Electric Vehicle App 'eDrive Nepal' Launched in Nepal

Nov 19, 2023 0 2 minutes 11 seconds to read

November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app 'eDrive Nepal' in the…

Use of Chemical Fertilizers, Pesticides and Improved Variety of Seeds Increasing

Nov 19, 2023 0 10 minutes 0 seconds to read

November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of…

Himalaya Airlines to Operate Kathmandu-Shanghai Flights from December 2

Nov 19, 2023 0 2 minutes 49 seconds to read

November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from…

Chhath Festival Begins Today

Nov 19, 2023 0 1 minutes 18 seconds to read

November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun…

Nepal Deserves Rights not Supplication at COP28: PM Dahal

Nov 19, 2023 0 3 minutes 34 seconds to read

November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal's views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event,…

Annapurna Region Receives 24K Plus Foreign Tourists in a Month

Nov 19, 2023 0 2 minutes 9 seconds to read

November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to…

Migratory Birds Arrive in Nepal to Escape Harsh Winter

Nov 19, 2023 0 2 minutes 57 seconds to read

November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal.…

Prime Commercial Bank Provides Succour to Quake-Hit People

Nov 19, 2023 0 38 seconds to read

Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum…

Jagdamba Motors Unveils TVS NTORQ 125 CC Drum in Striking Red

Nov 19, 2023 0 1 minutes 1 seconds to read

Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav. Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth…

Government, and Development Partners Prioritize Investment in GRID

Nov 18, 2023 0 2 minutes 30 seconds to read

The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development…

5.525 Million Taxpayers Acquire PAN

Nov 18, 2023 0 2 minutes 2 seconds to read

November 18: The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday…

10 Writ Petitions Lodged in Supreme Court against TikTok Ban

Nov 18, 2023 0 1 minutes 8 seconds to read

November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government's decision to ban TikTok in Nepal. …

Government Spends 20 Percent Budget in Four Months

Nov 17, 2023 0 8 minutes 5 seconds to read

November 17: The government has spent only 20.27 percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023/24.…

Government Drafting Laws for Management of Social Media

Nov 17, 2023 0 1 minutes 50 seconds to read

November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media.…

Army Admits it Could not Work on KTM-Tarai Fast Track for Four Years

Nov 17, 2023 0 6 minutes 50 seconds to read

November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride…

< previous136137138139140141142143144next >

No Laughing Matter

The Sweet Rewards of Power

By Madan Lamsal

. . .
read more »

NEPSE

Notice (8): Undefined variable: file [APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 60]Code Context//    $file = 'http://aabhiyan:QUVLg8Wzs2F7G9N7@nepalstock.com.np/api/indexdata.xml';



    if(!$xml = simplexml_load_file($file)){
$viewFile = '/var/www/html/newbusinessage.com/app/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'articles' => array(
		(int) 0 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 1 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 2 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 3 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 4 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 5 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 6 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 7 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 8 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 9 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 10 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 11 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 12 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 13 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 14 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		)
	),
	'current_user' => null,
	'logged_in' => false
)
$articles = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19507',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Electric Vehicle App 'eDrive Nepal' Launched in Nepal',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app 'eDrive Nepal' in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app &#39;eDrive Nepal&#39; in the country.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company launched the service for electric taxis and e-scooters with an investment of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">140</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> million. The company informed that the new service is cheaper than other services of similar kind.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Edrive Nepal added that they use new vehicles with accidental insurance in addition to features like OPT system and GPS system installed to ensure safety during the ride.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Member of Parliament Mahesh Bartaula along with Bagmati Province MP Apsara Chapagain and Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority Kulman Ghising inaugurated the &#39;eDrive app&#39; and taxi service by hoisting a green flag.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">On that occasion, MP Bartaula said that the consumption of electricity will increase with the use of electric vehicles. It will also protect the environment and billions of rupees will be saved for the purchase of petrol. At present, the company itself has brought </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">taxis into operation and is preparing to operate </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">100 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">more taxis in the near future.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19235',
			'image' => '20231119120515_1700365472.3 electric_app.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 12:04:01',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 1 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19506',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Use of Chemical Fertilizers, Pesticides and Improved Variety of Seeds Increasing',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the Agricultural Census </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2078</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and advanced and hybrid variety of seeds has increased in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data, the number of farmer families using hybrid rice seeds has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5.4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16.5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years. In the meantime, the number of people using pesticides on paddy has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">15.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">44.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">65</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">500</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farming families, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">14</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">700</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been found to have used strong pesticides on paddy. Similarly, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">76</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farming families use chemical fertilizers on paddy.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Families using improved variety of seeds for vegetable farming have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.9</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent, while the proportion of farmers using hybrid vegetable seeds has increased from about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">13</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. In the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years, the proportion of farmers who use pesticides on vegetables has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5,28,000</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farmers who used pesticides on vegetables, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">53.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used safe (green) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used medium (blue) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used strong (yellow) pesticides and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0.7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used extreme (red) pesticides. The census states that </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">24</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of farmers use chemical fertilizers on vegetables. In the previous census, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farmer families used chemical fertilizers on vegetables.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Director of the Agriculture and Livestock Counting Branch, Badri Kumar Karki, said that the use of pesticides by farmers has been increasing in a bid to minimize the impacts of various diseases and insects on crops that has been rising in recent years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the farmers&#39; attraction towards advanced and hybrid varieties of seeds has increased because they can produce a lot even in a small area of land. He also said that farmers are more attracted to chemical fertilizers than organic fertilizers. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to Karki, the use of chemical fertilizers has increased because the government is not interested in the production of organic fertilizers.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using chemical fertilizers on corn has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">49</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. Farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">18</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">25</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds for wheat cultivation has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. The number of farmer families using pesticides on wheat has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">28 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. However, the number of farmers using chemical fertilizers for wheat farming has decreased. In the previous count, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">64 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent of farmers used chemical fertilizers for wheat cultivation, but now it has dropped to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">58 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19234',
			'image' => '20231119115010_Agri.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:49:15',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 2 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19505',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Himalaya Airlines to Operate Kathmandu-Shanghai Flights from December 2',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu. The airline company informed that it will conduct one flight a week between the two cities starting from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company expects this flight to further help in promoting the connectivity between Nepal and China and in strengthening the relations between the two countries. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the operation of this flight, passengers can easily travel from Nepal&#39;s federal capital, Kathmandu, to China&#39;s central coastal city of Shanghai &ndash; a global financial hub.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company said in a statement that it is committed to make the travel convenient, safe and efficient. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Himalaya Airline said it will increase the number of Kathmandu-Shanghai flight to twice a week (Saturday and Wednesday) from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company has been flying regularly to Beijing and Qingdao.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company said it is proud to play a role in enhancing connectivity, cultural exchange, tourism and trade between the two countries through air flights. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;This launch represents a new chapter in bilateral relations, facilitating not only tourism and trade but also cultural exchanges and direct people-to-people contacts,&quot; the airline said. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company estimates that more Chinese tourists will travel along this new route.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19233',
			'image' => '20231119112252_g576szqpnac61.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:22:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 3 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19504',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Chhath Festival Begins Today   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">As major part of the festival, the setting sun is worshipped by offering argha while the same process is followed to worship the rising sun on Monday morning to bring the festival to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Tonight, the revelers observe a fast and stay awake all night and offer prayers to the rising sun tomorrow (Monday) morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Banks of rivers, streams and ponds across the country are decorated for the Chhath festival.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It is widely believed that observing a fast in obeisance of Chhathi goddess will bring desired results and well-being for the family while all of their sorrows and troubles will vanish away.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Meanwhile, the federal government has announced a public holiday today (Sunday) to mark the festival. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19232',
			'image' => '20231119102851_20211107101945_1260843_n - Copy.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:27:40',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 4 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19503',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Deserves Rights not Supplication at COP28: PM Dahal   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal's views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal&#39;s views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will be held in the UAE from November 30 to December 12.</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Addressing a programme organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association to hand over peace torch at the base camp of the Mt Everest on Saturday, PM Dahal underscored that it is time to claim the rights rather than supplication.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Nepal will not pay the price for anything it is not involved in, so those causing carbon emission must be more responsible and compensate through the climate fund,&quot; PM Dahal stressed, adding that Nepal will stake its claims and not just make a mere plea for help in the global climate event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A high level delegation led by PM Dahal is scheduled to attend the global event on climate change and will address a high-level session at COP28 on December 2. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Significant issues such as climate finance, adaptation, transfer of mountaineering technology and capacity building, loss and damage, climate empowerment would be raised in the address, according to him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Government of Nepal has accorded top priority to issues including climate finance, management of loss and damage fund, mountaineering issues, emission reduction and inclusion this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">PM Dahal said that a work procedure would be formulated for the development and expansion of Khumbu region and security of Sagarmatha area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The PM also recalled that the recent visit of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the Khumbu region was a reminder to the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Secretary-General Guterres reached Khumbu area and inspected the impacts of climate change as well as interacted with the locals and the people&#39;s representatives, which is a significant contribution to globalize the problems of climate change faced by this area,&quot; he mentioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">He also reminded his address at the 76th UNGA in New York which centered on the impacts of climate change in Nepal. Dahal added the government was serious in construction of tourism infrastructures in Khumbu area, stating that it would carry out possible initiatives to protect and promote Sagarmatha and Lumbini.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the government would pay special attention to expedite construction of road from Chatara to Lukla.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Extending gratitude towards the local levels for opening track at Khumbu region, PM Dahal mentioned that the government would support in upgrading the road. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;It is the responsibility of all to take initiative to make the economic activities more dynamic by developing systematic tourism that protects Sagarmatha and Lumbini,&quot; he shared. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'climate, change, impact, COP, PM, Dahal, Everest',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19231',
			'image' => '20231119100605_1700293100.उः.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:05:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 5 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19502',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Annapurna Region Receives 24K Plus Foreign Tourists in a Month   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November). The number includes 7,479 tourists from South Asian countries and 16,930 from other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Since the beginning of the Nepali year 2080 BS, most of the visitors arrived in the month of Baishakh (mid-April to mid-May) followed by Asoj (mid-September to mid-October) and Kartik (mid-October to mid-November), said Dr Rabin Kadaria, the Chief of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). In Baisakh, a total of 31,951 tourists visited the ACAP region while 28, 705 tourists reached the area in the following month.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">In the seven months of 2080 BS, altogether 125,534 foreign tourists have visited the Annapurna region. The number was 95,911 in the same period of the previous year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Tourism in the Annapurna region, which had slowed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is gradually picking up pace,&quot; Dr Kadaria said, adding, &quot;By the time the second tourist season of the year starts, the arrival of tourists is likely to increase further.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ACAP maintains the data of only foreign tourists entering the Annapurna circuit. The number of domestic tourists cannot be ascertained. However, domestic tourists coming for a visit to Mustang and Manang by road is significant.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Dr Kadaria said that there is a heavy flow of domestic and foreign tourists in various destinations along the Annapurna circuit including Annapurna Base Camp, Mt Mardi, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorangla Pass, Upper Mustang, Ghodepani etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Annapurna conservation area is spread over an area of 7600 square kilometers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It may be noted that Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, too had reached the Annapurna base camp during his recent visit to Nepal. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'Annapurna, tourists, tourism, Mustang, Manang, ACAP',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19230',
			'image' => '20231119094044_SG_MYAGDI_IMG_8621.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:40:02',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 6 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19501',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Migratory Birds Arrive in Nepal to Escape Harsh Winter   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. The migratory birds start coming to Nepal with the beginning of the month of November.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, located at the confluence of Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, is one location that attracts migratory birds during the winter. Although new species of birds are coming to Koshi Tappu every year, the number of birds coming in flocks has decreased compared to the previous years, says Chief of National Trust for Nature Conservation, Koshi Conservation Center, Birendra Gautam.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Statistics show that last winter 7,573 birds of 53 species came to Nepal during the winter, Gautam said. Nepal has become an attractive destination for migratory birds especially for escaping the winter and for hatching.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Not all species of birds found in Nepal stay in Nepal throughout the year,&quot; said Kurman Mansoori, proprietor of Bird Watching Camp, Koshi Tappu. Out of 888 species of birds found in the country, 531 species are found in Koshi Tappu.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Migratory birds come in flocks in Barju Lake and Betna Wetlands of Morang district. According to Ramchandra Adhikari, an environmental journalist and associate professor, birds from different parts of Nepal and as far as South India and Siberia can be seen in Betna wetlands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Some 400 birds belonging to 30 families of 49 species are found in Betna wetlands, of which 70 percent are local, 18 percent are migratory birds that come in winter and 12 percent are migratory birds that come during the summer. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Most of the migratory birds that come to Koshi Tappu also come here,&quot; says Adhikari, adding that migratory birds stay here usually from November to February.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the onset of snowfall in the northern hemisphere, thousands of birds migrate to the lower Himalayas, mountains and plains of Nepal and around lakes, ponds and rivers to escape the growing cold. Every year about 150 species of birds come to Nepal from Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, Mongolia as well as Europe, Korea and the Tibetan plateau. About 50 species of migratory birds pass through Nepal to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Winter migratory birds that come to spend the winter often stay in the wetlands of Nepal in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan National Park, Bisahajari Lake, Jagdishpur Lake, Ghodaghodi Lake, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and Koshi, Gandaki, Narayani rivers and their tributaries. Most of the birds that migrate to Nepal in winter are of duck species. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'migratory, birds, arrive, Nepal, winter, harsh, weather, northern, hemisphere, wetlands, Chitwan, India, Siberia, north',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19229',
			'image' => '20231119090230_KA_BHARATPUR_IMG_8698.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:01:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19500',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Provides Succour to Quake-Hit People',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 19: &nbsp;Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The immediate relief materials include 500 sacks of rice, 100 sacks of lentils, 110 blankets, and 25 quilts (5,000 pieces). The local levels in Jajarkot have already received the materials. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Earlier, the bank had announced to provide a financial aid of Rs 25,51,000.00 to the Prime Minister&#39;s Disaster Relief Fund in the aftermath of the powerful quake damaging lives and properties in Jajrkot and&nbsp; Rukum West.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19228',
			'image' => '20231119075146_collage (14).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:50:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19499',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Jagdamba Motors Unveils TVS NTORQ 125 CC Drum in Striking Red ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.  Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px">November 19: Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.&nbsp; Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With a sleek design inspired by stealth aircraft, large 12-inch wheels, and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum offers improved stability and grip.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With large 12-inch wheels and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum variant offers improved stability and grip on the road, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride. The bold and chunky tires provide excellent traction and grip on various terrains, making the 2-wheeler a versatile masterpiece.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Additionally, the batwing-styled daytime running lights make the scooter stand out while also enhancing visibility, making it safer during the day. The sporty split grab rail is a practical addition, allowing passengers to hold on securely during rides.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Customers also receive complimentary accessories like a helmet and bike cover, making this deal highly appealing.&nbsp;</span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19227',
			'image' => '20231119074904_collage (15).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:47:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19496',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government, and Development Partners Prioritize Investment in GRID ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 18: The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal&rsquo;s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID). </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">A joint communique endorsing the operationalization of Nepal&rsquo;s GRID Strategic Action Plan was issued at a high-level event led by the Ministry of Finance, with support from the World Bank and other partners.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the event, stakeholders, including the government, development partners, civil society, private sector, and think tanks, reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively across institutional and sectoral boundaries to finance and implement Nepal&rsquo;s GRID priorities.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, Honorable Finance Minister said, &quot;Nepal has embraced the GRID approach to foster a greener, more resilient, and inclusive economy. The new GRID Strategic Action Plan can accelerate growth, job creation, and sustainable prosperity for the Nepali people.&quot;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">External financing for the GRID Strategic Action Plan includes grants, concessional financing, and innovative finance mechanisms like carbon finance. This funding is designed to complement Nepal&rsquo;s public budget and leverage foreign and domestic private sector investment.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The GRID Strategic Action Plan outlines ten priority actions, including sustainable management of land, water, and forests, development of resilient infrastructure and ecosystems, enhancement of skills for resilient livelihoods, greening urban development, and scaling up renewable energy and water supply.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Other priorities include addressing air pollution, managing solid waste, strengthening disaster risk management, and enhancing social protection and health systems.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director for Operations, stated, &quot;The World Bank is proud to support Nepal in advancing towards a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economy&rdquo;.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Nepal&rsquo;s GRID approach focuses on quality development that reduces poverty, narrows inequalities, protects the environment, and ensures resilience.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The investment priorities outlined in the GRID Strategic Action Plan aim to capitalize on Nepal&rsquo;s development successes, promoting on-the-ground actions, mobilizing private sector investment, and fostering sustainability, resilience, and inclusion simultaneously. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This strategic approach is anticipated to generate more jobs, enhance the resilience of livelihoods, and contribute to environmental, climate, water, and food security, fostering a more inclusive and durable economy.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19224',
			'image' => '20231118063421_collage (13).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 18:32:22',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19495',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '5.525 Million Taxpayers Acquire PAN',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: </span><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday with the slogan &quot;Clean, Transparent and Technology-friendly Tax Administration: Social Justice, Economic Prosperity and Good Governance.&quot;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Government sources informed that various programmes related to tax-payer education would be organized at the Inland Revenue Department and offices under it for a week, and that the outstanding tax-payers will be awarded on November 23.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">A total of 84 offices, including a big tax-payer office, one medium level tax-payer office, 43 inland revenue offices and 39 tax-payers service offices, are functioning under the department.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">According to the department, the number of taxpayers acquiring business and personal Permanent Account Number (PAN) stood at 5.525 million till the end of the last fiscal year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of them, the number of taxpayers obtaining B-PAN was 1.876 million while P-PAN was 3.649 million.&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of the total Rs 957 billion revenue collected in the fiscal year 2022/23, Rs 479 billion revenue was collected by the department alone. The amount is equal to 50.12 percent of the total annual revenue collection of the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The government had given a target to the department to collect Rs 626 billion in revenue in the last fiscal year, out of which the department collected Rs 479 billion, according to the department. The contribution of inland revenue is around 20 percent of the gross domestic product of the country. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19223',
			'image' => '20231118125750_IRDD.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:56:13',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19494',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '10 Writ Petitions Lodged in Supreme Court against TikTok Ban   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government's decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.     ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government&#39;s decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on November 13 had decided to ban the video-sharing platform in Nepal. The petitioners in their writ have demanded to rescind the decision to ban TikTok, according to Govinda Ghimire, deputy spokesperson at the Supreme Court.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Ghimire shared that the hearing on the writ petitions is slated for November 21.&nbsp;Almost all of the internet service providers in the country have stopped running the TikTok app since the government&rsquo;s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ban was enforced citing the disturbance in the social harmony, many cases against public decency and lack of cooperation from the TikTok company in the process of minimization of the crime and prosecution of criminals among others. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19222',
			'image' => '20231118125602_Supreme Court.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:54:51',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19493',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Spends 20 Percent Budget in Four Months',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: The government has spent only 20.27 percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023/24. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: The government has spent only </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20.27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">/</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the Financial Comptroller General&#39;s Office, the agency that keeps records of government&rsquo;s income and expenditure, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">355</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion from mid-July to mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat had announced a budget of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1751</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">31</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion on May 2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The budget spent this year is slightly higher compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. Last year, the budget expenditure was </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.99</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent by mid-November.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1141</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion this year under the heading of current expenditure and has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">271</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far under this heading. Compared to the allocated amount, this expenditure is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">23.75</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. A large amount allocated by the government under current expenditure is usually spent on administrative expenses. The government&rsquo;s administrative expenses have increased this year compared to the previous year.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The capital budget has not been spent in a very encouraging manner. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion under this heading for the current fiscal year and has spent only Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">29</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far, which is just </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.93</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total allocation. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has spent more on financial management than the development budget during this period. Under the heading of financial management, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">54.46</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion in </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> months. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion for fiscal management this year. The expenditure under this heading is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">17.72</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the allocated budget. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government had announced to achieve </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent economic growth while announcing the budget for the current fiscal year. However, there has not been any encouraging results in the first four months. So far this year, the government has not even been able to collect revenue as per the target. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government says that it has not been able to collect the revenue due to the festivals like Dashain and Tihar.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the FCGO, the government has collected revenue worth Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">295</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion as of mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the annual target. Calculating the income and expenses of the government, the budget deficit in the first four months has reached Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">60</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has announced to collect domestic debt of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">240 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion this year. With more liquidity in banks and financial institutions, the government has raised domestic debt more than the target since the short-term interest rate has come down.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19221',
			'image' => '20231117023301_budget new.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:32:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19492',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Drafting Laws for Management of Social Media',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. Minister Sharma added that the government has already started preparation for drafting laws in this regard.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said this while inaugurating the historical and cultural Dalle Sarai Mela 2080 in Pyuthan Municipality-7.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The remark comes in the wake of the government&rsquo;s decision to ban popular social networking site TikTok, which drew widespread criticism.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Stakeholders claim that the country&rsquo;s economy will benefit if the government regulates social media instead of issuing a blanket ban.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Federation of Computer Association of Nepal on Wednesday urged the government to rethink its decision to ban TikTok bearing in the mind that the development of information technology have both opportunities and challenges.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The federation drew the attention of the government that TikTok has become a medium for small and middle-scale entrepreneurs to expand their market.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19220',
			'image' => '20231117021108_social.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:10:35',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 14 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19491',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Army Admits it Could not Work on KTM-Tarai Fast Track for Four Years',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project. The government handed over this project to the army in July </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, and instructed it to complete the project within four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">After taking over the responsibility of project management, the army held a press conference and announced that the work would be completed within three and a half years. However, the army claimed that the construction period of the project has been delayed because the work had to be completely stopped for more than four years due to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> different reasons.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The army informed New Business Age that delays in works like selection of project consultant, Detailed Project Report (DPR), compensation for land acquisition, matching of project duration, Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA), availability of explosives, tree felling and land rights for package number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, first revision of the Detailed Project Report and the coronavirus pandemic affected the work for a period of four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to army sources, most of the time was spent on the selection of consultants. Work on the selection of consultants started from November </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the army, it took two years and six months for the selection of consultants. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Then, the entire work including the design and construction of the project was affected for one year and nine months due to the coronavirus pandemic.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, eight months have passed for the compensation of land to build the tunnel in Mahadeotar and Lendanda areas. According to the army, five months were wasted due to non-availability of explosives.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Even now, all the sites of the project are not cleared. The controversy of Khokana remains as it is. The latest supplementary environmental impact assessment has shown that more trees need to be felled. The government has repeatedly extended the deadline for the construction of the expressway</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The estimated cost of the project is Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">211</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">93</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion and so far Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">51</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion have already been spent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">50</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion in the current fiscal year. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2,116</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> bridges to be built under packages number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, a total of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1,172</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been constructed so far. The army informed that the construction of tunnels and complex bridges has been expedited of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19219',
			'image' => '20231117015416_20230423033434_fast track.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 13:52:34',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	)
)
$current_user = null
$logged_in = false
include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 60
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224
View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418
include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117

Warning (2): simplexml_load_file() [<a href='http://php.net/function.simplexml-load-file'>function.simplexml-load-file</a>]: I/O warning : failed to load external entity &quot;&quot; [APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 60]Code Context//    $file = 'http://aabhiyan:QUVLg8Wzs2F7G9N7@nepalstock.com.np/api/indexdata.xml';



    if(!$xml = simplexml_load_file($file)){
$viewFile = '/var/www/html/newbusinessage.com/app/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'articles' => array(
		(int) 0 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 1 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 2 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 3 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 4 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 5 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 6 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 7 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 8 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 9 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 10 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 11 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 12 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 13 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 14 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		)
	),
	'current_user' => null,
	'logged_in' => false
)
$articles = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19507',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Electric Vehicle App 'eDrive Nepal' Launched in Nepal',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app 'eDrive Nepal' in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app &#39;eDrive Nepal&#39; in the country.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company launched the service for electric taxis and e-scooters with an investment of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">140</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> million. The company informed that the new service is cheaper than other services of similar kind.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Edrive Nepal added that they use new vehicles with accidental insurance in addition to features like OPT system and GPS system installed to ensure safety during the ride.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Member of Parliament Mahesh Bartaula along with Bagmati Province MP Apsara Chapagain and Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority Kulman Ghising inaugurated the &#39;eDrive app&#39; and taxi service by hoisting a green flag.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">On that occasion, MP Bartaula said that the consumption of electricity will increase with the use of electric vehicles. It will also protect the environment and billions of rupees will be saved for the purchase of petrol. At present, the company itself has brought </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">taxis into operation and is preparing to operate </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">100 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">more taxis in the near future.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19235',
			'image' => '20231119120515_1700365472.3 electric_app.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 12:04:01',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 1 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19506',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Use of Chemical Fertilizers, Pesticides and Improved Variety of Seeds Increasing',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the Agricultural Census </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2078</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and advanced and hybrid variety of seeds has increased in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data, the number of farmer families using hybrid rice seeds has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5.4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16.5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years. In the meantime, the number of people using pesticides on paddy has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">15.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">44.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">65</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">500</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farming families, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">14</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">700</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been found to have used strong pesticides on paddy. Similarly, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">76</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farming families use chemical fertilizers on paddy.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Families using improved variety of seeds for vegetable farming have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.9</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent, while the proportion of farmers using hybrid vegetable seeds has increased from about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">13</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. In the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years, the proportion of farmers who use pesticides on vegetables has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5,28,000</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farmers who used pesticides on vegetables, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">53.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used safe (green) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used medium (blue) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used strong (yellow) pesticides and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0.7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used extreme (red) pesticides. The census states that </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">24</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of farmers use chemical fertilizers on vegetables. In the previous census, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farmer families used chemical fertilizers on vegetables.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Director of the Agriculture and Livestock Counting Branch, Badri Kumar Karki, said that the use of pesticides by farmers has been increasing in a bid to minimize the impacts of various diseases and insects on crops that has been rising in recent years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the farmers&#39; attraction towards advanced and hybrid varieties of seeds has increased because they can produce a lot even in a small area of land. He also said that farmers are more attracted to chemical fertilizers than organic fertilizers. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to Karki, the use of chemical fertilizers has increased because the government is not interested in the production of organic fertilizers.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using chemical fertilizers on corn has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">49</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. Farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">18</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">25</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds for wheat cultivation has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. The number of farmer families using pesticides on wheat has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">28 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. However, the number of farmers using chemical fertilizers for wheat farming has decreased. In the previous count, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">64 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent of farmers used chemical fertilizers for wheat cultivation, but now it has dropped to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">58 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19234',
			'image' => '20231119115010_Agri.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:49:15',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 2 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19505',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Himalaya Airlines to Operate Kathmandu-Shanghai Flights from December 2',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu. The airline company informed that it will conduct one flight a week between the two cities starting from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company expects this flight to further help in promoting the connectivity between Nepal and China and in strengthening the relations between the two countries. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the operation of this flight, passengers can easily travel from Nepal&#39;s federal capital, Kathmandu, to China&#39;s central coastal city of Shanghai &ndash; a global financial hub.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company said in a statement that it is committed to make the travel convenient, safe and efficient. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Himalaya Airline said it will increase the number of Kathmandu-Shanghai flight to twice a week (Saturday and Wednesday) from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company has been flying regularly to Beijing and Qingdao.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company said it is proud to play a role in enhancing connectivity, cultural exchange, tourism and trade between the two countries through air flights. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;This launch represents a new chapter in bilateral relations, facilitating not only tourism and trade but also cultural exchanges and direct people-to-people contacts,&quot; the airline said. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company estimates that more Chinese tourists will travel along this new route.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19233',
			'image' => '20231119112252_g576szqpnac61.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:22:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 3 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19504',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Chhath Festival Begins Today   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">As major part of the festival, the setting sun is worshipped by offering argha while the same process is followed to worship the rising sun on Monday morning to bring the festival to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Tonight, the revelers observe a fast and stay awake all night and offer prayers to the rising sun tomorrow (Monday) morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Banks of rivers, streams and ponds across the country are decorated for the Chhath festival.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It is widely believed that observing a fast in obeisance of Chhathi goddess will bring desired results and well-being for the family while all of their sorrows and troubles will vanish away.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Meanwhile, the federal government has announced a public holiday today (Sunday) to mark the festival. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19232',
			'image' => '20231119102851_20211107101945_1260843_n - Copy.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:27:40',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 4 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19503',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Deserves Rights not Supplication at COP28: PM Dahal   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal's views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal&#39;s views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will be held in the UAE from November 30 to December 12.</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Addressing a programme organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association to hand over peace torch at the base camp of the Mt Everest on Saturday, PM Dahal underscored that it is time to claim the rights rather than supplication.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Nepal will not pay the price for anything it is not involved in, so those causing carbon emission must be more responsible and compensate through the climate fund,&quot; PM Dahal stressed, adding that Nepal will stake its claims and not just make a mere plea for help in the global climate event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A high level delegation led by PM Dahal is scheduled to attend the global event on climate change and will address a high-level session at COP28 on December 2. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Significant issues such as climate finance, adaptation, transfer of mountaineering technology and capacity building, loss and damage, climate empowerment would be raised in the address, according to him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Government of Nepal has accorded top priority to issues including climate finance, management of loss and damage fund, mountaineering issues, emission reduction and inclusion this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">PM Dahal said that a work procedure would be formulated for the development and expansion of Khumbu region and security of Sagarmatha area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The PM also recalled that the recent visit of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the Khumbu region was a reminder to the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Secretary-General Guterres reached Khumbu area and inspected the impacts of climate change as well as interacted with the locals and the people&#39;s representatives, which is a significant contribution to globalize the problems of climate change faced by this area,&quot; he mentioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">He also reminded his address at the 76th UNGA in New York which centered on the impacts of climate change in Nepal. Dahal added the government was serious in construction of tourism infrastructures in Khumbu area, stating that it would carry out possible initiatives to protect and promote Sagarmatha and Lumbini.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the government would pay special attention to expedite construction of road from Chatara to Lukla.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Extending gratitude towards the local levels for opening track at Khumbu region, PM Dahal mentioned that the government would support in upgrading the road. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;It is the responsibility of all to take initiative to make the economic activities more dynamic by developing systematic tourism that protects Sagarmatha and Lumbini,&quot; he shared. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'climate, change, impact, COP, PM, Dahal, Everest',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19231',
			'image' => '20231119100605_1700293100.उः.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:05:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 5 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19502',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Annapurna Region Receives 24K Plus Foreign Tourists in a Month   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November). The number includes 7,479 tourists from South Asian countries and 16,930 from other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Since the beginning of the Nepali year 2080 BS, most of the visitors arrived in the month of Baishakh (mid-April to mid-May) followed by Asoj (mid-September to mid-October) and Kartik (mid-October to mid-November), said Dr Rabin Kadaria, the Chief of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). In Baisakh, a total of 31,951 tourists visited the ACAP region while 28, 705 tourists reached the area in the following month.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">In the seven months of 2080 BS, altogether 125,534 foreign tourists have visited the Annapurna region. The number was 95,911 in the same period of the previous year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Tourism in the Annapurna region, which had slowed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is gradually picking up pace,&quot; Dr Kadaria said, adding, &quot;By the time the second tourist season of the year starts, the arrival of tourists is likely to increase further.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ACAP maintains the data of only foreign tourists entering the Annapurna circuit. The number of domestic tourists cannot be ascertained. However, domestic tourists coming for a visit to Mustang and Manang by road is significant.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Dr Kadaria said that there is a heavy flow of domestic and foreign tourists in various destinations along the Annapurna circuit including Annapurna Base Camp, Mt Mardi, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorangla Pass, Upper Mustang, Ghodepani etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Annapurna conservation area is spread over an area of 7600 square kilometers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It may be noted that Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, too had reached the Annapurna base camp during his recent visit to Nepal. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'Annapurna, tourists, tourism, Mustang, Manang, ACAP',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19230',
			'image' => '20231119094044_SG_MYAGDI_IMG_8621.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:40:02',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 6 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19501',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Migratory Birds Arrive in Nepal to Escape Harsh Winter   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. The migratory birds start coming to Nepal with the beginning of the month of November.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, located at the confluence of Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, is one location that attracts migratory birds during the winter. Although new species of birds are coming to Koshi Tappu every year, the number of birds coming in flocks has decreased compared to the previous years, says Chief of National Trust for Nature Conservation, Koshi Conservation Center, Birendra Gautam.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Statistics show that last winter 7,573 birds of 53 species came to Nepal during the winter, Gautam said. Nepal has become an attractive destination for migratory birds especially for escaping the winter and for hatching.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Not all species of birds found in Nepal stay in Nepal throughout the year,&quot; said Kurman Mansoori, proprietor of Bird Watching Camp, Koshi Tappu. Out of 888 species of birds found in the country, 531 species are found in Koshi Tappu.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Migratory birds come in flocks in Barju Lake and Betna Wetlands of Morang district. According to Ramchandra Adhikari, an environmental journalist and associate professor, birds from different parts of Nepal and as far as South India and Siberia can be seen in Betna wetlands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Some 400 birds belonging to 30 families of 49 species are found in Betna wetlands, of which 70 percent are local, 18 percent are migratory birds that come in winter and 12 percent are migratory birds that come during the summer. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Most of the migratory birds that come to Koshi Tappu also come here,&quot; says Adhikari, adding that migratory birds stay here usually from November to February.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the onset of snowfall in the northern hemisphere, thousands of birds migrate to the lower Himalayas, mountains and plains of Nepal and around lakes, ponds and rivers to escape the growing cold. Every year about 150 species of birds come to Nepal from Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, Mongolia as well as Europe, Korea and the Tibetan plateau. About 50 species of migratory birds pass through Nepal to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Winter migratory birds that come to spend the winter often stay in the wetlands of Nepal in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan National Park, Bisahajari Lake, Jagdishpur Lake, Ghodaghodi Lake, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and Koshi, Gandaki, Narayani rivers and their tributaries. Most of the birds that migrate to Nepal in winter are of duck species. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'migratory, birds, arrive, Nepal, winter, harsh, weather, northern, hemisphere, wetlands, Chitwan, India, Siberia, north',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19229',
			'image' => '20231119090230_KA_BHARATPUR_IMG_8698.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:01:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19500',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Provides Succour to Quake-Hit People',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 19: &nbsp;Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The immediate relief materials include 500 sacks of rice, 100 sacks of lentils, 110 blankets, and 25 quilts (5,000 pieces). The local levels in Jajarkot have already received the materials. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Earlier, the bank had announced to provide a financial aid of Rs 25,51,000.00 to the Prime Minister&#39;s Disaster Relief Fund in the aftermath of the powerful quake damaging lives and properties in Jajrkot and&nbsp; Rukum West.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19228',
			'image' => '20231119075146_collage (14).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:50:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19499',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Jagdamba Motors Unveils TVS NTORQ 125 CC Drum in Striking Red ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.  Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px">November 19: Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.&nbsp; Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With a sleek design inspired by stealth aircraft, large 12-inch wheels, and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum offers improved stability and grip.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With large 12-inch wheels and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum variant offers improved stability and grip on the road, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride. The bold and chunky tires provide excellent traction and grip on various terrains, making the 2-wheeler a versatile masterpiece.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Additionally, the batwing-styled daytime running lights make the scooter stand out while also enhancing visibility, making it safer during the day. The sporty split grab rail is a practical addition, allowing passengers to hold on securely during rides.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Customers also receive complimentary accessories like a helmet and bike cover, making this deal highly appealing.&nbsp;</span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19227',
			'image' => '20231119074904_collage (15).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:47:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19496',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government, and Development Partners Prioritize Investment in GRID ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 18: The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal&rsquo;s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID). </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">A joint communique endorsing the operationalization of Nepal&rsquo;s GRID Strategic Action Plan was issued at a high-level event led by the Ministry of Finance, with support from the World Bank and other partners.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the event, stakeholders, including the government, development partners, civil society, private sector, and think tanks, reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively across institutional and sectoral boundaries to finance and implement Nepal&rsquo;s GRID priorities.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, Honorable Finance Minister said, &quot;Nepal has embraced the GRID approach to foster a greener, more resilient, and inclusive economy. The new GRID Strategic Action Plan can accelerate growth, job creation, and sustainable prosperity for the Nepali people.&quot;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">External financing for the GRID Strategic Action Plan includes grants, concessional financing, and innovative finance mechanisms like carbon finance. This funding is designed to complement Nepal&rsquo;s public budget and leverage foreign and domestic private sector investment.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The GRID Strategic Action Plan outlines ten priority actions, including sustainable management of land, water, and forests, development of resilient infrastructure and ecosystems, enhancement of skills for resilient livelihoods, greening urban development, and scaling up renewable energy and water supply.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Other priorities include addressing air pollution, managing solid waste, strengthening disaster risk management, and enhancing social protection and health systems.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director for Operations, stated, &quot;The World Bank is proud to support Nepal in advancing towards a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economy&rdquo;.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Nepal&rsquo;s GRID approach focuses on quality development that reduces poverty, narrows inequalities, protects the environment, and ensures resilience.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The investment priorities outlined in the GRID Strategic Action Plan aim to capitalize on Nepal&rsquo;s development successes, promoting on-the-ground actions, mobilizing private sector investment, and fostering sustainability, resilience, and inclusion simultaneously. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This strategic approach is anticipated to generate more jobs, enhance the resilience of livelihoods, and contribute to environmental, climate, water, and food security, fostering a more inclusive and durable economy.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19224',
			'image' => '20231118063421_collage (13).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 18:32:22',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19495',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '5.525 Million Taxpayers Acquire PAN',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: </span><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday with the slogan &quot;Clean, Transparent and Technology-friendly Tax Administration: Social Justice, Economic Prosperity and Good Governance.&quot;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Government sources informed that various programmes related to tax-payer education would be organized at the Inland Revenue Department and offices under it for a week, and that the outstanding tax-payers will be awarded on November 23.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">A total of 84 offices, including a big tax-payer office, one medium level tax-payer office, 43 inland revenue offices and 39 tax-payers service offices, are functioning under the department.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">According to the department, the number of taxpayers acquiring business and personal Permanent Account Number (PAN) stood at 5.525 million till the end of the last fiscal year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of them, the number of taxpayers obtaining B-PAN was 1.876 million while P-PAN was 3.649 million.&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of the total Rs 957 billion revenue collected in the fiscal year 2022/23, Rs 479 billion revenue was collected by the department alone. The amount is equal to 50.12 percent of the total annual revenue collection of the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The government had given a target to the department to collect Rs 626 billion in revenue in the last fiscal year, out of which the department collected Rs 479 billion, according to the department. The contribution of inland revenue is around 20 percent of the gross domestic product of the country. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19223',
			'image' => '20231118125750_IRDD.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:56:13',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19494',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '10 Writ Petitions Lodged in Supreme Court against TikTok Ban   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government's decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.     ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government&#39;s decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on November 13 had decided to ban the video-sharing platform in Nepal. The petitioners in their writ have demanded to rescind the decision to ban TikTok, according to Govinda Ghimire, deputy spokesperson at the Supreme Court.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Ghimire shared that the hearing on the writ petitions is slated for November 21.&nbsp;Almost all of the internet service providers in the country have stopped running the TikTok app since the government&rsquo;s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ban was enforced citing the disturbance in the social harmony, many cases against public decency and lack of cooperation from the TikTok company in the process of minimization of the crime and prosecution of criminals among others. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19222',
			'image' => '20231118125602_Supreme Court.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:54:51',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19493',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Spends 20 Percent Budget in Four Months',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: The government has spent only 20.27 percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023/24. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: The government has spent only </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20.27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">/</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the Financial Comptroller General&#39;s Office, the agency that keeps records of government&rsquo;s income and expenditure, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">355</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion from mid-July to mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat had announced a budget of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1751</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">31</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion on May 2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The budget spent this year is slightly higher compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. Last year, the budget expenditure was </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.99</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent by mid-November.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1141</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion this year under the heading of current expenditure and has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">271</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far under this heading. Compared to the allocated amount, this expenditure is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">23.75</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. A large amount allocated by the government under current expenditure is usually spent on administrative expenses. The government&rsquo;s administrative expenses have increased this year compared to the previous year.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The capital budget has not been spent in a very encouraging manner. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion under this heading for the current fiscal year and has spent only Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">29</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far, which is just </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.93</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total allocation. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has spent more on financial management than the development budget during this period. Under the heading of financial management, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">54.46</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion in </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> months. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion for fiscal management this year. The expenditure under this heading is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">17.72</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the allocated budget. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government had announced to achieve </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent economic growth while announcing the budget for the current fiscal year. However, there has not been any encouraging results in the first four months. So far this year, the government has not even been able to collect revenue as per the target. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government says that it has not been able to collect the revenue due to the festivals like Dashain and Tihar.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the FCGO, the government has collected revenue worth Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">295</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion as of mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the annual target. Calculating the income and expenses of the government, the budget deficit in the first four months has reached Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">60</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has announced to collect domestic debt of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">240 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion this year. With more liquidity in banks and financial institutions, the government has raised domestic debt more than the target since the short-term interest rate has come down.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19221',
			'image' => '20231117023301_budget new.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:32:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19492',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Drafting Laws for Management of Social Media',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. Minister Sharma added that the government has already started preparation for drafting laws in this regard.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said this while inaugurating the historical and cultural Dalle Sarai Mela 2080 in Pyuthan Municipality-7.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The remark comes in the wake of the government&rsquo;s decision to ban popular social networking site TikTok, which drew widespread criticism.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Stakeholders claim that the country&rsquo;s economy will benefit if the government regulates social media instead of issuing a blanket ban.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Federation of Computer Association of Nepal on Wednesday urged the government to rethink its decision to ban TikTok bearing in the mind that the development of information technology have both opportunities and challenges.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The federation drew the attention of the government that TikTok has become a medium for small and middle-scale entrepreneurs to expand their market.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19220',
			'image' => '20231117021108_social.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:10:35',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 14 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19491',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Army Admits it Could not Work on KTM-Tarai Fast Track for Four Years',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project. The government handed over this project to the army in July </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, and instructed it to complete the project within four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">After taking over the responsibility of project management, the army held a press conference and announced that the work would be completed within three and a half years. However, the army claimed that the construction period of the project has been delayed because the work had to be completely stopped for more than four years due to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> different reasons.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The army informed New Business Age that delays in works like selection of project consultant, Detailed Project Report (DPR), compensation for land acquisition, matching of project duration, Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA), availability of explosives, tree felling and land rights for package number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, first revision of the Detailed Project Report and the coronavirus pandemic affected the work for a period of four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to army sources, most of the time was spent on the selection of consultants. Work on the selection of consultants started from November </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the army, it took two years and six months for the selection of consultants. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Then, the entire work including the design and construction of the project was affected for one year and nine months due to the coronavirus pandemic.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, eight months have passed for the compensation of land to build the tunnel in Mahadeotar and Lendanda areas. According to the army, five months were wasted due to non-availability of explosives.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Even now, all the sites of the project are not cleared. The controversy of Khokana remains as it is. The latest supplementary environmental impact assessment has shown that more trees need to be felled. The government has repeatedly extended the deadline for the construction of the expressway</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The estimated cost of the project is Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">211</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">93</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion and so far Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">51</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion have already been spent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">50</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion in the current fiscal year. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2,116</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> bridges to be built under packages number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, a total of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1,172</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been constructed so far. The army informed that the construction of tunnels and complex bridges has been expedited of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19219',
			'image' => '20231117015416_20230423033434_fast track.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 13:52:34',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	)
)
$current_user = null
$logged_in = false
simplexml_load_file - [internal], line ??
include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 60
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224
View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418
include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117

file not found!

Notice (8): Undefined variable: file [APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133]Code Context  //  $file = 'http://aabhiyan:QUVLg8Wzs2F7G9N7@nepalstock.com.np/api/subindexdata.xml';



    if(!$xml = simplexml_load_file($file)){
$viewFile = '/var/www/html/newbusinessage.com/app/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'articles' => array(
		(int) 0 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 1 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 2 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 3 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 4 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 5 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 6 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 7 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 8 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 9 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 10 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 11 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 12 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 13 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 14 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		)
	),
	'current_user' => null,
	'logged_in' => false
)
$articles = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19507',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Electric Vehicle App 'eDrive Nepal' Launched in Nepal',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app 'eDrive Nepal' in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app &#39;eDrive Nepal&#39; in the country.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company launched the service for electric taxis and e-scooters with an investment of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">140</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> million. The company informed that the new service is cheaper than other services of similar kind.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Edrive Nepal added that they use new vehicles with accidental insurance in addition to features like OPT system and GPS system installed to ensure safety during the ride.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Member of Parliament Mahesh Bartaula along with Bagmati Province MP Apsara Chapagain and Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority Kulman Ghising inaugurated the &#39;eDrive app&#39; and taxi service by hoisting a green flag.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">On that occasion, MP Bartaula said that the consumption of electricity will increase with the use of electric vehicles. It will also protect the environment and billions of rupees will be saved for the purchase of petrol. At present, the company itself has brought </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">taxis into operation and is preparing to operate </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">100 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">more taxis in the near future.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19235',
			'image' => '20231119120515_1700365472.3 electric_app.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 12:04:01',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 1 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19506',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Use of Chemical Fertilizers, Pesticides and Improved Variety of Seeds Increasing',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the Agricultural Census </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2078</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and advanced and hybrid variety of seeds has increased in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data, the number of farmer families using hybrid rice seeds has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5.4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16.5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years. In the meantime, the number of people using pesticides on paddy has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">15.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">44.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">65</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">500</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farming families, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">14</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">700</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been found to have used strong pesticides on paddy. Similarly, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">76</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farming families use chemical fertilizers on paddy.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Families using improved variety of seeds for vegetable farming have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.9</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent, while the proportion of farmers using hybrid vegetable seeds has increased from about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">13</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. In the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years, the proportion of farmers who use pesticides on vegetables has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5,28,000</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farmers who used pesticides on vegetables, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">53.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used safe (green) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used medium (blue) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used strong (yellow) pesticides and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0.7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used extreme (red) pesticides. The census states that </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">24</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of farmers use chemical fertilizers on vegetables. In the previous census, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farmer families used chemical fertilizers on vegetables.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Director of the Agriculture and Livestock Counting Branch, Badri Kumar Karki, said that the use of pesticides by farmers has been increasing in a bid to minimize the impacts of various diseases and insects on crops that has been rising in recent years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the farmers&#39; attraction towards advanced and hybrid varieties of seeds has increased because they can produce a lot even in a small area of land. He also said that farmers are more attracted to chemical fertilizers than organic fertilizers. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to Karki, the use of chemical fertilizers has increased because the government is not interested in the production of organic fertilizers.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using chemical fertilizers on corn has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">49</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. Farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">18</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">25</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds for wheat cultivation has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. The number of farmer families using pesticides on wheat has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">28 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. However, the number of farmers using chemical fertilizers for wheat farming has decreased. In the previous count, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">64 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent of farmers used chemical fertilizers for wheat cultivation, but now it has dropped to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">58 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19234',
			'image' => '20231119115010_Agri.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:49:15',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 2 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19505',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Himalaya Airlines to Operate Kathmandu-Shanghai Flights from December 2',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu. The airline company informed that it will conduct one flight a week between the two cities starting from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company expects this flight to further help in promoting the connectivity between Nepal and China and in strengthening the relations between the two countries. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the operation of this flight, passengers can easily travel from Nepal&#39;s federal capital, Kathmandu, to China&#39;s central coastal city of Shanghai &ndash; a global financial hub.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company said in a statement that it is committed to make the travel convenient, safe and efficient. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Himalaya Airline said it will increase the number of Kathmandu-Shanghai flight to twice a week (Saturday and Wednesday) from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company has been flying regularly to Beijing and Qingdao.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company said it is proud to play a role in enhancing connectivity, cultural exchange, tourism and trade between the two countries through air flights. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;This launch represents a new chapter in bilateral relations, facilitating not only tourism and trade but also cultural exchanges and direct people-to-people contacts,&quot; the airline said. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company estimates that more Chinese tourists will travel along this new route.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19233',
			'image' => '20231119112252_g576szqpnac61.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:22:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 3 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19504',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Chhath Festival Begins Today   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">As major part of the festival, the setting sun is worshipped by offering argha while the same process is followed to worship the rising sun on Monday morning to bring the festival to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Tonight, the revelers observe a fast and stay awake all night and offer prayers to the rising sun tomorrow (Monday) morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Banks of rivers, streams and ponds across the country are decorated for the Chhath festival.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It is widely believed that observing a fast in obeisance of Chhathi goddess will bring desired results and well-being for the family while all of their sorrows and troubles will vanish away.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Meanwhile, the federal government has announced a public holiday today (Sunday) to mark the festival. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19232',
			'image' => '20231119102851_20211107101945_1260843_n - Copy.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:27:40',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 4 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19503',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Deserves Rights not Supplication at COP28: PM Dahal   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal's views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal&#39;s views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will be held in the UAE from November 30 to December 12.</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Addressing a programme organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association to hand over peace torch at the base camp of the Mt Everest on Saturday, PM Dahal underscored that it is time to claim the rights rather than supplication.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Nepal will not pay the price for anything it is not involved in, so those causing carbon emission must be more responsible and compensate through the climate fund,&quot; PM Dahal stressed, adding that Nepal will stake its claims and not just make a mere plea for help in the global climate event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A high level delegation led by PM Dahal is scheduled to attend the global event on climate change and will address a high-level session at COP28 on December 2. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Significant issues such as climate finance, adaptation, transfer of mountaineering technology and capacity building, loss and damage, climate empowerment would be raised in the address, according to him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Government of Nepal has accorded top priority to issues including climate finance, management of loss and damage fund, mountaineering issues, emission reduction and inclusion this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">PM Dahal said that a work procedure would be formulated for the development and expansion of Khumbu region and security of Sagarmatha area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The PM also recalled that the recent visit of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the Khumbu region was a reminder to the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Secretary-General Guterres reached Khumbu area and inspected the impacts of climate change as well as interacted with the locals and the people&#39;s representatives, which is a significant contribution to globalize the problems of climate change faced by this area,&quot; he mentioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">He also reminded his address at the 76th UNGA in New York which centered on the impacts of climate change in Nepal. Dahal added the government was serious in construction of tourism infrastructures in Khumbu area, stating that it would carry out possible initiatives to protect and promote Sagarmatha and Lumbini.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the government would pay special attention to expedite construction of road from Chatara to Lukla.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Extending gratitude towards the local levels for opening track at Khumbu region, PM Dahal mentioned that the government would support in upgrading the road. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;It is the responsibility of all to take initiative to make the economic activities more dynamic by developing systematic tourism that protects Sagarmatha and Lumbini,&quot; he shared. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'climate, change, impact, COP, PM, Dahal, Everest',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19231',
			'image' => '20231119100605_1700293100.उः.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:05:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 5 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19502',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Annapurna Region Receives 24K Plus Foreign Tourists in a Month   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November). The number includes 7,479 tourists from South Asian countries and 16,930 from other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Since the beginning of the Nepali year 2080 BS, most of the visitors arrived in the month of Baishakh (mid-April to mid-May) followed by Asoj (mid-September to mid-October) and Kartik (mid-October to mid-November), said Dr Rabin Kadaria, the Chief of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). In Baisakh, a total of 31,951 tourists visited the ACAP region while 28, 705 tourists reached the area in the following month.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">In the seven months of 2080 BS, altogether 125,534 foreign tourists have visited the Annapurna region. The number was 95,911 in the same period of the previous year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Tourism in the Annapurna region, which had slowed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is gradually picking up pace,&quot; Dr Kadaria said, adding, &quot;By the time the second tourist season of the year starts, the arrival of tourists is likely to increase further.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ACAP maintains the data of only foreign tourists entering the Annapurna circuit. The number of domestic tourists cannot be ascertained. However, domestic tourists coming for a visit to Mustang and Manang by road is significant.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Dr Kadaria said that there is a heavy flow of domestic and foreign tourists in various destinations along the Annapurna circuit including Annapurna Base Camp, Mt Mardi, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorangla Pass, Upper Mustang, Ghodepani etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Annapurna conservation area is spread over an area of 7600 square kilometers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It may be noted that Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, too had reached the Annapurna base camp during his recent visit to Nepal. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'Annapurna, tourists, tourism, Mustang, Manang, ACAP',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19230',
			'image' => '20231119094044_SG_MYAGDI_IMG_8621.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:40:02',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 6 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19501',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Migratory Birds Arrive in Nepal to Escape Harsh Winter   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. The migratory birds start coming to Nepal with the beginning of the month of November.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, located at the confluence of Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, is one location that attracts migratory birds during the winter. Although new species of birds are coming to Koshi Tappu every year, the number of birds coming in flocks has decreased compared to the previous years, says Chief of National Trust for Nature Conservation, Koshi Conservation Center, Birendra Gautam.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Statistics show that last winter 7,573 birds of 53 species came to Nepal during the winter, Gautam said. Nepal has become an attractive destination for migratory birds especially for escaping the winter and for hatching.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Not all species of birds found in Nepal stay in Nepal throughout the year,&quot; said Kurman Mansoori, proprietor of Bird Watching Camp, Koshi Tappu. Out of 888 species of birds found in the country, 531 species are found in Koshi Tappu.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Migratory birds come in flocks in Barju Lake and Betna Wetlands of Morang district. According to Ramchandra Adhikari, an environmental journalist and associate professor, birds from different parts of Nepal and as far as South India and Siberia can be seen in Betna wetlands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Some 400 birds belonging to 30 families of 49 species are found in Betna wetlands, of which 70 percent are local, 18 percent are migratory birds that come in winter and 12 percent are migratory birds that come during the summer. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Most of the migratory birds that come to Koshi Tappu also come here,&quot; says Adhikari, adding that migratory birds stay here usually from November to February.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the onset of snowfall in the northern hemisphere, thousands of birds migrate to the lower Himalayas, mountains and plains of Nepal and around lakes, ponds and rivers to escape the growing cold. Every year about 150 species of birds come to Nepal from Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, Mongolia as well as Europe, Korea and the Tibetan plateau. About 50 species of migratory birds pass through Nepal to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Winter migratory birds that come to spend the winter often stay in the wetlands of Nepal in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan National Park, Bisahajari Lake, Jagdishpur Lake, Ghodaghodi Lake, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and Koshi, Gandaki, Narayani rivers and their tributaries. Most of the birds that migrate to Nepal in winter are of duck species. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'migratory, birds, arrive, Nepal, winter, harsh, weather, northern, hemisphere, wetlands, Chitwan, India, Siberia, north',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19229',
			'image' => '20231119090230_KA_BHARATPUR_IMG_8698.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:01:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19500',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Provides Succour to Quake-Hit People',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 19: &nbsp;Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The immediate relief materials include 500 sacks of rice, 100 sacks of lentils, 110 blankets, and 25 quilts (5,000 pieces). The local levels in Jajarkot have already received the materials. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Earlier, the bank had announced to provide a financial aid of Rs 25,51,000.00 to the Prime Minister&#39;s Disaster Relief Fund in the aftermath of the powerful quake damaging lives and properties in Jajrkot and&nbsp; Rukum West.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19228',
			'image' => '20231119075146_collage (14).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:50:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19499',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Jagdamba Motors Unveils TVS NTORQ 125 CC Drum in Striking Red ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.  Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px">November 19: Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.&nbsp; Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With a sleek design inspired by stealth aircraft, large 12-inch wheels, and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum offers improved stability and grip.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With large 12-inch wheels and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum variant offers improved stability and grip on the road, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride. The bold and chunky tires provide excellent traction and grip on various terrains, making the 2-wheeler a versatile masterpiece.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Additionally, the batwing-styled daytime running lights make the scooter stand out while also enhancing visibility, making it safer during the day. The sporty split grab rail is a practical addition, allowing passengers to hold on securely during rides.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Customers also receive complimentary accessories like a helmet and bike cover, making this deal highly appealing.&nbsp;</span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19227',
			'image' => '20231119074904_collage (15).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:47:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19496',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government, and Development Partners Prioritize Investment in GRID ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 18: The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal&rsquo;s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID). </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">A joint communique endorsing the operationalization of Nepal&rsquo;s GRID Strategic Action Plan was issued at a high-level event led by the Ministry of Finance, with support from the World Bank and other partners.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the event, stakeholders, including the government, development partners, civil society, private sector, and think tanks, reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively across institutional and sectoral boundaries to finance and implement Nepal&rsquo;s GRID priorities.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, Honorable Finance Minister said, &quot;Nepal has embraced the GRID approach to foster a greener, more resilient, and inclusive economy. The new GRID Strategic Action Plan can accelerate growth, job creation, and sustainable prosperity for the Nepali people.&quot;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">External financing for the GRID Strategic Action Plan includes grants, concessional financing, and innovative finance mechanisms like carbon finance. This funding is designed to complement Nepal&rsquo;s public budget and leverage foreign and domestic private sector investment.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The GRID Strategic Action Plan outlines ten priority actions, including sustainable management of land, water, and forests, development of resilient infrastructure and ecosystems, enhancement of skills for resilient livelihoods, greening urban development, and scaling up renewable energy and water supply.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Other priorities include addressing air pollution, managing solid waste, strengthening disaster risk management, and enhancing social protection and health systems.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director for Operations, stated, &quot;The World Bank is proud to support Nepal in advancing towards a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economy&rdquo;.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Nepal&rsquo;s GRID approach focuses on quality development that reduces poverty, narrows inequalities, protects the environment, and ensures resilience.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The investment priorities outlined in the GRID Strategic Action Plan aim to capitalize on Nepal&rsquo;s development successes, promoting on-the-ground actions, mobilizing private sector investment, and fostering sustainability, resilience, and inclusion simultaneously. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This strategic approach is anticipated to generate more jobs, enhance the resilience of livelihoods, and contribute to environmental, climate, water, and food security, fostering a more inclusive and durable economy.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19224',
			'image' => '20231118063421_collage (13).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 18:32:22',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19495',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '5.525 Million Taxpayers Acquire PAN',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: </span><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday with the slogan &quot;Clean, Transparent and Technology-friendly Tax Administration: Social Justice, Economic Prosperity and Good Governance.&quot;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Government sources informed that various programmes related to tax-payer education would be organized at the Inland Revenue Department and offices under it for a week, and that the outstanding tax-payers will be awarded on November 23.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">A total of 84 offices, including a big tax-payer office, one medium level tax-payer office, 43 inland revenue offices and 39 tax-payers service offices, are functioning under the department.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">According to the department, the number of taxpayers acquiring business and personal Permanent Account Number (PAN) stood at 5.525 million till the end of the last fiscal year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of them, the number of taxpayers obtaining B-PAN was 1.876 million while P-PAN was 3.649 million.&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of the total Rs 957 billion revenue collected in the fiscal year 2022/23, Rs 479 billion revenue was collected by the department alone. The amount is equal to 50.12 percent of the total annual revenue collection of the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The government had given a target to the department to collect Rs 626 billion in revenue in the last fiscal year, out of which the department collected Rs 479 billion, according to the department. The contribution of inland revenue is around 20 percent of the gross domestic product of the country. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19223',
			'image' => '20231118125750_IRDD.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:56:13',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19494',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '10 Writ Petitions Lodged in Supreme Court against TikTok Ban   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government's decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.     ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government&#39;s decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on November 13 had decided to ban the video-sharing platform in Nepal. The petitioners in their writ have demanded to rescind the decision to ban TikTok, according to Govinda Ghimire, deputy spokesperson at the Supreme Court.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Ghimire shared that the hearing on the writ petitions is slated for November 21.&nbsp;Almost all of the internet service providers in the country have stopped running the TikTok app since the government&rsquo;s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ban was enforced citing the disturbance in the social harmony, many cases against public decency and lack of cooperation from the TikTok company in the process of minimization of the crime and prosecution of criminals among others. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19222',
			'image' => '20231118125602_Supreme Court.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:54:51',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19493',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Spends 20 Percent Budget in Four Months',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: The government has spent only 20.27 percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023/24. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: The government has spent only </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20.27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">/</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the Financial Comptroller General&#39;s Office, the agency that keeps records of government&rsquo;s income and expenditure, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">355</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion from mid-July to mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat had announced a budget of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1751</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">31</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion on May 2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The budget spent this year is slightly higher compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. Last year, the budget expenditure was </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.99</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent by mid-November.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1141</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion this year under the heading of current expenditure and has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">271</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far under this heading. Compared to the allocated amount, this expenditure is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">23.75</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. A large amount allocated by the government under current expenditure is usually spent on administrative expenses. The government&rsquo;s administrative expenses have increased this year compared to the previous year.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The capital budget has not been spent in a very encouraging manner. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion under this heading for the current fiscal year and has spent only Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">29</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far, which is just </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.93</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total allocation. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has spent more on financial management than the development budget during this period. Under the heading of financial management, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">54.46</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion in </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> months. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion for fiscal management this year. The expenditure under this heading is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">17.72</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the allocated budget. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government had announced to achieve </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent economic growth while announcing the budget for the current fiscal year. However, there has not been any encouraging results in the first four months. So far this year, the government has not even been able to collect revenue as per the target. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government says that it has not been able to collect the revenue due to the festivals like Dashain and Tihar.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the FCGO, the government has collected revenue worth Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">295</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion as of mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the annual target. Calculating the income and expenses of the government, the budget deficit in the first four months has reached Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">60</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has announced to collect domestic debt of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">240 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion this year. With more liquidity in banks and financial institutions, the government has raised domestic debt more than the target since the short-term interest rate has come down.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19221',
			'image' => '20231117023301_budget new.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:32:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19492',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Drafting Laws for Management of Social Media',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. Minister Sharma added that the government has already started preparation for drafting laws in this regard.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said this while inaugurating the historical and cultural Dalle Sarai Mela 2080 in Pyuthan Municipality-7.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The remark comes in the wake of the government&rsquo;s decision to ban popular social networking site TikTok, which drew widespread criticism.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Stakeholders claim that the country&rsquo;s economy will benefit if the government regulates social media instead of issuing a blanket ban.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Federation of Computer Association of Nepal on Wednesday urged the government to rethink its decision to ban TikTok bearing in the mind that the development of information technology have both opportunities and challenges.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The federation drew the attention of the government that TikTok has become a medium for small and middle-scale entrepreneurs to expand their market.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19220',
			'image' => '20231117021108_social.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:10:35',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 14 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19491',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Army Admits it Could not Work on KTM-Tarai Fast Track for Four Years',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project. The government handed over this project to the army in July </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, and instructed it to complete the project within four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">After taking over the responsibility of project management, the army held a press conference and announced that the work would be completed within three and a half years. However, the army claimed that the construction period of the project has been delayed because the work had to be completely stopped for more than four years due to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> different reasons.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The army informed New Business Age that delays in works like selection of project consultant, Detailed Project Report (DPR), compensation for land acquisition, matching of project duration, Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA), availability of explosives, tree felling and land rights for package number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, first revision of the Detailed Project Report and the coronavirus pandemic affected the work for a period of four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to army sources, most of the time was spent on the selection of consultants. Work on the selection of consultants started from November </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the army, it took two years and six months for the selection of consultants. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Then, the entire work including the design and construction of the project was affected for one year and nine months due to the coronavirus pandemic.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, eight months have passed for the compensation of land to build the tunnel in Mahadeotar and Lendanda areas. According to the army, five months were wasted due to non-availability of explosives.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Even now, all the sites of the project are not cleared. The controversy of Khokana remains as it is. The latest supplementary environmental impact assessment has shown that more trees need to be felled. The government has repeatedly extended the deadline for the construction of the expressway</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The estimated cost of the project is Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">211</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">93</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion and so far Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">51</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion have already been spent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">50</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion in the current fiscal year. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2,116</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> bridges to be built under packages number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, a total of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1,172</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been constructed so far. The army informed that the construction of tunnels and complex bridges has been expedited of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19219',
			'image' => '20231117015416_20230423033434_fast track.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 13:52:34',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	)
)
$current_user = null
$logged_in = false
$xml = false
include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224
View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418
include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117

Warning (2): simplexml_load_file() [<a href='http://php.net/function.simplexml-load-file'>function.simplexml-load-file</a>]: I/O warning : failed to load external entity &quot;&quot; [APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133]Code Context  //  $file = 'http://aabhiyan:QUVLg8Wzs2F7G9N7@nepalstock.com.np/api/subindexdata.xml';



    if(!$xml = simplexml_load_file($file)){
$viewFile = '/var/www/html/newbusinessage.com/app/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'articles' => array(
		(int) 0 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 1 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 2 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 3 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 4 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 5 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 6 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 7 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 8 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 9 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 10 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 11 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 12 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 13 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		),
		(int) 14 => array(
			'Article' => array(
				[maximum depth reached]
			)
		)
	),
	'current_user' => null,
	'logged_in' => false
)
$articles = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19507',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Electric Vehicle App 'eDrive Nepal' Launched in Nepal',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app 'eDrive Nepal' in the country.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Edrive Nepal Pvt Ltd has launched ride-sharing app &#39;eDrive Nepal&#39; in the country.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company launched the service for electric taxis and e-scooters with an investment of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">140</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> million. The company informed that the new service is cheaper than other services of similar kind.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Edrive Nepal added that they use new vehicles with accidental insurance in addition to features like OPT system and GPS system installed to ensure safety during the ride.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Member of Parliament Mahesh Bartaula along with Bagmati Province MP Apsara Chapagain and Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority Kulman Ghising inaugurated the &#39;eDrive app&#39; and taxi service by hoisting a green flag.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">On that occasion, MP Bartaula said that the consumption of electricity will increase with the use of electric vehicles. It will also protect the environment and billions of rupees will be saved for the purchase of petrol. At present, the company itself has brought </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">taxis into operation and is preparing to operate </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">100 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">more taxis in the near future.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19235',
			'image' => '20231119120515_1700365472.3 electric_app.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 12:04:01',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 1 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19506',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Use of Chemical Fertilizers, Pesticides and Improved Variety of Seeds Increasing',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and improved variety of seeds has increased in Nepal of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the Agricultural Census </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2078</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and advanced and hybrid variety of seeds has increased in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data, the number of farmer families using hybrid rice seeds has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5.4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16.5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent in the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years. In the meantime, the number of people using pesticides on paddy has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">15.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">44.6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">65</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">500</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farming families, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">14</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">,</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">700</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been found to have used strong pesticides on paddy. Similarly, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">76</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farming families use chemical fertilizers on paddy.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Families using improved variety of seeds for vegetable farming have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.9</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent, while the proportion of farmers using hybrid vegetable seeds has increased from about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">13</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. In the last </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> years, the proportion of farmers who use pesticides on vegetables has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5,28,000</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> farmers who used pesticides on vegetables, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">53.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used safe (green) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used medium (blue) pesticides, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12.2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used strong (yellow) pesticides and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0.7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent said they used extreme (red) pesticides. The census states that </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">24</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of farmers use chemical fertilizers on vegetables. In the previous census, about </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the farmer families used chemical fertilizers on vegetables.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Director of the Agriculture and Livestock Counting Branch, Badri Kumar Karki, said that the use of pesticides by farmers has been increasing in a bid to minimize the impacts of various diseases and insects on crops that has been rising in recent years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the farmers&#39; attraction towards advanced and hybrid varieties of seeds has increased because they can produce a lot even in a small area of land. He also said that farmers are more attracted to chemical fertilizers than organic fertilizers. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to Karki, the use of chemical fertilizers has increased because the government is not interested in the production of organic fertilizers.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using chemical fertilizers on corn has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">49</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. Farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds have increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">18</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">25</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The number of farmer families using advanced and hybrid seeds for wheat cultivation has increased by </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percentage points to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">33 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. The number of farmer families using pesticides on wheat has increased from </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">16 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">28 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent. However, the number of farmers using chemical fertilizers for wheat farming has decreased. In the previous count, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">64 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent of farmers used chemical fertilizers for wheat cultivation, but now it has dropped to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">58 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">percent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19234',
			'image' => '20231119115010_Agri.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:49:15',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 2 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19505',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Himalaya Airlines to Operate Kathmandu-Shanghai Flights from December 2',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Himalaya Airlines is preparing to operate flights to Shanghai from Kathmandu. The airline company informed that it will conduct one flight a week between the two cities starting from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company expects this flight to further help in promoting the connectivity between Nepal and China and in strengthening the relations between the two countries. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the operation of this flight, passengers can easily travel from Nepal&#39;s federal capital, Kathmandu, to China&#39;s central coastal city of Shanghai &ndash; a global financial hub.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company said in a statement that it is committed to make the travel convenient, safe and efficient. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Himalaya Airline said it will increase the number of Kathmandu-Shanghai flight to twice a week (Saturday and Wednesday) from December </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">27.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The airline company has been flying regularly to Beijing and Qingdao.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company said it is proud to play a role in enhancing connectivity, cultural exchange, tourism and trade between the two countries through air flights. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;This launch represents a new chapter in bilateral relations, facilitating not only tourism and trade but also cultural exchanges and direct people-to-people contacts,&quot; the airline said. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The company estimates that more Chinese tourists will travel along this new route.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19233',
			'image' => '20231119112252_g576szqpnac61.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 11:22:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 3 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19504',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Chhath Festival Begins Today   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Chhath festival, one of the major festivals of the country and predominantly observed in the Tarai region, is being celebrated today by worshiping the Sun God.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">As major part of the festival, the setting sun is worshipped by offering argha while the same process is followed to worship the rising sun on Monday morning to bring the festival to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Tonight, the revelers observe a fast and stay awake all night and offer prayers to the rising sun tomorrow (Monday) morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Banks of rivers, streams and ponds across the country are decorated for the Chhath festival.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It is widely believed that observing a fast in obeisance of Chhathi goddess will bring desired results and well-being for the family while all of their sorrows and troubles will vanish away.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Meanwhile, the federal government has announced a public holiday today (Sunday) to mark the festival. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19232',
			'image' => '20231119102851_20211107101945_1260843_n - Copy.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:27:40',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 4 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19503',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Nepal Deserves Rights not Supplication at COP28: PM Dahal   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal's views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.    ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he would put forth Nepal&#39;s views and stand on the impacts of climate change straightforwardly in the upcoming UN climate event, COP28.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will be held in the UAE from November 30 to December 12.</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Addressing a programme organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association to hand over peace torch at the base camp of the Mt Everest on Saturday, PM Dahal underscored that it is time to claim the rights rather than supplication.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Nepal will not pay the price for anything it is not involved in, so those causing carbon emission must be more responsible and compensate through the climate fund,&quot; PM Dahal stressed, adding that Nepal will stake its claims and not just make a mere plea for help in the global climate event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A high level delegation led by PM Dahal is scheduled to attend the global event on climate change and will address a high-level session at COP28 on December 2. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Significant issues such as climate finance, adaptation, transfer of mountaineering technology and capacity building, loss and damage, climate empowerment would be raised in the address, according to him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Government of Nepal has accorded top priority to issues including climate finance, management of loss and damage fund, mountaineering issues, emission reduction and inclusion this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">PM Dahal said that a work procedure would be formulated for the development and expansion of Khumbu region and security of Sagarmatha area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The PM also recalled that the recent visit of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the Khumbu region was a reminder to the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Secretary-General Guterres reached Khumbu area and inspected the impacts of climate change as well as interacted with the locals and the people&#39;s representatives, which is a significant contribution to globalize the problems of climate change faced by this area,&quot; he mentioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">He also reminded his address at the 76th UNGA in New York which centered on the impacts of climate change in Nepal. Dahal added the government was serious in construction of tourism infrastructures in Khumbu area, stating that it would carry out possible initiatives to protect and promote Sagarmatha and Lumbini.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to him, the government would pay special attention to expedite construction of road from Chatara to Lukla.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Extending gratitude towards the local levels for opening track at Khumbu region, PM Dahal mentioned that the government would support in upgrading the road. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;It is the responsibility of all to take initiative to make the economic activities more dynamic by developing systematic tourism that protects Sagarmatha and Lumbini,&quot; he shared. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'climate, change, impact, COP, PM, Dahal, Everest',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19231',
			'image' => '20231119100605_1700293100.उः.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 10:05:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 5 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19502',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Annapurna Region Receives 24K Plus Foreign Tourists in a Month   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: A total of 24,409 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna conservation area in the Nepali month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November). The number includes 7,479 tourists from South Asian countries and 16,930 from other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Since the beginning of the Nepali year 2080 BS, most of the visitors arrived in the month of Baishakh (mid-April to mid-May) followed by Asoj (mid-September to mid-October) and Kartik (mid-October to mid-November), said Dr Rabin Kadaria, the Chief of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). In Baisakh, a total of 31,951 tourists visited the ACAP region while 28, 705 tourists reached the area in the following month.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">In the seven months of 2080 BS, altogether 125,534 foreign tourists have visited the Annapurna region. The number was 95,911 in the same period of the previous year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Tourism in the Annapurna region, which had slowed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is gradually picking up pace,&quot; Dr Kadaria said, adding, &quot;By the time the second tourist season of the year starts, the arrival of tourists is likely to increase further.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ACAP maintains the data of only foreign tourists entering the Annapurna circuit. The number of domestic tourists cannot be ascertained. However, domestic tourists coming for a visit to Mustang and Manang by road is significant.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Dr Kadaria said that there is a heavy flow of domestic and foreign tourists in various destinations along the Annapurna circuit including Annapurna Base Camp, Mt Mardi, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorangla Pass, Upper Mustang, Ghodepani etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Annapurna conservation area is spread over an area of 7600 square kilometers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">It may be noted that Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, too had reached the Annapurna base camp during his recent visit to Nepal. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'Annapurna, tourists, tourism, Mustang, Manang, ACAP',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19230',
			'image' => '20231119094044_SG_MYAGDI_IMG_8621.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:40:02',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 6 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19501',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Migratory Birds Arrive in Nepal to Escape Harsh Winter   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 19: Migratory birds have arrived in Nepal to spend the winter and can be seen around the rivers and wetlands of Nepal. The migratory birds start coming to Nepal with the beginning of the month of November.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, located at the confluence of Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, is one location that attracts migratory birds during the winter. Although new species of birds are coming to Koshi Tappu every year, the number of birds coming in flocks has decreased compared to the previous years, says Chief of National Trust for Nature Conservation, Koshi Conservation Center, Birendra Gautam.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Statistics show that last winter 7,573 birds of 53 species came to Nepal during the winter, Gautam said. Nepal has become an attractive destination for migratory birds especially for escaping the winter and for hatching.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Not all species of birds found in Nepal stay in Nepal throughout the year,&quot; said Kurman Mansoori, proprietor of Bird Watching Camp, Koshi Tappu. Out of 888 species of birds found in the country, 531 species are found in Koshi Tappu.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Migratory birds come in flocks in Barju Lake and Betna Wetlands of Morang district. According to Ramchandra Adhikari, an environmental journalist and associate professor, birds from different parts of Nepal and as far as South India and Siberia can be seen in Betna wetlands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Some 400 birds belonging to 30 families of 49 species are found in Betna wetlands, of which 70 percent are local, 18 percent are migratory birds that come in winter and 12 percent are migratory birds that come during the summer. </span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:16px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">&quot;Most of the migratory birds that come to Koshi Tappu also come here,&quot; says Adhikari, adding that migratory birds stay here usually from November to February.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">With the onset of snowfall in the northern hemisphere, thousands of birds migrate to the lower Himalayas, mountains and plains of Nepal and around lakes, ponds and rivers to escape the growing cold. Every year about 150 species of birds come to Nepal from Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, Mongolia as well as Europe, Korea and the Tibetan plateau. About 50 species of migratory birds pass through Nepal to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Winter migratory birds that come to spend the winter often stay in the wetlands of Nepal in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan National Park, Bisahajari Lake, Jagdishpur Lake, Ghodaghodi Lake, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and Koshi, Gandaki, Narayani rivers and their tributaries. Most of the birds that migrate to Nepal in winter are of duck species. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span><br />
&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => 'migratory, birds, arrive, Nepal, winter, harsh, weather, northern, hemisphere, wetlands, Chitwan, India, Siberia, north',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19229',
			'image' => '20231119090230_KA_BHARATPUR_IMG_8698.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 09:01:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19500',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Provides Succour to Quake-Hit People',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 19: &nbsp;Prime Commercial Bank Limited has provided relief materials to the people and families affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The immediate relief materials include 500 sacks of rice, 100 sacks of lentils, 110 blankets, and 25 quilts (5,000 pieces). The local levels in Jajarkot have already received the materials. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Earlier, the bank had announced to provide a financial aid of Rs 25,51,000.00 to the Prime Minister&#39;s Disaster Relief Fund in the aftermath of the powerful quake damaging lives and properties in Jajrkot and&nbsp; Rukum West.</span></span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19228',
			'image' => '20231119075146_collage (14).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:50:25',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19499',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Jagdamba Motors Unveils TVS NTORQ 125 CC Drum in Striking Red ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.  Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px">November 19: Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS vehicles in Nepal, has unveiled the NTORQ 125 CC Drum in a vibrant red color at the TVS Maha Exchange Mahotsav.&nbsp; Priced at NRs. 2,35,900, the scooter features a powerful 125cc engine, SmartConnect for enhanced navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With a sleek design inspired by stealth aircraft, large 12-inch wheels, and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum offers improved stability and grip.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">With large 12-inch wheels and diamond-cut alloys, the NTORQ Drum variant offers improved stability and grip on the road, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride. The bold and chunky tires provide excellent traction and grip on various terrains, making the 2-wheeler a versatile masterpiece.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Additionally, the batwing-styled daytime running lights make the scooter stand out while also enhancing visibility, making it safer during the day. The sporty split grab rail is a practical addition, allowing passengers to hold on securely during rides.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px">Customers also receive complimentary accessories like a helmet and bike cover, making this deal highly appealing.&nbsp;</span></p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-19',
			'modified' => '2023-11-19',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19227',
			'image' => '20231119074904_collage (15).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-19 07:47:11',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19496',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government, and Development Partners Prioritize Investment in GRID ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID).',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">November 18: The Government of Nepal and 16 development partners have agreed to enhance financing and technical assistance, focusing on Nepal&rsquo;s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID). </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">A joint communique endorsing the operationalization of Nepal&rsquo;s GRID Strategic Action Plan was issued at a high-level event led by the Ministry of Finance, with support from the World Bank and other partners.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">During the event, stakeholders, including the government, development partners, civil society, private sector, and think tanks, reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively across institutional and sectoral boundaries to finance and implement Nepal&rsquo;s GRID priorities.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, Honorable Finance Minister said, &quot;Nepal has embraced the GRID approach to foster a greener, more resilient, and inclusive economy. The new GRID Strategic Action Plan can accelerate growth, job creation, and sustainable prosperity for the Nepali people.&quot;</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">External financing for the GRID Strategic Action Plan includes grants, concessional financing, and innovative finance mechanisms like carbon finance. This funding is designed to complement Nepal&rsquo;s public budget and leverage foreign and domestic private sector investment.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The GRID Strategic Action Plan outlines ten priority actions, including sustainable management of land, water, and forests, development of resilient infrastructure and ecosystems, enhancement of skills for resilient livelihoods, greening urban development, and scaling up renewable energy and water supply.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Other priorities include addressing air pollution, managing solid waste, strengthening disaster risk management, and enhancing social protection and health systems.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director for Operations, stated, &quot;The World Bank is proud to support Nepal in advancing towards a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economy&rdquo;.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Nepal&rsquo;s GRID approach focuses on quality development that reduces poverty, narrows inequalities, protects the environment, and ensures resilience.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">The investment priorities outlined in the GRID Strategic Action Plan aim to capitalize on Nepal&rsquo;s development successes, promoting on-the-ground actions, mobilizing private sector investment, and fostering sustainability, resilience, and inclusion simultaneously. </span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:20px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">This strategic approach is anticipated to generate more jobs, enhance the resilience of livelihoods, and contribute to environmental, climate, water, and food security, fostering a more inclusive and durable economy.</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19224',
			'image' => '20231118063421_collage (13).jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 18:32:22',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '42'
		)
	),
	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19495',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '5.525 Million Taxpayers Acquire PAN',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: </span><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The National Tax Day is being celebrated for a week starting from Friday with the slogan &quot;Clean, Transparent and Technology-friendly Tax Administration: Social Justice, Economic Prosperity and Good Governance.&quot;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Government sources informed that various programmes related to tax-payer education would be organized at the Inland Revenue Department and offices under it for a week, and that the outstanding tax-payers will be awarded on November 23.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">A total of 84 offices, including a big tax-payer office, one medium level tax-payer office, 43 inland revenue offices and 39 tax-payers service offices, are functioning under the department.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">According to the department, the number of taxpayers acquiring business and personal Permanent Account Number (PAN) stood at 5.525 million till the end of the last fiscal year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of them, the number of taxpayers obtaining B-PAN was 1.876 million while P-PAN was 3.649 million.&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">Of the total Rs 957 billion revenue collected in the fiscal year 2022/23, Rs 479 billion revenue was collected by the department alone. The amount is equal to 50.12 percent of the total annual revenue collection of the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:13.0pt">The government had given a target to the department to collect Rs 626 billion in revenue in the last fiscal year, out of which the department collected Rs 479 billion, according to the department. The contribution of inland revenue is around 20 percent of the gross domestic product of the country. -- RSS</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19223',
			'image' => '20231118125750_IRDD.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:56:13',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19494',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => '10 Writ Petitions Lodged in Supreme Court against TikTok Ban   ',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government's decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.     ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 18: A total of 10 writ petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court against the government&#39;s decision to ban TikTok in Nepal.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">A meeting of the Council of Ministers on November 13 had decided to ban the video-sharing platform in Nepal. The petitioners in their writ have demanded to rescind the decision to ban TikTok, according to Govinda Ghimire, deputy spokesperson at the Supreme Court.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Ghimire shared that the hearing on the writ petitions is slated for November 21.&nbsp;Almost all of the internet service providers in the country have stopped running the TikTok app since the government&rsquo;s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The ban was enforced citing the disturbance in the social harmony, many cases against public decency and lack of cooperation from the TikTok company in the process of minimization of the crime and prosecution of criminals among others. -- RSS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-18',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19222',
			'image' => '20231118125602_Supreme Court.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-18 12:54:51',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19493',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Spends 20 Percent Budget in Four Months',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: The government has spent only 20.27 percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023/24. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: The government has spent only </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20.27</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total budget in the first four months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2023</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">/</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the Financial Comptroller General&#39;s Office, the agency that keeps records of government&rsquo;s income and expenditure, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">355</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion from mid-July to mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat had announced a budget of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1751</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">31</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion on May 2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The budget spent this year is slightly higher compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. Last year, the budget expenditure was </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">19.99</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent by mid-November.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1141</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion this year under the heading of current expenditure and has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">271</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far under this heading. Compared to the allocated amount, this expenditure is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">23.75</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent. A large amount allocated by the government under current expenditure is usually spent on administrative expenses. The government&rsquo;s administrative expenses have increased this year compared to the previous year.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The capital budget has not been spent in a very encouraging manner. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion under this heading for the current fiscal year and has spent only Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">29</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion so far, which is just </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">9.93</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the total allocation. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has spent more on financial management than the development budget during this period. Under the heading of financial management, the government has spent Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">54.46</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion in </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> months. The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">0</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion for fiscal management this year. The expenditure under this heading is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">17.72</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the allocated budget. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government had announced to achieve </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">6</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent economic growth while announcing the budget for the current fiscal year. However, there has not been any encouraging results in the first four months. So far this year, the government has not even been able to collect revenue as per the target. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government says that it has not been able to collect the revenue due to the festivals like Dashain and Tihar.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the data of the FCGO, the government has collected revenue worth Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">295</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> billion as of mid-November</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">This is </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> percent of the annual target. Calculating the income and expenses of the government, the budget deficit in the first four months has reached Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">60</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">12</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has announced to collect domestic debt of Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">240 </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion this year. With more liquidity in banks and financial institutions, the government has raised domestic debt more than the target since the short-term interest rate has come down.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19221',
			'image' => '20231117023301_budget new.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:32:17',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19492',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Government Drafting Laws for Management of Social Media',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. ',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has said that the government issued social media-related guidelines for the management of social media. Minister Sharma added that the government has already started preparation for drafting laws in this regard.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">She said this while inaugurating the historical and cultural Dalle Sarai Mela 2080 in Pyuthan Municipality-7.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The remark comes in the wake of the government&rsquo;s decision to ban popular social networking site TikTok, which drew widespread criticism.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Stakeholders claim that the country&rsquo;s economy will benefit if the government regulates social media instead of issuing a blanket ban.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The Federation of Computer Association of Nepal on Wednesday urged the government to rethink its decision to ban TikTok bearing in the mind that the development of information technology have both opportunities and challenges.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:14.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The federation drew the attention of the government that TikTok has become a medium for small and middle-scale entrepreneurs to expand their market.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-18',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19220',
			'image' => '20231117021108_social.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 14:10:35',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => null,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	),
	(int) 14 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '19491',
			'article_category_id' => '1',
			'title' => 'Army Admits it Could not Work on KTM-Tarai Fast Track for Four Years',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => 'November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project.',
			'content' => '<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">November 17: It has been six years and three months since the Nepalese Army took over the management of the Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway, a national pride project. The government handed over this project to the army in July </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, and instructed it to complete the project within four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">After taking over the responsibility of project management, the army held a press conference and announced that the work would be completed within three and a half years. However, the army claimed that the construction period of the project has been delayed because the work had to be completely stopped for more than four years due to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">10</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> different reasons.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The army informed New Business Age that delays in works like selection of project consultant, Detailed Project Report (DPR), compensation for land acquisition, matching of project duration, Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA), availability of explosives, tree felling and land rights for package number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> to </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, first revision of the Detailed Project Report and the coronavirus pandemic affected the work for a period of four years.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to army sources, most of the time was spent on the selection of consultants. Work on the selection of consultants started from November </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">20</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7. </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">According to the army, it took two years and six months for the selection of consultants. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Then, the entire work including the design and construction of the project was affected for one year and nine months due to the coronavirus pandemic.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Similarly, eight months have passed for the compensation of land to build the tunnel in Mahadeotar and Lendanda areas. According to the army, five months were wasted due to non-availability of explosives.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Even now, all the sites of the project are not cleared. The controversy of Khokana remains as it is. The latest supplementary environmental impact assessment has shown that more trees need to be felled. The government has repeatedly extended the deadline for the construction of the expressway</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The estimated cost of the project is Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">211</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">93</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion and so far Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">51</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">45</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion have already been spent.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">The government has allocated Rs </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">22</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">.</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">50</span></span> <span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">billion in the current fiscal year. </span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">Out of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2,116</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> bridges to be built under packages number </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">2</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">3</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">4</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">5</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> and </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">7</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">, a total of </span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;">1,172</span></span><span style="font-size:15.0pt"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"> have been constructed so far. The army informed that the construction of tunnels and complex bridges has been expedited of late.</span></span></span></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2023-11-17',
			'modified' => '2023-11-17',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => '',
			'sortorder' => '19219',
			'image' => '20231117015416_20230423033434_fast track.jpg',
			'article_date' => '2023-11-17 13:52:34',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => true,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '34'
		)
	)
)
$current_user = null
$logged_in = false
$xml = false
simplexml_load_file - [internal], line ??
include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224
View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418
include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117

file not found!

Latest

173 People Die in Disaster Incidents since June 10

Crusher Federation Urges PM Oli for Industry Renewal

Prime Minister Calls for Enhancing 'Hello Sarkar' Service

Bardiya National Park Sees Increase in Tourist Arrivals

Experts, Manpower Agencies at Odds Over Draft of Labour Migration Policy

Lower Seti Hydropower Project Acquires o500 Ropanis of Land

Government Proposes Formation of New Authority to Regulate Cooperatives

Sugar Prices Surge ahead of Festive Season amid Govt’s Failure to Import Sugar

BFIN to Host Conference in Kathmandu on Wednesday

Price of Gold Reaches All-Time High in Nepal

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