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What is the difference between a living body and a dead one? In the dead, similar to the living, all the organs are precisely where they are supposed to be (except if the dead had endured significant damage in any of the organs or bones). The difference is the dead are not breathing; that is to say, the food is not being oxidized, energy is not created; hence, all the major biological processes are stagnant. But what truly makes us breathe? Why do we breathe? What makes life live? Hypothetically, if we configure a body from scratch, engineering every organ, every bone, and every piece of flesh precisely where they are supposed to be, do we create a fully functional living body? No. According to the eastern philosophy based on Sri Isopanisad, too, an ‘organic whole’ cannot arise from parts that have to be assembled. That process can only produce inorganic, mechanical, or chemical processes, not living organisms. Hence, even if we successfully integrate all the organs, flesh, and bones to engineer a body, an entity that is missing what truly makes life live is consciousness. In this article, I’ll subtly try to answer the pressing mysteries about the origin of consciousness using a molecular and cellular perspective. 

A conscious cell

All human beings, and other living beings, have an ancestral cell that, some billion years ago, was divided into two; that is to say, the ancestral cell passed on its genetic information onto another one, and so on and so forth, forming organs, systems, and organisms. It can be hypothesized that the energy, or an entity, that someday drove the passing of information from one cell to another is the same energy (consciousness) that today enables us to think, perceive, learn, and live. Moreover, cells can interpret chemical messages, communicate via cell signaling, regulate internal functions, and perform programmed cell death, illustrating coordinated, intelligent responses to environmental stimuli. These behaviors suggest that consciousness and cognition have biological bases at the cellular and molecular levels. According to Eshel Ben-Jacob, a pioneer in the study of bacterial intelligence and social behavior of bacteria, consciousness also exists in most primitive organisms without a brain, like plants and unicellular organisms like bacteria. Jacobs states that unicellular organisms also display learning, memory, anticipation, risk management, and other aspects of cognitive behavior. These examples, ultimately, provide more legitimacy to the idea that cells are sentient beings.

Cell consciousness, evolution, and Darwinism 

The notion that consciousness could emerge from cells challenges neo-Darwinism and the theory of evolution. Darwinism suggests that some random changes in the genetic code within DNA give rise to a genetic diversity that undergoes a natural selection pressure within the environment; and upon surviving the selection pressure, organisms and species adapt, change, and evolve. If the cells are conscious on their own, it can be hypothesized that mutation could be a conscious act—and not just a ‘random’ change in the genetic code. James A. Shapiro, a molecular biologist at the University of Chicago and the author of the book Evolution: A View from the 21st Century, states that “A shift from thinking about gradual selection of localized random changes to sudden genome restructuring by sensory network-influenced cell systems is a major conceptual change. It replaces the “invisible hands” of geological time and natural selection with cognitive networks and cellular functions for self-modification. The emphasis is systemic rather than atomistic and information-based rather than stochastic.”

Moreover, Richard Dawkins, in The Selfish Gene, also argues that organisms are merely a survival machine for the genes that created cells, synthesized proteins, and formed sophisticated membranes and cellular mechanisms to eventually create bodies and minds to protect themselves and their legacies.

Consciousness and quantum mechanics 

As a kid, I was always confused about what the fundamental particles of nature were. In chemistry, I learned that electrons, protons, and neutrons were the fundamental particles. In physics, I learned that protons and neutrons can further be divided into quarks. And in biology, I learned that cells are the fundamental building blocks of life. I never really understood the difference between an atom and a cell. It was not until high school that I realized that cells that contain a nucleus, mitochondria, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and vacuoles can further be divided into proteins, water molecules, and other organic compounds that are fundamentally made up of particles like electrons and quarks. So, it can be hypothesized that the nucleus that contains DNA, which works to synthesize proteins with the help of RNA and also triggers the process of cell division (nuclei are the brains of cells), is guided by the quantum phenomena that take place deep within the atoms that form these cell bodies. 

There have been numerous theories and pieces of evidence that have worked to find connections between quantum theories and consciousness. One such theory is the Orch OR (Orchestrated Objective Reduction) theory, which posits that tubulin proteins within neuronal microtubules engage in quantum computations via superposition and objective reduction events that generate discrete moments of conscious awareness. 

Furthermore, Goodman et al. state that the theoretical models suggest that weak force interactions and electron neutrino exchanges might also support long-range quantum coherence across cellular assemblies, thereby linking quantum mechanics to large-scale neural synchrony. These perspectives collectively emphasize that quantum-level biomolecular interactions provide mechanisms for the integration of information across both spatial and temporal scales, which is essential for the emergent property of consciousness.

In summary, these theories and ideas give strength to the fact that consciousness arises from the cells, not from the brain. Evidence from cellular biology indicates that individual cells exhibit rudimentary forms of awareness through membrane dynamics, laying the foundation for conscious processes. Ultimately, the synthesis of molecular, quantum, and integrative theories provides a robust framework for understanding how consciousness could emerge from the fundamental interactions of biomolecules.

Chirag Timilsina

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has prohibited the burning of waste and plastic materials within the metropolis.

The Environment Department of KMC has stated that this prohibition aims to mitigate the detrimental effects of air pollution on both the environment and public health.

As temperatures drop, the practice of burning waste, plastic, and other materials in open places have escalated. Department Head Sarita Rai said that incineration of these waste materials has harmful consequences for the environment and public health, which is the rationale behind the enforcement of this ban.

She further noted that any individual found in violation of this regulation will be fined Rs 10,000 for each offense. "Each year, during the winter months, the levels of air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley rise considerably. A substantial portion of this pollution is attributed to the open burning of plastic materials," remarked Department Chief Rai.

"This measure has been enacted to alleviate the negative impacts on public health and the environment." Air pollution adversely affects vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma, those with cardiovascular issues, and persons suffering from chronic illnesses.

Along with it, KMC has undertaken initiatives to diminish smoke emissions resulting from the open burning of plastic materials to safeguard the health of all city inhabitants and the environment.

Rai emphasized, "Should anyone ignore the ban issued by KMC, appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Environment and Natural Resources Conservation Act, 2077 BS, and the Fiscal Act, 2082 BS.

With improving weather conditions, snow-capped mountains have become visible from Kathmandu Valley. 

The view of the white mountains beneath the blue sky was truly captivating.

Earlier, cyclone ‘Montha’ and westerly winds had an effect on the country’s weather system for a few days, bringing both rain and snowfall.

Now, the weather has cleared up and beautiful mountains can be seen from Kathmandu Valley.

Simrik Air carried out a search and recovery mission at the Yalung Ri area by deploying a helicopter on November 7, aimed at locating victims of the avalanche that struck the region on November 3.

The operation, conducted at an altitude of approximately 5,500 meters under extreme environmental and weather conditions, was carried out in coordination with AviA MEA – International Rescue Team, following reports that three foreign climbers and two Nepali guides had gone missing in the incident, reads a statement issued by Simrik Air.

A Simrik Air helicopter, piloted by Capt. Surendra Paudel, with rescue technicians Tshering Pandey Bhote and Uttam Chaudhary, provided crucial aerial support to an international rescue team led by Capt. Manuel Munari, Michele Cucchi, and Bruno Jelk.

Equipped with the RECCO search device, the crew assisted in the high-altitude recovery mission at Yalung Ri, which also included four IFMGA/NNMGA Sherpa guides, who played a crucial role in the ground operations, according to the statement.

The aerial search mission was carried out throughout November 7 and 8, concluding officially in the afternoon of November 8.

According to experts, the mission is believed to be the first high-altitude operation utilizing the RECCO SAR device.

The team maintained coordination with support personnel in Kathmandu, Italy, and Switzerland ensuring seamless communication for operational updates and weather monitoring.

Multiple reconnaissance and search flights were conducted using both the RECCO SAR aerial system and the RECCO R9 ground search system.

This coordinated response was made possible through the joint efforts of Simrik Air (aerial transport and search operations), Heli Everest (support logistics and material transport), AviA MEA International Rescue Team, and the local IFMGA/NNMGA Sherpa guides, whose professionalism and courage were instrumental throughout the mission, the statement further reads. The operation was further supported by Earth C-Air (Switzerland), RECCO AB (Sweden), and Asian Trekking (Nepal).

Simrik Air has been collaborating with these organizations for several years to carry out critical high-altitude search, rescue, and recovery missions across Nepal’s challenging mountain terrain.

The literary work “Teen Bidhaka Prabaha” by writer Basu Dev Poudel has been launched amid a ceremony held at the Ramesh Bikal Literary Foundation Hall in Aarubari, Gokarneshwar Municipality-9, Kathmandu.

Poudel, who served over four decades in the teaching profession and is now retired, released his debut publication through this anthology that brings together poetry, stories, and essays. The event was chaired by local intellectual Achyut Prasad Chalise, with former Member of Parliament from Kathmandu-3, Santosh Chalise, as the chief guest, and Gokarneshwar Municipality Mayor Deepak Risal as the special guest.

The event started with a welcome speech from Saroj Nepal. Chief guest Chalise shared his long acquaintance with Poudel, appreciating his intellect, awareness, and passion for literature. He remarked that the newly launched book reflects the author’s profound social and literary personality.

Special guest Mayor Risal, who also described Poudel as his teacher, said that Poudel not only taught moral education in school but also practiced those values in real life. He further assured that the Gokarneshwar Municipality remains committed to promoting language and literature and will continue supporting such initiatives.

The ceremony also featured critiques on each of the three sections of the book. Deepak Lohani reviewed the poetry section, Ramesh Jung Thapa reviewed the short stories, and Ramesh Prasad Khanal analyzed the essays. The critics highlighted that Poudel’s work radiates deep spiritual insight, social morality, and love for nature.

Speaking briefly about his writing journey, Poudel expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported him. Reflections on his personality and contribution were shared by Ward Chairperson Rajib Thapa, writers Bajuram Poudel and Mahendra Chalise, critic Yuvraj Mainali, and Poudel’s granddaughter Sadiksha Nepal. At the end of the program, the book’s publisher and the author’s son, Nirmal Poudel, extended a vote of thanks, pledging to continue publishing his father’s unpublished manuscripts in the future.

The two-day extended meeting of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) concluded in Sauraha on Saturday night with a decision to draw the attention of the parties and the government to prepare the basis for making the March 5 elections to the House of Representatives free, fair and fearless.

The meeting has also called on all political parties to actively participate in the election process to further strengthen democratic practices. All party structures, members and well-wishers have been urged to engage in public opinion formation so that the outcome of the announced election is in the supreme interest of the country and the people and in favor of the party.

A statement issued by RSP spokesperson Manish Jha has also demanded an impartial investigation into the incidents that took place during the Gen-Z protests and action against those found guilty.

Since polarization is inevitable for the establishment of a strong alternative political force in the country, the meeting has made a special request to the Central Committee to emphasize dialogue, consensus, and cooperation with like-minded transformative forces.

The meeting discussed the latest overall situation in the country, political developments, the announced election of members of the House of Representatives, issues of people's livelihood, and the internal life of the party and the current workload.

A total of 512 delegates invited from across the country took part in the extended meeting where Acting president DP Aryal presented a political report, Vice president Dr Swarnim Wagle presented the concept of the election manifesto, general secretary Kabindra Burlakoti presented an organizational report, joint general secretary Bipin Kumar Acharya presented a candidate selection outline, and secretariat member Deepak Bohara presented a report on the signature campaign.

 Central member Dr Toshima Karki, secretary of the central organization department Shankar Shrestha, and Chitwan, Jhapa, and Rupandehi district committees submitted written suggestions in the extended meeting.

The Third Trans-Himalaya Communication and Social Development Conference concluded at the Camera Building, CDJMC on Saturday, highlighting stronger and reliable information exchange across the region.

Inaugurating the two-day conference, Prof. Deepak Aryal, PhD underscored the importance of trustworthy information in combating misinformation.

While concluding the event, Prof. Kedar Prasad Rijal, PhD, emphasized the importance of greater cooperation among Trans-Himalayan societies despite their diverse cultural contexts.

Scholars from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, China, the United States, Japan, and Nepal participated in six sessions, including the main forum, where they discussed building a shared future in the digital era and strengthening cross-cultural communication.

The conference also reiterated the importance of reliable information in promoting awareness of climate change mitigation and early warning systems.

Similarly, participants expressed concern over the ethical and responsible use of social media in the evolving communication ecosystem.

Prof. Khadga KC, Rector of Tribhuvan University, along with Prof. Han Hong, Prof. Chen Changfeng, Prof. Manukonda Rabindranath, and Prof. Taibur Rahman, spoke on diverse issues related to global and cross-cultural communication in the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kundan Aryal from the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication said that Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, though distinct, have long coexisted and profoundly influenced one another in Chinese and Nepali cultures over the centuries, thereby enhancing people-to-people cross-cultural communication.

Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Editor of Annapurna Express, remarked that social media use in Nepal largely follows traditional patterns of new media engagement.

Professor Han Hong, Director of the Center for Trans-Himalayan Communication, said that Conferences like this are crucial for promoting knowledge exchange and strengthening community ties.

“We are committed to organizing similar programs in the coming years to build on this positive impact,” said Hang Hong.

The conference was jointly organized by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and Tribhuvan University, in collaboration with Kangba TV (China) and Himalaya TV (Nepal).

A person died after a vehicle carrying vegetables hit a group of pedestrians at Tanakpur in Ghodaghodi Municipality, Kailali on Sunday.

The deceased has been identified as Shankar Dagaura (55) of Bardagoriya Rural Municipality-6.

He was riding a bicycle when the vehicle ((Lu2Cha 2358) hit him early this morning, DSP Ramesh Awasthi, Chief of the Area Police Office, Sukhad, said.

Seriously injured Dagaura was declared dead upon arrival at Ghodaghodi Hospital. Three other people were injured in the accident.

The injured have been identified as Padam Bahadur Shahi (54) of Sadepani, Ghodaghodi-2, Harka Bahadur Dagoura (45) of Tulsipur, Kota, Bardagoriya Rural Municipality-6, and Krishna Dagoura (25) of Bardagoriya-6. They are undergoing treatment at Ghodaghodi Hospital.

Shahi has been referred to Dhangadhi for further treatment.

Police have arrested jeep driver Santosh Ghartimagar (23) of Triveni Rural Municipality-4, Rolpa, for investigation, the Area Police Office said.