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Surya Prasad Lamichhane, a resident of Begnas Lake area in Pokhara-31, has gained global recognition for his remarkable ability to cover his body with live bees for hours. He drew the attention of the Guinness Book of World Records in 2016 when news spread worldwide that he covered his body with 30,000 live bees continuously for two hours.

Surya’s care, nurture, and interest in bees have established him as a renowned beekeeper. He has trained beekeeping to some 15,000 youths and farmers over the past decade. “About 20 percent of those who learnt beekeeping from me are foreigners,” Surya shared with ApEx during the 20th anniversary celebration of his farm recently. During the ceremony, Surya distributed honey produced in his farm to all the participants and other stakeholders. In an interview with ApEx, Surya shared insights into his farm and beekeeping as a profession. Excerpts:

Please tell us about your farm.

I produce almost 1,500 kg of honey every year. I have set up 300 bee hives in fields that I have taken on lease from other farmers. You can see my hives in the mustard fields. Honey is not only beneficial for health but also has the potential to attract foreign investments. It serves as a medicine for numerous diseases as it has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and antibacterial agents. In cold weather, it is highly beneficial when consumed with hot water.

Why are you distributing your honey for free today?

I have observed a lesser interest in locals compared to people of other countries when it comes to consumption of honey. I want to increase the value of honey for locals and express gratitude to my neighbors, stakeholders, and acquaintances for their support extended to me. That is why I distributed honey free of cost to celebrate 20th anniversary of my farm

 You are known world over despite coming from a small village. What do you think are the reasons behind your success?

One needs to have a willpower to succeed. I did not conduct any feasibility study before starting my business. I dedicated myself fully to my farm, making decisions based on my own assessment of whether to continue the work. The area where I keep my hives is recognized for its wetland and abundant biodiversity with medicinal plants. Honey produced here is of high quality. My dedication led me to gain global recognition, and I did not give up despite facing challenges initially. I have provided training to youth volunteers from various countries, and the global demand for organic honey has increased. This has prompted people to learn the indigenous beekeeping techniques.

How do you see beekeeping contributing to national development?

Every sector can contribute to the national economy if managed well. Beekeeping can attract significant capital, but unfortunately, the government's response to this sector has been disappointing. No research has been undertaken to measure the potential of beekeeping among diverse natural plant species. Local farmers are not getting due recognition. People from different parts of the country have invited me to learn beekeeping. But not a single local unit is taking initiative to expand beekeeping. The government's indifference to this sector has led to a scarcity of technicians to guide and innovate in beekeeping.

Forming governments, formulating laws, overseeing parliamentary functions, conducting hearings and approving annual budgets are the main responsibilities of legislatures. While these functions collectively define the essence of parliamentary duties, the main responsibility remains the formulation of laws.  The winter session of parliament, also known as the bill session, is beginning on Feb 5. The track record of the previous session is not satisfactory when it comes to formulating laws. All the stakeholders, the government, parliament secretariat and political parties, therefore, must be serious about providing sufficient business to the house in this session.

The delay in endorsing crucial bills is impeding the functioning of the federal, provincial, and local governments. Of particular concern is the prolonged delay in endorsing the Amendments to Some Laws relating to AML and Business Promotion Bill which has been gathering dust in the Federal Parliament Secretariat for two years. The failure to promptly endorse this crucial bill is increasing the risk of Nepal being listed by the Financial Action Task Force as a jurisdiction with strategic AML/CFT deficiencies. Political parties must recognize the potential repercussions it could have on Nepal's global financial standing and correspondent banking relationships, and act swiftly to address these concerns. 

Equally pressing is the need for immediate endorsement of crucial bills such as the one related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Although top party leaders have held numerous discussions on the Bill, key contentious issues still remain unresolved. Despite this, the government is preparing to endorse the bill during the winter session.  The Parliament is losing the trust of the people as it fails to perform its key tasks. The operational costs of Parliament are significant, but the performance of both Parliament and parliamentarians is disheartening. It is important for parliamentarians to collaborate with the government in ensuring the timely fulfillment of their legislative responsibilities. 

To expedite the law-making process, parliamentarians can collectively urge the government to provide the necessary business and work towards a consensus on key bills. The continued sluggish pace threatens to further diminish public faith in Parliament, especially at a time when there is growing discontent with the current constitution and political systems. The failure of Parliament to enact laws in a timely manner is affecting effective functioning of the federal system, thereby raising questions about the relevance of such structures. The government, major political parties, and lawmakers need to address the issue urgently because an ineffective Parliament means there will be more attacks on the system.

A university is a center for brainstorming, exploration and processing of knowledge. Data from around the world have confirmed that quality university education plays a major role in laying the foundation for the development of economic and strategic might of countries. 

Of late, Nepal's higher education and universities have emerged as a topic for a discourse, thanks to a declining state of these institutions and a subsequent surge in the number of students heading abroad for higher education.

University education started in Nepal in 1959 with the establishment of the Tribhuvan University (TU). Sixty-five years later, we continue to lag behind in almost all sectors because of our inability to utilize our universities in the interest of the country, an inability which has a role in rendering the state dysfunctional. This article mainly seeks to explore the reasons behind a sorry state of affairs in our universities by looking into the advent of university education in brief.  

The legacy

Modern university education dates back to the 11th century. At the end of the 11th century, the University of Bologna ‘Studium’ took shape in Italy, followed by the University of Paris in France (1150) and a number of universities across European countries. These centers of higher learning began focusing on scientific research, heralding a new dawn in the development of science and technology and strengthening as well as expanding the state. Through the technological prowess that flowed through these universities that propagated university education globally, Europe established its empires around the world over the centuries. 

Western varsity in Asia 

The Western model university came into being in Asia with the establishment of the University of Calcutta in 1857 under British rule. In its early days, the varsity showed a lot of promise, producing world-renowned scientists and economists such as CV Raman, Chandrasekhar, Ramakrishnan, Hargobind Khorana and Amartya Sen. But the varsity failed to pave the way for diversified research, a predicament no different from that of the TU.

However, Japan, another country in Asia, started its educational cooperation with Europe in 1877 with the establishment of the Tokyo University. Japan has not only become an economic superpower in a short period of time on the strength of new science and technological development, but is also competing with the West in the field of creative intelligence and producing dozens of Nobel Prize winners. 

This university has established itself as an institute capable of solving problems of a fast-changing world. Interestingly, Nepal was under the rule of Jung Bahadur at the time of establishment of universities in Calcutta and Tokyo. The Rana ruler had a cordial relationship with the British Empire, but did not bother to use this leverage for introducing university education in Nepal. Thanks to this myopia, university education got delayed in Nepal by about a century. 

A decisive push for reforms

A review of world history shows a number of countries shifting focus on university reforms after overcoming internal/external conflict and achieving a level of national prosperity. 

In the case of Nepal, even decades after the establishment of its first university and several other universities, no meaningful effort has been made to transform them into centers of knowledge and innovation. Political interference, measly investments from the state, weak standards for faculty selection and incentives are mainly to blame for this. 

Unchecked political interference has been taking a toll on university education for decades and institutionalizing mismanagement. Here, professors accused of serious academic charges like intellectual theft get appointed as vice-chancellors, thanks to their political clout and a chauvinist professor gets beaten by chauvinist students on the university premises! It’s obvious that those who landed leadership roles through political connections do not count. Our universities need to undergo reforms for which they need a non-political academic leadership with a credible ground action plan. The state should immediately take concrete steps toward this end by keeping politics away from universities.

Hetauda, a once-sleepy town in Nepal, has recently seen a significant transformation. Its recent elevation to the status of a provincial capital has brought rapid population growth and development to this region. While this transformation is promising, it has also presented a pressing need for smart mobility solutions. The city’s streets, especially the main roads, are struggling to accommodate the growing number of cars, bikes, auto rickshaws, and electric rickshaws. Furthermore, the rising number of private vehicles, especially cars, has intensified issues related to congestion and parking. To ensure Hetauda remains livable for all its residents and visitors, it is essential to address these mobility challenges. In this article, we will explore the significance of smart mobility for Hetauda, highlighting why it is necessary and how it can be adapted to suit the city’s unique needs.

Balancing accessibility for all classes

Hetauda’s recent transformation into a provincial capital brings with it the potential for significant disparities in terms of mobility. It is crucial that the city’s development doesn’t result in a divide between those who own private vehicles and those who do not. Smart mobility solutions can play a pivotal role in ensuring that the city remains accessible and convenient for all social classes. This is not only an issue of convenience but also one of social equity. A city that prioritizes smart mobility ensures that people with cars can move safely while those without private transport can move comfortably and safely as well.

Addressing the parking challenge

One of the immediate problems Hetauda faces with the rising number of vehicles is the issue of parking. The city’s streets, many of which are already quite narrow, struggle to accommodate both moving traffic and parked vehicles. Expanding road infrastructure might not always be a feasible solution due to space constraints and the need to preserve the city’s character. Therefore, implementing smart parking solutions is essential. This includes the development of efficient parking structures, the introduction of time-based parking zones and so on.

Promoting sustainable transportation modes

To alleviate congestion and reduce the environmental impact of the growing number of vehicles, Hetauda can learn valuable lessons from Terai small towns that have successfully integrated sustainable transportation modes. Encouraging cycling as a mode of daily commute is not only eco-friendly but also promotes healthier living. Designing dedicated bike lanes, providing affordable bike-sharing programs, and ensuring bicycle safety measures can make cycling an attractive option for the city’s residents. Public transportation should also be revamped, focusing on making it accessible, reliable, and environmentally friendly. 

Encouraging the use of electric rickshaws

Electric rickshaws have gained popularity in Hetauda due to their energy efficiency and affordability. However, their numbers have grown significantly, contributing to the city’s traffic challenges. To manage this growth effectively, the city can introduce regulations to ensure a sustainable number of electric rickshaws on the road. 

Implementing traffic management solutions

Smart mobility is not just about introducing new modes of transportation; it also involves implementing intelligent traffic management solutions. Utilizing technology to optimize traffic flow, synchronize traffic signals, and provide real-time traffic information to commuters can significantly reduce congestion. Furthermore, intelligent transportation systems can help reduce accidents, making the streets safer for all.

Promoting walkability and urban planning

As Hetauda grows, urban planning becomes increasingly critical. Smart mobility strategies should integrate urban planning that prioritizes walkability. Pedestrians should be provided with safe and well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian zones. Enhancing the city’s aesthetics and creating pleasant public spaces can also contribute to a more vibrant and livable Hetauda.

Investing in education and awareness

The successful implementation of smart mobility solutions in Hetauda also relies on educating the public about the benefits of these changes. Raising awareness about the environmental and social advantages of sustainable transportation modes, as well as the efficient use of personal vehicles, can encourage residents to make more responsible mobility choices.

Collaboration and funding

The transition to smart mobility requires collaboration between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and the community. Public-private partnerships can help in funding and implementing these solutions effectively. Access to grants and subsidies for adopting electric vehicles, developing cycling infrastructure, and improving public transportation can be instrumental in making smart mobility a reality.

In conclusion, Hetauda’s transformation into a bustling city with rapid population growth and development presents both opportunities and challenges. Smart mobility solutions are not only necessary but also a crucial component of ensuring that the city remains livable for all its residents, irrespective of their transportation choices and socio-economic backgrounds. By addressing the issues of accessibility, parking, sustainable transportation, traffic management, urban planning, education, and collaboration, Hetauda can create a model for smart mobility that other cities in Nepal and beyond can emulate. The journey to smart mobility may not be without its hurdles, but the benefits it promises in terms of sustainability, quality of life, and economic development make it a path worth pursuing.