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As consumers, we all have experienced instances of being misled or cheated. Fortunately, we now have a dedicated avenue for seeking justice: the Consumer Court. 

The government of Nepal published a notice in the Gazette on Feb 10, announcing the formation of such a court in the Kathmandu Valley, which will begin hearing the cases from March 15. Such courts are yet to take shape in other parts of the country, though Section 41 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2018 allows relevant authorities to establish consumer courts across the country.  

In 2022, the Supreme Court’s division bench of Justices Bam Kumar Shrestha and Nahkul Subedi, in the case filed by Forum for the Protection of Consumer Rights, directed the government to establish consumer courts in all provinces to uphold consumer’s rights and interests and curb unfair trade practices. 

Three years into the top court ruling and nearly six years after the enactment of the Act, 2018, the government has decided to partially implement the legal mandates by constituting a Consumer Court in the capital city. Against this backdrop, let’s have a look at the legal arrangements under the 2018 Act, a specialized legislation designed to safeguard the interest of buyers.   

Consumer Court 

The law envisages that the Consumer Court shall consist of a Chairperson, a government-designated district judge, and two gazetted second class officers. One of these officers must be from the judicial service, while the other may be selected from the administrative service at the discretion of the government. The decisions of the Consumer Court can be challenged before the concerned High Court within 35 days.

Rights of consumers

Article 44 of the Constitution of Nepal grants every consumer the right to obtain quality goods and services. The government has enacted “Consumer Protection Act, 2018” to translate the constitutional mandates into action. This law intends to provide remedy to the aggrieved consumers, secure their rights and address their concerns. 

Section 3 of the Act guarantees rights to every consumer to have quality goods and services. Clause-2 confers extensive rights to consumers, including the right to have accessible reach over goods and services, right to select quality goods and services at competitive prices and the right to know the details of products such as price, quantity and purity. 

This respect, the consumers have the right to know about the composition of the product, the distributor, manufacturer and among other details as to the product. Along with this, the consumers have the right to initiate legal action against unfair trade practices. They could claim compensation against the loss caused by the goods and services.

Government role 

As per Section 4(1), the government shall keep an eye on details of the product such as quality, maximum retail price, label and advertisement for the protection of consumer rights.

The Ministry of Industry has been conferred with a plethora of powers, including that of formulating policy as to goods or services' standard, price and accessibility; framing plan of action to fight against “unfair trade practices” and initiating a regular analysis of goods and services consumed in the country. 

The “Consumer Protection Council” led by the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies plays an instrumental role in making policies on the matters incidental to the rights of consumers.

There appears to be a “Central Market Monitoring Committee” under the coordination of the Secretary, Ministry of Industry. This Committee has been entrusted with the power to ensure “protection of the rights and interests of the consumers or for making coordination among the bodies involved in the monitoring or inspection of the supply system.” This Committee dispenses many functions, including that of identifying the shortage of goods or services in market; to monitor and supervise the “Supply System”, to make recommendation for “market monitoring”, to maintain coordination in the function of the “Market Monitoring Team” and “Local Monitoring Committee” or to form committees or subcommittees or to set up “Consumer Information Centre. The “Market Monitoring Committee” could be established at provincial levels [Section 27].

Duty of manufacturers 

The manufacturer would have to use labels in their products by displaying the credentials like the name and address of the manufacturer, composition, weight and quantity, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, guarantee and warranty details. 

The information about the products produced from Nepal should be written in Nepali or English. The products without label should not be sold or distributed in Nepal [Section 6(4)]. However, the unpacked agricultural produce or fruits could be sold in the open market without a label. But, the vegetables and fruits which are for export need to be labelled. 

Also, the manufacturers have a duty to manufacture quality goods and services. They should refrain themselves from producing sub-standard products. The service providers should maintain transparency.

Unfair trade practices

Under Section 16, the Act provides that no person shall do or cause to do any form of “unfair trade practice”. The goods and services providers or any person should not hide information as to the label, price and other details and fix a new one to charge more than the actual retail price. The advertisement should not be made false or misleading.

The substandard goods should not be re-labelled for deception purposes. The creation of artificial shortage of goods, hoarding has been banned by this law under Section 16. The goods which are not good for consumption should not be sold or made available to consumers. Section 18 outlaws the sale or distribution of the substandard goods. 

The government of Nepal has been empowered to determine the list of essential food and other goods or services by notification in gazette [Section 19]. This respect, the law remains centralized. This law suggests that the employees of the Centre, Province or local bodies could be designated as Inspectors.  

Way forward 

Protecting and promoting consumerism is a challenging task unless there is awareness among buyers (Caveat Emptor) and accountability among sellers and service providers (Caveat Venditor). The establishment of institutional mechanisms, the formation of consumer courts across the country and the strict enforcement of law and order are essential to effectively realize the mandates of the consumer protection laws.

The state has made a positive step toward advancing consumerism by establishing a dedicated court, initially in Kathmandu. For true progress in consumer rights, the government, people, manufacturers, sellers, service providers and all stakeholders must stand on the same page. After all, Nepal deserves a robust system and society that upholds the rights of its consumers.

After years of strained relations, China has recently intensified its engagement with the Nepali Congress (NC), Nepal’s oldest and largest democratic party. Over the past decade, the relationship between China and the NC had soured due to various political and diplomatic reasons. However, recent developments indicate a shift in China’s approach, as Chinese diplomats and leaders of the Communist Party of China (CPC) have begun actively engaging with NC leaders.

A notable example of this renewed engagement is the recent visit of an NC delegation led by senior leader Sujata Koirala to China. During the visit, the delegation toured several Chinese cities, including Chengdu, and held meetings with senior CPC officials. This marks a significant step in China’s efforts to strengthen ties with the Koirala family, a prominent political dynasty within the NC.

In early March, Sun Haiyan, Vice-Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met with Koirala. According to a Chinese readout, Sun praised the NC and the Koirala family for their long-standing commitment to fostering China-Nepal friendship and for upholding the correct stance on issues related to Xizang (Tibet) and Taiwan. Sun emphasized the CPC’s willingness to enhance exchanges and cooperation with the NC and other major political parties in Nepal, urging both sides to focus on implementing the consensus reached between the two countries.

Koirala, in response, reaffirmed the NC’s firm support for the One-China principle and expressed her party’s eagerness to leverage the 70th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic relations to deepen mutual understanding and collaboration. This marks a notable shift from the past, when relations between China and the NC deteriorated significantly. One key incident was in 2016, when NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba shared a stage with a representative of the Tibetan government-in-exile at an event organized by the India Foundation in Goa. This incident, among others, led to a period of mistrust and strained ties.

Other factors contributing to the rift included China’s preferential engagement with Nepal’s communist parties, often at the expense of sidelining the NC, as well as the NC’s public criticism of China’s alleged border encroachment and its cautious stance on China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). During this period, Chinese state media frequently portrayed the NC as a pro-Indian party, further exacerbating tensions.

However, relations began to improve following the signing of the Framework for Belt and Road Cooperation during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to China in December 2023. NC General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa and Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba played pivotal roles in facilitating the agreement, despite strong opposition within their own party. Their support for the BRI marked a turning point in China-NC relations, even as senior NC leaders like Prakash Sharan Mahat and NP Saud continued to voice concerns about the initiative, arguing that it contradicted the party’s position against taking loans under the BRI.

Since the signing of the BRI agreement, there has been a noticeable increase in visits by NC leaders to China, and the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu has actively engaged with senior NC figures. This represents a departure from China’s previous approach of primarily engaging with Nepal’s communist parties, a trend that had persisted for over a decade. During this period, China focused on fostering unity among Nepal’s communist factions, leading to a perception among NC leaders that they were being marginalized.

China’s recent outreach to the NC suggests a recognition of the need to broaden its engagement beyond communist parties. This shift is seen as an effort to build a more balanced and inclusive relationship with Nepal’s political landscape. While senior communist leaders have frequently visited China over the years, NC leaders have rarely done so. The current wave of engagement indicates that both sides are working to address past misunderstandings and strengthen bilateral ties.

This renewed engagement comes at a critical juncture, as China seeks to consolidate its influence in Nepal amid evolving regional dynamics. By fostering closer ties with the NC, China aims to ensure that its initiatives, including the BRI, gain broader political support within Nepal. For the NC, this represents an opportunity to reaffirm its role as a key player in Nepal’s foreign policy and to balance its relationships with both China and India.

The degradation of public commons—ponds, forests, and water sources—has left many communities vulnerable to climate change. The focus must shift to solutions, reforms, and community-driven initiatives that can rebuild resilience and ensure equitable access to resources.

Juddha Bahadur Gurung, member at National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission (NNRFC), quips, “Public commons are for all, but not cared for by all.” Solid waste is directly dumped into rivers and ponds, while polluted air from industries is released into the atmosphere. “Such actions significantly degrade public commons, yet no one seems concerned about their care,” says Gurung.

Public commons, which are also natural resource ecosystems, provide four essential services: provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services. However, many people have yet to fully realize the value of these services. 

Nepal’s existing environmental and climate policies acknowledge the importance of public commons but fail to effectively integrate them into climate adaptation strategies. The Local Government Operation Act 2017 assigns responsibility for resource management to municipalities, but its implementation remains weak due to insufficient technical expertise and funding constraints. Similarly, the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2021 recognizes climate risks but lacks concrete provisions for restoring commons as a resilience strategy.

To address this issue, experts ApEx talked to recommend several key measures. First, they propose establishing a dedicated restoration program to regenerate ponds, communal water bodies, and degraded forests. They also emphasize the need for climate-responsive urban planning to ensure that infrastructure projects do not encroach upon natural water systems and commons, preventing further degradation. Strengthening legal protections for commons is crucial to preventing the privatization of public resources and ensuring their equitable governance.

Despite policy gaps, several grassroots initiatives offer replicable models for sustainable resource management. In many local areas, communities have successfully revived traditional water harvesting systems, such as ‘dhunge dharas’ (stone spouts), reducing reliance on the often unreliable municipal water supply. The community forest program has also proven to be an effective climate buffer, empowering local groups to manage forest resources, prevent degradation, and support livelihoods. Expanding this model to include wetlands and water sources could further strengthen local adaptation efforts. Additionally, in the Tarai region, farmer cooperatives are reviving small-scale irrigation ponds, demonstrating how decentralized initiatives can mitigate water scarcity and enhance agricultural productivity.

Integrating technology can significantly enhance public commons management by enabling data-driven decision-making and efficient resource allocation. Satellite monitoring and GIS mapping can help identify lost or degraded commons, allowing for targeted restoration efforts. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered climate forecasting can provide early warnings to communities that rely on commons for agriculture and livelihoods, helping them prepare for climate-induced disruptions. As AI continues to develop rapidly, there should be discussions on how it can assist with public commons management. If other countries have successfully applied AI, we should learn from their experiences. Additionally, promoting water conservation infrastructure, such as decentralized rainwater harvesting, recharge wells, and nature-based solutions, can ensure sustainable water management and resilience against water scarcity.

Avishek Shrestha, Program Director at Digo Bikas Institute, says, “Public commons have always been shared resources for communities. In Kathmandu, Durbar Squares serve as public commons, providing spaces for gatherings in what was once an isolated city. However, their importance is increasingly undermined.” 

For lasting impact, local communities must play an active role in decision-making regarding public commons management. Participatory budgeting allows municipal funds to be allocated for commons restoration based on community needs, ensuring that resources are directed where they are most needed. Citizen monitoring committees can help maintain accountability in resource governance, preventing the misuse of funds and ensuring transparent management. Public awareness campaigns are also crucial for educating communities about their rights to access and restore commons, fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility.

Public commons are not just environmental assets; they are lifelines for marginalized communities facing the harshest climate impacts. Strengthening policies, fostering community-led initiatives, and leveraging technology are crucial steps toward climate resilience. Without urgent action, the erosion of commons will continue to deepen social and economic disparities, leaving vulnerable populations increasingly exposed to climate crises.

The path forward requires a collective effort—policymakers must prioritize public commons restoration, local governments must implement inclusive strategies, and communities must actively engage in safeguarding their shared resources. Only through such an integrated approach can Nepal build a climate-resilient future for all.

Indira Kumari Shreesh, Chairperson, Indigenous Women Legal Awareness Group (INWOLAG) says: “Through my observations and research, I have found that, under the guise of various developments, our public commons—vital for climate resilience—are being destroyed, and all levels of government are equally complicit in this.” 

We have traveled across the nation, visiting rural areas and meeting indigenous communities to raise awareness about this destruction, she says,  however, we are not against development; rather, we advocate for sustainable development. “It should not only preserve the fabric of human communities but also protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems.”

Climate change is causing big problems for Nepal’s farming, putting food security, jobs, and the economy at risk. Scientists say Nepal is the fourth most vulnerable country in the world when it comes to climate impacts, and it also ranks high on the Global Hunger Index. The effects of climate change are already being felt in farming, forestry, and fishing. 

Experts warn that many districts in Nepal could face food shortages in the future. To tackle this, they recommend ‘Climate Smart Agriculture.’ But while new technologies are important, we shouldn’t forget the wisdom of our ancestors. Traditional food preservation methods, like fermentation, could be a powerful tool to fight food insecurity caused by climate change.

Fermentation is one of the oldest ways to preserve food. In Nepal, a country with diverse landscapes, cultures, and cuisines, fermentation has been a key part of life for centuries. From the high Himalayas to the Terai plains, every community has its own unique fermented foods. These foods are not just about survival—they are also about culture, nutrition, and flavor.

Fermentation is a natural process that uses bacteria or yeast to preserve food. It makes food last longer and adds new flavors and textures. Fermented foods are also rich in probiotics, which are good for gut health. In Nepal, with its 128 ethnic groups, fermented foods are a treasure trove of tradition and nutrition. Let’s take a closer look at some of these foods and how they can help us adapt to climate change.

Kinema (fermented soybean)

Kinema is a protein-rich food made from fermented soybeans. To make kinema, cooked soybeans are wrapped in banana leaves and left to ferment for a few days. The result is a sticky, strong-smelling food with a rich umami flavor. It’s used in stews, stir-fries, or eaten as a side dish.

Chhurpi (fermented cheese)

Chhurpi is a type of cheese made from yak or cow milk. It comes in two forms: soft and hard. The hard version can last for years, making it a great food for harsh climates. Soft chhurpi is used in soups and stews, while the hard version is chewed as a snack. 

Serkam (fermented butter) 

Serkam is fermented butter used in Tibetan and Sherpa diets. It’s a key ingredient in butter tea and traditional stews. The fermentation process gives it a rich, unique flavor.

Gundruk (fermented leafy greens)

Gundruk is one of Nepal’s most famous fermented foods. It’s made from mustard, radish, or cauliflower leaves. The leaves are wilted, packed tightly, and left to ferment before being sun-dried. Gundruk is used in soups, curries, and as a pickle.

Sinki (fermented radish taproot)

Sinki is similar to gundruk but made from radish taproots. The radish is packed into bamboo containers and left to ferment for weeks. The result is a tangy, pungent food that can be stored for years.

Purano mula (fermented radish)

Up to 40 years ago, fermented radishes were a common sight in Kathmandu’s Asan Bazar. These radishes were used in pickles, stews, and other dishes, adding a unique flavor.

Tama (bamboo shoot) 

Tama is fermented bamboo shoots, a popular ingredient in Nepali cuisine. It’s used in curries, pickles, and chutneys, giving dishes a tangy flavor.

Akbare chili and salt (naturally fermented chili)

This simple yet powerful fermentation process involves preserving bird’s eye chili in salt. The result is a fiery condiment full of flavor.

Khalpi (fermented cucumber pickle)

Khalpi is a pickle made from overripe cucumbers. It’s fermented with salt, mustard seeds, and spices, creating a cooling and digestive-friendly condiment.

Dahi (yogurt) & lassi

Fermented milk products like yogurt and lassi are popular in Nepal. They are known for their probiotic benefits and are often set in clay pots to enhance flavor.

Masyaura, biriya, and tilkor tarua

These are protein-rich fermented foods made from lentils or black gram. They are used in curries and stews, providing essential nutrients.

Fermented mustard pickles

Mustard seeds are a key ingredient in Nepali pickles. They add a pungent flavor and have antimicrobial properties that help preserve the pickles.

Traditional alcoholic beverages

Fermentation is also used to make traditional drinks like tongba, jaad, and raksi. These beverages are part of cultural celebrations and rituals.

With climate change threatening food security, fermented foods offer a sustainable solution. They are easy to make, require no electricity, and can be stored for long periods. They are also packed with nutrients and probiotics, making them a healthy choice. As the world becomes more interested in gut health and probiotics, Nepal’s fermented foods could gain global attention. Scientists are already studying how these traditional methods can improve food security and health.

But perhaps the most important lesson is this: Adapting to climate change isn’t just about adopting new technologies. It’s also about revisiting the traditional knowledge of our communities. Fermented foods are a perfect example of how ancient wisdom can help us face modern challenges. By preserving and promoting these foods, we can ensure a more secure and sustainable future for Nepal.

The author is a London-based R&D chef