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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.

Suryansh Vaidya is a business leader serving as the director at Vaidya’s Organization of Industries and Trading Houses (VOITH), the CEO at Vaidya Energy, and the founder of Pitstop Incorporated. A graduate of Bentley University, he holds a degree in Business Management with a concentration in entrepreneurship. Vaidya Energy is a sole distributor of Ather Energy, an electric scooter manufacturer. ApEx interviewed Vaidya regarding Ather, business and Nepali market.

How is the automobile market now in Nepal? Has it come to the point before covid?

The automotive market in Nepal has been in an exciting and unpredictable state from the time of covid. That is when I started working in the business and it has been a great learning experience, giving me an opportunity to build myself up stronger. 

The automotive market actually performed well immediately after the pandemic restrictions were lifted. The pent up demand actually boosted sales to pre-covid levels right within a matter of months. We look at the performance now, it’s a different game altogether, this is a market where survival has been a question and can be traced back to some questionable decisions our country made. 

The rapid adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), constituting over 60 percent of new vehicle sales in the past two years, is a pivotal trend with profound implications. This surge necessitates a keen examination of its impact on the market, environment, societal dynamics, and individual behaviors.

This adoption rate signifies a transformative shift in the automotive industry, demanding a strategic response from stakeholders. Beyond market changes, the shift to BEVs aligns with global sustainability goals, emphasizing the urgent need for environmentally responsible transportation choices.

Examining mobility preparedness is crucial; it extends beyond charging infrastructure to include servicing, spare parts availability, and workforce readiness. Gaps in second and third channel service centers underscore the need for strategic training programs to ensure a seamless transition.

The significant workforce employed in the automotive sector, exceeding 100,000 people, underscores the imperative for their smooth transition. Adequate training and opportunities are crucial to adapt to the evolving landscape, ensuring business sustainability.

While acknowledging global investments in charging infrastructure during electric mobility transitions, our government faces fiscal challenges. The current deficit emphasizes the urgency of aggressive government investment, recognizing the private sector's limitations in meeting national needs alone.

In essence, this condensed evaluation underscores the paramount importance of addressing these facets for a sustainable and thriving future of mobility in Nepal.

How did the idea come to tie up with Ather?

Inherited from my grandfather and nurtured by my family, our legacy has granted me the opportunity to explore and expand upon my interests. I find myself incredibly fortunate to be drawn to the dynamic world of mobility, recognizing it as a catalyst for economic development and societal progress. My journey with Toyota, a renowned company, exposed the challenge of reaching a broader audience due to our country’s current policies.

Seeking ways to bridge this gap, Ather, a beacon in the mobility industry, emerged as a potential partner. The initiation was a cold email, a leap of faith that yielded a surprising response from the Ather team. Notably, they remarked on my unique approach—a solitary call in a cafe, contrasting with the typical boardroom settings. Responding to their inquiries, I grounded my answers in comprehensive research, firmly believing in its role as the cornerstone of effective decision-making.

Our exchanges led to an invitation to Bangalore, where I had the opportunity to tour the Ather office, absorb the essence of their company culture, and, to my elation, learn that they had chosen us. The moment was a whirlwind of excitement and ecstasy, tempered by the realization of the substantial challenges that lay ahead.

Every day as I step into the Ather experience center, the memories of that transformative journey resurface. It serves as a constant reminder of the evolution from a speculative cold email to a collaborative partnership with a pioneering mobility company, fueling my determination to navigate the peaks and valleys of this ambitious endeavor.

How is Ather doing in the Nepali market?

Ather has exceeded our expectations, and our dynamic team in Nepal, brimming with energy, persistence, and motivation, has propelled us to success in the two-wheeler segment despite lacking prior experience. Witnessing these vibrant individuals do justice to the brand is truly gratifying. Despite Ather being a young company with just five years of experience in selling scooters, it has evolved into a powerhouse in India. Our gratitude goes to the Indian team for their invaluable support, guidance, and mentorship, ensuring nothing but success for us. We also commend Ather for its adaptability, learning, and success in both our country and the export market—marking their first venture outside of India. With over 100 units sold and a surge in bookings, we are currently out of stock. Our plans include delivering 40+ units for the launch of our second experience center in Lalitpur in January.

We are looking to expand our reach over the country and have been looking for dealers throughout the country. We are planning to expand to Pokhara, Chitwan, Butwal and the East within the next four months and six more markets around the nation by Nov 2024.

We are dedicated to fostering trust within our customer community through our relentless efforts. Expanding our service network is a top priority, aiming to establish numerous touch points for enhanced accessibility. Our focus is on creating a comprehensive charging infrastructure across the country, with a particular emphasis on urban areas while not overlooking highway routes. By the end of March we should have a total 18 chargers across the country with 10 being installed inside the valley by the end of February. Ather has recently achieved approval as the Indian standard, ensuring that all future two-wheeler EVs will feature Ather's plug point. This positions us to effectively serve the growing community of electric vehicle enthusiasts across the nation.

As the director of VOITH, what are the key areas you look into the company?

As a director, I perceive the role merely as a position, drawing from my early involvement in a business-centric family. Embarking on my official career in Toyota’s marketing department, I spearheaded an in-house team that clinched a prestigious marketing award across the entire subcontinent of South West Asia. This success fueled our expansion efforts, leading to the creation of Pitstop—a boutique workshop aimed at providing a personalized mobility experience for the people of Nepal, in collaboration with the skilled team at United Traders Syndicate.

Our journey extended with the establishment of Vaidya Energy, stemming from our association with Ather. Beyond business endeavors, our commitment lies in improving the lives of the people of Nepal by addressing critical needs. This includes delving into renewable energy projects, cultivating corporate agriculture to mitigate food imports and enhance food security, and contributing to education to unlock the full potential of our population. It’s a holistic approach aimed at fostering sustainable development and progress for the nation. Our projects span across developing and researching wind energy projects across Nepal to reduce our reliance on only one source that we have in Nepal. Initiating a citrus farm that would potentially offset imports from India, and establishing high level educational institutions that offer programs to place students in the best tech businesses on the planet. 

What are your suggestions for aspiring young entrepreneurs?

Given my youth, I may not possess the qualifications to dispense advice, but I can certainly share my perspectives and experiences with those who will shape our nation in the coming decades. The current scenario appears disheartening as evidenced by the increasing number of Nepali citizens leaving the country on a daily basis. I hold profound respect for these individuals, recognizing their crucial role in sustaining our economy. My personal journey differs from that of many fellow citizens, and I am acutely aware of the privilege that comes with my circumstances. Grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given, I am committed to utilizing my resources to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of our nation. 

I encourage the youth to look beyond the current state of our nation, maintaining a steadfast hope for our collective future. As the youth, we hold the power to effect positive change and make a lasting impact.

While some may perceive our country as lacking hope and opportunities, I choose to view it as a blank canvas where we can create a meaningful imprint. Opting to work in a developed foreign land might position us as mere components in a larger system, but here, we have the chance to conceptualize and construct that system according to our vision. Recognizing the exceptional potential within our people is inspiring. Traveling globally and hearing outsiders praise Nepali migrants for their unparalleled work ethic, discipline, and creativity brings me joy. We are acknowledged as some of the hardest working, most disciplined, and creative individuals on the planet.

Much like how we wash our hands to stay healthy, practicing good cyber hygiene helps protect against online threats. As we use digital technology for various aspects of our lives, from communication to financial transactions, practicing good cyber hygiene is important. It lets users navigate their digital experience while mitigating potential risks.

SP Pashupati Kumar Ray, 48, has been working in the Nepali Police Cyber Bureau for 27 years. He looks after cybersecurity-related issues and is involved in cybercrime investigations. Babita Shrestha from ApEx talked to Ray about how to deal with and respond to problems in cyber security.

What should we do to secure our devices from cybersecurity threats?

First make sure you regularly update the operating system, antivirus software, and application as it will fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. But at the same time, you should be very mindful of the software you use. Be careful about using pirated software because it often lacks proper security features, making it easier for hackers to find a way in. Some free apps we download might also try to take our information, so it’s good to check and control what data they can access. Also when you set a password, make it strong and unique by mixing letters, numbers, and symbols. I would recommend you turn on two-factor authentication to give extra protection which asks you for a second verification besides the password. Be cautious about clicking on links or downloading things, especially if they come from unknown sources in emails or messages, as they might be harmful.

Are public Wi-Fi networks secure?

While using public networks, it’s best not to do important things like accessing or transmitting highly confidential data, such as online banking or sensitive work information. Don’t use public Wi-Fi when you have to put in your username, password, or OTP. It’s risky because someone could easily steal that information. So I would say it’s better not to use public Wi-Fi for anything related to security, privacy, or transactions with sensitive information. Public Wi-Fi networks are okay for simple internet browsing but it’s still good to check if it’s secure.

How can we avoid phishing attempts or any social engineering attacks?

If you’re receiving phishing attempts, then you should look for signs in email like unfamiliar senders, misspellings, or suspicious URLs. Phishing is all about trickery and stealing information, so it is better when you verify details by making a call if something seems off. Nowadays, AI spots emails that might be scams and pre-inform you about them. It’s always a good idea to double-check if someone asks for personal or financial details unexpectedly.

How can we recognize and avoid fake websites and phishing URLs when browsing the internet?

Fake website links can be tricky. Check if the website’s address has misspellings or extra characters. Make sure the website starts with “https://” and has a padlock icon in the address bar. Use browser security features and antivirus software to stay protected. Make it a habit to double-check. It can help you avoid scams and keep your personal information safe when browsing the internet. Sometimes you also need to trust your instincts about making friends online. Don’t talk to people you don’t know, stay away from suspicious links, and be careful about sharing too much. ‘Stop, Think, and Connect’ before clicking or sharing anything online.

Is there a way to prevent unauthorized access?

To keep your online accounts safe, use strong and different passwords for each one of them. If you can, turn on two-factor authentication. Change passwords regularly and avoid using easy-to-guess details like birthdays. Make sure to adjust privacy settings on social media and other accounts. Also, be cautious about what you install on your devices and check what it’s allowed to do before saying ‘yes’. I suggest you get your application from trusted places to avoid downloading malicious software.

What are your thoughts on virtual private networks (VPNs)?

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are good for keeping your online stuff safe. But, again, you need to be careful where you get them. For example, when TikTok was banned in Nepal some people downloaded VPNs for free to use it. The VPN itself isn’t bad, but if you download it from the wrong place, like for free, it might bring harmful stuff like spyware or malware software along with it. This can harm your computer and even let hackers in. So, it’s better to be safe and get your VPN from a trusted source, especially if you’re using it to keep your data safe.

What resources are available for reporting online harassment or cyberbullying in Nepal?

If someone is bothering or bullying you online, I suggest you save messages or take screenshots to prove what’s going on. Report the problem to the Nepal Police by filing a complaint. You have to explain the situation and show any evidence you have. The police will look into it and take action against the person causing problems. But you should act within 35 days of the incident. Otherwise, the case might get dismissed as per the Electronic Transaction Act. The Nepal Police are here to help so don’t hesitate to contact them if you’re dealing with online harassment.

Those who practice yoga vouch for its many benefits. They say it is good for their overall wellbeing, that it makes them calmer and agile. Though research into it is still preliminary, scientific evidence supports what yogis have been claiming for decades—yoga, if done right, can be therapeutic. 

Zahyan Shahani is a yoga instructor. She conducts yoga classes at her studio, Zenned Out, in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur. She has been practicing yoga for almost a decade. She spoke to Babita Shrestha from ApEx about the healing benefits of yoga, how it can make you more mindful of the present, and why the early hours of the morning is considered to be the best time to practice yoga.

Are there any health benefits of regular yoga practice?

Yoga is a great way to make you more focused on whatever you’re doing. It can help you stay calm, handle stress, and even deal with mood swings. If you have health issues, it might ease the symptoms. It keeps your organs and breathing in good shape. Following the right poses and sequences can strengthen your muscles, make you more flexible, and improve how you move around. Yoga isn’t just about the body but also keeps your mind healthy, helps you sleep better, and keeps you on track.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to do yoga? 

I’d recommend finding a workout that suits you and easily fits into your daily life. Think of it as a long term fitness regime and not a temporary trend. Start with a nearby studio or instructor to understand the basics of breathing, alignment, and techniques. It’s crucial in the beginning to prevent potential long-term damage to your bones or muscles. You might not immediately have issues but they could catch up later if you’re not practicing correctly. Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, you can practice on your own. 

Is there a good time to practice yoga?

Practicing yoga in the morning sets a positive tone for the day, helping you focus on your purpose and approach the day with the right mindset. If you’re interested in why mornings are ideal for yoga, explore ‘Brahma Muhurta’. This Sanskrit term translates to ‘time of Brahma’,’sacred time’, ‘time of divinity’ or ‘the creator’s time.’ It refers to the period just before sunrise, which is believed to be when your life force is at its strongest. Practicing yoga during this time can make a big difference in how you tackle the day.

How does yoga contribute to improving flexibility and mental well-being? 

The practice of yoga, particularly through various asanas, not only enhances physical fitness but helps you create a healthy space between joints by elongating tight muscles. It allows connection between deeper sets of muscles. If you love a slow and gentle asana practice, you can opt for Yin Yoga but if you like it to be fast paced, you can  go for Vinyasa or Power Yoga. There is Ashtanga Yoga for the ones who love routine sequences. Pranayama practice along with gentle asanas that open up the back, chest, and abdominal muscles can also help you with respiratory health.

Can you share a simple yoga tip that anyone can use in their day to day life? 

There’s this yoga move called Vajrasana. It’s one of the simplest asanas. You can do it right after you’ve had lunch or dinner. It’s not just good for improving slow digestion but also helps you if you’re dealing with issues like infection or gastroenteritis. On top of giving your digestive system a boost, it also keeps your spine healthy. As for other asanas, I recommend you do them on an empty stomach or a few hours after having food. If you’ve got any spinal health issues, it’s better to have someone guide you through yoga practice.

What are some things to keep in mind before starting a yoga session?

For anyone dealing with specific health concerns, especially back pain, my advice would be to have a chat with your yoga instructor or healthcare provider before diving into practice. Simple things like checking your daily posture and adjusting your pillow and mattress can also make a big difference. Don’t shy away from using props or any modifications because they can make bending and stretching easier.

Yoga shouldn’t cause you pain or discomfort, though it might make you a bit sore at the start. Communicate with your instructor to make any necessary adjustments in your yoga routine. When it comes to backbends, take it easy. Don’t push yourself into something that doesn’t feel right. Even a simple sequence like the Cobra pose can do more harm than good if not done correctly.

Should meditation be a part of your yoga sessions? 

If you’re new to meditation, guided sessions can be a good way to start. It’s all about being mindful, doing away with distractions, and dedicating quality time to yourself. It helps you reflect on your own thoughts. What I strongly believe is that we often have the answers within us but most of the time we just seek validation from external sources. Meditation helps release all that stress, trauma, anxiety and the constant mental turmoil between the past, present and future. If you’re just starting out, take baby steps with meditation. Even two to five minutes is a great beginning and you can build up from there.