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I have never read a book and been on the fence about it. I have either liked what I’ve read or hated it. Or I’ve thought of it as an okay read, one that was good while it lasted but I wouldn’t really recommend it to people. But ‘Really Good, Actually’ by Monica Heisey has me in two minds. I liked it. I hated it. I found it interesting. But it was boring too, and it dragged on. I wanted to DNF it and end the misery right there, but I also wanted to find out how the main character fared in the end. It was such a confusing time. Was the book Really Good, Actually actually really good or was it not that good? That is the question I have been asking myself for the past couple of days. The story takes us into the chaotic world of Maggie, a 29-year-old Ph.D. student who recently got divorced and doesn’t know how to handle it. She’s unable to move on and she’s struggling financially as well. Life’s not that good. But it must go on. And so, Maggie finds herself dating random men, unable to commit to the one who meets all her expectations, spending money that she doesn’t have (and not checking her credit card bills), and ordering burgers at four in the morning, pretending they are for her (non-existent) dog. There is a lot to unpack in this novel. Maggie is going through a lot and she’s unable to deal with it. You get to see how that can impact one’s mental health. The protagonist comes across as pitiful and you want to slap her. Does she have the right to disturb others just because she isn’t feeling okay? Then, you see her trying to fix her life and want to give her a big hug (and maybe some money too). But the self-deprecating way in which Maggie speaks of herself, even if it is to distance herself from the pain, makes her come across as whiny and a bit narcissistic. Heisey, who was a screenwriter for the sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek, is witty but the subject she’s chosen clashes with her style of writing. While trying to craft Maggie as a hopeless character, Heisey goes haywire and the protagonist comes off as annoying. The story, as real as it feels, gets a bit repetitive when the same thing happens over and over again—Maggie buying clothes she doesn’t need, spending time with friends to forget about her ex-husband, or going on dates just for the sake of it. It feels like an endless loop, without the story going anywhere. But then I wouldn’t really call it a bad book. Marian Keyes, an Irish author I really like, described it as ‘wildly funny and almost alarmingly relatable’. I can see where the appeal lies—the writing is funny and Maggie could easily be you or one of your friends. Some people might actually enjoy it. For me, I guess the book would have been better had it been shorter. Two and half stars Fiction https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/60877616 Really Good, Actually Monica Heisey Published: 2023 Publisher: 4th Estate Pages: 376, Paperback

In the realm of ‘Kathal-A Jackfruit Mystery’ lies a captivating and multi-layered narrative that goes beyond its satirical comic exterior. Delving deep into the fabric of rural India, the movie fearlessly exposes various social issues that plague society. From the abuse of authority by politicians to the pervasive presence of casteism and gender stereotypes, Kathal shines a light on the ugly yet undeniable practices that persist. Recently released on Netflix, this Hindi-language satirical drama, written by Ashok Mishra and skillfully directed by Yashowardhan Mishra, is an exploration of societal dynamics with a quirky twist. The story revolves around the disappearance of two exotic breed jackfruits from the house of a local MLA, Munnalal Patera (played by Vijay Raaz). Wielding his influence, the powerful MLA manipulates the local police force into investigating the missing jackfruits. Under immense pressure, SP Angrez Singh Randhawa (portrayed by Gurpal Singh) is left with no choice but to assign Inspector Mahima Basor (Sanya Malhotra) and her faithful Constable Saurabh Dwivedi (Anant V. Joshi) to crack the case. Inspector Mahima, already renowned in the community for her previous triumphs, embarks on the investigation with the gardener as the primary suspect. However, what initially seems like a trivial vegetable theft gradually unravels a much darker crime involving kidnapping and human trafficking. Kathal effortlessly navigates a lighthearted tone, utilizing clever writing and tropes to deliver biting satire on the political and social systems prevalent in rural India. The movie’s narrative seamlessly connects the dots, unraveling a web of interconnectedness. Despite being produced under the Balaji banner, Kathal adopts an indie approach, eschewing big names to maintain a relatable and authentic feel. This organic touch resonates throughout the movie and is a standout aspect worth appreciating. The movie’s tight-knit script, screenplay, and direction work in harmony, ensuring a cohesive viewing experience. Although tackling grave and serious issues, the screenplay strikes a delicate balance, preventing the movie from descending into excessive darkness. A vibrant and lighthearted energy permeates each frame, enhancing the storytelling and engaging the audience. The impeccable craftsmanship of the movie extends to its talented ensemble cast. Newcomers Malhotra and Joshi hold their ground alongside industry veterans like Vijay Raaz, Raghubir Yadav, and Rajpal Yadav. Malhotra shines as Inspector Mahima, the movie’s lead protagonist. She flawlessly portrays Mahima’s spirit and capabilities while tackling the everyday battle against casteism, both in her profession as well as her personal life. Working in a male-dominated field, Mahima must assert herself as a female police officer. Additionally, she grapples with her love for Constable Saurabh, longing to marry him. However, societal patriarchy dictates that their union must wait until Saurabh receives a promotion and attains equality. Mahima’s character encapsulates the intricate layers woven into the movie’s narrative. Who should watch it? Kathal is a well-paced and witty movie that can be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates a good story infused with humor. It doesn’t burden itself with excessive expectations, making it an enjoyable experience for a wide range of viewers. Its simplicity, brevity, and organic nature make it an approachable and worthwhile watch for all. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wkqp8bs3Bro Rating: 4 stars Genre: Comedy, drama Run time: 1h 55m Actors: Sanya Malhotra, Vijay Raaz Director: Yashowardhan Mishra

The Environment Protection Act, 2019 is a comprehensive piece of legislation, enacted primarily to give effect to Article 30 of the Constitution that guarantees the citizens’ right to fresh air and clean environment. Introduced to consolidate environment laws, this Act assures victims of pollution a reasonable amount of compensation from the polluter. The main legislative intentions are to ensure the right to a clean and green environment, maintain balance between environment and development, and protect communities from adverse environmental impacts and climate change. While celebrating World Environment Day (WED) on June 5 with the theme of “Beat Plastic Pollution,” we need to analyze whether we have succeeded or even tried enforcing the green laws meant for protecting the environment. This year’s WED has put on Cote d’ivoire, the host of the event in partnership with the Netherlands,  one more responsibility: To lead a global drive against plastic pollution. In 2018, India hosted the WED with the theme of “Beat Plastic Pollution.” It’s high time for India to realize that their fight against plastic pollution was not robust and their failure made the United Nations Environment Program carry the same slogan in 2023 as well. The 1972 Stockholm Conference on Human Environment laid the foundation for the Environment Day celebration the world over, and has been held yearly on June 5 since 1973. The first WED was held in the USA with the theme of “Only one Earth” in 1974. The 1972 Stockholm Declaration, adopted at the end of WED events held at Stockholm from June 5 to 16 with the participation of 114 states, set the milestone by adopting 26 principles that emphasize pollution control and nature conservation. In 1987, the idea of rotating the center of environmental activities under different themes by selecting different host countries began. A Green Charter The Constitution of Nepal has stipulated the right to a clean environment as a fundamental right.  The charter has specific provisions associated with the environment like the right to live in a clean environment, right to clean water and hygiene; right to food sovereignty; the right of the state to effect land reforms on agriculture and environment; and the right of consumers to have quality foodstuffs and services. The law obliges the state to control or prevent any act or omission polluting or likely to pollute the environment. The Supreme Court and High Courts (under Article 133 and 144, respectively) can issue required directives, orders or writs for this purpose. The charter has conferred powers to all tiers of government in this regard. In reference to the charter, the government of Nepal, under schedule-V, entry 27 (Environment management, national parks, wildlife reserves, wetlands, national forest policies, carbon services) and provincial governments, under schedule-VI, entry 19 (Use of forests and waters and management of environment within the state) and both governments under schedule-VII, entries 12 (Ayurvedic medicine, veterinary, Amchi and other professions), 18 (Tourism, water supply and sanitation) & 23 (Utilization of forests, mountains, forest conservation areas and waters stretching in inter-state form) have to  work on issues of ecology, sanitation, clean and healthy water, wildlife conservation and afforestation. The Directive Principles provided in part-IV of the charter call upon the local/provincial governments to adopt policies for the protection of the environment (Article 51). In partnership with the private sector, NGOs, communities, religious and cultural groups, the government can take  measures for environmental conservation.   A climate-friendly polity The Environment Protection Act, 2019, meant to  implement Article 30 of the charter, aims to protect and improve the environment and to mitigate pollution; to enforce the right to a clean environment; to grant compensation to victims of pollution; and to implement EIA, Environmental Study and Environment Examination reports. It imposes on the state duties like setting standards to reduce and regulate emissions, hazardous waste, vehicular pollution, industrial pollution and pollution from  hotels, restaurants and equipment. Unlike the Act of 1997, the 2019 Act has outlined measures for dealing with climate change and controlling the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The center has exclusive jurisdiction over identification of areas emitting GHGs, determination of their national reference level, specification of open or green areas, identification of polluted areas, prevention of development activities therein and participation in carbon trading with foreign countries. Moreover, the Act specifies various roles and functions for provincial governments. Provinces have to develop plans and policies for environmental protection at their levels. Section 3(2)(c) of the Act allows local governments to oversee  related environmental study reports, including EIA. Central and provincial governments can also set up laboratories to test or analyze samples of pollution under Section 18.   Gray area, green judgements The Act has envisaged heavy fines for non-compliance of laws and government policies. Section 35 of the Act stipulates imposing a fine of up to five million rupees at the instance of non-compliance of EIA. Also, defiance of Initial Environmental Examination would lead to a fine of up to one million rupees. A vast discretionary power is given to law enforcing officials. Minimum fine is not fixed leaving vast discretion, so the provision requires correction. The imposition of a minimal fine in violation of this law may help defeat the spirit of law itself. Also, the Act has no provision of reward for those making  exemplary contributions to environment conservation and protection. The Local Government Operation Act, 2017 has given local units the power to enact laws, policies and other measures for the protection and promotion of green democracy. Section 11(2)(i) has given local bodies  the power to adopt and enact measures to curb pollution and to ensure clean water and fresh air. Over the years, the Supreme Court has issued judgments on environmental issues. Decades ago, in Surya Dhungel v Godavari Marbles Pvt Ltd (1995) case, it observed that environmental pollution and degradation would be a threat to living beings, so a healthy environment is a requisite for better human life and livelihood. In Pro Public v HMG Nepal (2006, Decision Number 758) the court  sought immediate steps for decreasing the adverse impact of pollution from brick kilns located around densely populated areas, schools, cultural and touristic zones. Summing up, our green laws are like lampposts and not mere cosmetic arrangements. Nepal deserves to have a truly green democracy. As an ancient country of environment-friendly people, Nepal cannot survive with unsustainable development practices. Environmentalist Keith Hawkins has rightly said: Pollution control is done in a moral, not a technological world. The Himalayan republic has enacted a number of green laws for promoting green democracy. It’s high time to make a pledge for a robust fight against pollution in all forms. The author is a Judicial Officer at Dhanusha District Court, Janakpur [email protected]  

Signing a long-term intergovernmental agreement on energy trade, starting the development of a number of transmission line projects, and inking a joint venture agreement to develop hydropower projects in Nepal will be top agenda of the energy sector for Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s upcoming visit to India. While the formal announcement of the visit is yet to be made, government officials said the prime minister will leave for India on May 31 for a three-day visit. Government officials involved in the preparation of the visit said that energy sector cooperation between the two countries will dominate the list of agendas of the visit. With Nepal on a path to producing surplus energy soon, the government is seeking greater cooperation with India in the energy sector as the southern neighbor is prioritizing moving to clean energy sources from a feasible fuel-dominated energy market. “We have sent a proposal to sign a 25-year intergovernmental agreement on power sale of Nepal to India,” said a senior official at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation. “No conclusion has been reached as talks are undergoing. Such an agreement is essential to ensure long-term access to the Indian market for Nepal’s power.” Nepal had proposed such a deal during the 10th secretary-level meeting of the Joint Steering Committee on Energy Cooperation in India in late February this year. India had asked Nepal for a formal proposal Currently, Nepal is required to renew the approval from the Indian authority every year which has created uncertainty about whether the southern neighbor would allow the export of electricity from certain projects. As per the Power Trade Agreement signed in 2014, the inter-government agreement removes the requirement of taking approval frequently. An agreement could be signed between Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and India's Madhyanchal Vidyut Vitaran Nigam Ltd (MVVNL) for the sale of Nepal’s 200 to 500 MW under a five- or seven-year agreement, according to an NEA official. “We have got a proposal from the MVVNL,” said an NEA official. The official said that there is also a plan to sign a memorandum of understanding between Nepali and Indian company NHPC Limited to develop the 480 MW Phukot Karnali Hydropower Project. Vidyut Utpadan Company Limited (VUCL) and NHPC Limited, the two state-owned companies of Nepal and India respectively, have decided to develop this project in Kalikot district. VUCL has already sent a draft of the MoU for project development to the Cabinet for approval. NHPC has been awarded the 750 MW West Seti Hydropower Project along with the 450MW Seti River-6 Project. In April, the Investment Board Nepal had asked the Indian company to prepare a detailed project report on these two projects. Likewise, the southern neighbor is also likely to approve Nepal’s proposal to allow the export of 40 MW of electricity to Bangladesh through the existing Indian transmission infrastructure. The NEA has sent a request to the Indian authorities to allow the sale of the power generated by the 52.4 MW Likhu-4 Project to Bangladesh through India’s existing transmission infrastructure. Officials said before the export takes place, a trilateral agreement needs to be signed between the NEA, the Bangladesh Power Development Board, and the NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited. “A draft of the agreement has been prepared and discussions are undergoing. Once a tripartite agreement is signed, it will pave the way for exports of Nepal’s power to Bangladesh.” According to officials, there is a plan to lay a foundation stone to construct the Butwal-Gorakhpur cross-border transmission line. The two prime ministers are expected to lay the foundation stone indicating the start of the construction of the project. A joint venture company established by the NEA and the Power Grid Corporation of India will be undertaking the transmission project on the Indian side. “The contract for the construction of the transmission line has already been awarded while the company has invited tender for the construction of the substation,” said the NEA official. Likewise, there is also the plan to inaugurate the New Modi-Lekhnath Transmission Line as the construction of the project was done with the aid of the Export-Import Bank of India. There is also a plan to inaugurate a second circuit of the Kataiya-Kusaha cross-border transmission line whose construction has been completed, according to the NEA official.