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Over the span of four decades, community forests (CF) in Nepal have emerged as transformative forces, profoundly impacting the lives of forest-dependent communities. Renowned globally for their prowess in carbon sequestration, regeneration, and localized environmental protection, these initiatives have undeniably flourished. However, amidst this acclaim looms a critical inquiry: do they genuinely amplify the voices of the marginalized?

Despite their laudable achievements, the landscape of gender equality, disability rights, and social inclusion remains shrouded in ambiguity and skepticism. By definition, socially excluded groups (SEG) encompass a spectrum ranging from women and Dalits to Adivasi Janajatis, Madhesi, Muslims, and people with disabilities, along with those from geographically remote locales. While many project interventions claim to incorporate the perspectives of these segments, the reality often falls short. In particular, individuals with disabilities find themselves relegated to token representation, existing merely to fulfill bureaucratic checkboxes. Despite their numerical significance (2.2 percent of the total country population), their voices are frequently sidelined, ignored, or dismissed when it comes to crucial decision-making processes dominated by the elite. Are they truly empowered to wield their rights and privileges to the fullest extent?

Although various quotas and reservation systems ostensibly aim to uplift these communities, their tangible impact within the realm of community forestry remains wanting. Their limited involvement and exposure underscore their status as the most marginalized within CF initiatives, facing discrimination long before access to even the most basic resources. Amidst this landscape of inequity and partiality, the story of Bishnu Lamsal from Sundari CF representing the people with disabilities community, nestled in the heart of Nawalpur, stands as a beacon of possibility. Her journey exemplifies how empowering disabled communities within CF initiatives can yield profound transformations.

Bishnu Lamsal epitomizes empowerment as a differently-abled woman catalyzing change within her community in Sundari Community Forest. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls a stark dichotomy between her early life and her transformative role today. Initially confined within her home not by familial restrictions but societal prejudices, she was perceived as incompetent. However, within Sundari CF, she flourishes, holding multiple pivotal roles including representing the Community Forest User group and serving as Secretary of the saving and cooperatives and Manager of Namaste Women Saving and Cooperatives.

In recounting her socialization process, Lamsal speaks of a profound evolution over the past decade. She traversed from a life devoid of social interactions to becoming a confident and expressive activist. Sundari CF became her gateway to understanding social dynamics, fostering networks, and embracing her identity within society. The transformation is palpable—from being disregarded and confined to limited mobility between home and college, to now being an integral part of the community. Through Sundari CF, she found a platform where her voice is heard, her contributions respected, and her identity redefined. Lamsal’s journey signifies not only personal growth but also the power of inclusive initiatives in redefining societal perceptions and creating meaningful change.

Recalling her journey to becoming a part of Sundari CF as a disabled woman, Lamsal vividly remembers the discrimination that marked her early years, confining her social interactions. Despite these challenges, she was fortunate to have supportive family members who encouraged her to pursue higher education before focusing on her career. Refusing to settle for a job without obtaining her master’s degree, Lamsal visited Sundari CF to receive Baisakhi, an aid provided to disabled individuals as part of the CF’s annual program. During her visit, she noticed a vacancy targeted towards individuals willing to work in the disability sector. However, the eligibility criteria, which included being a high school graduate, female, and proficient in cycling, struck a chord within her. Lamsal found this requirement insensitive, recognizing that not all disabled individuals would possess the ability to ride a bicycle. Determined to challenge this notion, she decided to apply for the position despite feeling unprepared mentally. Her decision stemmed from a desire to prove that disability does not equate to weakness and to advocate for the capabilities of differently-abled individuals. Lamsal emphasizes the importance of inclusive employment practices, highlighting the detrimental impact of insensitive job requirements on marginalized communities already facing limited opportunities.

Lamsal has dedicated a decade to leading the Namaste Women Saving and Cooperatives within Sundari CF. Inspired by a peace campaigner training under the Hariyo Ban Program, over 100 women committed to economic independence and societal impact, leading to the formation of the cooperative. Timber is provided to marginalized women at discounted rates after thorough investigation, ensuring genuine need. Lamsal’s role extends to overseeing Triphala enterprises, managing operations from collection to marketing, and facilitating wage payments. She actively engages with NGOs, INGOs, and local governments to address issues facing the disabled community, advocating for their rights and seeking services. Through her multifaceted involvement, Bishnu strives to empower marginalized women and enhance inclusivity within Sundari CF.

Lamsal praises Sundari CF for its exceptionally inclusive environment, especially for individuals with disabilities. She attests to the ease of working within the CF, noting its progressive policies and programs catering to disabled people. Sundari CF has established a Disability Rehabilitation Committee and Subcommittee to oversee various initiatives, including the distribution of prosthetic limbs, advocacy programs, and commemoration of International Disabilities Day. Disabled individuals receive support through the CFUG fund, further emphasizing the organization's commitment to their welfare.

Sundari CF’s inclusive approach has garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious Ganesh Man Singh Award, thanks to its focus on disability issues. This recognition has extended internationally, with CF members invited to share their expertise in countries like Brazil. Despite Sundari CF’s success, Bishnu observes that other CFs often overlook the perspectives and preferences of disabled people. She advocates for greater inclusion of disabled individuals in CF committees nationwide, stressing the importance of recognizing their capabilities and providing suitable opportunities, such as desk-based work.

Moreover, Lamsal emphasizes the need to avoid underestimating the abilities of disabled individuals, acknowledging that they may excel in different ways, such as administrative tasks. She suggests that CFs should adapt their expectations and recognize the diverse skills disabled people bring to the table. Sundari CF serves as a model for empowering disabled communities through its inclusive practices, demonstrating that with the right support and environment, disabled individuals can achieve remarkable milestones. Lamsal’s advocacy underscores the importance of inclusivity within CF initiatives, not only for the benefit of disabled individuals but also for the broader community’s welfare and progress.

Experts and environmentalists critique Community Forest (CF) policies for marginalizing vulnerable segments like the poor, women, and especially people with disabilities, intensifying their exclusion from rights and responsibilities. While legal frameworks have shifted from Gender Equity and Social Exclusion (GESI) to Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), practical implementation lags, notably within CF initiatives. To foster inclusivity, it’s imperative to identify and address the root causes of exclusion, develop tailored strategies, and rigorously monitor their effectiveness. CF areas should prioritize disabled-friendly infrastructure, including restrooms and seating, while offering support aids. 

By recognizing the diversity within the disabled community and drawing inspiration from individuals like Lamsal, CFs in Nepal can emerge as catalysts for empowering disabled communities. Lamsal’s journey exemplifies how disability can be a source of strength, driving social transformation. Thus, CFs have the potential to lead the charge in creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for people with disabilities.

In an ideal world, food is best consumed fresh. But unfortunately, that isn’t always possible. We are in a rush to get to work, sometimes we are too lazy to cook, or we come back home tired—all these things make it next to impossible to prepare a meal from scratch. These are the times when readymade meals or leftovers come to our rescue. To be able to microwave something from the freezer, put that on a plate, and have a hot meal ready in minutes is a kind of luxury on days when you just want to curl up on the couch and pass out.

 But food must be stored well if we want to prevent illnesses. Storing food correctly can help reduce food waste. Your food will last longer and stay fresher if you store it right. Here are some basic things to do to ensure your food lasts longer, tastes better, and is as healthy as a freshly prepared meal.

 Refrigerate or freeze perishables right away

When you come home from a trip to the grocery store, put away food that requires refrigeration in the refrigerator. Try and follow the ‘two-hour rule’ for leaving items that need refrigeration out at room temperature, not allowing meat, poultry, seafood etc. out longer than two hours. This rule applies for leftovers and take-out foods as well. When stocking the fridge, don’t overcrowd it to allow proper air circulation. Many items come with storage instructions. Check the label and follow them properly. In case of power outage, keep the fridge doors closed to let it keep food cold for as long as four hours.   

Use stored food as soon as possible

Refrigerated ready-to-eat foods such as luncheon meats should be used as soon as possible. If they are stored in the fridge for too long, chances are that Listeria, a bacterium that causes foodborne illness, will grow, especially if the temperature of the refrigerator is above four degrees Celsius. Make sure you throw away food that has gone moldy as it can grow even under refrigeration. Try to consume leftovers within a day or two. It’s also a good idea to check canned goods for damage before consuming them. Rust, cracks, leaks are signs that the food inside might not be the best possible state. Consider exchanging them or tossing them away if they have gone bad.

Freeze food that you won’t be eating right away

Food that is properly frozen and cooked is generally safe. Food that is properly handled and stored in the freezer section will remain safe as bacteria doesn’t grow. But the quality of the food will decrease over time. Depending on how long it sits in the freezer, the tenderness, flavor, aroma, and color can be affected. Store cooked meals or leftovers in airtight containers. There’s little change in food’s nutrient quotient because of freezing so you can enjoy a nutritious meal if you properly freeze food.

Store staples correctly

Staple food items like rice, lentils, flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and other dry goods should be stored in a cool dry place. Use sealed containers or storage bags to maintain their taste and freshness. Store all non-perishable foods away from cleaning supplies and chemicals. It’s also not recommended to store non-perishable food items under the kitchen sink. Try to buy small quantities of rice and other grains to avoid having to store them for longer periods of time. Track the inventory every now and then and try to use older items first.

Learn some storage tricks

Bananas can stay fresh for longer if you wrap the stem in foil. Keep avocados away from direct sunlight if you want to slow down the ripening process. Carrots kept submerged in water in an airtight container in the fridge can last up to two months. Don’t store cheese, eggs, milk, and yogurt on the fridge door as this is the least consistently cold place. Don’t store tomatoes in the fridge as these fruits don’t tolerate the cold well and you will be sacrificing its flavor. Learning some storage tricks like these can help you save money you spend on food by not allowing them to go bad.

Mental health issues are more common than people think. According to the World Health Organization, nearly one in four people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. However, mental health is shrouded in misconceptions that lead to stigmatization and stop people from seeking help. Rastrika Shakya from ApEx talked to three people to find out what they think about the status of mental health in Nepal.

Mohita Upreti, 22

Even in today’s society, mental health is still considered a huge taboo. This generation is competitive, and people struggle to establish their careers. There’s a misconception that this generation is lucky and has everything due to technology and other advancements but the reality couldn’t be more different. Many people are masking their true selves, hiding their struggles to avoid being perceived as weak. In my opinion, it’s okay to be yourself. You’re valuable. While the generation is competitive, success will come when the time is right. Engage in self-care and let’s try to understand ourselves better.

Chunu Shrestha, 39

A huge misconception about mental health in our society today is the idea that experiencing mental health issues equates to personal failure or weakness. This misconception can lead to individuals feeling ashamed or reluctant to seek help, fearing judgment or stigma from others. It’s crucial to understand that mental health challenges are common and can affect anyone, regardless of their strength or character. Seeking support for mental health concerns is a courageous step towards healing and should be encouraged without judgment or stigma.

Manila Manandhar, 48

A common misconception about mental health is the belief that it’s solely about ‘mind over matter’ or that individuals can simply ‘snap out of it’ if they try hard enough. This misconception ignores the complex biological and environmental factors that contribute to mental health conditions. It also minimizes the significant impact that mental health challenges can have on a person’s daily life and functioning. Understanding that mental health issues are legitimate medical conditions, often requiring professional intervention and support, is essential in combating stigma and promoting understanding and empathy in society.

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries

Heather Fawcett

Fantasy

A curmudgeonly professor journeys to a small town in the far north in this “incredibly fun journey through fae lands and dark magic”. The book marks the start of a heartwarming and enchanting new fantasy series. Enchanting in every sense of the word, Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries is a delight of snow-laden forests and changelings, folklore and faerie kings, meticulous footnotes, and academic rivalry and adventure. This book is an absolute delight. 

When Things Don’t Go Your Way

Haemin Sunim

Self-help 

Have you ever felt like life has thrown you a curveball? Are you struggling to overcome unexpected challenges and setbacks? While loss, heartbreak, and loneliness are all part of the human experience, in this warm guide, internationally bestselling author Haemin Sunim shows us that these moments can be rare opportunities for self-discovery. Drawing on Zen Buddhist philosophy and Sunim’s own experiences, When Things Don’t Go Your Way helps you navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

Happiness Falls

Angie Kim

Mystery 

When a father goes missing, his family’s desperate search leads them to question everything they know about him and one another in this thrilling page-turner, a deeply moving portrait of a family in crisis from the award-winning author of Miracle Creek. This is a story with many twists and turns. It’s a brilliant, satisfying, compassionate mystery that is as much about language and storytelling as it is about a missing father.