NEWS

Writ Petition Filed at Supreme Court against International Travel Restriction

Mar 24, 2020 0 1 minutes 35 seconds to read

March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into…

Kathmandu Valley wears a Deserted Look with Lockdown Enforcement

Mar 24, 2020 0 2 minutes 17 seconds to read

March 24: The streets of Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.…

Government Imposes Week-long Lockdown Across the Nation

Mar 24, 2020 0 3 minutes 1 seconds to read

March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country.…

Second Nepali Tests Positive for COVID-19: Health Ministry

Mar 23, 2020 0 1 minutes 19 seconds to read

March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for…

Domestic Airline Companies Slash Airfare by 40 Percent

Mar 23, 2020 0 2 minutes 4 seconds to read

March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the…

Non-Essential Services Come to a Grinding Halt

Mar 23, 2020 0 1 minutes 33 seconds to read

March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the…

Government Bans Export of Essential Medicines

Mar 23, 2020 0 1 minutes 52 seconds to read

March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of…

World Bank Likely to Release Fast-Track Funds to Deal with Pandemic this Week

Mar 23, 2020 0 2 minutes 21 seconds to read

March 23: The World Bank’s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank’s president on…

Nepal Importing Medical Kits and Equipment from Immediate Neighbours

Mar 23, 2020 0 40 seconds to read

March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the…

Government Seals International Borders for Human Mobility for a Week

Mar 23, 2020 0 3 minutes 40 seconds to read

…

Hotels in Pokhara Start Laying off Staff Members

Mar 22, 2020 0 3 minutes 55 seconds to read

March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these…

NAC Suspends Flights to 3 Indian Cities

Mar 22, 2020 0 56 seconds to read

March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March…

BFIs to Promote Free Digital Transaction Amid Coronavirus Crisis

Mar 22, 2020 0 1 minutes 26 seconds to read

March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction due to concerns regarding coronavirus.…

Domestic Airline Companies Agree to Reduce Air Fare

Mar 22, 2020 0 1 minutes 59 seconds to read

March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the…

Bandipur Waives 50% Tax for Business Firms

Mar 22, 2020 0 1 minutes 44 seconds to read

March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of…

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No Laughing Matter

The Sweet Rewards of Power

By Madan Lamsal

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NEPSE

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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11818',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Writ Petition Filed at Supreme Court against International Travel Restriction',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court demanding that the Nepali nationals living in foreign countries be allowed to enter Nepal. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">According to the national news agency, RSS, advocates Madhav Basnet and Meera Khadka Basnet filed the petition against the High-Level Committee to Control and Prevent Coronavirus and other government bodies arguing that the government&rsquo;s decision to impose travel restriction on Nepali nationals is unlawful. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In the writ petition, the advocates have asked court to direct the government to rescue its nationals stranded in foreign countries if they are not able to return home during the crisis created by coronavirus.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In a bid to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, the government had last week banned flights from dozens of countries affected by coronavirus. &nbsp;Those countries include all members of the European Union, Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Japan among others. The government had even banned passengers using those countries as transit. The government has banned all flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport since Sunday.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'id' => '11817',
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			'title' => ' Kathmandu Valley wears a Deserted Look with Lockdown Enforcement ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The streets of  Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: The streets of </span>&nbsp;<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A meeting of the High-Level Coronavirus Control and Prevention Coordination Committee on Monday evening deiced to enforce lockdown effective from March 24 (6.00am) till March 31 (6.00pm) to contain the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Following the confirmation of a second COVID-19 case in Kathmandu, the government took the decision to impose nationwide lockdown as per the Clause 2(2) of Infectious Disease Act-2020 to prevent the spread of virus to others. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">It may be noted that a 19-year Nepali girl who had returned from France via Qatar had tested positive for COVID-19. This is the second coronavirus infection case in Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">With the lockdown in effect, no one is allowed to leave their houses except for urgent maters such as medical emergency and purchase of consumable goods. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">All vehicular movement of private and public sectors have been banned except emergency vehicles, including those holding special permits, security personnel and medics.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Superintendent of Police Jeevan Kumar Shrestha, Spokesperson at the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division said with the enforcement of lockdown very few vehicles are plying on the roads of Kathmadnu Valley. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">&quot;The vehicles carrying most-essential goods and those having passes are only operating,&quot; he shared.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Quite a nominal number of people are seen walking on the road with the enforcement of no-permission for people to leave their house except for urgent matters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In case of violating the directives under the lockdown, one can be sentenced to jail for up to six months or penalized Rs 600 or has to face both punitive actions. &nbsp; - RSS </span></span></span></p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11816',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Imposes Week-long Lockdown Across the Nation',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. The lockdown will remain in effect from 6 am on March 24 till March 31.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">On Monday, the government confirmed the second case of coronavirus in the country. According to Health Minister Bhanubhakta Dhakal, a 19-year-old Nepali student who returned home from France last week tested positive for the deadly disease a day ago.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Following the detection of the deadly virus that has claimed more than 15,000 lives across the globe, a high level coordination committee to prevent the spread of COVID-19 headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishwar Pokharel decided to take strict measures to prevent the disease from spreading among the masses.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on Sunday had decided to impose the lockdown upon the recommendation of the committee to prevent further damage to the health of the population and the country&rsquo;s economy, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada during a press conference on Monday. Among other measures, the cabinet meeting also decided to close the country&rsquo;s international borders with India and China for a week. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the people not to venture out of their houses unless absolutely necessary. The government order however doesn&rsquo;t bar people from purchasing essential goods like food and medicines. All private and public vehicles have been banned except for the ones belonging to security forces and health workers. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The eight-point declaration issued by the government does not allow the public to get out of their houses except for buying essential food stuffs and for medical treatment.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the closure of all institutions except those that provide essential services including security agencies, food supplies, drinking water, milk, electricity, information and communication, customs, quarantine, waste management among others.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">All domestic flights have also been suspended for a week. The government has instructed the owners of private institutions to provide leave for workers.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Anyone defying the government orders will be punished in accordance to the Infectious Disease Act 2020. The government has issued a circular to all the district administration offices to enforce its decision and to maintain law and order under the Local Governance Act 2028, if required.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has also urged the suppliers to ensure smooth supply of medicines in the market.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Meanwhile, the government has issued stern warning to anyone involved in black marketing.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11814',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Second Nepali Tests Positive for COVID-19: Health Ministry',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Ministry of Health and Population confirmed the case amid an emergency press conference organized in the capital on Monday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to a spokesperson at the ministry, the person was in self-quarantine after returning home from France last Tuesday (March 17). The person is currently undergoing treatment at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Teku. According to the government , the patient has been isolated and everyone who came into contact with the person have been quarantined.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Out of 600 samples tested for COVID-19, only one tested positive, the ministry said during the press conference chaired by Health Minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This is the second case of coronavirus reported in Nepal. Earlier, a Nepali student returning home from Wuhan of China had tested positive for the disease in January. But the government claims that the patient has fully recovered and returned home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The ministry has urged one and all to adopt precautionary measures to avoid the deadly disease that has already&nbsp; spread to 193 countries and claimed over 14000 lives.</span></span></p>
',
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			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11565',
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			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 13:13:15',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11813',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Slash Airfare by 40 Percent',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government. A meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) on Sunday decided to slash the airfare by 40 percent along domestic trunk routes considering the crisis created by coronavrius.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air, Shree Airlines and Yeti Airlines have reduced the airfare as of Sunday evening (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing separate statements, Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines informed about the companies&rsquo; decisions to reduce the airfare to Pokhara, Biratnagar and other destinations within the country. Meanwhile, Shree Airlines informed about the decision to slash the fare on Saturday. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The airline companies said they decided to slash the airfare due to the inconvenience caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has imposed a ban on long-route vehicles from Monday (March 23) in a bid to prevent the possible spread of the deadly disease which has already killed at least 14,000 people worldwide.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Passengers are left with the only option of air route to return home after the government banned long-route vehicles. Therefore, the airline companies said they decided to reduce the airfare as long as the government enforces the ban on land routes. The ban will remain effective until April 3.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the airline companies complained that the government did not provide any relief at a time when they were facing crisis due to lack of passengers amid fear of coronavirus outbreak.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air expressed its dissatisfaction in a statement arguing that the airline companies have to bear 40 percent of their expenses just for fuel. According to the airline company, they can further reduce the airfare if Nepal Oil Corporation provides them fuel at a lower price without taking any profit.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><img alt="" src="/app/webroot/userfiles/images/222%284%29.jpg" style="height:292px; width:800px" /></span></span></p>
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	(int) 5 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11815',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Non-Essential Services Come to a Grinding Halt',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Addressing the nation in a televised speech on Friday, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli had announced the closure of all non-essential services including schools and educational institutions, community and private offices among others from March 22 to April 3 in an attempt to contain the deadly disease, which has also surfaced in Nepal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing a public notice on the Nepal Gazette, the government has instructed all the service providers including public and private companies to halt their services from march 22 to April 3 unless those services fall under essential category. The essential services include food supply, health service, security and communication, media among others.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has also suspended all passenger flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport for ten days starting from March 22. Altogether 28 airline companies including two from Nepal have been operating flights from the TIA.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, operation of all long-route vehicles has also been halted for the time being. However, private vehicles can travel long distance, according to a decision taken by the Council of Ministers.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has already closed cinema halls and other entertainments while the gathering of more than 25 people is also not allowed. All the courts have remained closed since Sunday for two weeks. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11812',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Bans Export of Essential Medicines',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus. The Department of Customs has stopped the export of materials such as masks, sanitizers, PPE, gloves among others effective from Sunday (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, the government has also decided to make customs pass available for the import of essential goods within two hours. The Department of Customs has already issued circulars to all the units in this regard, said Director General Suman Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The department has formed a &ldquo;quick-response team&rdquo; to sort out any problem that might occur at the customs points. The five-member team headed by Deputy Director General of the Department of Customs, Shyam Prasad Bhandari, will resolve any problem that might surface while importing or exporting essential goods.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;The quick response team has been tasked to sort out any problems related to customs immediately,&rdquo; said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Dahal, the import of medicines and other related materials to Nepal exceeds the export of these essential goods. Basically, Nepal exports pharmaceuticals and other similar goods after re-packaging the imported items, said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;President of the Association of Pharmaceutical Producers of Nepal&nbsp; (APPON) Narayan Bahadur Chhetri welcomed the decision of government to ban the export of essential medical goods saying that the country itself is struggling to meet its demand for raw materials required for producing medicines.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">He urged the government to facilitate in making the active pharmaceutical ingredients available.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">However, Chhetri claimed that the drug producers of Nepal have adequate stock of raw materials to manufacture medicines for the next three months. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11562',
			'image' => '20200323115355_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:53:21',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11809',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'World Bank Likely to Release Fast-Track Funds to Deal with Pandemic this Week',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The World Bank’s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank’s president on Sunday.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The World Bank&rsquo;s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank&rsquo;s president on Sunday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">World Bank&rsquo;s President David Malpass said in a blog post on the bank that funding for the projects could come out of a $14 billion Fast Track Facility (FTF) approved last week (March 17) to help countries deal with the health and economic impact of the coronavirus.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to the latest tally of Reuters, the respiratory disease has infected more than 337,524 people around the world, and killed at least 14,651.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In the blog, Malpass said World Bank teams were preparing projects in 40 countries for up to $1.7 billion under the FTF at the end of the week.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Projects in Afghanistan and Ethiopia were the most advanced and would be presented to the board this week, he said, adding that meetings for 14 other countries will take place next week as well, and will create a framework for rapid responses in other countries without naming them.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;&ldquo;This approach will allow us to quickly replicate operations in multiple countries,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In addition to the fast track facility, the World Bank is also providing COVID-19 support via restructuring of the existing projects.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">So far, projects in 24 countries for up to $1.5 billion are in the works and span every region where the bank operates..</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Malpass, the IFC is also working to start extending trade finance and working capital lines to clients, with regular board action expected on those efforts in the next two to four weeks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Malpass further said World Bank officials were in close touch with finance ministers and central bankers from around the world to discuss their needs and responses to the crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Bank officials had also identified ways to support countries as they race to procure much-needed medical equipment and upgrade medical facilities.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11561',
			'image' => '20200323093721_1111.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 09:36:46',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11811',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Importing Medical Kits and Equipment from Immediate Neighbours',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has initiated the process to bring in 200,000 units of personal protective equipment (PPE), 100,000 units of PCR test kit, 150,000 units of N95 mask among others. Likewise, Nepal is also importing 10 sets of ambulances equipped with labs and five sets of mobile ambulances from the northern neighbor.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the government has sought 160,000 units of PPE, 500,000 units of PCR test kit, 100,000 units of VTM and 150,000 units of N95 masks from India.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11560',
			'image' => '20200323112451_Clipboard01.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:24:19',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11810',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Seals International Borders for Human Mobility for a Week   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => '',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 23: In order to control the possible spread of coronavirus in the country, the government on Sunday decided to close the international borders for human mobility for a week from 10:00 am on Monday (March 23).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers took a decision to this effect on Sunday evening, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada, who is also the government spokesperson and looks after the portfolio of Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;As this infection is spread from the mobility of large number of people and across the borders, the mobility (of people) is postponed by considering the current issue and interests of the neighbouring countries,&quot; Khatiwada said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This decision was taken to prevent the spread of the infection, reduce risks, and increase mutual cooperation and understanding, he said adding, &quot;We have to advance multilateral and bilateral cooperation.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government also decided to transform Chandragiri-based hospital of Armed Police Force into a dedicated hospital for the treatment of coronavirus patients in case the COVID-19 surfaces in Nepal. The doctors of the Nepal Army and Nepal Police would be mobilised for the operations of the dedicated hospital if needed, Minister Khatiwada added.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, the cabinet meeting decided to establish a fund by allocating Rs 500 million for combating the deadly coronavirus. All the ministers would provide a month&#39;s salary in the fund, Dr Khatiwada shared. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The cabinet has also urged government employees, business persons, social workers, organizations and individuals to contribute to the fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, in order to motivate the health workers working in the frontline during this dire state would be provided with 50 per cent to cent per cent allowances, the cabinet meeting decided.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government would also provide all the equipment necessary to safeguard the health workers in course of their duty. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The security personnel and health workers have been instructed to bring COVID-19 infected persons to the treatment facilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Furthermore, decision was made to set up quarantine centres at Federal, State and local levels in coordination among the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home, Ministry of Defence and Ministry for Federal Affairs and General Administration. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation would take the lead for this.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, decision was taken to make the storage of essential goods systematic and ease the supplies as well as carry out market monitoring.&nbsp; &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11559',
			'image' => '20200323100921_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 10:08:51',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11808',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Hotels in Pokhara Start Laying off Staff Members',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days. This lake city is generally full of life and with lots of tourists during normal days. But the coronavirus pandemic has taken toll on the major source of income of the city which relies on tourism.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government&rsquo;s order to close all sectors except the essential ones has resulted in decline in the number of domestic tourists as well in major tourist destinations in the city. Most of the people have preferred to stay indoors due to the fear of contracting the deadly disease.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flow of international tourists has almost come to a complete halt after the government and various other countries imposed travel bans to curb the spread of the virus. The government has banned international flights to the Tribhuvan International Airport from countries with confirmed cases.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The country&rsquo;s economy was getting back on track after the devastating earthquakes of 2015 as the coronavirus outbreak played the spoilsport this time.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The months of March, April and May are considered peak tourist season in Nepal. Tourism entrepreneurs make most of the profit during this season. But the tourism industry has suffered a great setback this year due to the lack of tourists in the peak season. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Tourism entrepreneurs are deeply worried about the current crisis. They were hopeful of a good season due to the announcement of Visit Nepal 2020 campaign by the government this year. But all hopes have now faded as their worst nightmare has instead come true.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The halt in arrival of tourists has brought the hotel and restaurant businesses as well as travel and trekking expeditions to a standstill. It has also risked the closure of the entire tourism industry.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Binod Poudel, who has been operating a trekking agency since the last two decades, says his business in on the brink of collapse. He said tourism industry is his main source of income and he has had to remain idle since the last one and a half months.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;My whole business is at stake. I am worried how will I pay the school fees of my children. I am equally worried about paying the house rent,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Poudel said he even failed to get any loan at this time of crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Another tourism entrepreneur Netra Poudel says the coronavirus outbreak has caused much more problems than the havoc created by the 2015 earthquakes.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;Back in 2015, we still had some business. But our business has now come to a complete halt,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">With the nosedive in arrival of tourists, the hotel industry in Pokhara has started sending the staffers home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Prithvi Lamichhane, who runs Durbar Inn Hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara, says his business is nil since one and a half months. He said that he gave home leave to seven of his hotel staffers due to cancellation of bookings one after another.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The situation of Yatra Courtyard Hotel and Resort is no different at all. Almost all the 40 rooms of the hotel are unoccupied since more than a month now. The proprietor of the hotel is preparing to lay off more than five dozens staff of the hotel for at least a month.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;We are planning to provide non-paid leave for one month for the time being. We will decide our next move as per the situation,&rdquo; said Arun Giri, general manager of the hotel.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11558',
			'image' => '20200322124915_20190511105700_Clipboard37.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 12:48:48',
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11806',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'NAC Suspends Flights to 3 Indian Cities',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The state-owned airline company of Nepal said in a statement that it decided to suspend the flights to India after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India issued a notice to halt flights to those destinations in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Indian aviation regulatory body has imposed a ban till March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flag carrier of Nepal said it will suspend flights to those destinations in India until the ban expires after March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">NAC has assured the passengers that it will refund the amount to anyone who has purchased the ticket in advance.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11557',
			'image' => '20200322104408_20190826123900_wide body_nepal airlines (1).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 10:43:39',
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11803',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'BFIs to Promote Free Digital Transaction Amid Coronavirus Crisis',
			'sub_title' => 'Debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction due to concerns regarding coronavirus. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction&nbsp;due to concerns regarding coronavirus. The BFIs decided to provide such facility to their customers after it was revealed that the deadly virus can spread from paper currency.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Nepal Bankers&rsquo; Association, Development Bankers&rsquo; Association Nepal and Nepal Micro Finance Association issued a joint statement on Friday informing about their decision to promote cashless transaction.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">For the time being, BFIs have decide to provide free internet and mobile banking services.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During normal days, BFIs used to charge a minimum of Rs 10 for such transactions.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">BFIs have also decided not to take any charge for using debit card of one bank at ATM of another bank. It means that the debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost. Banks had been charging a minimum of Rs 25 for allowing withdrawal of money from their ATMs by customers of other banks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">They have also decided not to charge for the connect IPS services provided by Nepal Clearing House Limited.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">These facilities will remain in place until further notice.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11556',
			'image' => '20200322094915_aaaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 09:48:39',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11802',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Agree to Reduce Air Fare',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">After receiving a number of complaints, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai had held a meeting with airline operators of the country on Saturday (March 21).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the meeting, the domestic air service providers agreed to review the air fare.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The domestic airline companies had reduced the air fare some days ago due to lack of foreign passengers due to the fear of coronavirus. But the airline companies all of a sudden increased the fare after the government imposed a ban on long-route vehicles effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has taken a number of measures including closure of educational institutions, restaurants and bars among others for at least two weeks in an effort to contain the possible spread of the deadly virus. This does not bar essential service providers from operating their business. Essential service includes food supply, security, health, water and sanitation as well as air service, with exception of arrivals from coronavirus-affected countries and long-route vehicles within the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Considering the current crisis, Minister Bhattarai had urged the airline operators not to charge maximum amount to the air passengers. Responding to the request of the minister, the airline operators made commitment to review the air fare. However, they have not yet agreed on how much the air fare will be reduced. A separate meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal is taking place on Sunday (March 22) to fix the rate.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Spokesperson of AOAN Yograj Bhattarai said that they have reached an understanding with the government to reduce the air fare. But he added that they are yet to decide on how much amount shall be reduced.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11555',
			'image' => '20200322092059_1111.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 09:20:29',
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	(int) 14 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11804',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Bandipur Waives 50% Tax for Business Firms   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.   ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The rural municipality&#39;s decision on tax exemption would be in force for the fiscal year 2076/077.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the announcement of the local government, the entrepreneurs here have expressed happiness calling it a &#39;welcome step&#39;.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Chairman of Tanahun Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Bandipur, Baisha Gurung said that the move to exempt tax to the business firms would act as a relief to the business people.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Despite being a tourist season, tourist arrival in Bandipur is almost nil owing to Covid-19 fears.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Hotelier Basanta Poudel said that the rural municipality&#39;s decision would be a small sigh of relief as they are struggling even to pay the interest to the bank due to slowdown in business.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, vice-chair of rural municipality Karuna Gurung said that the step was taken to stop the business people from being discouraged amid the threat of coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said that the rural municipality has also requested to the financial institutions to lower the interest rates and the house owners to ensure subsidy in house rent. &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11818',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Writ Petition Filed at Supreme Court against International Travel Restriction',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court demanding that the Nepali nationals living in foreign countries be allowed to enter Nepal. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">According to the national news agency, RSS, advocates Madhav Basnet and Meera Khadka Basnet filed the petition against the High-Level Committee to Control and Prevent Coronavirus and other government bodies arguing that the government&rsquo;s decision to impose travel restriction on Nepali nationals is unlawful. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In the writ petition, the advocates have asked court to direct the government to rescue its nationals stranded in foreign countries if they are not able to return home during the crisis created by coronavirus.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In a bid to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, the government had last week banned flights from dozens of countries affected by coronavirus. &nbsp;Those countries include all members of the European Union, Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Japan among others. The government had even banned passengers using those countries as transit. The government has banned all flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport since Sunday.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'title' => ' Kathmandu Valley wears a Deserted Look with Lockdown Enforcement ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The streets of  Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: The streets of </span>&nbsp;<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A meeting of the High-Level Coronavirus Control and Prevention Coordination Committee on Monday evening deiced to enforce lockdown effective from March 24 (6.00am) till March 31 (6.00pm) to contain the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Following the confirmation of a second COVID-19 case in Kathmandu, the government took the decision to impose nationwide lockdown as per the Clause 2(2) of Infectious Disease Act-2020 to prevent the spread of virus to others. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">It may be noted that a 19-year Nepali girl who had returned from France via Qatar had tested positive for COVID-19. This is the second coronavirus infection case in Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">With the lockdown in effect, no one is allowed to leave their houses except for urgent maters such as medical emergency and purchase of consumable goods. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">All vehicular movement of private and public sectors have been banned except emergency vehicles, including those holding special permits, security personnel and medics.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Superintendent of Police Jeevan Kumar Shrestha, Spokesperson at the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division said with the enforcement of lockdown very few vehicles are plying on the roads of Kathmadnu Valley. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">&quot;The vehicles carrying most-essential goods and those having passes are only operating,&quot; he shared.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Quite a nominal number of people are seen walking on the road with the enforcement of no-permission for people to leave their house except for urgent matters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In case of violating the directives under the lockdown, one can be sentenced to jail for up to six months or penalized Rs 600 or has to face both punitive actions. &nbsp; - RSS </span></span></span></p>
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			'id' => '11816',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Imposes Week-long Lockdown Across the Nation',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. The lockdown will remain in effect from 6 am on March 24 till March 31.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">On Monday, the government confirmed the second case of coronavirus in the country. According to Health Minister Bhanubhakta Dhakal, a 19-year-old Nepali student who returned home from France last week tested positive for the deadly disease a day ago.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Following the detection of the deadly virus that has claimed more than 15,000 lives across the globe, a high level coordination committee to prevent the spread of COVID-19 headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishwar Pokharel decided to take strict measures to prevent the disease from spreading among the masses.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on Sunday had decided to impose the lockdown upon the recommendation of the committee to prevent further damage to the health of the population and the country&rsquo;s economy, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada during a press conference on Monday. Among other measures, the cabinet meeting also decided to close the country&rsquo;s international borders with India and China for a week. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the people not to venture out of their houses unless absolutely necessary. The government order however doesn&rsquo;t bar people from purchasing essential goods like food and medicines. All private and public vehicles have been banned except for the ones belonging to security forces and health workers. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The eight-point declaration issued by the government does not allow the public to get out of their houses except for buying essential food stuffs and for medical treatment.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the closure of all institutions except those that provide essential services including security agencies, food supplies, drinking water, milk, electricity, information and communication, customs, quarantine, waste management among others.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">All domestic flights have also been suspended for a week. The government has instructed the owners of private institutions to provide leave for workers.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Anyone defying the government orders will be punished in accordance to the Infectious Disease Act 2020. The government has issued a circular to all the district administration offices to enforce its decision and to maintain law and order under the Local Governance Act 2028, if required.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has also urged the suppliers to ensure smooth supply of medicines in the market.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Meanwhile, the government has issued stern warning to anyone involved in black marketing.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'id' => '11814',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Second Nepali Tests Positive for COVID-19: Health Ministry',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Ministry of Health and Population confirmed the case amid an emergency press conference organized in the capital on Monday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to a spokesperson at the ministry, the person was in self-quarantine after returning home from France last Tuesday (March 17). The person is currently undergoing treatment at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Teku. According to the government , the patient has been isolated and everyone who came into contact with the person have been quarantined.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Out of 600 samples tested for COVID-19, only one tested positive, the ministry said during the press conference chaired by Health Minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This is the second case of coronavirus reported in Nepal. Earlier, a Nepali student returning home from Wuhan of China had tested positive for the disease in January. But the government claims that the patient has fully recovered and returned home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The ministry has urged one and all to adopt precautionary measures to avoid the deadly disease that has already&nbsp; spread to 193 countries and claimed over 14000 lives.</span></span></p>
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			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11565',
			'image' => '20200323011346_20200312112722_111.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 13:13:15',
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			'id' => '11813',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Slash Airfare by 40 Percent',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government. A meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) on Sunday decided to slash the airfare by 40 percent along domestic trunk routes considering the crisis created by coronavrius.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air, Shree Airlines and Yeti Airlines have reduced the airfare as of Sunday evening (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing separate statements, Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines informed about the companies&rsquo; decisions to reduce the airfare to Pokhara, Biratnagar and other destinations within the country. Meanwhile, Shree Airlines informed about the decision to slash the fare on Saturday. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The airline companies said they decided to slash the airfare due to the inconvenience caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has imposed a ban on long-route vehicles from Monday (March 23) in a bid to prevent the possible spread of the deadly disease which has already killed at least 14,000 people worldwide.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Passengers are left with the only option of air route to return home after the government banned long-route vehicles. Therefore, the airline companies said they decided to reduce the airfare as long as the government enforces the ban on land routes. The ban will remain effective until April 3.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the airline companies complained that the government did not provide any relief at a time when they were facing crisis due to lack of passengers amid fear of coronavirus outbreak.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air expressed its dissatisfaction in a statement arguing that the airline companies have to bear 40 percent of their expenses just for fuel. According to the airline company, they can further reduce the airfare if Nepal Oil Corporation provides them fuel at a lower price without taking any profit.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><img alt="" src="/app/webroot/userfiles/images/222%284%29.jpg" style="height:292px; width:800px" /></span></span></p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11815',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Non-Essential Services Come to a Grinding Halt',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Addressing the nation in a televised speech on Friday, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli had announced the closure of all non-essential services including schools and educational institutions, community and private offices among others from March 22 to April 3 in an attempt to contain the deadly disease, which has also surfaced in Nepal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing a public notice on the Nepal Gazette, the government has instructed all the service providers including public and private companies to halt their services from march 22 to April 3 unless those services fall under essential category. The essential services include food supply, health service, security and communication, media among others.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has also suspended all passenger flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport for ten days starting from March 22. Altogether 28 airline companies including two from Nepal have been operating flights from the TIA.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, operation of all long-route vehicles has also been halted for the time being. However, private vehicles can travel long distance, according to a decision taken by the Council of Ministers.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has already closed cinema halls and other entertainments while the gathering of more than 25 people is also not allowed. All the courts have remained closed since Sunday for two weeks. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'id' => '11812',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Bans Export of Essential Medicines',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus. The Department of Customs has stopped the export of materials such as masks, sanitizers, PPE, gloves among others effective from Sunday (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, the government has also decided to make customs pass available for the import of essential goods within two hours. The Department of Customs has already issued circulars to all the units in this regard, said Director General Suman Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The department has formed a &ldquo;quick-response team&rdquo; to sort out any problem that might occur at the customs points. The five-member team headed by Deputy Director General of the Department of Customs, Shyam Prasad Bhandari, will resolve any problem that might surface while importing or exporting essential goods.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;The quick response team has been tasked to sort out any problems related to customs immediately,&rdquo; said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Dahal, the import of medicines and other related materials to Nepal exceeds the export of these essential goods. Basically, Nepal exports pharmaceuticals and other similar goods after re-packaging the imported items, said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;President of the Association of Pharmaceutical Producers of Nepal&nbsp; (APPON) Narayan Bahadur Chhetri welcomed the decision of government to ban the export of essential medical goods saying that the country itself is struggling to meet its demand for raw materials required for producing medicines.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">He urged the government to facilitate in making the active pharmaceutical ingredients available.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">However, Chhetri claimed that the drug producers of Nepal have adequate stock of raw materials to manufacture medicines for the next three months. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11562',
			'image' => '20200323115355_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:53:21',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11809',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'World Bank Likely to Release Fast-Track Funds to Deal with Pandemic this Week',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The World Bank’s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank’s president on Sunday.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The World Bank&rsquo;s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank&rsquo;s president on Sunday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">World Bank&rsquo;s President David Malpass said in a blog post on the bank that funding for the projects could come out of a $14 billion Fast Track Facility (FTF) approved last week (March 17) to help countries deal with the health and economic impact of the coronavirus.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to the latest tally of Reuters, the respiratory disease has infected more than 337,524 people around the world, and killed at least 14,651.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In the blog, Malpass said World Bank teams were preparing projects in 40 countries for up to $1.7 billion under the FTF at the end of the week.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Projects in Afghanistan and Ethiopia were the most advanced and would be presented to the board this week, he said, adding that meetings for 14 other countries will take place next week as well, and will create a framework for rapid responses in other countries without naming them.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;&ldquo;This approach will allow us to quickly replicate operations in multiple countries,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In addition to the fast track facility, the World Bank is also providing COVID-19 support via restructuring of the existing projects.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">So far, projects in 24 countries for up to $1.5 billion are in the works and span every region where the bank operates..</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Malpass, the IFC is also working to start extending trade finance and working capital lines to clients, with regular board action expected on those efforts in the next two to four weeks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Malpass further said World Bank officials were in close touch with finance ministers and central bankers from around the world to discuss their needs and responses to the crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Bank officials had also identified ways to support countries as they race to procure much-needed medical equipment and upgrade medical facilities.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11561',
			'image' => '20200323093721_1111.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 09:36:46',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11811',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Importing Medical Kits and Equipment from Immediate Neighbours',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has initiated the process to bring in 200,000 units of personal protective equipment (PPE), 100,000 units of PCR test kit, 150,000 units of N95 mask among others. Likewise, Nepal is also importing 10 sets of ambulances equipped with labs and five sets of mobile ambulances from the northern neighbor.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the government has sought 160,000 units of PPE, 500,000 units of PCR test kit, 100,000 units of VTM and 150,000 units of N95 masks from India.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11560',
			'image' => '20200323112451_Clipboard01.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:24:19',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
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	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11810',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Seals International Borders for Human Mobility for a Week   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => '',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 23: In order to control the possible spread of coronavirus in the country, the government on Sunday decided to close the international borders for human mobility for a week from 10:00 am on Monday (March 23).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers took a decision to this effect on Sunday evening, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada, who is also the government spokesperson and looks after the portfolio of Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;As this infection is spread from the mobility of large number of people and across the borders, the mobility (of people) is postponed by considering the current issue and interests of the neighbouring countries,&quot; Khatiwada said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This decision was taken to prevent the spread of the infection, reduce risks, and increase mutual cooperation and understanding, he said adding, &quot;We have to advance multilateral and bilateral cooperation.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government also decided to transform Chandragiri-based hospital of Armed Police Force into a dedicated hospital for the treatment of coronavirus patients in case the COVID-19 surfaces in Nepal. The doctors of the Nepal Army and Nepal Police would be mobilised for the operations of the dedicated hospital if needed, Minister Khatiwada added.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, the cabinet meeting decided to establish a fund by allocating Rs 500 million for combating the deadly coronavirus. All the ministers would provide a month&#39;s salary in the fund, Dr Khatiwada shared. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The cabinet has also urged government employees, business persons, social workers, organizations and individuals to contribute to the fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, in order to motivate the health workers working in the frontline during this dire state would be provided with 50 per cent to cent per cent allowances, the cabinet meeting decided.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government would also provide all the equipment necessary to safeguard the health workers in course of their duty. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The security personnel and health workers have been instructed to bring COVID-19 infected persons to the treatment facilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Furthermore, decision was made to set up quarantine centres at Federal, State and local levels in coordination among the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home, Ministry of Defence and Ministry for Federal Affairs and General Administration. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation would take the lead for this.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, decision was taken to make the storage of essential goods systematic and ease the supplies as well as carry out market monitoring.&nbsp; &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11559',
			'image' => '20200323100921_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 10:08:51',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11808',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Hotels in Pokhara Start Laying off Staff Members',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days. This lake city is generally full of life and with lots of tourists during normal days. But the coronavirus pandemic has taken toll on the major source of income of the city which relies on tourism.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government&rsquo;s order to close all sectors except the essential ones has resulted in decline in the number of domestic tourists as well in major tourist destinations in the city. Most of the people have preferred to stay indoors due to the fear of contracting the deadly disease.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flow of international tourists has almost come to a complete halt after the government and various other countries imposed travel bans to curb the spread of the virus. The government has banned international flights to the Tribhuvan International Airport from countries with confirmed cases.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The country&rsquo;s economy was getting back on track after the devastating earthquakes of 2015 as the coronavirus outbreak played the spoilsport this time.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The months of March, April and May are considered peak tourist season in Nepal. Tourism entrepreneurs make most of the profit during this season. But the tourism industry has suffered a great setback this year due to the lack of tourists in the peak season. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Tourism entrepreneurs are deeply worried about the current crisis. They were hopeful of a good season due to the announcement of Visit Nepal 2020 campaign by the government this year. But all hopes have now faded as their worst nightmare has instead come true.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The halt in arrival of tourists has brought the hotel and restaurant businesses as well as travel and trekking expeditions to a standstill. It has also risked the closure of the entire tourism industry.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Binod Poudel, who has been operating a trekking agency since the last two decades, says his business in on the brink of collapse. He said tourism industry is his main source of income and he has had to remain idle since the last one and a half months.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;My whole business is at stake. I am worried how will I pay the school fees of my children. I am equally worried about paying the house rent,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Poudel said he even failed to get any loan at this time of crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Another tourism entrepreneur Netra Poudel says the coronavirus outbreak has caused much more problems than the havoc created by the 2015 earthquakes.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;Back in 2015, we still had some business. But our business has now come to a complete halt,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">With the nosedive in arrival of tourists, the hotel industry in Pokhara has started sending the staffers home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Prithvi Lamichhane, who runs Durbar Inn Hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara, says his business is nil since one and a half months. He said that he gave home leave to seven of his hotel staffers due to cancellation of bookings one after another.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The situation of Yatra Courtyard Hotel and Resort is no different at all. Almost all the 40 rooms of the hotel are unoccupied since more than a month now. The proprietor of the hotel is preparing to lay off more than five dozens staff of the hotel for at least a month.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;We are planning to provide non-paid leave for one month for the time being. We will decide our next move as per the situation,&rdquo; said Arun Giri, general manager of the hotel.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11558',
			'image' => '20200322124915_20190511105700_Clipboard37.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 12:48:48',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11806',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'NAC Suspends Flights to 3 Indian Cities',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The state-owned airline company of Nepal said in a statement that it decided to suspend the flights to India after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India issued a notice to halt flights to those destinations in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Indian aviation regulatory body has imposed a ban till March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flag carrier of Nepal said it will suspend flights to those destinations in India until the ban expires after March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">NAC has assured the passengers that it will refund the amount to anyone who has purchased the ticket in advance.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11557',
			'image' => '20200322104408_20190826123900_wide body_nepal airlines (1).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 10:43:39',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11803',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'BFIs to Promote Free Digital Transaction Amid Coronavirus Crisis',
			'sub_title' => 'Debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction due to concerns regarding coronavirus. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction&nbsp;due to concerns regarding coronavirus. The BFIs decided to provide such facility to their customers after it was revealed that the deadly virus can spread from paper currency.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Nepal Bankers&rsquo; Association, Development Bankers&rsquo; Association Nepal and Nepal Micro Finance Association issued a joint statement on Friday informing about their decision to promote cashless transaction.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">For the time being, BFIs have decide to provide free internet and mobile banking services.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During normal days, BFIs used to charge a minimum of Rs 10 for such transactions.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">BFIs have also decided not to take any charge for using debit card of one bank at ATM of another bank. It means that the debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost. Banks had been charging a minimum of Rs 25 for allowing withdrawal of money from their ATMs by customers of other banks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">They have also decided not to charge for the connect IPS services provided by Nepal Clearing House Limited.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">These facilities will remain in place until further notice.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11556',
			'image' => '20200322094915_aaaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 09:48:39',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11802',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Agree to Reduce Air Fare',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">After receiving a number of complaints, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai had held a meeting with airline operators of the country on Saturday (March 21).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the meeting, the domestic air service providers agreed to review the air fare.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The domestic airline companies had reduced the air fare some days ago due to lack of foreign passengers due to the fear of coronavirus. But the airline companies all of a sudden increased the fare after the government imposed a ban on long-route vehicles effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has taken a number of measures including closure of educational institutions, restaurants and bars among others for at least two weeks in an effort to contain the possible spread of the deadly virus. This does not bar essential service providers from operating their business. Essential service includes food supply, security, health, water and sanitation as well as air service, with exception of arrivals from coronavirus-affected countries and long-route vehicles within the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Considering the current crisis, Minister Bhattarai had urged the airline operators not to charge maximum amount to the air passengers. Responding to the request of the minister, the airline operators made commitment to review the air fare. However, they have not yet agreed on how much the air fare will be reduced. A separate meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal is taking place on Sunday (March 22) to fix the rate.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Spokesperson of AOAN Yograj Bhattarai said that they have reached an understanding with the government to reduce the air fare. But he added that they are yet to decide on how much amount shall be reduced.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
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			'sortorder' => '11555',
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			'title' => 'Bandipur Waives 50% Tax for Business Firms   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.   ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The rural municipality&#39;s decision on tax exemption would be in force for the fiscal year 2076/077.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the announcement of the local government, the entrepreneurs here have expressed happiness calling it a &#39;welcome step&#39;.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Chairman of Tanahun Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Bandipur, Baisha Gurung said that the move to exempt tax to the business firms would act as a relief to the business people.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Despite being a tourist season, tourist arrival in Bandipur is almost nil owing to Covid-19 fears.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Hotelier Basanta Poudel said that the rural municipality&#39;s decision would be a small sigh of relief as they are struggling even to pay the interest to the bank due to slowdown in business.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, vice-chair of rural municipality Karuna Gurung said that the step was taken to stop the business people from being discouraged amid the threat of coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said that the rural municipality has also requested to the financial institutions to lower the interest rates and the house owners to ensure subsidy in house rent. &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11818',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Writ Petition Filed at Supreme Court against International Travel Restriction',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court demanding that the Nepali nationals living in foreign countries be allowed to enter Nepal. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">According to the national news agency, RSS, advocates Madhav Basnet and Meera Khadka Basnet filed the petition against the High-Level Committee to Control and Prevent Coronavirus and other government bodies arguing that the government&rsquo;s decision to impose travel restriction on Nepali nationals is unlawful. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In the writ petition, the advocates have asked court to direct the government to rescue its nationals stranded in foreign countries if they are not able to return home during the crisis created by coronavirus.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In a bid to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, the government had last week banned flights from dozens of countries affected by coronavirus. &nbsp;Those countries include all members of the European Union, Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Japan among others. The government had even banned passengers using those countries as transit. The government has banned all flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport since Sunday.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'id' => '11817',
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			'title' => ' Kathmandu Valley wears a Deserted Look with Lockdown Enforcement ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The streets of  Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: The streets of </span>&nbsp;<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A meeting of the High-Level Coronavirus Control and Prevention Coordination Committee on Monday evening deiced to enforce lockdown effective from March 24 (6.00am) till March 31 (6.00pm) to contain the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Following the confirmation of a second COVID-19 case in Kathmandu, the government took the decision to impose nationwide lockdown as per the Clause 2(2) of Infectious Disease Act-2020 to prevent the spread of virus to others. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">It may be noted that a 19-year Nepali girl who had returned from France via Qatar had tested positive for COVID-19. This is the second coronavirus infection case in Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">With the lockdown in effect, no one is allowed to leave their houses except for urgent maters such as medical emergency and purchase of consumable goods. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">All vehicular movement of private and public sectors have been banned except emergency vehicles, including those holding special permits, security personnel and medics.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Superintendent of Police Jeevan Kumar Shrestha, Spokesperson at the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division said with the enforcement of lockdown very few vehicles are plying on the roads of Kathmadnu Valley. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">&quot;The vehicles carrying most-essential goods and those having passes are only operating,&quot; he shared.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Quite a nominal number of people are seen walking on the road with the enforcement of no-permission for people to leave their house except for urgent matters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In case of violating the directives under the lockdown, one can be sentenced to jail for up to six months or penalized Rs 600 or has to face both punitive actions. &nbsp; - RSS </span></span></span></p>
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			'id' => '11816',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Imposes Week-long Lockdown Across the Nation',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. The lockdown will remain in effect from 6 am on March 24 till March 31.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">On Monday, the government confirmed the second case of coronavirus in the country. According to Health Minister Bhanubhakta Dhakal, a 19-year-old Nepali student who returned home from France last week tested positive for the deadly disease a day ago.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Following the detection of the deadly virus that has claimed more than 15,000 lives across the globe, a high level coordination committee to prevent the spread of COVID-19 headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishwar Pokharel decided to take strict measures to prevent the disease from spreading among the masses.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on Sunday had decided to impose the lockdown upon the recommendation of the committee to prevent further damage to the health of the population and the country&rsquo;s economy, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada during a press conference on Monday. Among other measures, the cabinet meeting also decided to close the country&rsquo;s international borders with India and China for a week. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the people not to venture out of their houses unless absolutely necessary. The government order however doesn&rsquo;t bar people from purchasing essential goods like food and medicines. All private and public vehicles have been banned except for the ones belonging to security forces and health workers. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The eight-point declaration issued by the government does not allow the public to get out of their houses except for buying essential food stuffs and for medical treatment.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the closure of all institutions except those that provide essential services including security agencies, food supplies, drinking water, milk, electricity, information and communication, customs, quarantine, waste management among others.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">All domestic flights have also been suspended for a week. The government has instructed the owners of private institutions to provide leave for workers.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Anyone defying the government orders will be punished in accordance to the Infectious Disease Act 2020. The government has issued a circular to all the district administration offices to enforce its decision and to maintain law and order under the Local Governance Act 2028, if required.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has also urged the suppliers to ensure smooth supply of medicines in the market.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Meanwhile, the government has issued stern warning to anyone involved in black marketing.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'id' => '11814',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Second Nepali Tests Positive for COVID-19: Health Ministry',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Ministry of Health and Population confirmed the case amid an emergency press conference organized in the capital on Monday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to a spokesperson at the ministry, the person was in self-quarantine after returning home from France last Tuesday (March 17). The person is currently undergoing treatment at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Teku. According to the government , the patient has been isolated and everyone who came into contact with the person have been quarantined.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Out of 600 samples tested for COVID-19, only one tested positive, the ministry said during the press conference chaired by Health Minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This is the second case of coronavirus reported in Nepal. Earlier, a Nepali student returning home from Wuhan of China had tested positive for the disease in January. But the government claims that the patient has fully recovered and returned home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The ministry has urged one and all to adopt precautionary measures to avoid the deadly disease that has already&nbsp; spread to 193 countries and claimed over 14000 lives.</span></span></p>
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			'created' => '2020-03-23',
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			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11565',
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			'id' => '11813',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Slash Airfare by 40 Percent',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government. A meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) on Sunday decided to slash the airfare by 40 percent along domestic trunk routes considering the crisis created by coronavrius.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air, Shree Airlines and Yeti Airlines have reduced the airfare as of Sunday evening (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing separate statements, Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines informed about the companies&rsquo; decisions to reduce the airfare to Pokhara, Biratnagar and other destinations within the country. Meanwhile, Shree Airlines informed about the decision to slash the fare on Saturday. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The airline companies said they decided to slash the airfare due to the inconvenience caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has imposed a ban on long-route vehicles from Monday (March 23) in a bid to prevent the possible spread of the deadly disease which has already killed at least 14,000 people worldwide.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Passengers are left with the only option of air route to return home after the government banned long-route vehicles. Therefore, the airline companies said they decided to reduce the airfare as long as the government enforces the ban on land routes. The ban will remain effective until April 3.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the airline companies complained that the government did not provide any relief at a time when they were facing crisis due to lack of passengers amid fear of coronavirus outbreak.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air expressed its dissatisfaction in a statement arguing that the airline companies have to bear 40 percent of their expenses just for fuel. According to the airline company, they can further reduce the airfare if Nepal Oil Corporation provides them fuel at a lower price without taking any profit.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><img alt="" src="/app/webroot/userfiles/images/222%284%29.jpg" style="height:292px; width:800px" /></span></span></p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11815',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Non-Essential Services Come to a Grinding Halt',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Addressing the nation in a televised speech on Friday, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli had announced the closure of all non-essential services including schools and educational institutions, community and private offices among others from March 22 to April 3 in an attempt to contain the deadly disease, which has also surfaced in Nepal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing a public notice on the Nepal Gazette, the government has instructed all the service providers including public and private companies to halt their services from march 22 to April 3 unless those services fall under essential category. The essential services include food supply, health service, security and communication, media among others.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has also suspended all passenger flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport for ten days starting from March 22. Altogether 28 airline companies including two from Nepal have been operating flights from the TIA.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, operation of all long-route vehicles has also been halted for the time being. However, private vehicles can travel long distance, according to a decision taken by the Council of Ministers.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has already closed cinema halls and other entertainments while the gathering of more than 25 people is also not allowed. All the courts have remained closed since Sunday for two weeks. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Bans Export of Essential Medicines',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus. The Department of Customs has stopped the export of materials such as masks, sanitizers, PPE, gloves among others effective from Sunday (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, the government has also decided to make customs pass available for the import of essential goods within two hours. The Department of Customs has already issued circulars to all the units in this regard, said Director General Suman Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The department has formed a &ldquo;quick-response team&rdquo; to sort out any problem that might occur at the customs points. The five-member team headed by Deputy Director General of the Department of Customs, Shyam Prasad Bhandari, will resolve any problem that might surface while importing or exporting essential goods.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;The quick response team has been tasked to sort out any problems related to customs immediately,&rdquo; said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Dahal, the import of medicines and other related materials to Nepal exceeds the export of these essential goods. Basically, Nepal exports pharmaceuticals and other similar goods after re-packaging the imported items, said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;President of the Association of Pharmaceutical Producers of Nepal&nbsp; (APPON) Narayan Bahadur Chhetri welcomed the decision of government to ban the export of essential medical goods saying that the country itself is struggling to meet its demand for raw materials required for producing medicines.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">He urged the government to facilitate in making the active pharmaceutical ingredients available.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">However, Chhetri claimed that the drug producers of Nepal have adequate stock of raw materials to manufacture medicines for the next three months. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11562',
			'image' => '20200323115355_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:53:21',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11809',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'World Bank Likely to Release Fast-Track Funds to Deal with Pandemic this Week',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The World Bank’s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank’s president on Sunday.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The World Bank&rsquo;s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank&rsquo;s president on Sunday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">World Bank&rsquo;s President David Malpass said in a blog post on the bank that funding for the projects could come out of a $14 billion Fast Track Facility (FTF) approved last week (March 17) to help countries deal with the health and economic impact of the coronavirus.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to the latest tally of Reuters, the respiratory disease has infected more than 337,524 people around the world, and killed at least 14,651.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In the blog, Malpass said World Bank teams were preparing projects in 40 countries for up to $1.7 billion under the FTF at the end of the week.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Projects in Afghanistan and Ethiopia were the most advanced and would be presented to the board this week, he said, adding that meetings for 14 other countries will take place next week as well, and will create a framework for rapid responses in other countries without naming them.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;&ldquo;This approach will allow us to quickly replicate operations in multiple countries,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In addition to the fast track facility, the World Bank is also providing COVID-19 support via restructuring of the existing projects.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">So far, projects in 24 countries for up to $1.5 billion are in the works and span every region where the bank operates..</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Malpass, the IFC is also working to start extending trade finance and working capital lines to clients, with regular board action expected on those efforts in the next two to four weeks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Malpass further said World Bank officials were in close touch with finance ministers and central bankers from around the world to discuss their needs and responses to the crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Bank officials had also identified ways to support countries as they race to procure much-needed medical equipment and upgrade medical facilities.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11561',
			'image' => '20200323093721_1111.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 09:36:46',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11811',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Importing Medical Kits and Equipment from Immediate Neighbours',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has initiated the process to bring in 200,000 units of personal protective equipment (PPE), 100,000 units of PCR test kit, 150,000 units of N95 mask among others. Likewise, Nepal is also importing 10 sets of ambulances equipped with labs and five sets of mobile ambulances from the northern neighbor.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the government has sought 160,000 units of PPE, 500,000 units of PCR test kit, 100,000 units of VTM and 150,000 units of N95 masks from India.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11560',
			'image' => '20200323112451_Clipboard01.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:24:19',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
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	),
	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11810',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Seals International Borders for Human Mobility for a Week   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => '',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 23: In order to control the possible spread of coronavirus in the country, the government on Sunday decided to close the international borders for human mobility for a week from 10:00 am on Monday (March 23).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers took a decision to this effect on Sunday evening, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada, who is also the government spokesperson and looks after the portfolio of Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;As this infection is spread from the mobility of large number of people and across the borders, the mobility (of people) is postponed by considering the current issue and interests of the neighbouring countries,&quot; Khatiwada said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This decision was taken to prevent the spread of the infection, reduce risks, and increase mutual cooperation and understanding, he said adding, &quot;We have to advance multilateral and bilateral cooperation.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government also decided to transform Chandragiri-based hospital of Armed Police Force into a dedicated hospital for the treatment of coronavirus patients in case the COVID-19 surfaces in Nepal. The doctors of the Nepal Army and Nepal Police would be mobilised for the operations of the dedicated hospital if needed, Minister Khatiwada added.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, the cabinet meeting decided to establish a fund by allocating Rs 500 million for combating the deadly coronavirus. All the ministers would provide a month&#39;s salary in the fund, Dr Khatiwada shared. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The cabinet has also urged government employees, business persons, social workers, organizations and individuals to contribute to the fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, in order to motivate the health workers working in the frontline during this dire state would be provided with 50 per cent to cent per cent allowances, the cabinet meeting decided.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government would also provide all the equipment necessary to safeguard the health workers in course of their duty. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The security personnel and health workers have been instructed to bring COVID-19 infected persons to the treatment facilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Furthermore, decision was made to set up quarantine centres at Federal, State and local levels in coordination among the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home, Ministry of Defence and Ministry for Federal Affairs and General Administration. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation would take the lead for this.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, decision was taken to make the storage of essential goods systematic and ease the supplies as well as carry out market monitoring.&nbsp; &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11559',
			'image' => '20200323100921_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 10:08:51',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11808',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Hotels in Pokhara Start Laying off Staff Members',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days. This lake city is generally full of life and with lots of tourists during normal days. But the coronavirus pandemic has taken toll on the major source of income of the city which relies on tourism.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government&rsquo;s order to close all sectors except the essential ones has resulted in decline in the number of domestic tourists as well in major tourist destinations in the city. Most of the people have preferred to stay indoors due to the fear of contracting the deadly disease.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flow of international tourists has almost come to a complete halt after the government and various other countries imposed travel bans to curb the spread of the virus. The government has banned international flights to the Tribhuvan International Airport from countries with confirmed cases.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The country&rsquo;s economy was getting back on track after the devastating earthquakes of 2015 as the coronavirus outbreak played the spoilsport this time.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The months of March, April and May are considered peak tourist season in Nepal. Tourism entrepreneurs make most of the profit during this season. But the tourism industry has suffered a great setback this year due to the lack of tourists in the peak season. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Tourism entrepreneurs are deeply worried about the current crisis. They were hopeful of a good season due to the announcement of Visit Nepal 2020 campaign by the government this year. But all hopes have now faded as their worst nightmare has instead come true.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The halt in arrival of tourists has brought the hotel and restaurant businesses as well as travel and trekking expeditions to a standstill. It has also risked the closure of the entire tourism industry.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Binod Poudel, who has been operating a trekking agency since the last two decades, says his business in on the brink of collapse. He said tourism industry is his main source of income and he has had to remain idle since the last one and a half months.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;My whole business is at stake. I am worried how will I pay the school fees of my children. I am equally worried about paying the house rent,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Poudel said he even failed to get any loan at this time of crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Another tourism entrepreneur Netra Poudel says the coronavirus outbreak has caused much more problems than the havoc created by the 2015 earthquakes.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;Back in 2015, we still had some business. But our business has now come to a complete halt,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">With the nosedive in arrival of tourists, the hotel industry in Pokhara has started sending the staffers home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Prithvi Lamichhane, who runs Durbar Inn Hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara, says his business is nil since one and a half months. He said that he gave home leave to seven of his hotel staffers due to cancellation of bookings one after another.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The situation of Yatra Courtyard Hotel and Resort is no different at all. Almost all the 40 rooms of the hotel are unoccupied since more than a month now. The proprietor of the hotel is preparing to lay off more than five dozens staff of the hotel for at least a month.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;We are planning to provide non-paid leave for one month for the time being. We will decide our next move as per the situation,&rdquo; said Arun Giri, general manager of the hotel.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11558',
			'image' => '20200322124915_20190511105700_Clipboard37.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 12:48:48',
			'homepage' => false,
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	),
	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11806',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'NAC Suspends Flights to 3 Indian Cities',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The state-owned airline company of Nepal said in a statement that it decided to suspend the flights to India after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India issued a notice to halt flights to those destinations in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Indian aviation regulatory body has imposed a ban till March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flag carrier of Nepal said it will suspend flights to those destinations in India until the ban expires after March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">NAC has assured the passengers that it will refund the amount to anyone who has purchased the ticket in advance.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11557',
			'image' => '20200322104408_20190826123900_wide body_nepal airlines (1).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 10:43:39',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11803',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'BFIs to Promote Free Digital Transaction Amid Coronavirus Crisis',
			'sub_title' => 'Debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction due to concerns regarding coronavirus. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction&nbsp;due to concerns regarding coronavirus. The BFIs decided to provide such facility to their customers after it was revealed that the deadly virus can spread from paper currency.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Nepal Bankers&rsquo; Association, Development Bankers&rsquo; Association Nepal and Nepal Micro Finance Association issued a joint statement on Friday informing about their decision to promote cashless transaction.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">For the time being, BFIs have decide to provide free internet and mobile banking services.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During normal days, BFIs used to charge a minimum of Rs 10 for such transactions.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">BFIs have also decided not to take any charge for using debit card of one bank at ATM of another bank. It means that the debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost. Banks had been charging a minimum of Rs 25 for allowing withdrawal of money from their ATMs by customers of other banks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">They have also decided not to charge for the connect IPS services provided by Nepal Clearing House Limited.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">These facilities will remain in place until further notice.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11556',
			'image' => '20200322094915_aaaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 09:48:39',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11802',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Agree to Reduce Air Fare',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">After receiving a number of complaints, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai had held a meeting with airline operators of the country on Saturday (March 21).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the meeting, the domestic air service providers agreed to review the air fare.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The domestic airline companies had reduced the air fare some days ago due to lack of foreign passengers due to the fear of coronavirus. But the airline companies all of a sudden increased the fare after the government imposed a ban on long-route vehicles effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has taken a number of measures including closure of educational institutions, restaurants and bars among others for at least two weeks in an effort to contain the possible spread of the deadly virus. This does not bar essential service providers from operating their business. Essential service includes food supply, security, health, water and sanitation as well as air service, with exception of arrivals from coronavirus-affected countries and long-route vehicles within the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Considering the current crisis, Minister Bhattarai had urged the airline operators not to charge maximum amount to the air passengers. Responding to the request of the minister, the airline operators made commitment to review the air fare. However, they have not yet agreed on how much the air fare will be reduced. A separate meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal is taking place on Sunday (March 22) to fix the rate.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Spokesperson of AOAN Yograj Bhattarai said that they have reached an understanding with the government to reduce the air fare. But he added that they are yet to decide on how much amount shall be reduced.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
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			'title' => 'Bandipur Waives 50% Tax for Business Firms   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.   ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The rural municipality&#39;s decision on tax exemption would be in force for the fiscal year 2076/077.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the announcement of the local government, the entrepreneurs here have expressed happiness calling it a &#39;welcome step&#39;.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Chairman of Tanahun Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Bandipur, Baisha Gurung said that the move to exempt tax to the business firms would act as a relief to the business people.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Despite being a tourist season, tourist arrival in Bandipur is almost nil owing to Covid-19 fears.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Hotelier Basanta Poudel said that the rural municipality&#39;s decision would be a small sigh of relief as they are struggling even to pay the interest to the bank due to slowdown in business.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, vice-chair of rural municipality Karuna Gurung said that the step was taken to stop the business people from being discouraged amid the threat of coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said that the rural municipality has also requested to the financial institutions to lower the interest rates and the house owners to ensure subsidy in house rent. &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11818',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Writ Petition Filed at Supreme Court against International Travel Restriction',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking entry for Nepali nationals living abroad into Nepal.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court demanding that the Nepali nationals living in foreign countries be allowed to enter Nepal. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">According to the national news agency, RSS, advocates Madhav Basnet and Meera Khadka Basnet filed the petition against the High-Level Committee to Control and Prevent Coronavirus and other government bodies arguing that the government&rsquo;s decision to impose travel restriction on Nepali nationals is unlawful. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In the writ petition, the advocates have asked court to direct the government to rescue its nationals stranded in foreign countries if they are not able to return home during the crisis created by coronavirus.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In a bid to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, the government had last week banned flights from dozens of countries affected by coronavirus. &nbsp;Those countries include all members of the European Union, Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Japan among others. The government had even banned passengers using those countries as transit. The government has banned all flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport since Sunday.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'title' => ' Kathmandu Valley wears a Deserted Look with Lockdown Enforcement ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The streets of  Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">March 24: The streets of </span>&nbsp;<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Kathmandu Valley wear a deserted look with the government enforcement of lockdown in view of possible outbreak of coronavirus in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">A meeting of the High-Level Coronavirus Control and Prevention Coordination Committee on Monday evening deiced to enforce lockdown effective from March 24 (6.00am) till March 31 (6.00pm) to contain the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Following the confirmation of a second COVID-19 case in Kathmandu, the government took the decision to impose nationwide lockdown as per the Clause 2(2) of Infectious Disease Act-2020 to prevent the spread of virus to others. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">It may be noted that a 19-year Nepali girl who had returned from France via Qatar had tested positive for COVID-19. This is the second coronavirus infection case in Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">With the lockdown in effect, no one is allowed to leave their houses except for urgent maters such as medical emergency and purchase of consumable goods. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">All vehicular movement of private and public sectors have been banned except emergency vehicles, including those holding special permits, security personnel and medics.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Superintendent of Police Jeevan Kumar Shrestha, Spokesperson at the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division said with the enforcement of lockdown very few vehicles are plying on the roads of Kathmadnu Valley. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Cambria"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">&quot;The vehicles carrying most-essential goods and those having passes are only operating,&quot; he shared.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">Quite a nominal number of people are seen walking on the road with the enforcement of no-permission for people to leave their house except for urgent matters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;">In case of violating the directives under the lockdown, one can be sentenced to jail for up to six months or penalized Rs 600 or has to face both punitive actions. &nbsp; - RSS </span></span></span></p>
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			'id' => '11816',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Imposes Week-long Lockdown Across the Nation',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">March 24: The government has imposed a lockdown for a week starting from Tuesday morning (March 24) to contain the spread of coronavirus after a new case was detected in the country. The lockdown will remain in effect from 6 am on March 24 till March 31.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">On Monday, the government confirmed the second case of coronavirus in the country. According to Health Minister Bhanubhakta Dhakal, a 19-year-old Nepali student who returned home from France last week tested positive for the deadly disease a day ago.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Following the detection of the deadly virus that has claimed more than 15,000 lives across the globe, a high level coordination committee to prevent the spread of COVID-19 headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishwar Pokharel decided to take strict measures to prevent the disease from spreading among the masses.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on Sunday had decided to impose the lockdown upon the recommendation of the committee to prevent further damage to the health of the population and the country&rsquo;s economy, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada during a press conference on Monday. Among other measures, the cabinet meeting also decided to close the country&rsquo;s international borders with India and China for a week. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the people not to venture out of their houses unless absolutely necessary. The government order however doesn&rsquo;t bar people from purchasing essential goods like food and medicines. All private and public vehicles have been banned except for the ones belonging to security forces and health workers. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The eight-point declaration issued by the government does not allow the public to get out of their houses except for buying essential food stuffs and for medical treatment.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has ordered the closure of all institutions except those that provide essential services including security agencies, food supplies, drinking water, milk, electricity, information and communication, customs, quarantine, waste management among others.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">All domestic flights have also been suspended for a week. The government has instructed the owners of private institutions to provide leave for workers.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Anyone defying the government orders will be punished in accordance to the Infectious Disease Act 2020. The government has issued a circular to all the district administration offices to enforce its decision and to maintain law and order under the Local Governance Act 2028, if required.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">The government has also urged the suppliers to ensure smooth supply of medicines in the market.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Times"><span style="font-family:Arial">Meanwhile, the government has issued stern warning to anyone involved in black marketing.</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			'id' => '11814',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Second Nepali Tests Positive for COVID-19: Health Ministry',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: A Nepali national who returned home from France via Qatar last week has tested positive for COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Ministry of Health and Population confirmed the case amid an emergency press conference organized in the capital on Monday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to a spokesperson at the ministry, the person was in self-quarantine after returning home from France last Tuesday (March 17). The person is currently undergoing treatment at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Teku. According to the government , the patient has been isolated and everyone who came into contact with the person have been quarantined.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Out of 600 samples tested for COVID-19, only one tested positive, the ministry said during the press conference chaired by Health Minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This is the second case of coronavirus reported in Nepal. Earlier, a Nepali student returning home from Wuhan of China had tested positive for the disease in January. But the government claims that the patient has fully recovered and returned home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The ministry has urged one and all to adopt precautionary measures to avoid the deadly disease that has already&nbsp; spread to 193 countries and claimed over 14000 lives.</span></span></p>
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			'created' => '2020-03-23',
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			'sortorder' => '11565',
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			'id' => '11813',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Slash Airfare by 40 Percent',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Airline companies of Nepal have agreed to reduce the domestic airfare at the request of the government. A meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) on Sunday decided to slash the airfare by 40 percent along domestic trunk routes considering the crisis created by coronavrius.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air, Shree Airlines and Yeti Airlines have reduced the airfare as of Sunday evening (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing separate statements, Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines informed about the companies&rsquo; decisions to reduce the airfare to Pokhara, Biratnagar and other destinations within the country. Meanwhile, Shree Airlines informed about the decision to slash the fare on Saturday. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The airline companies said they decided to slash the airfare due to the inconvenience caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has imposed a ban on long-route vehicles from Monday (March 23) in a bid to prevent the possible spread of the deadly disease which has already killed at least 14,000 people worldwide.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Passengers are left with the only option of air route to return home after the government banned long-route vehicles. Therefore, the airline companies said they decided to reduce the airfare as long as the government enforces the ban on land routes. The ban will remain effective until April 3.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the airline companies complained that the government did not provide any relief at a time when they were facing crisis due to lack of passengers amid fear of coronavirus outbreak.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Buddha Air expressed its dissatisfaction in a statement arguing that the airline companies have to bear 40 percent of their expenses just for fuel. According to the airline company, they can further reduce the airfare if Nepal Oil Corporation provides them fuel at a lower price without taking any profit.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><img alt="" src="/app/webroot/userfiles/images/222%284%29.jpg" style="height:292px; width:800px" /></span></span></p>
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			'id' => '11815',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Non-Essential Services Come to a Grinding Halt',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: All non-essential services have been closed since Sunday (March 22) as per the government announcement to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Addressing the nation in a televised speech on Friday, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli had announced the closure of all non-essential services including schools and educational institutions, community and private offices among others from March 22 to April 3 in an attempt to contain the deadly disease, which has also surfaced in Nepal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Issuing a public notice on the Nepal Gazette, the government has instructed all the service providers including public and private companies to halt their services from march 22 to April 3 unless those services fall under essential category. The essential services include food supply, health service, security and communication, media among others.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has also suspended all passenger flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport for ten days starting from March 22. Altogether 28 airline companies including two from Nepal have been operating flights from the TIA.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, operation of all long-route vehicles has also been halted for the time being. However, private vehicles can travel long distance, according to a decision taken by the Council of Ministers.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has already closed cinema halls and other entertainments while the gathering of more than 25 people is also not allowed. All the courts have remained closed since Sunday for two weeks. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
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	),
	(int) 6 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11812',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Bans Export of Essential Medicines',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The government has imposed a ban on export of materials essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus. The Department of Customs has stopped the export of materials such as masks, sanitizers, PPE, gloves among others effective from Sunday (March 22).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Likewise, the government has also decided to make customs pass available for the import of essential goods within two hours. The Department of Customs has already issued circulars to all the units in this regard, said Director General Suman Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The department has formed a &ldquo;quick-response team&rdquo; to sort out any problem that might occur at the customs points. The five-member team headed by Deputy Director General of the Department of Customs, Shyam Prasad Bhandari, will resolve any problem that might surface while importing or exporting essential goods.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;The quick response team has been tasked to sort out any problems related to customs immediately,&rdquo; said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Dahal, the import of medicines and other related materials to Nepal exceeds the export of these essential goods. Basically, Nepal exports pharmaceuticals and other similar goods after re-packaging the imported items, said Dahal.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;President of the Association of Pharmaceutical Producers of Nepal&nbsp; (APPON) Narayan Bahadur Chhetri welcomed the decision of government to ban the export of essential medical goods saying that the country itself is struggling to meet its demand for raw materials required for producing medicines.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">He urged the government to facilitate in making the active pharmaceutical ingredients available.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">However, Chhetri claimed that the drug producers of Nepal have adequate stock of raw materials to manufacture medicines for the next three months. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11562',
			'image' => '20200323115355_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:53:21',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11809',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'World Bank Likely to Release Fast-Track Funds to Deal with Pandemic this Week',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: The World Bank’s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank’s president on Sunday.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: The World Bank&rsquo;s executive board is expected to consider later this week the first fast-track funds to help Afghanistan and Ethiopia respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Reuters reported citing the bank&rsquo;s president on Sunday.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">World Bank&rsquo;s President David Malpass said in a blog post on the bank that funding for the projects could come out of a $14 billion Fast Track Facility (FTF) approved last week (March 17) to help countries deal with the health and economic impact of the coronavirus.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to the latest tally of Reuters, the respiratory disease has infected more than 337,524 people around the world, and killed at least 14,651.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In the blog, Malpass said World Bank teams were preparing projects in 40 countries for up to $1.7 billion under the FTF at the end of the week.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Projects in Afghanistan and Ethiopia were the most advanced and would be presented to the board this week, he said, adding that meetings for 14 other countries will take place next week as well, and will create a framework for rapid responses in other countries without naming them.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;&ldquo;This approach will allow us to quickly replicate operations in multiple countries,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">In addition to the fast track facility, the World Bank is also providing COVID-19 support via restructuring of the existing projects.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">So far, projects in 24 countries for up to $1.5 billion are in the works and span every region where the bank operates..</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">According to Malpass, the IFC is also working to start extending trade finance and working capital lines to clients, with regular board action expected on those efforts in the next two to four weeks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Malpass further said World Bank officials were in close touch with finance ministers and central bankers from around the world to discuss their needs and responses to the crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Bank officials had also identified ways to support countries as they race to procure much-needed medical equipment and upgrade medical facilities.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11561',
			'image' => '20200323093721_1111.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 09:36:46',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11811',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Importing Medical Kits and Equipment from Immediate Neighbours',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 23: Nepal is all set to import medical kits and equipment from China and India to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has initiated the process to bring in 200,000 units of personal protective equipment (PPE), 100,000 units of PCR test kit, 150,000 units of N95 mask among others. Likewise, Nepal is also importing 10 sets of ambulances equipped with labs and five sets of mobile ambulances from the northern neighbor.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Meanwhile, the government has sought 160,000 units of PPE, 500,000 units of PCR test kit, 100,000 units of VTM and 150,000 units of N95 masks from India.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11560',
			'image' => '20200323112451_Clipboard01.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 11:24:19',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
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	),
	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11810',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Seals International Borders for Human Mobility for a Week   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => '',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 23: In order to control the possible spread of coronavirus in the country, the government on Sunday decided to close the international borders for human mobility for a week from 10:00 am on Monday (March 23).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers took a decision to this effect on Sunday evening, informed Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada, who is also the government spokesperson and looks after the portfolio of Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;As this infection is spread from the mobility of large number of people and across the borders, the mobility (of people) is postponed by considering the current issue and interests of the neighbouring countries,&quot; Khatiwada said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This decision was taken to prevent the spread of the infection, reduce risks, and increase mutual cooperation and understanding, he said adding, &quot;We have to advance multilateral and bilateral cooperation.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government also decided to transform Chandragiri-based hospital of Armed Police Force into a dedicated hospital for the treatment of coronavirus patients in case the COVID-19 surfaces in Nepal. The doctors of the Nepal Army and Nepal Police would be mobilised for the operations of the dedicated hospital if needed, Minister Khatiwada added.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, the cabinet meeting decided to establish a fund by allocating Rs 500 million for combating the deadly coronavirus. All the ministers would provide a month&#39;s salary in the fund, Dr Khatiwada shared. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The cabinet has also urged government employees, business persons, social workers, organizations and individuals to contribute to the fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, in order to motivate the health workers working in the frontline during this dire state would be provided with 50 per cent to cent per cent allowances, the cabinet meeting decided.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government would also provide all the equipment necessary to safeguard the health workers in course of their duty. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The security personnel and health workers have been instructed to bring COVID-19 infected persons to the treatment facilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Furthermore, decision was made to set up quarantine centres at Federal, State and local levels in coordination among the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home, Ministry of Defence and Ministry for Federal Affairs and General Administration. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation would take the lead for this.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, decision was taken to make the storage of essential goods systematic and ease the supplies as well as carry out market monitoring.&nbsp; &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-23',
			'modified' => '2020-03-23',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11559',
			'image' => '20200323100921_aaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-23 10:08:51',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11808',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Hotels in Pokhara Start Laying off Staff Members',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: The streets of Pokhara, a prime destination of tourists, look deserted these days. This lake city is generally full of life and with lots of tourists during normal days. But the coronavirus pandemic has taken toll on the major source of income of the city which relies on tourism.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government&rsquo;s order to close all sectors except the essential ones has resulted in decline in the number of domestic tourists as well in major tourist destinations in the city. Most of the people have preferred to stay indoors due to the fear of contracting the deadly disease.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flow of international tourists has almost come to a complete halt after the government and various other countries imposed travel bans to curb the spread of the virus. The government has banned international flights to the Tribhuvan International Airport from countries with confirmed cases.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The country&rsquo;s economy was getting back on track after the devastating earthquakes of 2015 as the coronavirus outbreak played the spoilsport this time.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The months of March, April and May are considered peak tourist season in Nepal. Tourism entrepreneurs make most of the profit during this season. But the tourism industry has suffered a great setback this year due to the lack of tourists in the peak season. &nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Tourism entrepreneurs are deeply worried about the current crisis. They were hopeful of a good season due to the announcement of Visit Nepal 2020 campaign by the government this year. But all hopes have now faded as their worst nightmare has instead come true.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The halt in arrival of tourists has brought the hotel and restaurant businesses as well as travel and trekking expeditions to a standstill. It has also risked the closure of the entire tourism industry.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Binod Poudel, who has been operating a trekking agency since the last two decades, says his business in on the brink of collapse. He said tourism industry is his main source of income and he has had to remain idle since the last one and a half months.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;My whole business is at stake. I am worried how will I pay the school fees of my children. I am equally worried about paying the house rent,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Poudel said he even failed to get any loan at this time of crisis.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Another tourism entrepreneur Netra Poudel says the coronavirus outbreak has caused much more problems than the havoc created by the 2015 earthquakes.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;Back in 2015, we still had some business. But our business has now come to a complete halt,&rdquo; he said.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">With the nosedive in arrival of tourists, the hotel industry in Pokhara has started sending the staffers home.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Prithvi Lamichhane, who runs Durbar Inn Hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara, says his business is nil since one and a half months. He said that he gave home leave to seven of his hotel staffers due to cancellation of bookings one after another.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The situation of Yatra Courtyard Hotel and Resort is no different at all. Almost all the 40 rooms of the hotel are unoccupied since more than a month now. The proprietor of the hotel is preparing to lay off more than five dozens staff of the hotel for at least a month.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&ldquo;We are planning to provide non-paid leave for one month for the time being. We will decide our next move as per the situation,&rdquo; said Arun Giri, general manager of the hotel.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11558',
			'image' => '20200322124915_20190511105700_Clipboard37.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 12:48:48',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11806',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'NAC Suspends Flights to 3 Indian Cities',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NCA) has suspended its regular flights to New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The state-owned airline company of Nepal said in a statement that it decided to suspend the flights to India after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India issued a notice to halt flights to those destinations in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The Indian aviation regulatory body has imposed a ban till March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The flag carrier of Nepal said it will suspend flights to those destinations in India until the ban expires after March 29.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">NAC has assured the passengers that it will refund the amount to anyone who has purchased the ticket in advance.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11557',
			'image' => '20200322104408_20190826123900_wide body_nepal airlines (1).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 10:43:39',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
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			'in_scroller' => null,
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11803',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'BFIs to Promote Free Digital Transaction Amid Coronavirus Crisis',
			'sub_title' => 'Debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction due to concerns regarding coronavirus. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) have decided not to charge any amount for any kind of digital transaction&nbsp;due to concerns regarding coronavirus. The BFIs decided to provide such facility to their customers after it was revealed that the deadly virus can spread from paper currency.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Nepal Bankers&rsquo; Association, Development Bankers&rsquo; Association Nepal and Nepal Micro Finance Association issued a joint statement on Friday informing about their decision to promote cashless transaction.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">For the time being, BFIs have decide to provide free internet and mobile banking services.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During normal days, BFIs used to charge a minimum of Rs 10 for such transactions.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">BFIs have also decided not to take any charge for using debit card of one bank at ATM of another bank. It means that the debit card of any bank can be used in any of the ATMs within the country free of cost. Banks had been charging a minimum of Rs 25 for allowing withdrawal of money from their ATMs by customers of other banks.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">They have also decided not to charge for the connect IPS services provided by Nepal Clearing House Limited.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">These facilities will remain in place until further notice.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2020-03-22',
			'modified' => '2020-03-22',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '11556',
			'image' => '20200322094915_aaaa.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2020-03-22 09:48:39',
			'homepage' => false,
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	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '11802',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Domestic Airline Companies Agree to Reduce Air Fare',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">March 22: Airline operators of Nepal have agreed to review the fare of domestic flights following severe criticism from all quarters for the sudden hike in prices of air tickets amid coronavirus outbreak in the world.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">After receiving a number of complaints, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai had held a meeting with airline operators of the country on Saturday (March 21).</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the meeting, the domestic air service providers agreed to review the air fare.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The domestic airline companies had reduced the air fare some days ago due to lack of foreign passengers due to the fear of coronavirus. But the airline companies all of a sudden increased the fare after the government imposed a ban on long-route vehicles effective from March 22.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The government has taken a number of measures including closure of educational institutions, restaurants and bars among others for at least two weeks in an effort to contain the possible spread of the deadly virus. This does not bar essential service providers from operating their business. Essential service includes food supply, security, health, water and sanitation as well as air service, with exception of arrivals from coronavirus-affected countries and long-route vehicles within the country.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Considering the current crisis, Minister Bhattarai had urged the airline operators not to charge maximum amount to the air passengers. Responding to the request of the minister, the airline operators made commitment to review the air fare. However, they have not yet agreed on how much the air fare will be reduced. A separate meeting of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal is taking place on Sunday (March 22) to fix the rate.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Spokesperson of AOAN Yograj Bhattarai said that they have reached an understanding with the government to reduce the air fare. But he added that they are yet to decide on how much amount shall be reduced.</span></span></p>
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			'title' => 'Bandipur Waives 50% Tax for Business Firms   ',
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			'summary' => 'March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.   ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">March 22: Bandipur Rural Municipality in Tanahun district has announced to waive 50 per cent tax to the commercial firms after the business enterprises suffered from the effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The rural municipality&#39;s decision on tax exemption would be in force for the fiscal year 2076/077.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the announcement of the local government, the entrepreneurs here have expressed happiness calling it a &#39;welcome step&#39;.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Chairman of Tanahun Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Bandipur, Baisha Gurung said that the move to exempt tax to the business firms would act as a relief to the business people.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Despite being a tourist season, tourist arrival in Bandipur is almost nil owing to Covid-19 fears.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Hotelier Basanta Poudel said that the rural municipality&#39;s decision would be a small sigh of relief as they are struggling even to pay the interest to the bank due to slowdown in business.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Likewise, vice-chair of rural municipality Karuna Gurung said that the step was taken to stop the business people from being discouraged amid the threat of coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said that the rural municipality has also requested to the financial institutions to lower the interest rates and the house owners to ensure subsidy in house rent. &nbsp;- RSS&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>
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FOREX

Currency	Unit	Buy	Sell
U.S. Dollar	1	121.23	121.83
European Euro	1	131.65	132.31
UK Pound Sterling	1	142.47	143.18
Swiss Franc	1	124.29	124.90
Australian Dollar	1	71.69	72.05
Canadian Dollar	1	83.90	84.32
Japanese Yen	10	10.94	11.00
Chinese Yuan	1	17.17	17.26
Saudi Arabian Riyal	1	32.27	32.43
UAE Dirham	1	33.01	33.17
Malaysian Ringgit	1	27.36	27.50
South Korean Won	100	9.77	9.82

Update: 2020-03-25 | Source: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB)

Bullion

Fine Gold	1 tola	77000.00
Tejabi Gold	1 tola	76700.00
Silver	1 tola	720.00

Update : 2020-03-25

Source: Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers' Association

Petroleum

Petrol	1 Liter	106.00
Diesel	1 Liter	95.00
Kerosene	1 Liter	95.00
LP Gas	1 Cylinder	1375.00