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Nepal Faces Netherlands in ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 Clash

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Nepal will compete against the Netherlands today in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. The match, taking place in Utrecht, will begin at 2:45 PM Nepal Time. This game is crucial for Nepal as they aim to improve their standing and move up to the top of the League 2 points table. 7th July, Kathmandu.

In their second match of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 currently underway in the Netherlands, Nepal will face the host nation, the Netherlands, today in Utrecht starting at 2:45 PM Nepal Time. This series also includes Namibia, and today’s will be the host Netherlands’ first match in the series. Nepal lost their opening match to Namibia and now faces a vital challenge to secure a win against the Netherlands to remain in the top four of League 2.

In the opening match, Nepal’s top order struggled, resulting in a total of 157 runs before being all out. Namibia’s victory over Nepal earned them equal points. Nepal currently stands fifth with 24 points from 29 matches. The results of the remaining three matches will determine Nepal’s playoff prospects. Although Namibia also has 24 points, they trail Nepal in net run rate. Finishing in the top four of League 2 will grant Nepal direct qualification for the ODI World Cup Qualifiers.

Additionally, securing a spot in the top six will allow Nepal to retain their ODI status. The Netherlands are third on the table with 32 points from 28 matches. Nepal defeated the Netherlands in their last two League 2 matches held in Scotland, posing a challenge to maintain this strong form and perform well on foreign soil. Historically, Nepal and the Netherlands have faced off in seven ODI matches, with Nepal winning four and the Netherlands three.

Nepal shares a special cricketing history with the Netherlands. In 2018, Nepal played their inaugural ODI series in the Netherlands, where they secured a thrilling one-run victory in the second match. In February 2024, during the League 2 series in Kathmandu, Nepal and the Netherlands each won one game. Most recently, in the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifier held in Harare, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands emerged victorious.

Nepal’s squad includes: Rohit Paudel (captain), Kushal Bhurtel, Dipendra Singh Airee, Asif Sheikh, Binod Bhandari, Ishan Pande, Bhim Sharki, Arif Sheikh, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sandeep Lamichhane, Arjun Kumal. The Netherlands team comprises: Scott Edwards (captain), Max O’Dowd, Cedric de Lang, Vikramjit Singh, Bas de Leede, Nooh Kroes, Saqib Zulfiqar, Logan van Beek, Rolof van der Merwe, Kyan Klein, Ryan Klein, Aryan Dutt, Alex Roe, Tim Pringle, Jash Liyan-Kyachet.

Thailand Completes Construction of Its First Permanent Wall Along Cambodia Border

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

July 23, Kathmandu. Thailand has completed the construction of its first permanent wall along the border with Cambodia. The Thailand military announced the completion on Wednesday amid tensions following two violent clashes last year. A 1.3-kilometer-long structure has been built in the Eastern Pong Nam Ron area. The wall features concrete panels, steel mesh, and barbed wire. Defense Chief General Ukrit Boontanon described the wall as “permanent, strong, and durable,” designed to ensure long-term security.

During an on-site inspection with journalists, General Ukrit stated, “The concrete wall panels here have been tested. We have confirmed that they are capable of protecting against small arms fire.” The Thai military plans to extend the wall by over 7 kilometers, connecting it to this initial segment. Furthermore, they intend to study the geographical conditions of the remaining 817 kilometers of the border before proceeding with additional construction.

Ukrit added, “Each section of the terrain varies. Construction will only occur in advantageous areas where it will not cause future issues.” Military forces remain deployed along the Thailand-Cambodia border. The border dispute triggered intense clashes involving bilateral airstrikes and artillery fire in July and December last year. These clashes resulted in approximately 150 deaths and displaced around 300,000 people. The July clashes ended within five days following intervention by US President Donald Trump. However, fighting resumed for 20 days in December before both sides agreed to a bilateral ceasefire.

How to Address Workers’ Complaints within One Hour? Experts Highlight Challenges

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Labor authorities responsible for handling worker-related issues in Nepal have directed their subordinate offices to address workers’ complaints or petitions within one hour, officials have revealed. This directive was issued after some service recipients lodged complaints with the Minister of Youth, Labour and Employment, expressing dissatisfaction over delayed responses. The Labour and Occupational Safety Department, which oversees labor issues, currently operates 11 labor and employment offices nationwide, the department’s Director General stated.

However, labor experts emphasize the need to expand institutional capacity to ensure timely action on workers’ complaints or petitions. What does the circular say? Following observed problems such as delays in addressing complaints and rude behavior towards service users, the department circulated this directive to subordinate offices. The circular mandates that the office chief and relevant staff must respond clearly and appropriately to complaints or petitions submitted by workers or victims within one hour.

Adding further clarification, Director General Chakrapani Pandey stated, “When a victimized worker comes with a complaint, it must be reviewed within one hour, registered if relevant, and the subsequent process explained. If it falls outside the office’s jurisdiction, it should be forwarded to the competent authority.” While acknowledging that resolving an issue within one hour may not always be possible, he explained that the circular’s intent is to complete procedural tasks within that time frame. “If someone brings a petition, an employee must provide a response. Resolution might not come immediately, but acknowledgment and explanation of the process are necessary,” Pandey added.

The circular also requires that complainants be informed promptly about ongoing actions, and if the matter falls outside the office’s authority, the relevant institution should be notified. Additionally, it ensures timely feedback on complaints, facilitation of negotiations under labor laws, and quick decision-making if negotiations fail. Despite limited staffing, the department and subordinate offices bear the responsibility of ending labor exploitation, enforcing minimum wage compliance and inspections, and overseeing occupational safety and health issues.

Nonetheless, Director General Pandey noted that complaints received are not always clear-cut or straightforward. For instance, employees in banks and financial institutions often raise issues about unpaid overtime wages, and some private hospital employees claim they have not received minimum wages, creating work challenges. “Some individuals state they work 12 hours but receive pay for only 8 hours, yet these complaints rarely cite the Labor Act specifically. Most complaints are superficial, making it difficult to prioritize and implement actions,” he said, expressing frustration.

The department reportedly receives between 30 to 35 complaints daily on average. Despite criticism over delays, the department stresses it is working within limited resources. The Director General remarked, “Hearings on petitions are conducted, and workers’ hopes for justice have been awakened, but our manpower and capacity are limited. Nevertheless, we are committed to our work.”

What are the challenges? A labor affairs expert also pointed out inadequate manpower to address workers’ complaints and grievances effectively. Labor specialist Keshav Basnyal suggested focusing on timely resolution. “Considering the number of workers compared to the department staff, the ratio is disproportionate. The current staff cannot resolve all problems, so expanding institutional capacity is essential,” he said. “Making this process effective is impossible without more offices and trained personnel.” He also highlighted the need for workers to be self-aware of their labor rights. “Workers lack awareness about minimum wage standards, proper workplace equipment, and ensuring their safety,” Basnyal noted. He added that collective negotiation efforts can empower workers to safeguard their rights effectively.

Russia Claims Ukrainian Attack on Sevastopol Foiled

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

July 23 – Russian forces have announced that they have successfully repelled a Ukrainian attack in the city of Sevastopol. Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev reported that four Ukrainian UAVs have been destroyed. Governor Razvozhayev stated, “The military in Sevastopol has neutralized the Ukrainian assault, with air defense systems and mobile fire units fully operational. In the Balaklava district, four UAVs were downed.” Previously, an air raid alert was also declared in Sevastopol.

The US-Iran Conflict: What Risks Is Iran Taking in the Strait of Hormuz?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

A woman walking beside a mural of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran

Image Source, EPA/Shutterstock

Image Caption, Mural of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Following ten days of aggressive exchanges over control of the highly strategic Strait of Hormuz, Iranian leaders now appear to be considering three possible courses of action.

However, none of these options guarantees a clear victory.

What exactly are these options?

Three Options Facing Iran

The first option is to accept many of Washington’s demands. This would include stopping attacks on commercial vessels, ensuring free and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, significantly reducing or abandoning its highly enriched uranium stockpiles, and allowing international nuclear regulators to conduct inspections.

In return, Tehran seeks the removal of the US naval blockade of its ports, easing of economic sanctions, and guarantees against future attacks.

US Lawmakers Accuse China of Espionage Through UN Peacekeeping Forces

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

US lawmakers have sharply criticized China’s growing presence at the United Nations, accusing it of using peacekeeping forces as a tool for espionage. Mike Waltz, the US Ambassador to the UN, expressed concerns that Chinese peacekeepers may be advancing the interests of the Chinese Communist Party. In Congress, fierce debates unfolded between Republican and Democratic lawmakers over the UN budget and ongoing military tensions with Iran. 7th Shrawan, Kathmandu. American legislators have voiced criticism over China’s expanding role at the United Nations, labeling it as an instrument for espionage. Meanwhile, a hearing on economic matters related to the UN took place in Congress, which escalated into a heated debate over the war initiated by President Donald Trump against Iran.

During the House Foreign Affairs Committee session in Washington, Republican Representative Sherry Biggs from South Carolina shared her views. She stated, “China’s peacekeeping department strategically targets sensitive regions, including corridors related to the Belt and Road Initiative, ports, and areas near mineral resources. These regions also lie close to existing or potential military base locations.” She added, “There remains longstanding concern whether this move serves as a cover for fulfilling military and intelligence objectives in areas critical to US strategic interests.”

US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz spoke about the Chinese Peacekeeping Forces, noting, “Compared to other member states, the Chinese peacekeepers are better equipped and better prepared for UN missions. However, I do not believe they are being used as eyes and ears on the ground for the Chinese Communist Party.”

Waltz further commented, “Our Chinese counterparts on the Security Council generally cooperate. Still, there remains the possibility that they pursue dual objectives. We are very cautious in this regard.” He also noted that the administration has repeatedly blocked China’s attempts to undermine Taiwan’s role at the UN.

A former Republican lawmaker from Florida stated, “We have consistently opposed such actions. As US policy, we are fighting for Taiwan’s participation in UN bodies.” Meanwhile, most Republican legislators criticized the UN, questioning its capability and track record in preventing wars.

Waltz, who previously served as national security advisor to Trump but was dismissed due to a leak involving sensitive information in the journalism field, emphasized the necessity of the UN as a platform for global dialogue. He said, “If we had not established this institution, others would have.”

Waltz added, “I do not want to see the UN become a tool for Beijing or Brussels.” The Chinese Embassy in Washington responded to these claims by calling them unfounded. A spokesperson said, “Countries make independent decisions within the UN based on the merits of each case and their national interests.”

On Wednesday, a former US Special Forces officer also faced criticism amid the controversy over the war with Iran. The administration’s lack of transparency has exacerbated the dispute. Democratic Representative Sara Jacobs from San Diego questioned Waltz sharply, asking whether Americans are safe since Trump initiated the war.

Waltz replied, “Yes, the world and the American people are safer. Without Iran possessing nuclear weapons, Americans are in a better position.” Praising Trump, he said, “Trump has strengthened American security.” According to reports, Trump coordinated with Israel to carry out an airstrike in Iran at the end of February.

Waltz referred to Trump as the “Peace President” and described the UN as a platform that helps America maintain peace, share burdens, and advance the America First policy. Jacobs immediately responded, “We are clearly not in a good place. This administration has requested an additional $8.7 billion from Congress to fund the costs of this war.”

Nepal to Face Sri Lanka in Second Match of Volleyball Championship

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The match between Nepal and Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin at 11:15 AM Nepal Time at the Garrison Jinnah Sports Complex in Islamabad. Today, Nepal will compete against Sri Lanka in their second game of the KAVHA Men’s Volleyball Championship. Both teams are seeking their first victory of the tournament. In their opening match on Wednesday, Nepal was defeated in a five-set battle against Kazakhstan. July 23, Kathmandu.

In their first match, Nepal lost the first two sets against Kazakhstan but made a comeback before ultimately falling in the decisive fifth set. Similarly, Sri Lanka lost to the host nation Pakistan in straight sets in their opening match. Recognized by the FIVB World Rankings, Nepal is currently ranked 84th while Sri Lanka holds the 88th position. Today’s schedule also includes matches between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as well as Pakistan and Bangladesh. The championship features six Central Asian countries, with each team playing against one another, and the top four teams advancing to the semifinals. The Nepali team, led by setter Harihjura Thapa, includes six new players who made their national team debuts in the match against Kazakhstan.

Deependra Agrawal Accused of Forming Fake Management Committee at Bhote Koshi Resort

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

According to reports, share trader Deependra Agrawal has allegedly formed a fraudulent management committee at Bhote Koshi Heli Resort Limited and obtained approval from the Company Registrar’s Office. Umesh Gupta, a director who is said to have resigned from the fake committee, has filed a complaint with the Company Registrar’s Office claiming he was not informed about the matter. After defaulting on a loan of 320 million NPR from Nepal Bank, the resort went into auction proceedings and the shareholder dispute escalated, leading Agrawal to form a new fake committee. (6th of Shrawan, Kathmandu)

The Company Registrar’s Office granted approval based on documents submitted by Agrawal, but Director Umesh Gupta filed a complaint stating he was not notified. Due to COVID-19 and landslides in Sindhupalchok disrupting resort operations, previous investors sold shares to repay bank loans. The resort holds a 320 million NPR loan from Nepal Bank.

As Agrawal began complicating matters for old shareholders during the loan repayment process, the situation intensified. Nepal Bank has published auction notices three times, but the resort has yet to be sold. According to the Company Registrar, other directors of the resort include Ragu Khatri, Prem Lal Lamichhane, Bhim Kumar Pradhan, Ramayan Gupta, and Bishwanath. Umesh Gupta has officially filed a complaint regarding this issue.

Land Price Set at NPR 7.66 Million Per Ana from Kesharmahal to Maiti Ghar

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The government has established official land prices across the country based on land use, with land revenue offices increasing these prices by up to 10% for the current fiscal year. The Dillibazar Land Revenue Office in Kathmandu has set the land price around Kesharmahal and Naya Road at NPR 7.66 million per ana. Meanwhile, land revenue offices in Bhaktapur district have reported no changes in land valuations compared to the previous fiscal year. Kathmandu, 6 Shrawan.

The government has fixed official land prices nationwide according to the purpose of the land. Relevant land revenue offices have raised the prices up to 10% for the current fiscal year. The Dillibazar Land Revenue Office in Kathmandu has indicated a 10% increase in valuation compared to last fiscal year. According to this valuation, land prices in areas such as Kesharmahal, Jamal, Thamel, Naya Road, and Maiti Ghar stand at NPR 7.66 million per ana.

The Dillibazar Land Revenue Office has fixed the minimum price at NPR 1.1 million per ana. Other locations with government-set land prices per ana at NPR 7.62 million include Ratnapark, Old Buspark, and Sahid Gate. Land near Putali Sadak has been valued at NPR 5.6 million per ana, up from NPR 5.324 million previously, according to the office. In this area, land accessible only by unpaved roads is priced between NPR 2.2 million and NPR 3.7 million per ana.

However, practical market transactions often differ from the prices set by the land revenue offices. In the jurisdiction overseen by the Chabahil Land Revenue Office, land along the ring road from Gausala to Dhobikhola has the highest valuation. Land prices in this area have been fixed at NPR 6.27 million per ana, up from NPR 5.7 million last fiscal year. Similarly, the ring road areas from Balkhu to Bansthali have seen their per ana land prices set at NPR 4.935 million, increased from NPR 4.7 million in the current fiscal year.

In the AI Era, Nabil Bank is Transforming the Landscape of Nepalese Banking

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

News Summary

Editorially Reviewed.

  • On the occasion of its 42nd anniversary, Nabil Bank announced the beginning of the AI era in banking and expanded the use of artificial intelligence in its services.
  • Chairman Nirvana Chaudhary emphasized that AI is not a replacement for employees but a supportive technology that helps deliver faster and more transparent banking services to customers.
  • The bank has strengthened its digital transformation by offering tech-friendly services such as Nepal-India cross-border remittances, digital lounges, and automated loan processing through the NBank app.

6 Shrawan, Kathmandu – A few years ago, obtaining a loan from a bank felt like a test of patience.

Even for small loans, one had to visit the bank branch and go through lengthy procedures. Filling out forms, submitting citizenship and other documents, and registering all details was mandatory. Moreover, the process often took up to a week to complete.

Today, none of this is necessary. You don’t have to visit a branch nor spend much time; with just a few clicks on a mobile device, the loan amount is credited to your account.

This is due to Nabil Bank’s adoption of AI, or artificial intelligence, in its services. By leveraging rapidly advancing technology, the bank has been delivering state-of-the-art services through modern banking and has increased AI usage not only in lending but across various service aspects. This saves customers’ time and makes services more convenient.

On the occasion of its 42nd anniversary, Nabil Bank chairman Nirvana Chaudhary announced that the bank has entered the AI era. He remarked that AI represents the most significant transformative phase in banking history, making its utilization indispensable. AI is not just a basic tool but a means to redefine decision-making, risk management, business operations, and the customer’s financial experience.

“The bank uses AI not as a substitute for employees but as an assistive technology,” Chairman Chaudhary stated. “AI handles repetitive and time-consuming tasks, enabling staff to dedicate more time to direct customer service and financial advice.”

Starting in 2083 BS, the bank has redefined its mission, goals, and values with the vision of becoming “Nepal’s most trusted, reliable, and future-ready bank.” It has identified trust, transparency, talent, technology, and transformation as core pillars, with a strong commitment to customer-centric service, artificial intelligence, digital innovation, good governance, sustainability, and leadership development.

Moreover, Nabil Bank’s self-service kiosks, launched in November 2023, have greatly eased customer convenience by allowing banking services without direct employee assistance.

Particularly, facilities such as ECC clearing cheque kiosk enable customers to deposit cheques in a faster, simpler, and organized manner, reducing branch crowding and wait times. Customers can easily deposit checks through a user-friendly machine interface.

The bank has further expanded digital banking by introducing Nepal-India-Nepal cross-border person-to-person remittance services, allowing immediate and secure fund transfers between the two countries through digital channels.

Indian citizens with accounts in Nabil Bank can instantly send money to family or friends in India via the NBank mobile app, while Nepali and Indian users can conveniently remit funds to Nabil Bank users in Nepal.

Additionally, investment services on the NBank platform have been broadened through collaboration with Nabil Investment Banking, enabling customers to register for and pay installments for Systematic Investment Plans and access other investment services on mobile without additional fees. This facilitates the participation of Nepalese living abroad in Nepal’s financial markets.

Located in Kamaladi, the bank’s state-of-the-art digital lounge is operational, offering 24/7 services such as ATM cash withdrawal, cash deposit from cash deposit machines, and digital cheque deposits through kiosks. Following the main office and Itahari branch, this digital lounge reduces dependence on traditional counters, reinforcing the strategy to expand technology-friendly, streamlined, and integrated digital banking services.

According to Nabil Bank, all operations are currently being transformed into data-driven, algorithm-based, and automated systems. AI technology analyzes customers’ financial information, history, income, loan repayment capacity, and risk indicators to generate decision bases within seconds.

This modernization makes banking not only faster but also more accurate, transparent, and customer-friendly. For instance, the bank’s phone loan service uses AI-driven decision analytics to automate loan approval, evaluating a customer’s financial profile almost instantly to determine eligibility.

Nabil Bank has prioritized technology adoption since its founding in 1984, when it became Nepal’s first computerized bank. Over its more than four decades of operation, it has continuously embraced technology. The bank also employs robotic process automation, which executes numerous tasks via software bots, increasing efficiency, minimizing human errors, and accelerating service delivery.

Using business intelligence systems, the bank analyzes customer behavior, transaction patterns, and service usage to identify customer needs and opportunities for new product development and service improvements.

Another major achievement in digital transformation is NBank, a digital banking platform launched in 2022 that introduced a new concept of neo-banking in Nepal. With the NBank app, customers can open new accounts in about 30 seconds, quickly obtain loans against fixed deposits, and receive remittances via card. This platform enables many banking services without the need to visit branches, making it especially convenient for the youth and digital-savvy customers.

The bank plans to place AI at the center of NBank’s future development to make banking services smarter and more personalized. This aims to facilitate faster loan disbursement, superior risk management, intelligent customer experiences, widespread financial inclusion, and robust security systems.

New platforms such as the core banking system, omni-channel manager, business process management, and loan origination system have digitized most of the bank’s processes. From loan application to approval, limit setting, and disbursement, all stages are integrated into a single digital system.

Zero Percent Tax on Generic Drug Imports Announced Starting August 1

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

US President Donald Trump has announced that starting August 1, a zero percent tax will be imposed on imports of generic drugs for a period of two years. According to Trump, the tax will increase to 100 percent after one year and then to 200 percent subsequently. The policy aims to boost domestic production of generic drugs and ensure the safety of American citizens, Trump stated.

Trump made this announcement on Truth Social on Wednesday morning. He wrote, “Beginning August 1, 2026, all generic drugs imported into the United States will have a zero percent tax for a period of two years. After that, the tax will increase to 100 percent for one year, and then increase to 200 percent.”

He added, “This step has been taken to bring generic drug production back to America. Companies that do not establish factories and acquire necessary materials to manufacture these drugs within the specified period will be fined.” Trump emphasized, “The aim of this policy is to protect the people of America. Policies regarding patented, branded, or newly created drugs that have been very successful will continue. Drug manufacturing plants are being developed across the US on a scale never seen before.”

Marvel Technoplast and Sudurpashchim Royals Extend Partnership for Second Year

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The Sudurpashchim Royals and Marvel Technoplast have renewed their agreement for a second consecutive year, continuing as Excellence Partners for the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Prakash Khadka, Chief Executive Director of Sudurpashchim Royals, expressed confidence that this partnership will significantly contribute to the professional development of cricket in Nepal.

Pawan Kumar Sancheti, Vice President of Marvel Technoplast, stated that collaborations like these provide added energy to unite the nation through sports. During the event held on Wednesday, Prakash Khadka and Pawan Kumar Sancheti formally signed the renewed agreement.

Following the signing, CEO Prakash Khadka expressed his pleasure in continuing the partnership for another year, saying, “We are committed to strengthening this collaboration further by enhancing branding, market expansion, and professional promotion for even more effective results.”

Marvel Technoplast Vice President Pawan Kumar Sancheti also voiced his happiness in sustaining the partnership and extended his best wishes to the team for the upcoming tournament. “We firmly believe that competitions like the Nepal Premier League play a vital role in uniting the country through sports,” he said.

Indian Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Case on Crackdown Against Protesters

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

The Supreme Court has declined to immediately hear the case concerning police action against protesters linked to the NEET exam paper leak controversy. Chief Justice Surya Kant expressed reluctance to watch videos related to the protests, urging the lawyer not to waste the court’s time. Protesters have been demonstrating at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of the Education Minister, fairness in the NEET examination, and the abolition of the National Examination Agency. 6 Shrawan, Kathmandu.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court refused to hear the case concerning police action against protesters affiliated with the Kakaroch Janata Party in Delhi. The protests were held demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, following the paper leak incident. Chief Justice Surya Kant commented to a lawyer, “Let us not waste our time and yours.” According to Bar and Bench, the bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohan was approached by the lawyer, who was asked to list the matter for hearing on the following day.

The lawyer stated, “There is strong video evidence of police brutality. Students are protesting at Jantar Mantar, and the police are being excessively harsh…” Chief Justice Surya Kant replied, “Please do not waste our time or yours. Your time is more valuable than ours.” The lawyer further added that they have requested the government to conduct the NEET exam fairly and to abolish the National Examination Agency due to recurring paper leaks.

On Tuesday, 20 July, police used batons during a student protest. The court invited the lawyer to show videos of police action when another matter is heard. Chief Justice Surya Kant responded, “We are not interested in that video, nor do we have time to watch it.” During Monday’s protest march, police baton-charged protesters and students and deployed tear gas shells, attracting criticism from politicians and members of the film industry. Human rights organization Amnesty International stated that peaceful voices of protest are being suppressed in India. Akshat Patel, Chairperson of Amnesty International India’s board, said, “Images and reports from the protests at Jantar Mantar demonstrate the suppression of peaceful dissent in India.”

Can Revising Service Fees Prevent Extra Charges by Manpower Agencies?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The government has formed a study committee to review the service fees that workers going abroad for employment must pay to manpower agencies. The committee is finalizing its report. Manpower operators have long argued that the existing fee of NPR 10,000 is insufficient to cover their costs, and they have persistently demanded an increase. Labor experts, however, suggest that setting legal fee limits alone will not stop workers from being overcharged, and propose adopting international practices where employers bear all recruitment expenses.

Kathmandu, July 21 — The government is preparing to fix the service fees payable by workers going abroad for foreign employment. To this end, the Ministry of Youth, Labor and Employment has formed a study committee, which is nearing completion of its report. Manpower operators are encouraged by the government’s move, as they have long been requesting the revision of the service fee. They claim the current NPR 10,000 fee does not cover operational and labor management expenses.

However, labor specialists question the assumption that simply fixing the service fee will prevent extra charges. The government had fixed the service fee at NPR 10,000 twelve years ago, which remains the legal provision. In practice, most workers end up paying from NPR 100,000 up to NPR 300,000. The debate now hinges on how establishing a new fee will prevent unauthorized overcharging that the law failed to curtail earlier.

“If the old regulation could not be enforced, how can the new one prevent overcharging?” says Rameshwar Nepal, a labor and migration expert. He points out that although the legal ceiling is NPR 10,000, workers have paid as much as NPR 200,000 to NPR 300,000. Even if the government sets a fee equivalent to one month’s salary, manpower agencies’ compliance with not charging extra remains questionable.

According to Nepal, once the fee is legally raised, manpower agencies will legitimately collect that amount, but may still charge separately for airfare, medical tests, insurance, training, and other expenses. “Today the fee is NPR 10,000, and it is not fully enforced. If tomorrow it is set at NPR 40,000–50,000, workers will still have to pay additional amounts for tickets and other fees. So on what basis can the government prevent overcharging?” he asks.

Nepal argues that without effective regulation, simply raising the fee is not a solution; it may only legitimize additional charges. He recommends that Nepal adopt international best practices where employers cover the entire recruitment cost, along with diplomatic efforts to implement effective agreements with destination countries.

He warns that as long as the current model of charging fees directly from workers remains, high fees and overcharging will continue despite legal caps. An example is the previously predetermined fees for Malaysia and Gulf countries fixed at NPR 80,000 and NPR 70,000 respectively until 2015, yet investigations revealed charges of up to USD 1,000. A 2011 Amnesty International study similarly reported fees reaching that amount.

Given this, widespread questions remain over guaranteeing manpower operators will not charge more if the government sets a fee equivalent to one month’s salary or a fixed amount.

Operators Claim: Cashless Digital Systems Will Eliminate Malpractices

Manpower operators argue that the current fixed fee of NPR 10,000 has contributed to rising malpractice. They believe that government regulation of fees coupled with digitalization will eradicate these issues. According to Dik Bahadur Khatri, chairperson of the Nepal Foreign Employment Association, digitalizing the entire process will help control excess charges.

He states that the government should clearly publicize cost categories and service fees for each destination country, and then implement cashless payment systems through banking channels with full monitoring of applications and payments via the ‘Shram Sansar’ portal.

Khatri adds that once cost breakdowns are transparent and accessible, workers will find it easier to avoid paying beyond the stipulated amount. The association is also preparing to implement its own code of conduct, grievance redressal, and service audit systems. He believes that without cash or alternative payment methods, operators cannot overcharge workers, and only a single-window digital control system will effectively regulate the sector. He stresses that the government must take strict action against any operator who charges extra.

Former association chair Rajendra Bhandari emphasizes the need to track payments digitally. “A control mechanism is necessary. Payments by workers must be made through digital transactions. If operators are enabled to operate accordingly, extra charges can be prevented,” he says.

Since 2015, the law has capped service fees at NPR 10,000, but this has not been effectively enforced. If new regulations are implemented in the same manner, even fees set at NPR 50,000 may still result in workers paying additional amounts.

To alleviate the financial burden on Nepali migrant workers, the ‘Free Visa Free Ticket’ policy was introduced in 2015. Then Labor State Minister Tek Bahadur Gurung implemented this policy, fixing the manpower service fee payable by workers at NPR 10,000 for major destination countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, UAE, and Malaysia, effective from June 9, 2015.

Manpower operators have opposed this fee, demanding fees equivalent to one to one-and-a-half months’ salary. The Ministry of Labor is now studying the matter. Previous studies have been conducted, but some highlighted that fee-setting falls outside their remit and requires political decisions.

US Ready for Talks with Iran; Iran Accused of Lacking Seriousness

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

June 20, Kathmandu — US Secretary of State Mark Rubio has expressed willingness to engage in talks and reach an understanding to resolve the crisis with Iran. However, he also stated that Iran has not appeared serious about the matter. According to BBC Persian, during a meeting of foreign ministers from Southeast Asian countries, Rubio shared his views on the tension between the US and Iran. “The US remains ready for talks to end the crisis with Iran, but Iran is not motivated to negotiate,” Rubio said.

Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official informed Reuters news agency on Monday that Iran has received a proposal for a 10-day ceasefire from mediators. Recently, Iran’s Interior Minister visited Pakistan, where he met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir.