the ongoing peoples' movement will bring in complete democracy in the country?
What do you think of the second parties-Maoist understanding?
Do the allegations made by two Maoist central members against party leaders Prachanda and Dr Baburam Bhattarai and their subsequent expulsion indicate serious ideological differences in the Maoist par
Do you think the political consultations being held by the King in Pokhara will have any significant effect on the country?s politics?
Are you hopeful that the recent gestures by NC President Girija Prasad Koirala and NC-D President Sher Bahadur Deuba will lead to the unification of the two parties?
Is the Supreme Court verdict on the RCCC case a triumph for the rule of law?
What do you think of the King's address to the nation on Feb. 1, 2006?
Should the municipal elections be called off?
Is the government ban on public assembly in the Kathmandu valley justified?
What do you think of the Maoists and seven-party alliance blaming the government for the ceasefire breakdown?
The Supreme Court has set the final verdict on the constitutionality of the Royal Commission for Corruption Control for Jan.5. Should the Commission be given continuity?
Is an election to a constituent assembly, as agreed by the seven-party alliance and Maoists in their 12-point understanding, the solution to the country's current crisis?
Do you agree with the Supreme Court verdict on writs against the media ordinance?
Should Afghanistan be included in the SAARC?
The government has set the deadlines for municipal and parliamentary polls. Are free and fair elections possible given the current political situation in the country?
Do you think Nepalese spend more than they can afford during the Dashain festival?
Do you think Cabinet Vice-Chairman Dr. Tulsi Giri's recent remarks are preplanned and premeditative?
Will the latest cease-fire announcement by the Maoists pave way for permanent peace in the country?
Is the government’s decision to hike the prices of petroleum products justified?
Is the recent Supreme Court order against government attempt to ban Nepal FM an indication that the ban on news broadcasts from FM radios will soon be lifted?
Has the Royal Commission given the right verdict by convicting ex-Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and others on Melamchi case?
The talk offered by Maoist Chairman Prachanda to the seven-party alliance is a step forward to resolve the political stalemate in the country?
Will the government lift its ban on FM news following street protests by journalists?
Tulsi Giri, vice-chairman of the Council of Ministers, should resign after being blacklisted by Nepal Bank Limited for a loan default?
Does the worst Maoist attack on a civilian target yet signal that Prachanda has lost his grip over the Maoist command and control?
Should political parties open dialogue with Maoists?
Do you think the Indian authorities were aware of Maoist leader Baburam Bhattarai’s reported Delhi visit?
Is the seven-party alliance’s demand and protests for the restoration of Parliament justified?
Do you think the government is right to claim that it has been successful in its first 100 days?
Monday, May 5, 2008
Nature
Nature, in the broadest sense, is equivalent to the natural world, physical universe, material world or material universe. "Nature" refers to the phenomena of the physical world, and also to life in general. Manufactured objects and human interaction are not considered part of nature unless qualified in ways such as "human nature" or "the whole of nature". Nature is generally distinguished from the supernatural. It ranges in scale from the subatomic to the galactic.The word nature is derived from the Latin word natura, or "the course of things, natural character."[1] Natura was a Latin translation of the Greek word physis (φύσις), which originally related to the intrinsic characteristics that plants, animals, and other features of the world develop of their own accord.[2] This is shown in the first written use of the word φύσις, in connection with a plant.[3] The concept of nature as a whole, the physical universe, is one of several expansions of the original notion; it began with certain core applications of the word φύσις by pre-Socratic philosophers, and has steadily gained currency ever since. This usage was confirmed during the advent of modern scientific method in the last several centuries.[4][5]Within the various uses of the word today, "nature" may refer to the general realm of various types of living plants and animals, and in some cases to the processes associated with inanimate objects – the way that particular types of things exist and change of their own accord, such as the weather and geology of the Earth, and the matter and energy of which all these things are composed. It is often taken to mean the "natural environment" or wilderness – wild animals, rocks, forest, beaches, and in general those things that have not been substantially altered by human intervention, or which persist despite human intervention. This more traditional concept of natural things which can still be found today implies a distinction between the natural and the artificial, with the latter being understood as that which has been brought into being by a human or human-like consciousness or mind.EtymologyThe word nature means the universe, with all its phenomena.[6] Natura was a Latin translation of the Greek word physis (φύσις), which originally related to the intrinsic characteristics that plants, animals, and other features of the world develop of their own accord.[7] The word φύσις occurs very early in Greek philosophy, generally in similar senses to those of the modern English word nature.[8] This is shown in the first written use of the word φύσις, in connection with a plant by Homer.[9] The concept of nature as a whole, the physical universe, is one of several expansions of the original notion. This usage was confirmed during the advent of modern scientific method. Isaac Newton's Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica (1687), for example, is translated "Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy". The etymology of the word "physical" shows its use as a synonym for "natural" in about the mid-15th century.[10]EarthEarth (or, "the earth") is the only planet known to support life, and as such, its natural features are the subject of many fields of scientific research. Within the solar system, it is third nearest to the sun; it is the largest terrestrial planet and the fifth largest overall. Its most prominent climatic features are its two large polar regions, two relatively narrow temperate zones, and a wide equatorial tropical to subtropical region.[11] Precipitation varies widely with location, from several metres of water per year to less than a millimetre. About 70 percent of the surface is covered by salt-water oceans. The remainder consists of continents and islands, with most of the inhabited land in the Northern Hemisphere.Earth has evolved through geological and biological processes that have left traces of the original conditions. The outer surface is divided into several gradually migrating tectonic plates, which have changed relatively quickly several times. The interior remains active, with a thick layer of molten mantle and an iron-filled core that generates a magnetic field.The atmospheric conditions have been significantly altered from the original conditions by the presence of lifeforms,[12] which create an ecological balance that stabilizes the surface conditions. Despite the wide regional variations in climate by latitude and other geographic factors, the long-term average global climate is quite stable during interglacial periods,[13] and variations of a degree or two of average global temperature have historically had major effects on the ecological balance, and on the actual geography of the Earth.[14][15]Historical perspectiveEarth is estimated to have formed 4.55 billion years ago from the solar nebula, along with the Sun and other planets.[17] The moon formed roughly 20 million years later. Initially molten, the outer layer of the planet cooled, resulting in the solid crust. Outgassing and volcanic activity produced the primordial atmosphere. Condensing water vapor, augmented by ice delivered by comets, produced the oceans.[18] The highly energetic chemistry is believed to have produced a self-replicating molecule around 4 billion years ago.[19]Continents formed, then broke up and reformed as the surface of Earth reshaped over hundreds of millions of years, occasionally combining to make a supercontinent. Roughly 750 million years ago, the earliest known supercontinent Rodinia, began to break apart. The continents later recombined to form Pannotia which broke apart about 540 million years ago, then finally Pangaea, which broke apart about 180 million years ago.[20]There is significant evidence, still being discussed among scientists, that a severe glacial action during the Neoproterozoic era covered much of the planet in a sheet of ice. This hypothesis has been termed the "Snowball Earth", and it is of particular interest as it precedes the Cambrian explosion in which multicellular life forms began to proliferate about 530-540 million years ago.[23]Since the Cambrian explosion there have been five distinctly identifiable mass extinctions.[24] The last mass extinction occurred some 65 million years ago, when a meteorite collision probably triggered the extinction of the non-avian dinosaurs and other large reptiles, but spared small animals such as mammals, which then resembled shrews. Over the past 65 million years, mammalian life diversified.[25]Several million years ago, a species of small African ape gained the ability to stand upright.[26] The subsequent advent of human life, and the development of agriculture and further civilization allowed humans to affect the Earth more rapidly than any previous life form, affecting both the nature and quantity of other organisms as well as global climate. By comparison, the Oxygen Catastrophe, produced by the proliferation of algae during the Siderian period, required about 300 million years to culminate.)The present era is classified as part of a mass extinction event, the Holocene extinction event, the fastest ever to have occurred.[27][28] Some, such as E. O. Wilson of Harvard University, predict that human destruction of the biosphere could cause the extinction of one-half of all species in the next 100 years.[29] The extent of the current extinction event is still being researched, debated and calculated by biologists.[30] Atmosphere, climate and weatherThe atmosphere of the Earth serves as a key factor in sustaining the planetary ecosystem. The thin layer of gases that envelops the Earth is held in place by the planet's gravity. Dry air consists of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% argon and other inert gases, carbon dioxide, etc.; but air also contains a variable amount of water vapor. The atmospheric pressure declines steadily with altitude, and has a scale height of about 8 kilometres at the Earth's surface: the height at which the atmospheric pressure has declined by a factor of e (a mathematical constant equal to 2.71...).[31][32] The ozone layer of the Earth's atmosphere plays an important role in depleting the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that reaches the surface. As DNA is readily damaged by UV light, this serves to protect life at the surface. The atmosphere also retains heat during the night, thereby reducing the daily temperature extremes.Terrestrial weather occurs almost exclusively in the lower part of the atmosphere, and serves as a convective system for redistributing heat. Ocean currents are another important factor in determining climate, particularly the major underwater thermohaline circulation which distributes heat energy from the equatorial oceans to the polar regions. These currents help to moderate the differences in temperature between winter and summer in the temperate zones. Also, without the redistributions of heat energy by the ocean currents and atmosphere, the tropics would be much hotter, and the polar regions much colder.Weather can have both beneficial and harmful effects. Extremes in weather, such as tornadoes or hurricanes and cyclones, can expend large amounts of energy along their paths, and produce devastation. Surface vegetation has evolved a dependence on the seasonal variation of the weather, and sudden changes lasting only a few years can have a dramatic effect, both on the vegetation and on the animals dependent on its growth for their food.The planetary climate is a measure of the long-term trends in the weather. Various factors are known to influence the climate, including ocean currents, surface albedo, greenhouse gases, variations in the solar luminosity, and changes to the planet's orbit. Based on historical records, the Earth is known to have undergone drastic climate changes in the past, including ice ages.The climate of a region depends on a number of factors, especially latitude. A latitudinal band of the surface with similar climatic attributes forms a climate region. There are a number of such regions, ranging from the tropical climate at the equator to the polar climate in the northern and southern extremes. Weather is also influenced by the seasons, which result from the Earth's axis being tilted relative to its orbital plane. Thus, at any given time during the summer or winter, one part of the planet is more directly exposed to the rays of the sun. This exposure alternates as the Earth revolves in its orbit. At any given time, regardless of season, the northern and southern hemispheres experience opposite seasons.Weather is a chaotic system that is readily modified by small changes to the environment, so accurate weather forecasting is currently limited to only a few days. Overall, two things are currently happening worldwide: (1) temperature is increasing on the average; and (2) regional climates have been undergoing noticeable changes.[33]Although there is no universal agreement on the definition of life, scientists generally accept that the biological manifestation of life is characterized by organization, metabolism, growth, adaptation, response to stimuli and reproduction.[34] Life may also be said to be simply the characteristic state of organisms.Properties common to terrestrial organisms (plants, animals, fungi, protists, archaea and bacteria) are that they are cellular, carbon-and-water-based with complex organization, having a metabolism, a capacity to grow, respond to stimuli, and reproduce. An entity with these properties is generally considered life. However, not every definition of life considers all of these properties to be essential. Human-made analogs of life may also be considered to be life.The biosphere is the part of Earth's outer shell — including air, land, surface rocks and water — within which life occurs, and which biotic processes in turn alter or transform. From the broadest geophysiological point of view, the biosphere is the global ecological system integrating all living beings and their relationships, including their interaction with the elements of the lithosphere (rocks), hydrosphere (water), and atmosphere (air). Currently the entire Earth contains over 75 billion tons (150 trillion pounds or about 6.8 x 1013 kilograms) of biomass (life), which lives within various environments within the biosphere.[35]Over nine-tenths of the total biomass on Earth is plant life, on which animal life depends very heavily for its existence.[36] More than 2 million species of plant and animal life have been identified to date,[37] and estimates of the actual number of existing species range from several million to well over 50 million.[38][39][40] The number of individual species of life is constantly in some degree of flux, with new species appearing and others ceasing to exist on a continual basis.[41][42] The total number of species is presently in rapid decline.[43][44][45]Life, as we understand it, is currently only known to exist on the planet Earth. The origin of life is still a poorly understood process, but it is thought to have occurred about 3.9 to 3.5 billion years ago during the hadean or archean eons on a primordial earth that had a substantially different environment than is found at present.[46] These life forms possessed the basic traits of self-replication and inheritable traits. Once life had appeared, the process of evolution by natural selection resulted in the formation of ever-more diverse life forms.Species that were unable to adapt to the changing environment and competition from other life forms became extinct. However, the fossil record retains evidence of many of these older species. Current fossil and DNA evidence shows that all existing species can trace a continual ancestry back to the first primitive life forms.[46]The advent of photosynthesis in very basic forms of plant life worldwide allowed the sun's energy to be harvested to create conditions allowing for more complex life. The resultant oxygen accumulated in the atmosphere and gave rise to the ozone layer. The incorporation of smaller cells within larger ones resulted in the development of yet more complex cells called eukaryotes.[47] Cells within colonies became increasingly specialized, resulting in true multicellular organisms. With the ozone layer absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation, life colonized the surface of Earth.The first form of life to develop on the Earth were microbes, and they remained the only form of life on the planet until about a billion years ago when multi-cellular organisms began to appear.[48] Microorganisms are single-celled organisms that are generally smaller than the human eye can see. They include Bacteria, Fungi, Archaea and Protista.These life forms are found in almost every location on the Earth where there is liquid water, including the interior of rocks within the planet.[49] Their reproduction is both rapid and profuse. The combination of a high mutation rate and a horizontal gene transfer[50] ability makes them highly adaptable, and able to survive in new environments, including outer space.[51] They form an essential part of the planetary ecosystem. However some microorganisms are pathogenic and can post health risk to other organisms.The distinction between plant and animal life is not sharply drawn, with some categories of life that stand between or across the two. Originally Aristotle divided all living things between plants, which generally do not move, and animals. In Linnaeus' system, these became the Kingdoms Vegetabilia (later Plantae) and Animalia. Since then, it has become clear that the Plantae as originally defined included several unrelated groups, and the fungi and several groups of algae were removed to new kingdoms. However, these are still often considered plants in many contexts. Bacterial life is sometimes included in flora,[52][53] and some classifications use the term bacterial flora separately from plant flora.Among the many ways of classifying plants are by regional floras, which, depending on the purpose of study, can also include fossil flora, remnants of plant life from a previous era. People in many regions and countries take great pride in their individual arrays of characteristic flora, which can vary widely across the globe due to differences in climate and terrain.Regional floras commonly are divided into categories such as native flora and agricultural and garden flora, the latter of which are intentionally grown and cultivated. Some types of "native flora" actually have been introduced centuries ago by people migrating from one region or continent to another, and become an integral part of the native, or natural flora of the place to which they were introduced. This is an example of how human interaction with nature can blur the boundary of what is considered nature.Another category of plant has historically been carved out for weeds. Though the term has fallen into disfavor among botanists as a formal way to categorize "useless" plants, the informal use of the word "weeds" to describe those plants that are deemed worthy of elimination is illustrative of the general tendency of people and societies to seek to alter or shape the course of nature. Similarly, animals are often categorized in ways such as domestic, farm animals, wild animals, pests, etc. according to their relationship to human life.Animals as a category have several characteristics that generally set them apart from other living things, though not traced by scientists to having legs or wings instead of roots and leaves. Animals are eukaryotic and usually multicellular (although see Myxozoa), which separates them from bacteria, archaea and most protists. They are heterotrophic, generally digesting food in an internal chamber, which separates them from plants and algae. They are also distinguished from plants, algae, and fungi by lacking cell walls.With a few exceptions, most notably the sponges (Phylum Porifera), animals have bodies differentiated into separate tissues. These include muscles, which are able to contract and control locomotion, and a nervous system, which sends and processes signals. There is also typically an internal digestive chamber. The eukaryotic cells possessed by all animals are surrounded by a characteristic extracellular matrix composed of collagen and elastic glycoproteins. This may be calcified to form structures like shells, bones, and spicules, a framework upon which cells can move about and be reorganized during development and maturation, and which supports the complex anatomy required for mobility.All forms of life interact with the environment in which they exist, and also with other life forms. In the 20th century this premise gave rise to the concept of ecosystems, which can be defined as any situation where there is interaction between organisms and their environment.Ecosystems are composed of a variety of abiotic and biotic components that function in an interrelated way.[55] The structure and composition is determined by various environmental factors that are interrelated. Variations of these factors will initiate dynamic modifications to the ecosystem. Some of the more important components are: soil, atmosphere, radiation from the sun, water, and living organisms.Each living organism has a continual relationship with every other element that makes up its environment. Within the ecosystem, species are connected and dependent upon one another in the food chain, and exchange energy and matter between themselves as well as with their environment.[56]Every species has limits of tolerance to factors that affect its survival, reproductive success and ability to continue to thrive and interact sustainably with the rest of its environment, which in turn may have effects on these factors for many other species or even on the whole of life.[57] The concept of an ecosystem is thus an important subject of study, as such study provides information needed to make decisions about how human life may interact in a way that allows the various ecosystems to be sustained for future use rather than used up or otherwise rendered ineffective. For the purpose of such study, a unit of smaller size is called a microecosystem. For example, an ecosystem can be a stone and all the life under it. A macroecosystem might involve a whole ecoregion, with its drainage basin.[58]The following ecosystems are examples of the kinds currently under intensive study:"continental ecosystems", such as "forest ecosystems", "meadow ecosystems" such as steppes or savannas), or agro-ecosystems, systems in inland waters, such as lentic ecosystem"s such as lakes or ponds; or lotic ecosystems such as rivers, oceanic ecosystems. Another classification can be made by reference to its communities, such as in the case of a human ecosystem. Regional groupings of distinctive plant and animals best adapted to the region's physical natural environment, latitude, altitude, and terrain are known as biomes. The broadest classification, today under wide study and analysis, and also subject to widespread arguments about its nature and validity, is that of the entire sum of life seen as analogous to a self-sustaining organism; a theory studied as earth system science (less formally known as Gaia theory).[59][60]Although humans currently comprise only about one-half of one percent of the total living biomass on Earth,[61] the human effect on nature is disproportionately large (thus generating the appearance of such terms as man-nature continuum, humanized nature or human environment). Because of the extent of human influence, the boundaries between what we regard as nature and "made environments" is not clear cut except at the extremes. Even at the extremes, the amount of natural environment that is free of discernible human influence is presently diminishing at an increasingly rapid pace, or, according to some, has already disappeared.The development of technology by the human race has allowed the greater exploitation of natural resources and has helped to alleviate some of the risk from natural hazards. In spite of this progress, however, the fate of human civilization remains closely linked to changes in the environment. There exists a highly complex feedback-loop between the use of advanced technology and changes to the environment that are only slowly becoming understood.[62] Manmade threats to the Earth's natural environment include pollution, deforestation, and disasters such as oil spills. Humans have contributed to the extinction of many plants and animals.Humans employ nature for both leisure and economic activities. The acquisition of natural resources for industrial use remains a primary component of the world's economic system. Some activities, such as hunting and fishing, are used for both sustenance and leisure, often by different people. Agriculture was first adopted around the 9th millennium BCE. Ranging from food production to energy, nature influences economic wealth.
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