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These days, as we celebrate the 77th Independence Day of the State of Israel, we stand united in gratitude, remembrance and hope. The day of Independence of Israel marks not only the miracle of our nation’s revival but also the enduring spirit of a people who have returned to their ancestral homeland after centuries of exile.

Our connection to the land of Israel is ancient and unbreakable. The Jewish people’s historical and legal rights to the land are rooted deeply in millennia of presence and faith. The Balfour Declaration, the San Remo Resolution, and the League of Nations Mandate all recognized our legitimate claim to this land, affirming the justice of our return. Israel is not a land seized by colonizers but the rightful homecoming of an indigenous people who have persevered through exile and adversity.

This year, our celebration is tempered by the harsh realities we face. We remember the sacrifices of our brave sons and daughters who have fallen defending our nation. We honor the wounded heroes who inspire us with their courage and resilience. We stand firm against those who seek to destroy us, terrorists who must know there is no place to hide from justice for their crimes against innocent people. The tragic events of October 7th, 2023, remain a solemn reminder of our ongoing struggle, yet also a testament to our unyielding commitment to peace, security, and the safety of all our citizens.

Our strength lies not only in our military might but in our unity, innovation and the spirit of our people. Israel has transformed itself into a developed nation, a beacon of democracy and technological advancement. We have built a society that thrives despite challenges, a society ranked among the happiest in the world. This success is born from solidarity, cooperation and a relentless pursuit of progress.

Our ties with the world, especially with friends like Nepal, exemplify our commitment to peace and mutual growth. Since June 1st, 1960, Israel and Nepal have enjoyed stable and friendly relations, cooperating in Education, Agriculture, Health, Infrastructure, Water Resources, Rural Development, and security among other topics. Over 4,000 Nepalis have benefited from agricultural training in Agriculture Academic Centers and Agricultural communities in Israel during their studies for a title in Agriculture from Nepali Universities, many of them are now great successes in Nepal. 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank in this regard the wonderful cooperation with Sana Kisan which has helped recruit thousands of students from around Nepal. Thousands of Nepalis have gained invaluable experience through Mashav, Israel’s AID Agency, in innumerable courses of experts in Israel and in Nepal in various topics since the 1960’. We are proud to support Nepal’s agricultural modernization and economic development, and we look forward to expanding our multilateral cooperation in other topics like IT and Cyber Technology in the years ahead.

We cherish the cultural and human bonds that unite us, appreciating Nepal’s rich and peaceful ethnicity, landscapes and traditions while fostering deeper ties through agreements. Some agreements which are ready and almost ready to be signed are evidence for further understanding and will enhance our relations for mutual benefit. Our shared experiences, including the pain of terrorism, have only strengthened our resolve to work together for a better future. Israel continues to provide financial and moral support to Nepali families affected by terror, standing in solidarity with all victims of violence.

Along the many centuries and generations from the times of our ancestors Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the people of Israel are an eternal people, and will endure forever. With this enduring spirit, we will continue to defend our homeland, build our society, pursue peace in the Middle East and friendship and cooperation throughout the globe.

On this 77th Independence Day, let us honor the past, embrace the present and look forward with hope. May the bonds of friendship between Israel and Nepal grow ever stronger. May our friendship and cooperation bring prosperity and peace to both our people.

The author is the ambassador of Israel to Nepal

Royalist parties such as the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) currently believe that restoring the monarchy through street protests is unlikely—at least for now. They are of the view that instead of taking to the streets, their focus should be on strengthening their position in Parliament and through elections.

Since 2008, the RPP has consistently advocated for the restoration of the monarchy and a Hindu state. But the current situation marks a notable departure from the past, primarily due to former King Gyanendra Shah’s apparent decision to take a more active role in the movement. Shah reportedly believes a united royalist street campaign could pave the way for his return as monarch.

Recently, the former king met dozens of supporters, including senior and youth leaders of various royalist parties, at a hotel in Nagarkot. At least two leaders present at the meeting told ApEx that Shah appeared more outspoken and optimistic than ever about reviving the monarchy.

According to leaders, Shah believes that the crowd that welcomed him at Tribhuvan International Airport on March 9 is a ‘public endorsement’ for his return to power. He has urged his supporters to mobilize even larger gatherings in the streets. 

While the former monarch believes that political parties should spearhead the movement, he is reportedly skeptical of current RPP Chairman Rajendra Lingden’s leadership. Multiple sources say Shah has expressed dissatisfaction with Lingden’s performance and certain RPP agendas. The former king believes a more charismatic leader is needed to lead the movement, said one leader on condition of anonymity.

After considerable behind-the-scenes effort, Shah has succeeded in uniting royalist forces under the leadership of Navaraj Subedi. Prominent figures such as Lingden, Kamal Thapa and other veteran RPP leaders have now agreed to join a united campaign set to begin after May 29. To make the movement effective, Shah has shared a set of strategic suggestions. The protests should be continuous rather than one-off events, should draw participants from outside the Kathmandu Valley, and should be supported by a broader awareness campaign around the royalist agenda.

However, some within RPP argue that by sidelining Lingden and promoting Subedi, Shah is alienating the very party that has long championed the royalist cause. This means RPP will support the movement, but it may not participate actively, said one party leader.

Following an extended conversation with the former king, some supporters have concluded that there is a growing disconnect between their vision of a ceremonial monarchy and what Shah seems to envision. Several leaders now suspect that Shah may not be willing to remain a symbolic figurehead if the monarchy is revived.

Shah has also acknowledged missteps, notably the controversial appointment of Durga Prasai to lead the March 28 protest, which turned violent. He believes that political figures—not non-political activists—should be at the forefront, though he has yet to name a clear preference beyond backing Subedi for the time being. Shah has also urged his supporters to resolve internal divisions within the royalist camp.

Some RPP leaders remain frustrated with Shah’s stance. They feel he has been reluctant to credit RPP for sustaining the pro-monarchy agenda over the years. During the last RPP convention, former RPP Chairman Thapa publicly accused Shah of interfering in party politics by backing Lingden for party leadership. After losing to Lingden, Thapa left the party, openly blaming Shah for meddling. Now, three years later, Shah appears equally disappointed with Lingden’s leadership.

The former king has told his supporters to advance his vision of the Prithvi Path—a roadmap for nation-building based on the Dibya Upadesh (Divine Counsel) of King Prithvi Narayan Shah. In a video message released on the eve of Nepali New Year 2082, Shah reiterated that the Dibya Upadesh remains highly relevant even today.

Since March 9, Shah has grown more vocal in expressing his desire to return to the throne. He has framed the recent royalist protests as a sign of the people’s awakening. Yet many who have met and spoken with him remain puzzled by his confidence.

As the May 29 protests approach, their direction and impact remain uncertain. The government has already signaled it will crack down on the movement. Senior leaders of major political parties have issued warnings against organizing such protests. Over 100 people, including Rabindra Mishra, Dhawal Shumsher Rana, and Durga Prasai, were arrested in connection with the March 28 violence.

There is something magical about the sharp, citrusy tingle of timmur on the tongue. The sensation is bold and unmistakable. For Nepalis, it brings back memories of home—of warm meals, steep hills, and the smell of mountain air. Timmur is more than a spice. It’s part of our culture, medicine, and identity.

Known locally as timmur, and internationally as timur or Zanthoxylum armatum, this wild pepper has long been used in pickles, meat dishes, and chutneys. It’s also valued in traditional healing. In Nepal, it’s everywhere—but beyond South Asia, few people know it exists. That must change. Timmur has the power to connect Nepal’s farms with the global spice market. With a little effort and imagination, this tiny fruit could become a global sensation.

Timmur is a hardy shrub. It grows naturally in Nepal’s mid-hill regions, between 1,000 and 2,300 meters. You can find it on village slopes, backyard gardens, and even city balconies. It survives with little care. It doesn’t need much water. It resists pests. And its fruit is packed with aroma and flavor. In many homes, people grow a few timmur bushes in pots. They germinate seeds in trays during February or March. When seedlings have five or six leaves, they are moved to larger pots or soil. A little compost and partial sunlight is enough to keep the plant happy.

On farms, timmur grows in small plots and large fields. Farmers prepare the land before the monsoon. They dig pits, add compost, and plant young shrubs a few meters apart. Most plants are watered by rain alone. After three or four years, the plants begin to fruit. Harvesting is simple. The husks are picked by hand, dried in the sun, and stored in airtight containers. With care—pruning, mulching, and regular weeding—timmur bushes remain productive for years.

Right now, timmur is mostly grown in Nepal and nearby regions. But its climate needs—temperate air, moderate altitude, and loamy soil—exist in many parts of the world. Trials could begin in places like the Pacific Northwest of the USA, northern India, or even Israel. These countries already grow other medicinal or aromatic plants. Timmur could fit right in.

Researchers are also asking if timmur could grow without soil? Hydroponics is changing the way people grow food in cities. But since timmur is a woody shrub, it doesn’t grow easily in water-based systems. Still, with vertical aeroponics or deep water culture, it might be possible. This is an area for future experiments.

People don’t just use timmur for flavor. It has long been used as medicine. It helps digestion. It eases bloating. Its oils fight bacteria in the throat and gums. It reduces joint pain. It improves appetite. And it’s full of antioxidants. In many ways, it stands beside other global ‘super spices’ like turmeric, black pepper, and ginger. Its benefits are known in Nepali households, but they deserve to be known everywhere.

There are many reasons. Few people outside Nepal know about it. There’s little branding. Packaging is poor. Processing and grading are inconsistent. Export systems are weak. Even its name creates confusion. Some call it timmur. Others call it szechuan pepper. But it’s not the same as the Chinese variety. Still, the link is useful. Marketing it as ‘Himalayan szechuan pepper’ might help foreign buyers understand it better.

To go global, timmur needs a push. Timmur’s journey must begin with stories. Food bloggers, chefs, and Nepalis abroad can show the world how to use it. Online videos, recipes, and cookbooks can create demand. Next, farmers’ groups in Nepal must improve drying, grading, and packaging. Labels should be clear. Export rules must be followed. Government and private investors can help.

Meanwhile, scientists can study the plant’s chemical compounds. They can research its health benefits. They can help create new markets—in food, health, and natural remedies. Urban gardeners around the world should get starter kits. These kits should include seeds, soil tips, and grow guides in different languages. That way, even a small balcony in Berlin or Boston could grow a little piece of Nepal.

Timmur tells a story of Nepal. Of hills and herbs. Of tradition and taste. Of resilience and richness. It grows without fuss and heals without harm. In a world filled with artificial flavors and factory-made food, timmur offers something real. Something wild. Something deeply human. All it needs is one chance. Just one bite and the world will never forget that tingle.

The author is a London-based R&D chef

The security of your email account is non-negotiable. Whether with Gmail or another provider, your email is so much more than just an inbox for messages to land. It’s a focal point that connects you to a sea of web-based services and contains a vast treasure of private and professional information. Think about it: you likely needed an email address in order to download apps from the App Store, Google Play Store, or Microsoft Store onto your devices. Apart from that initial access, email today has become the backbone of business communication, enabling seamless discussions, exchange of useful attachments, and storage of useful records of conversations.

Indeed, email addresses are a necessity for nearly all those who are browsing the net. General usage makes your email account the hijacker and hacker’s first choice, thereby emphasizing the urgent need to load robust security tools. The fate of an exploited account is grim, as attested to by the scary fact:

Think of a burglar stealing not only your house keys but also the key to every safe and lockbox in your possession. This is the harsh reality of a hacked email account. Hackers who get unauthorized access can usually:

Access saved passwords: Saving passwords for various sites and services in one’s email account or related browser settings is a very common practice. A hacker who gets access to your email can easily locate this gold mine of credentials and gain access to your banking, shopping, and other related sensitive accounts.

Take over social media profiles: Your email address is likely your go-to recovery method for your social media accounts. If a hacker controls your email account, you'll be able to reset your Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter account passwords, leaving yourself locked out, and, as a potential malicious purpose, they might wind up using your accounts for evil deeds.

Keeping your email account secure basics

Enabling 2-factor authentication

Activating Two-Factor Authentication adds a priceless extra layer of security beyond just your password. When you log in, you’ll be prompted to enter not only your password but also a unique security code. This will most often be generated by an authenticator app on your cell phone or sent via text message. Even in the highly unlikely event that one of those ‘hacking pro’s’ gets through to steal your password, they won’t have any access to your account if they don’t possess this time-limited, backup code. In effect, two gates on your front door—a whole lot less likely for thieves to break in!

Strong, unique passwords

While 2FA is important, your good password remains your first defense. Do not use easily accessible information like your name, birthdate, pet name, or common words. Incorporate passwords that are:

Long: The larger the number of characters, the harder it is to crack. Use at least 12 characters, but the better.

Complex: Alternate the use of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters (!@#$%^&).

Unique: Do not ever use the same password for multiple online accounts. If one of them is compromised, the others will be safe. Utilize a password manager to safely store and generate strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.

Being vigilant about phishing attempts

Cybercriminals also try to trick you into giving your login details or other data with fake emails known as phishing. Such emails typically appear to be from legitimate organizations like banks, social media organizations, or even your email service provider. Be careful of:

Suspicious emails: Especially those that ask for personal information, passwords, or financial details.

Poor grammar and spellings: Legitimate companies have proper communications.

Fishy links: Don’t click on a link until you roll your mouse over it to see the actual web address. If the link looks strange or has nothing to do with the person who sent it, don't click.

Desperate requests: Phishing email induces a sense of urgency to get you to do something without thinking.

Keeping your recovery information up-to-date

Email services have recovery options in case you forget your password or your account is hacked. Your recovery email address and phone number must be current and accessible. This is crucial for the retrieval of your account if required.

Monitoring account activity and associated devices

Most email services allow you to review recent activity on your account, including locations logged in from and devices used to log in to your account. Review this information regularly. If you see anything unusual or unfamiliar devices, respond right away to lock down your account and change your password.

Being safe on public wi-fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are not as secure as your home or office network. Don’t log in to sensitive accounts, such as your email, when on public Wi-Fi. If you need to, think about using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your online traffic.

Keeping your devices and software updated

Software updates often include security patches that fix known weaknesses. Ensure your operating system, web browser, and any security tools you use are current at all times.

By performing these straightforward but fundamental security measures, you can efficiently prevent your email account from being broken into and keep your valuable online life safe. Keep in mind that caution and good security manners are your most effective defense against the constantly changing landscape of cyber threats. Don’t let your digital existence be on the line—get these simple measures done today and secure your email and, in turn, your online world.