On May 10, 1996, a devastating avalanche struck during a Mount Everest ascent, resulting in the deaths of 12 climbers and injuring many others. Jon Krakauer documented his personal experience of the Everest expedition and the tragic event in his book Into Thin Air. During that year, the permit fees for climbing Everest were $72,000 per group and $15,000 per individual climber, substantially lower than current rates. The year 1996 remains an unforgettable chapter in Everest’s history.
The avalanche on May 10 claimed the lives of 12 climbers and left numerous others injured. This tragic episode remains a painful scar in Everest’s history, lingering like a wound along its retreat routes. What exactly transpired during the 1996 Everest ascent? At the time, some of the world’s most skilled mountaineers were enjoying their summit experiences under generally clear weather conditions. However, on that fateful day, a violent snowstorm engulfed the mountain, resulting in the deaths of eight seasoned climbers and many injuries.
Within the first decade following the initiation of permit fees by the Nepalese and Chinese governments, 1996 recorded the highest number of climber fatalities. Subsequent years have also seen significant losses: 16 deaths in 2014, 22 due to the avalanche following the 2015 earthquake, and reports from 2024 indicate major incidents in the same area led to the deaths of 16 Sherpas. From 1922 through March 2026, a total of 339 climbers have died unexpectedly on Everest, including 157 who perished while climbing without supplemental oxygen.
Author Jon Krakauer provides a detailed account of the events, medical treatments, and rescue efforts surrounding the disaster. This incident exposed the full spectrum of risks and challenges inherent to Everest expeditions. The majority of fatalities during Everest disasters have been caused by avalanches and storms. Krakauer’s book and its often controversial narratives have contributed fresh perspectives to the discourse on Everest and mountaineering.
April 20, Kathmandu — A devastating fire broke out late Saturday night in a four-story residential building located in Vivek Vihar, Shahdara district of India’s capital, New Delhi, resulting in the death of nine people. Authorities reported that the fatalities were caused by severe burns and asphyxiation due to smoke inhalation. According to the fire department, 15 individuals were safely rescued from the blaze. Fifteen fire trucks responded to the scene, managing to control the fire after nearly three hours of operations.
Preliminary police investigations revealed that the bodies were found across different floors: five on the second floor, one on the third floor, and three near the rooftop on the fourth floor. Some residents of the fourth floor had tried to escape to the roof for safety, but due to the rooftop door being locked, they were unable to exit and succumbed to smoke inhalation. Deputy Commissioner of Police for Shahdara district, Rajendra Prasad Meena, stated that the fire alert was received early in the morning and rescue and containment efforts commenced immediately.
According to Meena, nine bodies have been recovered so far, with search and rescue operations still ongoing. The Vivek Vihar Police Station received the fire alert via PCR call at approximately 3:48 a.m. The Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), and other teams promptly arrived at the site. Firefighters, crime investigation units, and other emergency personnel were deployed. The fire department noted that the blaze spread mainly through flats on the third and fourth floors. During rescue efforts, between 10 and 15 people were evacuated from the building. Two of the rescued individuals sustained minor injuries and are currently receiving treatment at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital.
Preliminary Cause: Initial investigations suggest that an electrical short circuit might have triggered the fire, though authorities continue to probe for a definitive cause. Local administration, traffic police, and DDMA teams were also dispatched to the site. Security measures have been tightened across the area following the incident.
April 20, Kathmandu – Nirmala Sharma, President of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, has expressed concerns about the current government’s commitment to safeguarding press and freedom of expression. In a message on the occasion of Press Freedom Day, President Sharma highlighted a recent rise in incidents targeting newspapers and media outlets, stating that the government has not yet instilled confidence in its protection of press freedom as enshrined in the constitution.
“Currently, the government is led by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). The Federation remains skeptical about whether this government will uphold the protection of press and freedom of expression, ensure the fundamental rights of the people, and preserve democratic culture as guaranteed in the constitution,” she asserted.
President Sharma described the state of press freedom as increasingly complex and emphasized the need for unity among various professional organizations and civic leaders across the country to safeguard freedom of expression. According to the federation’s media monitoring unit, there were a total of 131 press freedom violations in the fiscal year 2079/80, compared to 73 in the previous year and 62 the year before that, showing a troubling upward trend. Additionally, journalists and media outlets faced 30 attacks, 18 cases of threats to professional safety, 26 instances of seizure and obstruction, 3 policy restrictions, and 2 arrests of journalists. The unit also reported one suspicious death of a journalist.
President Sharma further noted that during the Janga Movement, communication media suffered losses amounting to tens of millions of rupees, and five journalists were shot in clashes, which made the press freedom situation even more challenging. She pointed out that a culture of impunity for crimes against journalists, the fragile financial conditions of media houses, and risks to both the professional and physical safety of journalists continue to exacerbate the crisis in press freedom. Moreover, ongoing economic difficulties in the media sector, journalist migration, the government’s withholding of advertisements and information from private media, as well as the spread of misinformation on social media platforms, present additional obstacles that the media must confront.
April 20, Kathmandu – Meteorologists have indicated that there will be no significant improvement in the current weather conditions in the immediate future. Forecasters from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology have highlighted the likelihood of rain across the country throughout this week, with Gandaki Province expected to be the most affected. Snowfall and rainfall are anticipated across the Terai, hilly, and Himalayan regions of Gandaki. Some areas may experience heavy snow or rain. Meteorologists predict intermittent rainfall, with periods of dry weather followed by more precipitation.
According to the weather forecast for the Terai region, rainfall has been occurring in various districts since yesterday. Meteorologist David Dhakal from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology explained that there is a possibility of thunderstorms and rain in different parts of the country throughout this week. He indicated that until Tuesday, there is a likelihood of moderate to heavy rain in the Terai areas of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki Provinces, as well as many parts of Madhesh Province. Some locations within these provinces could experience heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces are expected to witness moderate rainfall only in a few places.
From Wednesday to Thursday, moderate rain is projected in a few Terai areas across all provinces. Rain is also possible in hilly regions throughout the week. According to meteorologists, until the upcoming Tuesday, many areas in Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini Provinces, along with some parts of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces in the hills, could see moderate rainfall. In Gandaki Province, as well as in Koshi, Bagmati, and Lumbini, there is a possibility of heavy rain in one or two locations until Tuesday.
David Dhakal further stated that snowfall or rain is also expected in the Himalayan regions throughout this week. From Sunday through Tuesday, many places in Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, along with some areas in Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces, could receive moderate snowfall or rain. Currently, rain is occurring across all provinces except Madhesh and Sudurpashchim. Moderate rainfall is ongoing in Lumbini and Gandaki. Meteorologists have also warned of the possibility of heavy rain in some parts of these two provinces this afternoon.
Meteorologists advise planning activities based on up-to-date weather information. In the past 24 hours, the highest rainfall was recorded in Musikot, Gulmi, measuring 86.6 millimeters, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology’s Forecast Division. Heavy rainfall was also reported in Devghat, Deurali of Nawalpur, Dumkauli, and Asarghat in Achham. Over the last three hours, heavy rainfall occurred in Karki Neta of Parbat, Panchamul of Syangja, Pokhara in Kaski, and Rainastar in Lamjung. In the Kathmandu Valley, areas such as Kapan, Kirtipur, and Sundarijal recorded light rainfall.
China has declared that it will not comply with US sanctions imposed on five companies purchasing oil from Iran. The Ministry of Commerce of China condemned the US restrictions as violations of international law and instructed Chinese firms not to implement these sanctions. Meanwhile, the US has placed sanctions on another Chinese company as President Donald Trump prepares for a visit to China. April 20, Kathmandu.
In its statement, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce emphasized that it does not recognize the US sanctions. “These sanctions hinder Chinese companies from conducting normal economic and trade activities with other countries and violate fundamental principles of international law and international relations,” the statement read. The ministry directed Chinese companies and institutions not to comply with these US sanctions.
The statement further noted, “The Chinese government has always opposed unilateral sanctions that are not approved by the United Nations and are not based on international law.” Just a day earlier, the US had sanctioned another Chinese company, accusing it of importing “millions of barrels” of Iranian crude oil and helping Iran generate billions of dollars in revenue. However, the Ministry of Commerce did not mention the name of the company in its response. The timing of these sanctions coincides with President Donald Trump’s planned visit to China this month, during which he is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
April 20, Kathmandu. Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa emphasized that it is a shared duty of all to create an environment where journalists do not have to fear reporting the truth. On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, he conveyed his good wishes via social media on Sunday morning, highlighting the importance of a free and fearless press as a cornerstone of democracy. “A free and fearless press is the foundation of democracy. However, in today’s changing times, gathering information and seeking the truth has become increasingly challenging,” he stated.
Noting the added challenges in information gathering and truth-seeking in changing times, he added, “Despite the insecurity and pressure that sometimes arise, I express my heartfelt respect to journalists who stand firmly on the side of truth.” He stressed that press freedom should be viewed not as an attack on any individual or institution but as a citizen’s right to be well-informed. President Thapa extended his best wishes to all journalists on World Press Freedom Day.
Adarshkumar Shrestha, appointed by outgoing Prime Minister Sushila Karki as the chairman of the National Nature Conservation Fund, is set to be removed from his position. Shrestha, who was entitled to ministerial-level benefits as chairman, will be dismissed within one and a half months of his appointment. Additionally, he will be relieved from his role as legal advisor to the Social Welfare Council. An ordinance issued on Saturday ordered the removal of both Shrestha and the Council’s member secretary, Sarojkumar Sharma.
Following the House of Representatives election on February 21, as part of the transition process, Prime Minister Karki had appointed her chief personal secretary, Adarshkumar Shrestha, as chairman of the National Nature Conservation Fund. However, he is now slated for removal just one and a half months after his appointment. The list of institutional officeholders to be dismissed includes the National Nature Conservation Fund as well.
The schedule states, “Chairman and members of the board of directors of the National Nature Conservation Fund as per Section 5 of the National Nature Conservation Fund Act, 2039 (Nepali calendar).” According to legal provisions, the Prime Minister serves as the patron of the Fund and appoints its chairman. The legal term for the chairman’s tenure is five years; however, the new ordinance has annulled this provision through amendments.
The chairman of the Fund enjoys ministerial-level benefits. Former Prime Minister Karki had advanced the practice of appointing individuals who have contributed to wildlife and nature conservation. After dual appointments came to light publicly from both sides, Genji activist Rejan Ranamagar raised questions on social media about this issue last week. The ordinance issued on Saturday also ordered the removal of Sarojkumar Sharma, legal advisor and member secretary of the Social Welfare Council, alongside chairman Shrestha.
The Election Commission has decided to conduct re-polling on May 21 at the Falta Assembly constituency in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. This decision follows the discovery of serious irregularities and voter intimidation during the April 29 voting process. The commission has instructed authorities to enhance security measures, record the entire process on video, and personally oversee the polling activities.
April 20, Kathmandu – Re-polling will be held at all 285 polling stations in the Falta Assembly seat located in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. The Election Commission announced that the re-polling will take place on May 21. This course of action was taken after reports indicated “serious anomalies” during the April 29 voting, which hindered the democratic process.
The Election Commission based its decision on reports from the Chief Electoral Officer, District Election Officer, and election observers, who cited incidents of voter intimidation and unlawful presence at polling stations. Consequently, the commission has ordered re-polling at all 285 polling centers within the Falta constituency from 7 AM to 6 PM.
To prevent further irregularities, the commission has mandated adequate security arrangements, continuous video recording of the election process, and provisions for independent monitoring. Vote counting is scheduled to begin on May 24. The commission also announced the results for the assembly elections held on April 23 and 29 will be declared on May 4.
Nepal’s public debt burden could soon reach nearly half of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), raising concerns among economists about economic challenges ahead.
Officials from the Public Debt Management Office under the Ministry of Finance estimate that the debt-to-GDP ratio this fiscal year will rise to approximately 47 percent, while economists emphasize that this ratio should not increase further.
According to data up to Chaitra (mid-April), Nepal’s public debt reached NPR 2,933.3 billion, said Gopikrishna Koirala, head of the Public Debt Management Office. In Shrawan (mid-July), this amount was NPR 2,674 billion.
The revised estimate for the size of the economy in the fiscal year 2081/82 (2024/25) stands at NPR 6,199 billion, with preliminary estimates for 2082/83 (2025/26) projecting it to reach NPR 6,600 billion.
Economist Chandramani Adhikari noted that the rising debt compared to GDP presents a significant challenge.
“Though the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has not set a specific standard, countries like ours should not let their debt-to-GDP ratio exceed 50 percent. We are nearing that limit,” he stated.
Professor Ramprasad Gyawali, head of the Economics Department at Tribhuvan University, said Nepal’s debt relative to GDP has been steadily increasing.
“About a decade ago, the ratio was around 22 percent; it has now nearly doubled.”
The government has been borrowing both domestically and internationally to support economic development, infrastructure projects, and to bridge shortfalls in internal revenue.
“In developed countries, debt can exceed GDP without major issues, but our challenge is that 24 percent of federal expenditure and 35 percent of revenue go toward servicing the interest on debt,” Professor Gyawali explained.
Amid concerns from economists, Koirala from the Public Debt Management Office argued that although GDP might reach NPR 6,400 to 6,500 billion this fiscal year, the debt ratio will not exceed 47 percent.
The office is responsible for maintaining records of both Nepal’s foreign and domestic debt.
The government led by Valendra Shah recently gained attention for approving a substantial volume of concessional loans from various international donor agencies.
“It would be false to say the current government took new loans. This is a procedural matter that has passed through different stages and reached the agreement phase. The current government did not initiate it; the previous government had already progressed the process, which we acknowledge,” Koirala clarified.
Higher Proportion of Foreign Debt
According to Koirala, foreign debt constitutes a major portion of Nepal’s total debt.
“Of the total debt amounting to NPR 2,933.3 billion, over NPR 1,500 billion is foreign debt, while about NPR 1,300 billion is domestic,” he stated.
The largest share of foreign debt comes from the International Development Association (IDA) under the World Bank, according to Koirala.
“Approximately 48 to 49 percent of foreign debt comes from IDA, around 30 to 32 percent from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), with the remainder coming from various multilateral and bilateral loans.”
Loan agreements include provisions for paying interest on principal loans.
Despite taking concessional foreign loans, Koirala explained that due to depreciation of the Nepalese currency, foreign debt has become more expensive than domestic debt.
“The main reason for the rising foreign debt figures is the depreciation of our currency. About 15 months ago, the US Dollar was valued near NPR 136, but it has now reached approximately NPR 150. This currency depreciation causes the debt to increase, not because we have borrowed excessively.”
“We have taken loans at interest rates ranging from 0.25 to 2 percent, but due to foreign exchange losses, foreign debt has resulted in greater losses than domestic debt,” he added.
The Public Debt Management Office estimates foreign exchange losses have caused Nepal’s current financial situation to incur losses exceeding NPR 100 billion.
Concerns
Image source, RSS
Image caption, Pokhara International Airport was constructed using Chinese loans
Economist Adhikari expressed concern that with the rising debt ratio, Nepal’s debt repayment capacity could weaken.
“Our economy does not have the resilience to bear shocks like developed countries. Domestic production is low, and although there are foreign currency reserves, their sources are not sustainable.”
“Most domestic debt is directed toward administrative expenses and paying interest on the debt, which makes the current situation particularly challenging. Therefore, limiting debt growth is advisable.”
Professor Gyawali agrees on this point.
“An excessive increase in debt is undesirable because it burdens future generations. The current generation borrows for immediate benefits, but the obligation to repay falls on the long term, impacting our children and grandchildren.”
However, Koirala from the Public Debt Management Office asserts that debt management remains feasible for now, with continuous debt deployment and repayment underway.
“What matters is how the borrowed funds are utilized. When used appropriately, there is no cause for concern, but problems arise if loans are taken and wasted.”
Some present public debt figures divided per capita, but Koirala considers this approach meaningless.
“The debt taken by the country is not the individual responsibility of any citizen. Since the state incurs the debt, it alone is responsible for repayment.”
Professor Gyawali stated that despite rising debt ratios, he has not observed Nepal falling into a “debt trap”—a situation where new loans are required to pay off existing loans.
“A debt trap means borrowing to pay back prior loans, but Nepal is not in that state. The issue has arisen mainly due to inadequate revenue collection. If revenue had been collected as expected, the public debt would not be as serious an issue as it is now.”
Recommendations
Professor Gyawali emphasized that borrowing by the government should only be acceptable under exceptional circumstances; borrowing under normal conditions should raise questions about intent.
“The cycle of borrowing and paying interest will continue, but controlling growth and the ratio of debt is essential.”
Economist Adhikari warned that conflicts in the Middle East have increased risks and called for vigilance.
“With the US Dollar’s value rising, inflation has also increased. This could slow down or stabilize economic growth, and returning migrant workers might require creating local employment.”
“The government needs to strategically address these issues during budget preparation to lay the foundation for sustainable debt management,” he added.
The special ordinance on the dismissal of public officials issued by the President has mandated the removal of officials from nearly two dozen regulatory bodies. Officials from entities such as the Nepal Nursing Council, Nepal Health Professional Council, Engineering Council, Veterinary Council, and Nepal Pharmacy Council are set to be dismissed. All officials from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Disappearance Investigation Commission, Teacher Service Commission, and Information Commission will also lose their positions.
Dated 20 Baishakh, Kathmandu — According to the ‘Special Ordinance on the Dismissal of Public Officials, 2083’ released by the President’s Office on Saturday, approximately two dozen officials from regulatory bodies and commissions are to vacate their posts. The ordinance primarily mandates the dismissal of officials from professional regulatory councils. However, the Nepal Bar Council, chaired by the Attorney General, remains exempt from this amendment.
The ordinance specifies the removal of officials from eight key regulatory bodies. These include the Nepal Nursing Council regulating nursing professionals, the Nepal Health Professional Council overseeing health practitioners, and the Engineering Council responsible for regulating engineers. Similarly, officials from the Veterinary Council regulating veterinary doctors, the Nepal Pharmacy Council and Ayurveda Medicine Council overseeing pharmacists, pharmacies, and Ayurvedic practitioners will also be removed.
Officials from the Nepal Medical Council regulating doctors and the Nepal Press Council regulating journalists are likewise affected. Dozens of other bodies involved in professional, economic, and service sector regulation will also see their officials dismissed. This includes the Telecommunications Authority, which regulates internet and telecom service providers, and the Securities Board overseeing capital markets and stock trading, both of which will become headless.
The Civil Aviation Authority, regulating the aviation sector, will also lose its officials. The Dairy Development Board, responsible for facilitating milk producers and regulating dairy activities, is included in the list of bodies facing official dismissals. The University Grants Commission, overseeing and financially supporting higher education institutions, will also become vacant of officials.
Officials from the Electricity Regulatory Commission, which regulates the supply of electric services, will be automatically dismissed. The Cooperative Authority, Advertising Board, and Insurance Authority, responsible respectively for regulating cooperatives, advertisement management, and insurance companies, are also part of this dismissal list. The Film Censorship Committee, which reviews movies, will similarly lose its officials.
The ordinance stipulates the dismissal of officials from five commissions, including the Medical Education Commission, which manages the regulation and seat allocation of medical colleges. Officials from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Disappearance Investigation Commission, which investigate human rights violations during the decade-long Maoist conflict, are also to be dismissed. Likewise, the Teacher Service Commission responsible for appointing teachers in community schools across the country, and the Information Commission, formed to implement citizens’ right to information, will lose all their officials.
After scientists discovered that aspirin, a 4,000-year-old medication commonly used to relieve pain, might prevent the formation or spread of tumors, many countries around the world have begun revising their health policies accordingly.
Nick James, a carpenter in the UK in his mid-40s, decided to undergo genetic testing after his mother died of cancer and several of his family members, including his brother, were also diagnosed with the disease. The test revealed a gene that increased his cancer risk.
Unexpectedly, he found support by participating in a clinical trial where he took aspirin daily. The study aimed to investigate aspirin’s potential to halt cancer progression.
People with Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition caused by gene mutations, face a lifetime risk of bowel cancer ranging from 10% to 80%. James is currently doing well. Professor Jan Burn, a clinical genetics expert at Newcastle University leading the study, said, “James has been on aspirin for 10 years and has not developed cancer so far.”
Though it may seem incredible, aspirin has shown signs of preventing colorectal cancer from developing or progressing. Similar results were reported in a study last year.
Some countries have revised their drug regulations to prioritize aspirin as a preventive measure for those at risk (experts emphasize consulting a doctor before taking medication). Researchers are gradually uncovering the mechanisms behind this treatment’s efficacy.
Image source, Getty Images
Ancient Origins
A new study highlights the long history of a remarkably effective medicine. In the late 19th century, archaeologists unearthed 4,400-year-old clay tablets in the Mesopotamian city of Nippur, now in Iraq. These tablets contained lists of medicines derived from plants, animals, and minerals.
They even described methods to extract sap from willow trees.
It is now known this sap contains salicin, which converts to salicylic acid in the body and helps reduce pain. This compound closely matches the chemical structure of modern aspirin, scientifically known as acetylsalicylic acid. The medicine was also used in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
Image source, Getty Images
This modern compound was studied by English chemist Edward Stone, who presented his findings on willow bark powder’s fever-reducing effects to the Royal Society. A century later, scientists isolated salicylic acid from that powder and then converted it into acetylsalicylic acid, introducing aspirin commercially under brand names.
In the following century, researchers discovered aspirin’s unexpected benefits for heart disease. Institutions like the UK’s National Health Service now recommend a low daily dose of aspirin to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
By 1972, initial evidence suggested aspirin might protect against cancer. At that time, mice injected with tumor cells were given water mixed with aspirin. These mice showed a lower risk of developing cancer compared to those without aspirin in their water.
Whether the same effect would hold true in humans remained uncertain.
Image source, Getty Images
Image caption, Aspirin is commonly available as a painkiller but may have hidden additional benefits
A turning point came in 2010 when Professor Peter Rothwell from Oxford University’s Clinical Neurology department showed how aspirin provides benefits in heart disease. His study also revealed aspirin’s dual role: both preventing and slowing cancer growth.
Confirming aspirin’s protective effect against cancer in the general population remains challenging, requiring large trials where half the participants receive aspirin and the other half a placebo, monitoring outcomes over prolonged periods at significant cost. Surgeon Professor Anna Martling of Sweden’s Karolinska Institute remarked, “It’s hard to imagine such an ideal study.”
Consequently, research has largely centered on individuals with precancerous conditions or high-risk profiles.
Image source, Getty Images
Growing Evidence
A significant study involved patients with Lynch syndrome. In 2020, Jan Burn and his team conducted a controlled trial with 861 participants. Those who took 600 mg of aspirin daily for ten years had their risk of colorectal cancer reduced by half.
Ongoing trials suggest that even lower doses (75–100 mg) may also be effective.
Burn explained, “A 50% reduction in colorectal cancer risk has been observed after two years of aspirin use.”
Low-dose aspirin (75–100 mg) is already prescribed to the general population to prevent heart disease. However, aspirin can cause digestive issues, internal bleeding, and brain hemorrhages, so dosage requires careful management.
Following this research, guidelines have been updated. Burn noted, “According to this study, UK guidelines now recommend aspirin starting at age 20 for individuals with Lynch syndrome, and from 35 for those at lower risk.”
Research has also started to explore aspirin’s benefits across other patient groups.
Trials continue investigating whether aspirin decreases metastasis risk in patients already diagnosed with cancer. Martling commented, “Approximately 40% of colorectal cancer patients have mutations where aspirin may be beneficial.”
A three-year trial involving 2,980 participants found that those who took 180 mg of aspirin within three months post-surgery had less than half the risk of cancer recurrence compared to the placebo group. Both Martling and Burn report minimal serious side effects with aspirin use.
Following publication of Martling’s study in September 2025, Sweden promptly revised its protocols, beginning low-dose aspirin for bowel cancer patients from January 2026.
It remains unclear if aspirin protects against other types of cancer. However, trials including 11,000 patients in the UK, Ireland, and India with colorectal, breast, gastroesophageal, and prostate cancers are underway, with results expected next year.
How Does Aspirin Work?
The exact mechanisms by which aspirin prevents cancer remain mysterious. Martling explains the drug acts both inside and outside cells, potentially activating various internal processes.
Her research indicates aspirin inhibits the enzyme COX-2 inside cells, which produces compounds called prostaglandins that may promote uncontrolled cell growth. By suppressing COX-2, aspirin might curb this excessive proliferation.
Additional work by Professor Rahul Roychoudhury and colleagues at the University of Cambridge suggests aspirin may also help destroy metastatic cancer cells through other pathways.
Determining who should take aspirin regularly remains a topic of debate. Some researchers advocate widespread use for protection against both heart disease and cancer. Burn views aspirin’s role in public health with optimism.
However, some scientists caution that while aspirin may benefit cancer patients, healthy individuals taking it independently might suffer harm due to serious side effects. Additionally, aspirin’s effectiveness varies among cancer patients.
* This article provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. No responsibility is taken for any individual’s medical decisions based on this information. No commercial endorsements are made here. If you have health concerns, please consult a qualified doctor.
Summary: The war initiated by the US against Iran on February 28 has now entered its third month, resulting in more than 3,600 deaths in Iran. In the Iran-Israel conflict, Israel has taken control of approximately 15% of Lebanese territory, displacing 600,000 people. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the war is causing the global economic growth rate to fall to 3.1% and inflation to rise.
Kathmandu, April 20: US President Donald Trump had promised a short and decisive conflict, but the war that began on February 28 appears to have taken a nearly opposite course after two months. The fighting has paused but not ended. Over 3,600 people have died in Iran, including more than 1,700 civilians. IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas has said that if the war prolongs and oil prices remain high, global economic growth could drop to nearly 2%, signaling a global recession. Inflation, which was expected to decrease from 4.1% last year to 3.8%, is now forecasted to surpass 4.4%. Harvard economist Linda Bilmes estimates the US has spent nearly $1 trillion on the war, though the government has officially disclosed only $25 billion in expenditures.
China and Russia Benefit from the Conflict: China has strengthened its position amid the conflict, having already accumulated large oil reserves and invested for decades in alternative energy. The US’s weakness has provided China diplomatic advantages. Chinese oil and gas companies are profiting significantly; according to CNN, six major firms could earn up to $94 billion this year. Russia’s economy has also gained from the war, as rising prices of oil and fertilizer have increased its revenues. Following sharp oil price hikes, the US temporarily eased sanctions on Russian oil supplies, further benefiting Russia. According to the International Energy Agency, Russia’s energy revenues nearly doubled from $9.75 billion in February to around $19 billion in March. China continues to accelerate investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
Expert Opinion: Melanie Sisson, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, observes that there is no clear winner in this war. The US has not gained strategic advantage, and the conflict impacts people across the globe. Residents of Iran, Lebanon, the Gulf countries, and even India have felt its consequences.
Israel Controls 15% of Lebanese Territory: Reports indicate that Israel has occupied roughly 15% of Lebanese land, maintaining this as a ‘buffer zone’ until Hezbollah is weakened. Senior journalist Nora Boustani explains that Lebanon’s biggest fear is that this area could remain under foreign control for an extended period. The region primarily extends up to the Litani River. Lebanese civilians have been caught in the decades-long conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. After a fragile ceasefire in February, the situation deteriorated when Israel assassinated Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israel. In response, Israel conducted lethal air and ground operations in Lebanon aimed at eliminating Hezbollah. Lebanon’s Ministry of Health reports over 2,500 deaths from these attacks since March 2. Satellite images reveal that Israel applied a Gaza-like strategy in Lebanon to target entire villages, leading to the displacement of approximately 600,000 people from southern Lebanon. Israel has declared it will not permit displaced residents to return until threats from Hezbollah to northern Israel cease.
Impact on Gulf Economies: Gulf countries are not immune to the war’s effects. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been struck most frequently, suffering numerous missile and drone attacks by Iran. Despite a halt in attacks, significant damage has negatively affected the UAE’s key commercial and tourism hubs. Closure of the Strait of Hormuz has hurt the economies of Iraq, Qatar, and Kuwait, disrupting oil, gas, and other supplies. The IMF has downgraded these countries’ economic growth prospects, warning that recessions could occur within the year. Millions of Nepali migrant workers in the region are also experiencing hardships due to the deteriorating economic situation.
Rising Costs and Public Hardship in the US: The conflict has led to increased prices of oil, air tickets, and various services in the US, as companies impose additional fuel surcharges. Inflation jumped from 2.4% in February to 3.3% in March, significantly eroding public confidence. According to the Brookings Institution, the US economy remains heavily dependent on oil, and underinvestment in renewable energy such as solar and wind has become a glaring vulnerability.
Global Economic Growth Slows: The IMF projects the global economic growth rate to decline from 3.3% to 3.1% this year. Sharp fertilizer price increases will intensify inflation in agriculturally dependent countries, where a large portion of incomes is spent on food.
Decline in Trump’s Popularity: The war poses a substantial challenge for Donald Trump, who pledged a swift resolution but neither Iran has capitulated nor the conflict has ended. One survey shows a 37% drop in his approval ratings. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initially gained some strategic advantage, but most Israelis now perceive the war as lacking a clear victory. Although the Iranian government has suffered setbacks, its new leadership appears more aggressive. Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz continues to exert global pressure. (With agency contributions)
April 20, Kathmandu – Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has compared Nepal’s current economic situation to that of India a decade ago, stating that now is the time for Nepal to achieve an economic upturn. Speaking at an event organized by Barakhari Media, Minister Wagle noted that India’s per capita income was $1,500 in 2014, a level Nepal has now reached, marking what he described as Nepal’s “economic starting point.”
Claiming that the current government, led by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa), will complete its full five-year term, he emphasized that this administration will provide policy stability and certainty for investors. “Previously, policy capture and unhealthy relationships with corrupt politicians clouded the business environment. That will now come to an end,” he said. “We will be ruthless and strict in enforcing laws, but honest entrepreneurs need not be afraid.”
Discussing the upcoming budget, Minister Wagle revealed it will be business-friendly, with a strong focus on investment protection, asset security, and contract enforcement. He affirmed the government’s commitment to boosting morale within the private sector and providing full protection to honest businessmen. “We want the private sector to grow its business based on integrity and contribute significantly to the nation’s economy,” he stated.
He also outlined ambitious targets for the next seven years, aiming to raise the per capita income to $3,000 and expand the economy to approximately $100 billion. He expressed confidence that Nepal can follow India’s footsteps in achieving 9 to 10 percent economic growth, as India has experienced over the past 10–12 years. According to Minister Wagle, Nepal’s tourism, hydropower, and high-value agricultural products have strong potential to compete in the global market.
Highlighting Nepal’s geographic challenges as a landlocked country, he argued that digitalization will be the key tool to overcome such complexities. In a significant move to prioritize information technology, the IT department has been placed under the Prime Minister’s Office, which he believes will revolutionize service delivery. “We were waiting for the 2027 election cycle, but the ‘Gen Z’ movement entrusted us with responsibility ahead of schedule. Now, we will move forward with a clear roadmap for good governance and economic growth,” he affirmed.
Finally, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle reiterated that his top priorities include repealing outdated laws and eliminating administrative hurdles.
World Press Freedom Day is celebrated globally on May 3, and various programs are being held in Nepal to mark this occasion. This day is observed worldwide each year to commemorate the Windhoek Declaration for a free and pluralistic press. May 3 is recognized as the day to honor press freedom globally. April 20, Kathmandu.
Today, World Press Freedom Day is being observed across the world, with multiple events organized in Nepal as well. The day honors the issuance of the ‘Windhoek Declaration for a Free, Independent and Pluralistic Press,’ which was proclaimed in 1993 in Windhoek, Namibia, by senior journalists, journalism professors, and advocates of freedom under the auspices of UNESCO.
On this occasion, the Federation of Nepalese Journalists has arranged various programs including interactive sessions and demonstrations. President Ram Chandra Poudel and Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav have extended their greetings. President Poudel emphasized the importance of independent journalism in the pursuit of truth and dissemination of facts, highlighting the role of the press in establishing correctness and truth in society. He also described press freedom as a fundamental pillar of democracy.
Vice President Yadav noted that Nepal’s constitution guarantees press freedom as a fundamental right and called independent media the backbone of democracy. He wished that journalism continues to advance fearlessly, upholding and exercising the constitutional rights granted to the press.
20 Baishakh, Kathmandu – Nepal Rastra Bank has set the foreign currency exchange rates for today (Sunday). According to the determined rates, the purchase price of one US Dollar is NRs 151.56 and the selling price is NRs 152.16. Similarly, for the Euro, the purchase rate for one Euro is NRs 178.16 and the selling rate is NRs 178.86; the British Pound Sterling is at a purchase rate of NRs 206.39 and selling rate of NRs 207.21; and the Swiss Franc is priced at NRs 194.28 for purchase and NRs 195.05 for sale.
The Australian Dollar purchase rate is NRs 109.09 and selling rate is NRs 109.52, the Canadian Dollar purchase rate is NRs 111.74 and selling rate NRs 111.18, and the Singapore Dollar has a purchase rate of NRs 119.09 and selling rate of NRs 119.57. For 10 Japanese Yen, the purchase rate is NRs 9.68 and selling rate is NRs 9.72; the Chinese Yuan is valued at NRs 22.20 for purchase and NRs 22.28 for sale. The Saudi Arabian Riyal has a purchase rate of NRs 40.41 and selling rate of NRs 40.57, while the Qatari Riyal purchase rate is NRs 41.59 and selling rate is NRs 41.76.
According to the central bank, the Thai Baht is priced with a purchase rate of NRs 4.66 and selling rate of NRs 4.67; UAE Dirham purchase rate is NRs 41.26 and selling rate NRs 41.43; Malaysian Ringgit is at NRs 38.18 for purchase and NRs 38.33 for selling; 100 South Korean Won has a purchase rate of NRs 10.29 and selling rate of NRs 10.33. The Swedish Krona purchase rate is NRs 16.42 and selling rate is NRs 16.48, while the Danish Krona purchase rate stands at NRs 23.84 and selling at NRs 23.94.
Nepal Rastra Bank has also set the exchange rates for the Hong Kong Dollar with a purchase rate of NRs 19.34 and selling rate of NRs 19.42; Kuwaiti Dinar at NRs 494.08 for purchase and NRs 496.04 for sale; Bahraini Dinar purchase rate is NRs 401.35 and sale rate NRs 402.94; and Omani Riyal with a purchase rate of NRs 393.64 and selling price of NRs 395.20. Additionally, the Indian Rupee for 100 notes is set at NRs 160 for purchase and NRs 160.15 for sale.
The Rastra Bank has stated that these exchange rates can be revised anytime as needed. The rates set by commercial banks may vary, and the updated exchange rates can be accessed on the central bank’s official website.
