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imrik Air, a leading helicopter company in Nepal, hosted a press event on Monday to call for the conservation of water sources to better combat fire incidents. Muralidhar Joshi, the company’s general manager, emphasized the challenges Simrik Air faces during aerial firefighting, with the major hurdle being a lack of available water sources.

Simrik Air uses the Bambi Bucket system with a 1,000-liter capacity for aerial firefighting operations—one of a kind in Nepal. This system allows them to collect and drop large volumes of water to extinguish forest fires. 

Joshi urged all levels of government and stakeholders to ensure that adequate water resources are available to support aerial firefighting efforts.

He also reiterated Simrik Air’s commitment to fighting fires as part of their corporate social responsibility, expressing a willingness to deploy their helicopters as needed

During the press event, Simrik Air also shared videos explaining the causes of fire incidents and demonstrated how the Bambi Bucket system operates to control fires. Presentations from experts and stakeholders added context to the discussion. 

Kishor Kumar Bhattarai, a firefighting expert, gave a presentation on national and international practices in firefighting, emphasizing that firefighting is a team effort. He also pointed out the risks of deploying fire trucks in hilly and forested areas, suggesting that aerial firefighting is often safer and more effective in those environments. 

Bhattarai also underscored the need for government training and equipping of firefighters to address the shortage of resources.

Journalist Bhim Kharel and Phanindra Raj Kharel, former director-general of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, praised Simrik’s firefighting efforts and urged government collaboration to expand these operations.

Simrik Air, established in 2001, has built a strong reputation for high-altitude rescues, emergency response, tourism, and humanitarian work in Nepal. The company employs experienced pilots and rescue specialists trained in the United States and Switzerland, and is involved in research and development to adapt to Nepal’s unique terrain and landscape.

The urgency of Simrik Air’s call to action is backed by alarming statistics: In the past four months, there have been fire incidents in 500 locations, resulting in 76 fatalities. Nepal Police data indicates that around 1m hectares are destroyed by fire each year, and over the past five years, approximately 10,000 houses have been lost to fire. 

Despite these significant challenges, there are only 116 fire trucks in the country, with 665 out of 753 local governments lacking fire trucks.

Simrik Air suggests

• Assess the likelihood of the fire spreading to nearby villages and settlements, and report findings to the appropriate local authorities, including the district police office and the district disaster management office
• If there’s a risk that the fire could soon reach the village and cause significant damage, the district disaster management office or the local government will contact a helicopter company for emergency support
• When reporting to the helicopter company, inform them of the exact coordinates of the fireplace, and let them know about the coordinates of the water sources nearby. Ensure to maintain constant communication with the helicopter company and provide necessary documents
• If the nearest water source is around the distance of 15-20 km, aerial firefighting will be an effective option for controlling the fire

During Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko’s one-day Nepal visit on Sunday, the two sides discussed pressing global and regional issues.

According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japanese foreign minister and Nepal’s foreign minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha held a candid exchange of views on regional affairs, including the situation in East Asia and South Asia, and concurred on maintaining close communication between the two countries.

The two ministers also held a candid exchange of views on global issues, including strengthening of the functions of the UN, including the Security Council reform, the rule of law, and nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, the Japanese ministry stated in a press release.  Minister Yoko stated that the concept of Women, Peace and Security (WPS) is becoming ever more important amidst increasing uncertainty in the international community, and that Japan would like to further strengthen cooperation in the area of WPS in the future. In response, Minister Shrestha said Nepal would like to maintain cooperation on global issues, including WPS. 

Minister Yoko also conveyed the message to Nepali leaders that Japan would like to work together for the development of Nepal and for peace, stability and prosperity in the region through practical cooperation.

Enhancing people-to-people relationships was another issue that two sides discussed during the visit. Currently, over 170,000 Nepalis, including many exchange students, are living in Japan. The issue of sending more Nepali workers to Japan also figured in the meeting.

In the meeting with PM, Minister Kamikawa also stated that Nepal's sustainable development contributes to the stability of the region and that Japan would continue to cooperate in Nepal’s efforts for sustainable development through development cooperation such as the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project. 

The two ministers concurred on cooperating to further promote mutual understanding and friendly bilateral relations through the establishment of a preparatory committee in both countries to consider initiatives befitting the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2026, as well as the “Human Resources Development Scholarship Program” (JDS), a grant aid program for training young administrative officials. The two ministers also concurred on promoting people-to-people exchanges through Specified Skilled Workers and tourism.

In the heart of Kirtipur is a place of hope and compassion. Baby Life Home and Saphalta HIV Shikshya Sadan, a non-profit organization founded by Raj Kumar Pun in 2011 and 2012, serves as a shelter, care center, and educational institution for children infected with HIV in Nepal. The organization provides children not only with basic necessities like food, shelter, and medical care but also education and emotional support.

Led by Pun, the 41-year-old founder and chairperson, the team consists of seven members. Uma Gurung serves as the founder vice president. “Before establishing this organization, we were all involved in different professions. I was a teacher. Others were engaged in businesses or had steady jobs,” says Pun. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they shared a common passion—they wanted to work for the marginalized community and make a positive impact in society.

The concept of Baby Life Home took shape over 15 years ago when Pun came across a daily newspaper headline ‘HIV-infected children in trouble’. Moved by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to help these children, Pun embarked on a mission to provide assistance. Along with his team, he traveled to Dang, intending to provide basic necessities such as food, clothing, and stationery supplies. But what they encountered there was something they could have never imagined.

Upon arriving at the shelter, Pun and his team witnessed a heartbreaking reality. “The children’s families and relatives were mistreating them. Other children weren’t allowed to play with them. It was heartbreaking,” says Pun. The seeds of Baby Life Home were thus planted. Pun wanted to give these children a loving home. He wanted them to have a safe space.

However, the journey was challenging. No one wanted to rent out their homes to them due to the many misconceptions they had about HIV transmission. So, they created a temporary shelter at Gurung’s residence. Later, Pun decided to keep the children in a house he had bought for his parents. “We started the shelter with four children and the number had gone up to ten by that time,” he says.

Many schools were hesitant to admit the children due to fears of stigma and discrimination. “Initially, we believed that providing proper medical care would enable our children to be accepted into any school. But this assumption proved wrong as neither private nor government schools were willing to take them in,” says Pun.

Their decision to start Saphalta HIV Shikshya Sadan was born out of this reality. They wanted a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where HIV-infected children could thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Saphalta HIV Shikshya Sadan is Nepal’s first school and orphanage to openly support education for HIV-infected children without concealing their HIV status, ensuring their right to education in a caring environment.

In addition to being infected with HIV, many children at Baby Life Home also suffer from various other diseases and health conditions. Some have heart diseases, while others suffer from epilepsy. “We have never solicited donations specifically for medical purposes. While money is important, we are grateful when people willingly contribute, donate food, or celebrate special occasions with us. We graciously accept such contributions,” says Pun.

To manage the children’s condition, Baby Life Home procures Antiretrovirals (ARVs) from Teku Hospital which provides them free of cost to meet the needs of HIV-infected children. These medications, donated by the World Health Organization to the Nepali government, are acquired according to the specific requirements of each child ensuring that they receive the appropriate dosage and combination of medicines tailored to their medical needs. Each child’s treatment is carefully monitored, with regular assessments of effectiveness to ensure optimal outcome.

Recognizing the challenges and trauma these children face due to their health condition and societal stigma, at Baby Life Home, counseling plays a crucial role. “Life is transient, and people don’t only die from HIV/AIDS. So, it’s not worth worrying too much about death. Instead, we should strive to live our lives to the fullest, enjoying each moment,” says Pun “Even though we may not have given birth to them, we are their parents and we want to provide them with the life they deserve.”

Pun has a double masters’ degree in sociology and political Science, demonstrating his commitment to understanding the complexities of society and governance. He has also completed a CMA (Community Medicine Assistance) degree, further enhancing his understanding of healthcare and medical issues, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS.

Pun is thankful for the government’s assistance. “Our former prime minister, K P Oli, came to know about the organization and created a substantial fixed deposit for us. We are able to use the interest generated from this deposit for the children’s medication and basic needs,” he says. Additionally, the government has granted them access to Social Security Allowance as well.

Pun believes there is more the government can do for the welfare of HIV-infected children in Nepal. It’s important to raise awareness and dispel myths and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS, he says.

Pun’s dedication has turned out to be fruitful. The organization is currently providing services to over 100 HIV-infected children—a testament to the power of compassion and community driven initiatives. Some of the children are studying to become doctors, while others have graduated with degrees in arts and social work. This, Pun believes, is a testament to the resilience and determination of these children, who despite adversity continue to pursue their dreams and ambitions with unwavering courage.

A neurosurgeon from the 15th batch of China’s medical aid team to Nepal is helping strengthen the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities for brain tumor patients in Nepal. Dr Yang, who is affiliated with the Neurosurgery Department at the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, is not just a renowned medical professional but also a passionate ambassador of health and friendship between China and Nepal. 

Working closely with his counterpart, Dr Benju, at the BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Dr Yang Jiankai has helped redefine the neurosurgical medicine landscape in Nepal. His dedication to both his field of expertise and the larger cause of international cooperation is truly commendable. As a neurosurgeon, he possesses extensive knowledge and skills in treating a wide range of neurological conditions. His surgical expertise and clinical acumen have saved countless lives and improved the quality of life for many patients. 

The seasoned Chinese neurosurgeon’s stay in Nepal has been a testament to his dedication, not just to his medical expertise but to his understanding that elevating the standards of diagnosis and treatment for brain tumor patients necessitates not just technical exchanges but also cultural and ideological integrations. Through a multifaceted approach, he has empowered local medical professionals with advanced knowledge and skills.

He frequently invites neurosurgeons from China and organizes seminars where health professionals from the two countries hold discussions on the latest advancements in brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. Dr Yang’s hands-on guidance during surgical procedures and patient consultations has provided invaluable opportunities for Nepali doctors to witness and appreciate the Chinese neurosurgical techniques firsthand. His vision extends beyond the confines of the operating room. He has facilitated opportunities for Nepali doctors to visit health facilities in China, fostering stronger bonds of friendship and collaboration. 

In September last year, Dr Benju who was participating in intellectual exchanges in Shandong, China, expressed keen interest in observing neurosurgical procedures in Chinese hospitals. Recognizing this as a valuable opportunity to enhance Dr Benju’s understanding of Chinese medical technology, Dr Yang reached out to Principal Li Gang and Neurosurgery Director Ni Shilei of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University. He arranged for Dr Benju to observe several neurosurgical surgeries. 

Commenting on the visit, Dr Benju said he was astounded by China’s rapid progress in neurosurgery. “Many of the neurosurgical procedures were entirely novel to me. I realized there is a vast array of neurosurgical techniques to master, and I sincerely hope for more opportunities to engage in exchanges and learning at Chinese hospitals,” he added. Moreover, Dr Yang has also been leading joint scientific research endeavors on neurosurgery between China and Nepal.  

Through his multidimensional approach, Dr Yang has not only enhanced the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities of Nepalese doctors in treating brain tumor patients but has also enriched himself with invaluable experiences and insights from his Nepali counterparts. Dr Yang’s vision is even broader. He believes that health is a shared concern of all nations, and cooperation in this field can greatly strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between countries. With this belief, he has made significant contributions to promoting health cooperation between China and Nepal. 

He has participated in numerous medical missions and exchange programs with Nepal, sharing his expertise and learning from his Nepalese colleagues. He has also advocated for increased cooperation in areas such as training, research, and patient care, helping to bridge the gap in medical resources and capabilities between the two countries. His interactions with Nepali doctors, patients, and community members have not only strengthened his professional network but also deepened his understanding and appreciation of Nepalis culture and society.