(Courtesy: Dr. Hari Bansha Dulal)
Annie Lowrey of Foreign Policy, the award-winning magazine of global politics, economics, and ideas founded by Samuel Huntington and Warren Demian Manshel lists Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s government as one of the five governments worldwide that deserves to fail. One of the major charges against him is that he has been unable to maintain political stability and contain violence. Lowrey asserts, “Prachanda must maintain political stability and avoid any violence at all costs – or Nepal risks catastrophe.”
Lowrey correctly identifies what needs to be done in order to avert catastrophe, which in my view is not that difficult, but whether or not Prime Minister Dahal is doing enough to maintain political stability and contain violence is the most important question. Is Lowrey overreacting? No! Somalia and Afghanistan are excellent examples that showcase what political instability and violence can do to a nation.
Some of us think that political instability and violence are part of a package that a nation trying to take a giant leap has to live with for a while. But how long should that period be allowed to exist? The shorter, the better. And, it really depends upon the ability of the political leadership of the country in question to understand what political instability and violence can do to the overall economy and social fabric. For example, in poor landlocked Botswana, a unique form of democracy combining British parliamentary ideas with African traditions has been functioning well since the 1960s. A free press and a lively political system have developed. One of the many reasons why Botswana is a functional democracy in a largely dysfunctional continent is because the statesmen that took over were mindful of the importance of political stability and law and order in the country. On the contrary, seemingly endless ethnic conflicts in Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, Nigeria, Chad, Angola, Ethiopia, and the Congo have cost many millions and made these countries highly unstable. One of the major reasons behind political instability in these countries is that the politicians deliberately invoke "ethnic action and nationalism", for ulterior motives, to achieve political and economic objectives. When that happens conflict takes shape of a vicious circle with no end in sight making political instability a norm rather than an exception.
We have started to see similar signs in Nepal too. While lawlessness continues, politicians talk as if a peaceful democratic transition can be taken for granted. But it cannot. Failure to combat lawlessness and instability undermines a country´s stock of ´social´ capital - that is, the relations of inter-group solidarity and cohesion which allow negotiation, compromise, and agreement between opposing factions. In Nepal, the consequence of the failure to stem the vortex of violence and lawlessness is that the country is fragmenting into an archipelago of competing power factions. Unless these centrifugal forces are contained, the country will drift further and further from a social compact.
The question, however, in the case of Nepal is whether or not Dahal is interested in maintaining political stability and containing violence? If the answer is yes, why is political instability and violence increasing with each passing day?
Anyone following Nepali politics closely knows very well that the Maoists want more political violence and chaos—not less. If you look at the Maoists movement, it becomes evident that as the frequency and magnitude of their violent activities increased, so did their level of recognition and their domination over the existing political parties and the state got greater. For the Maoists, violence pays and as long as they benefit politically from it, they are not going to abandon violence. It’s a no-brainer. The chief ideologue of the Maoist movement, Baburam Bhattarai, has openly admitted that violence and chaos benefits his party politically. If violence did not matter and benefit them politically, they would not have formed the Young Communist League (YCL).
Unlike visionary statesmen such as Jawaharlal Nehru and Nelson Mandela, who followed acts of destruction with greater acts of construction, Nepali Maoists ideologues’ quench for destruction seems to have no boundary. Nehru and Mandela fought tirelessly against oppression and injustices, but after coming to power, they spent many years preserving the systems that their predecessors had put in place. Once in power, Mandela, who had approved radical and violent resistance to apartheid, reached out to White’s to create a multicultural South Africa. Maybe, it is absurd to compare Bhattarai – who thinks destruction alone will pave the way for construction – with Nehru, who preserved existing institutions, which he rightly thought was necessary to build a modern democratic state. The point I am trying to make here is that people without violent streaks have proved to be more constructive in world history. If destruction was the only way towards construction, Somalia and Afghanistan by now would have been the most prosperous state on the face of this earth.
It is time that we, Nepalis, realize that putting too much faith on politicians will only result in disappointment. The moderates within the society need to come out before it is too late. We need to force the state to address the genuine grievances of ethnic minorities and maintain law and order. It is not the ordinary Nepali citizens who are blocking the emancipation of ethnic groups. It is the ruling coalition’s largest partner which is not able to fulfill the promises that it made on its way to get where they are today. Why should an ordinary Nepali struggling to remain afloat pay the price for someone else’s wayward political ambitions?
(This piece was originally published at the following URL: http://www.myrepublica.com/portal/?action=news_details&news_id=4320. It is re-posted here with the author's consent)
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
India Halts Power Supply Deal – No Wonder!
(Courtesy: Ratna Sansar Shrestha)
The following was reported by myrepublica.com on 24th April:
"KATHMANDU, April 24: The action initiated by the Maoist-led government against army chief General Rookmangud Katawal and the polarized views of the political parties on the issue have now affected the power import deal between Nepal and India.The Indian government on Thursday put on hold the agreement to supply 30 MW power to Nepal just two days before it was supposed to be signed."We had finalized everything from our side. But the agreement has now been put on hold," a Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) official told this daily. The source informed that as per the request of the Bihar Board, a letter requesting government of India´s approval on the agreement was sent to the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi through the Indian embassy in Kathmandu on April 22. However, the Ministry did not send a consent to the request.A week ago, the NEA had forwarded a memorandum of understanding to the Power Board of Bihar to import the additional 30 MW of electricity at the rate of IRs 4.79 per unit for a period of two months.“Both sides had settled all issues and conditions for the import,” the source added.The Power Trading Corporation (PTC) of India was making necessary arrangements for the import to Nepal via Ramnagar in Bihar.The development comes amid reports that the Indian government has been inserting pressure on the Maoist-led government in Nepal against the dismissal of the army chief.Indian ambassador to Nepal Rakesh Sood on Thursday flew to New Delhi, canceling all appointments here, to brief the South Block on the ´current developments´ in Nepal."
However, it will take a while for it to dawn on most of our hydrocracy (bureaucracy, politicos, intelligentsia, media persons, business community, bankers involved in the hydropower sector) that export of power to Nepal is an additional weapon in Indian arsenal for her against Nepal (as is the trade and transit) to ensure that Nepal toes the line, they want her to. I dare to trust that people in Nepal haven’t forgotten (although “people” are famed to have very short memory) about the trade embargo and transit blockade that India imposed on Nepal in late 80’s leading to “people’s movement I”. What ensued is in the pages of history obviating repetition here.
In the same vein, when I read about Nepal’s plan to import 500 MW from India, while I was vacationing in Vientiane with my brand new granddaughter, I had tears in my eyes trying to stop myself from laughing uncontrollably for quite a while. This was exactly what I was worried about – India using “power” (electric) to have Nepal dance to their tunes (according to their caprices). Besides, I felt sad and also felt like smiling (simultaneously!) at the tragicomic situation, after reading that PTC has offered a “generous” rate of INR 3 while Nepal is set to export at NPR 3 – offering a handsome markup of 60% straight (how magnanimous we are!). Eventually they will be importing from Nepal at Rs 3 and export the same to us at Rs 4.80 – reinforcing the firmly held belief in Indian politicos and bureaucracy that Nepali people are nice and, therefore, dumb (except for those who sell their souls for “a few silvers”).
An interesting thing about the “halt” is that it is Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi that has thrown wrench in the works. It is surprising that simple export of power to Nepal requires approval of Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. However, hydrocracy of Nepal deems export of power normal trade (simply trading in “electron”) and they proclaim that exporting power does not have anything to do with water resources (even Supreme Court of Nepal has delivered a verdict in this line in the case of west Seti. When reference is being made to west Seti, it needs to be remembered that Nepal wasn’t importing 30 MW dedicated power from a specific project. However, west Seti it is dedicated export oriented project. What is more galling is that west Seti generates augmented flow of 90 m3/s which ends up benefiting farmers in India (can irrigate 270,000 ha land for non paddy cultivation), but the deal, even from this perspective was deemed not sharing of water resources.
This also calls on us to look at the other side of this very coin (export of power to India). Intransigent people (including those who would like to replicate Bhutan model in Nepal) dream of having India “jump” at our bidding by exporting power to her as she will be dependent on “us” for substantial amount of power from large plants – up to 10,000 MW from Karnali (and making Nepal "immensely" rich). I have pointed out the fallacy behind this belief in my article published in Nepali Times (# 314, 8-14 September, 2006) as “India is uncomfortable being dependent on an independent Nepal on such a scale. The comfort level would have gone up significantly if the security of such a project is to be guaranteed by the Indian Army.” With regard to Bhutan, being a protectorate of India, India does not feel uncomfortable being dependent on her. I hope I don’t need to overemphasize it here by saying that Indians would hate to lose sleep by having to wonder when someone in Nepal is going to switch off power from plants in Nepal exporting to India (exactly the reverse of what they have just done to Nepal suffering from chronic load shedding). In view of this, the idea of dedicated export oriented power plants in Nepal for India will never work as long as Nepal will fail to graciously accept Indian security arrangement of such plants in Nepal. I have gone on to opine in that article that “But Nepali people are famous for their “intransigence” in this matter” (Thank God!). I would like to believe that I am not off mark in this matter
Before concluding, I would like to repeat, ad nauseoum (since I have been repeating this over and over again) that Nepal’s best interest will be best served by ensuring energy security and being self reliant in the matters of energy – from our own water resource.
I would like to close here by reiterating that Indian interest in Nepal’s hydropower is just a façade to capture water belonging to Nepal – we can find abundant examples in Koshi, Gandaki and Mahakali treaties. My belief as such has been confirmed by current union water resources minister of India Mr. Saif Uddin Soz (no less a person) who has been frank and honest in admitting, with Navin Singh Khadka, BBC Nepali Service, 12 September 2008 that “Our main interest is flood control and irrigation. Those are our first and second priority. If we get hydroelectricity as by product, that will be a bonus for us.” I pray to god almighty that he gets elected once more and ascends the same ministerial berth in Delhi.
The following was reported by myrepublica.com on 24th April:
"KATHMANDU, April 24: The action initiated by the Maoist-led government against army chief General Rookmangud Katawal and the polarized views of the political parties on the issue have now affected the power import deal between Nepal and India.The Indian government on Thursday put on hold the agreement to supply 30 MW power to Nepal just two days before it was supposed to be signed."We had finalized everything from our side. But the agreement has now been put on hold," a Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) official told this daily. The source informed that as per the request of the Bihar Board, a letter requesting government of India´s approval on the agreement was sent to the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi through the Indian embassy in Kathmandu on April 22. However, the Ministry did not send a consent to the request.A week ago, the NEA had forwarded a memorandum of understanding to the Power Board of Bihar to import the additional 30 MW of electricity at the rate of IRs 4.79 per unit for a period of two months.“Both sides had settled all issues and conditions for the import,” the source added.The Power Trading Corporation (PTC) of India was making necessary arrangements for the import to Nepal via Ramnagar in Bihar.The development comes amid reports that the Indian government has been inserting pressure on the Maoist-led government in Nepal against the dismissal of the army chief.Indian ambassador to Nepal Rakesh Sood on Thursday flew to New Delhi, canceling all appointments here, to brief the South Block on the ´current developments´ in Nepal."
However, it will take a while for it to dawn on most of our hydrocracy (bureaucracy, politicos, intelligentsia, media persons, business community, bankers involved in the hydropower sector) that export of power to Nepal is an additional weapon in Indian arsenal for her against Nepal (as is the trade and transit) to ensure that Nepal toes the line, they want her to. I dare to trust that people in Nepal haven’t forgotten (although “people” are famed to have very short memory) about the trade embargo and transit blockade that India imposed on Nepal in late 80’s leading to “people’s movement I”. What ensued is in the pages of history obviating repetition here.
In the same vein, when I read about Nepal’s plan to import 500 MW from India, while I was vacationing in Vientiane with my brand new granddaughter, I had tears in my eyes trying to stop myself from laughing uncontrollably for quite a while. This was exactly what I was worried about – India using “power” (electric) to have Nepal dance to their tunes (according to their caprices). Besides, I felt sad and also felt like smiling (simultaneously!) at the tragicomic situation, after reading that PTC has offered a “generous” rate of INR 3 while Nepal is set to export at NPR 3 – offering a handsome markup of 60% straight (how magnanimous we are!). Eventually they will be importing from Nepal at Rs 3 and export the same to us at Rs 4.80 – reinforcing the firmly held belief in Indian politicos and bureaucracy that Nepali people are nice and, therefore, dumb (except for those who sell their souls for “a few silvers”).
An interesting thing about the “halt” is that it is Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi that has thrown wrench in the works. It is surprising that simple export of power to Nepal requires approval of Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. However, hydrocracy of Nepal deems export of power normal trade (simply trading in “electron”) and they proclaim that exporting power does not have anything to do with water resources (even Supreme Court of Nepal has delivered a verdict in this line in the case of west Seti. When reference is being made to west Seti, it needs to be remembered that Nepal wasn’t importing 30 MW dedicated power from a specific project. However, west Seti it is dedicated export oriented project. What is more galling is that west Seti generates augmented flow of 90 m3/s which ends up benefiting farmers in India (can irrigate 270,000 ha land for non paddy cultivation), but the deal, even from this perspective was deemed not sharing of water resources.
This also calls on us to look at the other side of this very coin (export of power to India). Intransigent people (including those who would like to replicate Bhutan model in Nepal) dream of having India “jump” at our bidding by exporting power to her as she will be dependent on “us” for substantial amount of power from large plants – up to 10,000 MW from Karnali (and making Nepal "immensely" rich). I have pointed out the fallacy behind this belief in my article published in Nepali Times (# 314, 8-14 September, 2006) as “India is uncomfortable being dependent on an independent Nepal on such a scale. The comfort level would have gone up significantly if the security of such a project is to be guaranteed by the Indian Army.” With regard to Bhutan, being a protectorate of India, India does not feel uncomfortable being dependent on her. I hope I don’t need to overemphasize it here by saying that Indians would hate to lose sleep by having to wonder when someone in Nepal is going to switch off power from plants in Nepal exporting to India (exactly the reverse of what they have just done to Nepal suffering from chronic load shedding). In view of this, the idea of dedicated export oriented power plants in Nepal for India will never work as long as Nepal will fail to graciously accept Indian security arrangement of such plants in Nepal. I have gone on to opine in that article that “But Nepali people are famous for their “intransigence” in this matter” (Thank God!). I would like to believe that I am not off mark in this matter
Before concluding, I would like to repeat, ad nauseoum (since I have been repeating this over and over again) that Nepal’s best interest will be best served by ensuring energy security and being self reliant in the matters of energy – from our own water resource.
I would like to close here by reiterating that Indian interest in Nepal’s hydropower is just a façade to capture water belonging to Nepal – we can find abundant examples in Koshi, Gandaki and Mahakali treaties. My belief as such has been confirmed by current union water resources minister of India Mr. Saif Uddin Soz (no less a person) who has been frank and honest in admitting, with Navin Singh Khadka, BBC Nepali Service, 12 September 2008 that “Our main interest is flood control and irrigation. Those are our first and second priority. If we get hydroelectricity as by product, that will be a bonus for us.” I pray to god almighty that he gets elected once more and ascends the same ministerial berth in Delhi.
Tharuwat Joint Struggle Committee (TJSC) - Press meeting of April 17th, 2009
(Courtesy: Tharuwat Joint Struggle Committee (TJSC))
Tharus, the indigenous habitants of Terai-Tharuwat had been reassured on March 14th by the Prime Minister, Puspa Kamal Dahal that the Winter Session of the Legislature-Parliament would conclude by repealing and amending various acts and laws infringing the dignity and fundamental rights of the Tharus in the Interim Constitution, thereby making provisions for their self determination. Tharuwat movement escalated from March 2nd to 14th 2009, against the existing, repressive government, which passed the ordinance of enforced inclusion of 92 indigenous peoples living in the Terai within the Madeshi category. The movement heightened to a peak, when TJSC blockaded the Terai to a virtual standstill for 13 days, which literally paralyzed the country. This was in retaliation to the government’s undemocratic action against the political issues raised by the Tharus, infringing their fundamental rights. On behalf of the Government of Nepal, the Minister for Peace and Reconstruction, Janardhan Sharma had concluded a six point agreement with Tharuwat Sangharsha Samiti (TJSC). However, contrary to the signed agreement, the Government of Nepal has violated the terms and conditions agreed upon, between the two parties. TJSC has resumed its second round of protest, objecting the ordinances, bills, acts and amendments against the fundamental rights of the indigenous peoples of Nepal.
Violation of terms
1) The Nepal government had agreed to revoke the ordinance of enforcement inclusion in the Madeshi category by explicitly eliminating the terminology “Madesh” in the Interim Constitution and reinstatement of the word “Terai”. The Interim Constitution would thereby recognize the inhabitation of the Adhibasi Janajati (indigenous) – Tharus, other Adhibasi Janajatis, Dalits, Muslims, Madeshis and other minorities and adopt / adapt provisions to ensure the equal rights to their self determination without discrimination.
2) Since Article 21 of the Interim Constitution makes comprehensive provision for proportionate representation by % in ratio to population distribution, thus securing social inclusion in all organs of government services and offices, the conflicting ratio of 55% - 45% is illogical and unconstitutional. The objection to this discriminatory ratio distribution not only marginalizes the participation of the Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus, Adhibasi Janajatis, Dalits, Muslims and Madeshis but the Reformed Bill incites conflicting interests without an acceptable formula and rule of law that allows an amicable co-existence of the above mentioned identities. The Tharu movement had demanded the implementation of the provisions for separate quota from the Madeshi category to fulfill their aspiration for separate independent identity. This would ensure them opportunities in various public services, to develop and empower the potential of the Tharus, who have been incessantly victimized by the state in oppressing, discriminating and exploiting them; whereby the State has been successful in marginalizing the Tharus from actively participating in the reconstruction of the State.
This transparent decision by the present government, headed by Puspa Kamal Dahal, confirms the Brahminbadi autocracy in oppressing the justifiable demands of the inalienable rights of the Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus, Adhibasi Janajatis, Dalits, Muslims, and Madeshis. Since the government of Prime Minister, Puspa Kamal Dahal has violated the trust agreement signed between the two parties; we are obliged to continue our Civil Rights Movement with various civil disobedience acts. We demand that the government attend to the social justice issues as key to the political rights of the Adhibasi Janajati, Dalits, Muslims, Madeshis and the minority groups to establish a foreseeable peace in Nepal.
Main political agendas
Tharus, the indigenous habitants of Terai-Tharuwat had been reassured on March 14th by the Prime Minister, Puspa Kamal Dahal that the Winter Session of the Legislature-Parliament would conclude by repealing and amending various acts and laws infringing the dignity and fundamental rights of the Tharus in the Interim Constitution, thereby making provisions for their self determination. Tharuwat movement escalated from March 2nd to 14th 2009, against the existing, repressive government, which passed the ordinance of enforced inclusion of 92 indigenous peoples living in the Terai within the Madeshi category. The movement heightened to a peak, when TJSC blockaded the Terai to a virtual standstill for 13 days, which literally paralyzed the country. This was in retaliation to the government’s undemocratic action against the political issues raised by the Tharus, infringing their fundamental rights. On behalf of the Government of Nepal, the Minister for Peace and Reconstruction, Janardhan Sharma had concluded a six point agreement with Tharuwat Sangharsha Samiti (TJSC). However, contrary to the signed agreement, the Government of Nepal has violated the terms and conditions agreed upon, between the two parties. TJSC has resumed its second round of protest, objecting the ordinances, bills, acts and amendments against the fundamental rights of the indigenous peoples of Nepal.
Violation of terms
1) The Nepal government had agreed to revoke the ordinance of enforcement inclusion in the Madeshi category by explicitly eliminating the terminology “Madesh” in the Interim Constitution and reinstatement of the word “Terai”. The Interim Constitution would thereby recognize the inhabitation of the Adhibasi Janajati (indigenous) – Tharus, other Adhibasi Janajatis, Dalits, Muslims, Madeshis and other minorities and adopt / adapt provisions to ensure the equal rights to their self determination without discrimination.
2) Since Article 21 of the Interim Constitution makes comprehensive provision for proportionate representation by % in ratio to population distribution, thus securing social inclusion in all organs of government services and offices, the conflicting ratio of 55% - 45% is illogical and unconstitutional. The objection to this discriminatory ratio distribution not only marginalizes the participation of the Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus, Adhibasi Janajatis, Dalits, Muslims and Madeshis but the Reformed Bill incites conflicting interests without an acceptable formula and rule of law that allows an amicable co-existence of the above mentioned identities. The Tharu movement had demanded the implementation of the provisions for separate quota from the Madeshi category to fulfill their aspiration for separate independent identity. This would ensure them opportunities in various public services, to develop and empower the potential of the Tharus, who have been incessantly victimized by the state in oppressing, discriminating and exploiting them; whereby the State has been successful in marginalizing the Tharus from actively participating in the reconstruction of the State.
This transparent decision by the present government, headed by Puspa Kamal Dahal, confirms the Brahminbadi autocracy in oppressing the justifiable demands of the inalienable rights of the Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus, Adhibasi Janajatis, Dalits, Muslims, and Madeshis. Since the government of Prime Minister, Puspa Kamal Dahal has violated the trust agreement signed between the two parties; we are obliged to continue our Civil Rights Movement with various civil disobedience acts. We demand that the government attend to the social justice issues as key to the political rights of the Adhibasi Janajati, Dalits, Muslims, Madeshis and the minority groups to establish a foreseeable peace in Nepal.
Main political agendas
- Repeal and amend all acts and rules related to public services, Citizens Act, Election Act etc. in the Interim Constitution of Nepal, violating the spirit of the six point agreement signed between the Tharuwat Movement and the Government of Nepal. The government must uphold the spirit of equality by including the issues raised by the Tharuwat Movement to be tabled by this Winter Session.
- Replace the term “Madeshi” with “Tharuwat” in the Interim Constitution.
- Recognize the territorial expanse of Tharuwat stretching from Jhapa in east to Kanchanpur in the west, including Udaypur valley, Kamala gorge of Sindhuli, Chitwan, Dang, Surkhet as “Tharuwat Autonomous Federal State” and Limbuwan, Magarat, Tamuwan, Newa Mandal, Tamangsaling, Khambuwan, Khasang as other autonomous federal states in the Interim Constitution and the drafting of the new constitution.
- Enact immediately all rights enshrined in ILO Convention No. 169, UN General Assembly Declaration on indigenous peoples, Earth Summit Declaration 1992 etc. amending the constitution and formulate the legislation in the interest of indigenous nationalities as Nepal government has ratified the international rule of laws binding to its partners.
- Implement equal rule of law by providing constitutional guarantee of full proportionate representation for all castes/ethnicities based on ratio of census at all levels of state organs and sectors of the state.
- Immediate appointments of Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus in the posts of Judges, Chief district Officers, Local Development Officers, Education Officers, Police and Army Chiefs, Constitutional Commissions, Diplomatic Missions, Ministries, Departments, various Commissions, The Supreme Court, including all government offices/corporations and companies in Tharuwat districts. In addition, correspond to appoint the Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus immediately in International Multinational donor agencies and organizations etc.
- Include Tharu language as an official language alongside other languages and special arrangement for education up to higher secondary level in Tharu language for the Tharus.
- Constitutional guarantee should be provided for the political rights of the Adhibasi Janajati – Tharus, Adhibasi Janajati, Muslim, Dalits and minorities.
- Execute immediately the task of compensation, re-establishing and empowering the freed ex- Kamaiyas ( bonded labourers).
Public bandhs and strikes program
21st April, 2009 06:00 PM
- Torch rally in all Tharuwat districts.
22nd April, 2009 onwards
- Public bandhs and strikes for indefinite period.
23rd to 26th April, 2009
- Padlock all government offices in Tharuwat region
27th April, 2009 onwards
- Continuous public bandhs /strikes, boycotting local governance.
29th April, 2009 onwards
- Tharuwat joint Struggle Committee will control all its natural resources, including water, forest, land by right of ILO-169
Tharuwat Sangharsha Samiti:
- Laxman Tharu
- Upendra Gachhedar
- Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary
- Yogendra Chaudhary
- Shakun Sherchand Leslie
- Gopal Dahit Tharu
- Shailendra Chaudhary Tharu
- Min Raj Chaudhary
- Ramananda Chaudhary
- Saraswati Chaudhary
- Shrawan Chaudhary
- C.N/ Chaudhary
- Chandra Chaudhary
- Chanda Tamang
- Rukmini Chaudhary
- Ganga Chaudhary
- Chandra Prasad Chaudhary
- Binod Chaudhary
Friday, April 03, 2009
Hindutsva Challenged
(Courtesy: Briat Simha)
As the campaigning for the Indian parliamentary elections heats up, Varun Gandhi, a 28-years old candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been taken into custody under the National Security Act. His misdeed: making fiery speeches supposedly inciting communal disharmony. That this has happened in the alleged largest functioning democracy in the world is remarkable; that the protagonist is a scion of the Gandhi clan, son of Menaka and the late Sanjay Gandhi and nephew of the Indian Congress Party leader Sonia Gandhi, adds another angle to the story.
Freedom of speech is a basic pillar of democracy. What the young Gandhi exercised was this freedom. In the recently concluded American presidential elections, strong words were exchanged among of the candidates. Radio show hosts were criticized for inflammatory and racist remarks. But no one was hustled into prison. The reason, of course, is that none of these remarks threatened the national security of the United States. That Varun Gandhi's remarks may have threatened the national security of India indicates the fragility of the Indian strain of democracy.
India has made spectacular gains recently in the economic sector. It is also a country where at least a quarter of its billion plus population is mired in abject poverty. Social indicators, especially those on health, do not reflect the political lead that India tries to take in the sub-continent. As a more telling illustration, the Gandhi family - that of Jawaharlal Nehru's daughter Indira Gandhi (not Mahatma Gandhi) - has become almost the "royal family" of India. That the oldest political party of India, the Congress, is currently headed by a woman of Italian birth says much for the awesome clout of the Gandhi name. Sonia just happened to be the wife of the pilot-turned-politician, the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who in turn may never have had to give up flying if his younger brother, Sanjay Gandhi, had not died in an aircraft mishap. Varun Gandhi is the son of this very same Sanjay.
Varun Gandhi's arrest has its political overtones. The BJP is challenging the Congress to lead the next government of India, which will almost surely be a coalition government. BJP has gained its fame, and has actually ruled India once, as a pro-Hindu party. It is today trying to downplay its Hindu origins to court non-Hindu votes. Varun Gandhi's speeches should not have come as a surprise to anyone. "Theocracy", something that most people believe ended when the Pope lost political power, is alive and well. The numerous Islamic states testify to this, as does the state of Israel. In this state of affairs, Hinduism is unique in that it does not accept converts. So with other religions on a conversion spree, Hindus will gradually have the least adherents. That the BJP should try to downplay its pro-Hindu roots and is almost disowning Varun Gandhi today illustrates this inherent hesitation among Hindus to stand up for Hinduism, that most tolerant of religion which is now facing extinction because of that very tolerance.
Another case in point: about three years ago, Nepal - then the only Hindu kingdom on earth - was declared secular by a motley crew of polticians, without so much as a peep from the people. While the Maoists have been logically blamed for this, the real culprits were the proselytizing grpups from Western donor countries who have made Nepal their conversion laboratory. While its Hindu population, comprising about 65% of the total, remained silent - or perhaps, tolerant! - Nepal lost its Hindu identity with a simple government ordnance.
Therefore, for Varun Gandhi to exercise his right to freedom of speech in the cause of Hindutsva is novel and laudatory. That his country is so insecure that it cannot allow him this freedom is a separate matter. All Hindus, especially those who have remained silent and docile so far, must view this imcident as a young Hindu stalwart's fight for his freedom, his beliefs and his religion!
The time has come for Hindus to stand for their rights and beliefs. This is not an exhortation to violence. Peaceful action is best. The symbol of universal peace, Gautam Buddha, was born a Hindu. Let us not be afraid, however, to fight if that is the only resort left us by our opponents. Let us not forget the Mahabharata and the Bhagvad Geeta when Lord Krishna himself, incarnation of Vishnu, went to battle to defend justice and righteousness.
As the campaigning for the Indian parliamentary elections heats up, Varun Gandhi, a 28-years old candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been taken into custody under the National Security Act. His misdeed: making fiery speeches supposedly inciting communal disharmony. That this has happened in the alleged largest functioning democracy in the world is remarkable; that the protagonist is a scion of the Gandhi clan, son of Menaka and the late Sanjay Gandhi and nephew of the Indian Congress Party leader Sonia Gandhi, adds another angle to the story.
Freedom of speech is a basic pillar of democracy. What the young Gandhi exercised was this freedom. In the recently concluded American presidential elections, strong words were exchanged among of the candidates. Radio show hosts were criticized for inflammatory and racist remarks. But no one was hustled into prison. The reason, of course, is that none of these remarks threatened the national security of the United States. That Varun Gandhi's remarks may have threatened the national security of India indicates the fragility of the Indian strain of democracy.
India has made spectacular gains recently in the economic sector. It is also a country where at least a quarter of its billion plus population is mired in abject poverty. Social indicators, especially those on health, do not reflect the political lead that India tries to take in the sub-continent. As a more telling illustration, the Gandhi family - that of Jawaharlal Nehru's daughter Indira Gandhi (not Mahatma Gandhi) - has become almost the "royal family" of India. That the oldest political party of India, the Congress, is currently headed by a woman of Italian birth says much for the awesome clout of the Gandhi name. Sonia just happened to be the wife of the pilot-turned-politician, the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who in turn may never have had to give up flying if his younger brother, Sanjay Gandhi, had not died in an aircraft mishap. Varun Gandhi is the son of this very same Sanjay.
Varun Gandhi's arrest has its political overtones. The BJP is challenging the Congress to lead the next government of India, which will almost surely be a coalition government. BJP has gained its fame, and has actually ruled India once, as a pro-Hindu party. It is today trying to downplay its Hindu origins to court non-Hindu votes. Varun Gandhi's speeches should not have come as a surprise to anyone. "Theocracy", something that most people believe ended when the Pope lost political power, is alive and well. The numerous Islamic states testify to this, as does the state of Israel. In this state of affairs, Hinduism is unique in that it does not accept converts. So with other religions on a conversion spree, Hindus will gradually have the least adherents. That the BJP should try to downplay its pro-Hindu roots and is almost disowning Varun Gandhi today illustrates this inherent hesitation among Hindus to stand up for Hinduism, that most tolerant of religion which is now facing extinction because of that very tolerance.
Another case in point: about three years ago, Nepal - then the only Hindu kingdom on earth - was declared secular by a motley crew of polticians, without so much as a peep from the people. While the Maoists have been logically blamed for this, the real culprits were the proselytizing grpups from Western donor countries who have made Nepal their conversion laboratory. While its Hindu population, comprising about 65% of the total, remained silent - or perhaps, tolerant! - Nepal lost its Hindu identity with a simple government ordnance.
Therefore, for Varun Gandhi to exercise his right to freedom of speech in the cause of Hindutsva is novel and laudatory. That his country is so insecure that it cannot allow him this freedom is a separate matter. All Hindus, especially those who have remained silent and docile so far, must view this imcident as a young Hindu stalwart's fight for his freedom, his beliefs and his religion!
The time has come for Hindus to stand for their rights and beliefs. This is not an exhortation to violence. Peaceful action is best. The symbol of universal peace, Gautam Buddha, was born a Hindu. Let us not be afraid, however, to fight if that is the only resort left us by our opponents. Let us not forget the Mahabharata and the Bhagvad Geeta when Lord Krishna himself, incarnation of Vishnu, went to battle to defend justice and righteousness.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Environment, Energy and Water in Nepal
(Courtesy: Dwarika N. Dhungel)
Environment, Energy and Water in Nepal: A Key Note Address of Dwarika N. Dhungel delivered at an International Symposium on Environment, Energy and Water in Nepal: Recent Researches and Future Directions, organised in Himalaya Hotel, Kathmandu ( March 31 and April 1, 2009 ) by University of Yamanashi, Japan
1. All of you are aware that our world is facing an important environmental problem: climate change and global warming and their consequences. Nepal is not an exception to this global problem.
2. Climate change is now unequivocal. Recently the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) pointing to the recent studies announced that without decisive action, global warming in the 21st century is likely to accelerate at a much faster pace and cause more environmental damage than predicted. All sectors especially the socio-economically active sectors like water resources, agriculture, tourism, and health and areas such as biodiversity, natural disasters, extreme events etc are affected. Developed or developing, no country can escape from its impacts. Nepal is also strongly affected by the climate change, though her contribution in changing the climate is negligible.
3. Such changes are more pronounced in mountainous areas. This will accelerate the glacier melt in the Himalayas, which is projected to increase flooding, within the next two to three decades. This will be followed by decreased river flows as the glaciers recede. Freshwater availability not only in Nepal but also in the whole South Asia region is projected to decrease due to climate change.
4. In many years, there was practically no rainfall during the recently gone winter of 2008-009. We have observed the beginning of early warm season in the country. Japan's celebrated cherry blossomed early. If the trend continues, we may have to face a severe drought in the coming rainy season. Study by Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHoM) shows that the annual mean temperature of the country is increasing steadily at the linear rate of about 0.04oC/year. This rate is much higher than the mean global rate. The mean annual temperature has increased by 1.8°C between 1975 and 2006. Study shows that not only the mean annual temperature is increasing, but also all the seasons are warming. The rate of warming is also varied, which is higher in winter compared to the other seasons. Apart from change in mean state of climate, the changes in frequency and intensity of extreme climate events have profound impacts on nature and society.
In Nepal:
5. With the long dry period and unusually high temperature, this winter in Nepal has brought a lot of hardships to the public. Water level in most of the rivers has decreased. The wells, tube wells and ancient waterspouts (Dhunge Dharaa) have started drying in the Katmandu Valley. This has created drinking water scarcity in the valley. A 12,000 liter tanker water now costs Nrs. 2,600 up from Nrs. 1,200. After 2006 that was marked as one of the driest winters in Nepal, 2009 winter is another similar drier winter within a span of 3 years.
6. The rivers are not only getting dry day by day, but they are also getting polluted. Due to the lack of landfill sites facility, most of the urban rivers in the country have become west dumping sites. Almost all the rivers within the Kathmandu valley have turned into very dark pool of filths, dirt and wastewater - an open sewer. They could be easily called cesspools. The morning walkers along the river banks, which I also undertake along the Bagmati River with a senior colleague, have to use handkerchiefs in their noses to avoid very bad odor. If people like us cannot face or tolerate five to ten minutes in the dirty and filthy environment along the famous rivers banks of Kathmandu, one can imagine, in what hazardous conditions people must be living on the posh bungalows and shanty huts on the banks of this river. The Pashupati Aryaghat on the bank of the River Bagmati, where pauper and prince, both are normally cremated, may be the dirtiest place and whatever drop of water is available in it, is very hazardous and contaminated. But many after their cremation would like to get a piece of their bones buried underneath the clean water of the Bagmati River at Aryghat. Therefore, one of my friends wants me to answer his query, that is, Should we not have the respect for our sacred Bagmati River? He further thinks that 'we have for over a decade, environmental laws and regulations framed with the assistance of our friends (donors). Yet the will to implement those laws are totally lacking, why? I do not have the answers to these questions of my friend.
7. 53 percent of the total population (65 percent in the urban areas and 51 percent in the rural areas) is supposed to be enjoying the piped drinking water facility. Yet people face the drinking water problem. According to the ADB (2004), it is reported that nearly 50 percent of drinking water supply schemes are not functioning as designed due to the lack of proper maintenance in Kathmandu valley. Other urban drinking water schemes also suffer from this problem.
8. Water pollution is the most serious public health issue in Nepal. Water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, cholera and skin diseases are among the top ten dreadful leading diseases. The quality of both surface and ground water sources used for drinking water purpose is deteriorating mainly due to both natural and anthropogenic contaminations. Discharge of untreated domestic sewers and industrial effluents into rivers, and landslides, soil erosion and floods pollute the river water. The ground water in the Katmandu valley is polluted with fecal contamination. Whereas, arsenic problem is rampant in the Terai (southern plains) area. This shows that the quality of drinking water in Nepal is miserably substandard.
9. Drinking water is the basic minimum requirement of all the human beings. Access to safe and adequate drinking water is the commitment of the government. Therefore, the government needs to raise the awareness of the people on sanitation and promote, operate and maintain domestic as well as industrial wastewater treatment plants to reduce the pollution of surface water and safeguard the public health. Studies have also recommended community wastewater management treatment plants and separate treatment plants for populated institutions such as hospitals, prisons and army camps. It may be recalled that wastewater management promotes water conservation by preventing pollution from untreated discharges to surface water, groundwater and soils.
10. The demand for water is increasing due to increase in population and industrialization and the rate of ground water recharge is decreasing with increase in pavement area due to rapid urbanization. As a result the ground water aquifer is vulnerable to drying of the wells, contamination of water and possible land subsidence. Among others, the depletion of ground water table is threatening agricultural development that is the main source of GDP in the region. But let me remind you that the people in Terai and the Kathmandu valley are very much dependant on ground water. Therefore a proper sustainable management of groundwater is urgently needed.
11. More than 30 year long study of glaciers in Nepal shows the alarming rate of glacier retreat from few meters to over 30 meters in a year. The most serious impact of climate change on glaciers is the expansion of these glacier lakes and formation of new ones, posing danger of glacier lake outburst flood (GLOF). Nepal has already observed 15 GLOF events. 20 glacier lakes in Nepal are potentially dangerous.
12. The fresh water resource of the Himalayas is depleting fast affecting the water resources of both Nepal and the populous Indo-Gangetic Plain. The mighty Ganges, whose 75 percent of the flow during the three lean months is fed from the rivers flowing from Nepal, supports 42 percent of the Indian population. There is going to be increasing demand for fresh water in our part of the world.
13. The heavy precipitation events show the increasing trend. This implies the occurrence of more extremely high rainfall in future and water induced disasters such as floods and landslides are expected to be more common. There may be high possibility of increased water induced disasters in the country. Moreover, the studies on observed trend in water-induced disasters also show the increasing trend in disaster (floods, landslides and droughts) events and damage. Nepal has; therefore, to develop a comprehensive disaster management strategies and frameworks for disasters risk reduction to adjust the sudden shocks.
14. It may be recalled that Nepal is known to be one of the richest countries in water resources. With her more than 6,000 rivers, having a combined run-off of more than 200 billion cubic meters (bcm), and contributing 46% (as high as 71% during the lean season) of the flow in the Ganges has immense potential for the development of hydropower, which, if developed to the maximum possible extent, would not only fulfill the total demand of the country but also some requirements of other countries of South Asia: India and Bangladesh. The theoretical hydropower potential of Nepal's rivers is estimated to be about 83,000 mega watts (MW) of which about 43,000 MW is considered to be financially and technically feasible for exploitation. However, Nepal’s per capita energy consumption is one of the lowest in the world reflecting the low level of development and prosperity. As of March 2008, the country had exploited only 556.4 MW of hydropower (public sector: 408.1 MW and private sector: 148.3 MW) of the hydropower potential. The country is undergoing 16 hours of reeling load shedding having serious consequences in the economy. It is most likely to increase in the days to come. Despite the fact that Nepal may organize programme to celebrate 100 years of the establishment of the first hydropower plant, 500 KW Pharping power plant, in two year's time, she seems to going back to the dark days. Thus one major question that needs to be raised: Why we are undergoing the worst load shedding in Nepal's history? Have the Initial Environmental Examination and Environmental Impact Assessment laws and regulations relating to hydropower development become a burden or, a constraint? The government's recent 35 Point Agenda that has been brought to deal with load shedding problem appears to indicate that.
15. The current energy consumption scenario shows that Nepal’s energy supply is primarily based on traditional, commercial and alternative energy of which the large portion of the energy consumption (over 85%) is dominated by the use of traditional non commercial forms of energy, the biomass fuels particularly fuel wood, agriculture residue and animal dung. As population increases, and economy expands, the energy demand would also increase. Coping the increasing demand and diversifying the sources of energy are the major challenges before the country.
16. The way the present and future demands are met affects not only the environment but also the overall development. Indiscriminate use of fossil fuel is leading to global warming and climate change. Nepal, therefore, has to pursue an energy policy that ensures energy for present and future use from sources that are dependable, affordable, safe and environmental friendly. Nepal’s energy development therefore got to be guided by the following principles:
Firstly, promotion of indigenous renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass, hydro etc.
Secondly, energy diversification as no single source is likely to fulfill all types of energy needs and dependence on one source alone is not sustainable in the long run.
Last but not the least, efficient use of energy in the production, supply and consumption stages need to be maintained.
The key to a secure energy future is the efficient and effective use of a diverse mix of energy sources. But how sustainable, without the donor support, in solar, wind and biomass for a country like Nepal needs to be seriously analysed.
17. In the light of all the facts and realities, what I personally think is that friends of scholars working on Nepal, and professionals in the subject matters covered by this symposium, should in addition to undertaking studies and researches pay attention to the following matters and provide solid analytical basis to understand the problems and undertake the measures that would address the problems:
Above all, I want to urge all of you to make an analytical study and diagnose the chronicle disease that Nepal has been suffering for a long time, i.e. Nepal is good in plan preparation but in the water and energy: no drinking water, no power, and cesspools all around. What a paradox?
Kathmandu
March 31, 2009
Environment, Energy and Water in Nepal: A Key Note Address of Dwarika N. Dhungel delivered at an International Symposium on Environment, Energy and Water in Nepal: Recent Researches and Future Directions, organised in Himalaya Hotel, Kathmandu ( March 31 and April 1, 2009 ) by University of Yamanashi, Japan
1. All of you are aware that our world is facing an important environmental problem: climate change and global warming and their consequences. Nepal is not an exception to this global problem.
2. Climate change is now unequivocal. Recently the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) pointing to the recent studies announced that without decisive action, global warming in the 21st century is likely to accelerate at a much faster pace and cause more environmental damage than predicted. All sectors especially the socio-economically active sectors like water resources, agriculture, tourism, and health and areas such as biodiversity, natural disasters, extreme events etc are affected. Developed or developing, no country can escape from its impacts. Nepal is also strongly affected by the climate change, though her contribution in changing the climate is negligible.
3. Such changes are more pronounced in mountainous areas. This will accelerate the glacier melt in the Himalayas, which is projected to increase flooding, within the next two to three decades. This will be followed by decreased river flows as the glaciers recede. Freshwater availability not only in Nepal but also in the whole South Asia region is projected to decrease due to climate change.
4. In many years, there was practically no rainfall during the recently gone winter of 2008-009. We have observed the beginning of early warm season in the country. Japan's celebrated cherry blossomed early. If the trend continues, we may have to face a severe drought in the coming rainy season. Study by Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHoM) shows that the annual mean temperature of the country is increasing steadily at the linear rate of about 0.04oC/year. This rate is much higher than the mean global rate. The mean annual temperature has increased by 1.8°C between 1975 and 2006. Study shows that not only the mean annual temperature is increasing, but also all the seasons are warming. The rate of warming is also varied, which is higher in winter compared to the other seasons. Apart from change in mean state of climate, the changes in frequency and intensity of extreme climate events have profound impacts on nature and society.
In Nepal:
- Cool days and cool nights have decreased.
- Warm nights and warm days have increased.
- Frequency of warm spells has increased and incidence of cold spells has decreased.
5. With the long dry period and unusually high temperature, this winter in Nepal has brought a lot of hardships to the public. Water level in most of the rivers has decreased. The wells, tube wells and ancient waterspouts (Dhunge Dharaa) have started drying in the Katmandu Valley. This has created drinking water scarcity in the valley. A 12,000 liter tanker water now costs Nrs. 2,600 up from Nrs. 1,200. After 2006 that was marked as one of the driest winters in Nepal, 2009 winter is another similar drier winter within a span of 3 years.
6. The rivers are not only getting dry day by day, but they are also getting polluted. Due to the lack of landfill sites facility, most of the urban rivers in the country have become west dumping sites. Almost all the rivers within the Kathmandu valley have turned into very dark pool of filths, dirt and wastewater - an open sewer. They could be easily called cesspools. The morning walkers along the river banks, which I also undertake along the Bagmati River with a senior colleague, have to use handkerchiefs in their noses to avoid very bad odor. If people like us cannot face or tolerate five to ten minutes in the dirty and filthy environment along the famous rivers banks of Kathmandu, one can imagine, in what hazardous conditions people must be living on the posh bungalows and shanty huts on the banks of this river. The Pashupati Aryaghat on the bank of the River Bagmati, where pauper and prince, both are normally cremated, may be the dirtiest place and whatever drop of water is available in it, is very hazardous and contaminated. But many after their cremation would like to get a piece of their bones buried underneath the clean water of the Bagmati River at Aryghat. Therefore, one of my friends wants me to answer his query, that is, Should we not have the respect for our sacred Bagmati River? He further thinks that 'we have for over a decade, environmental laws and regulations framed with the assistance of our friends (donors). Yet the will to implement those laws are totally lacking, why? I do not have the answers to these questions of my friend.
7. 53 percent of the total population (65 percent in the urban areas and 51 percent in the rural areas) is supposed to be enjoying the piped drinking water facility. Yet people face the drinking water problem. According to the ADB (2004), it is reported that nearly 50 percent of drinking water supply schemes are not functioning as designed due to the lack of proper maintenance in Kathmandu valley. Other urban drinking water schemes also suffer from this problem.
8. Water pollution is the most serious public health issue in Nepal. Water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, cholera and skin diseases are among the top ten dreadful leading diseases. The quality of both surface and ground water sources used for drinking water purpose is deteriorating mainly due to both natural and anthropogenic contaminations. Discharge of untreated domestic sewers and industrial effluents into rivers, and landslides, soil erosion and floods pollute the river water. The ground water in the Katmandu valley is polluted with fecal contamination. Whereas, arsenic problem is rampant in the Terai (southern plains) area. This shows that the quality of drinking water in Nepal is miserably substandard.
9. Drinking water is the basic minimum requirement of all the human beings. Access to safe and adequate drinking water is the commitment of the government. Therefore, the government needs to raise the awareness of the people on sanitation and promote, operate and maintain domestic as well as industrial wastewater treatment plants to reduce the pollution of surface water and safeguard the public health. Studies have also recommended community wastewater management treatment plants and separate treatment plants for populated institutions such as hospitals, prisons and army camps. It may be recalled that wastewater management promotes water conservation by preventing pollution from untreated discharges to surface water, groundwater and soils.
10. The demand for water is increasing due to increase in population and industrialization and the rate of ground water recharge is decreasing with increase in pavement area due to rapid urbanization. As a result the ground water aquifer is vulnerable to drying of the wells, contamination of water and possible land subsidence. Among others, the depletion of ground water table is threatening agricultural development that is the main source of GDP in the region. But let me remind you that the people in Terai and the Kathmandu valley are very much dependant on ground water. Therefore a proper sustainable management of groundwater is urgently needed.
11. More than 30 year long study of glaciers in Nepal shows the alarming rate of glacier retreat from few meters to over 30 meters in a year. The most serious impact of climate change on glaciers is the expansion of these glacier lakes and formation of new ones, posing danger of glacier lake outburst flood (GLOF). Nepal has already observed 15 GLOF events. 20 glacier lakes in Nepal are potentially dangerous.
12. The fresh water resource of the Himalayas is depleting fast affecting the water resources of both Nepal and the populous Indo-Gangetic Plain. The mighty Ganges, whose 75 percent of the flow during the three lean months is fed from the rivers flowing from Nepal, supports 42 percent of the Indian population. There is going to be increasing demand for fresh water in our part of the world.
13. The heavy precipitation events show the increasing trend. This implies the occurrence of more extremely high rainfall in future and water induced disasters such as floods and landslides are expected to be more common. There may be high possibility of increased water induced disasters in the country. Moreover, the studies on observed trend in water-induced disasters also show the increasing trend in disaster (floods, landslides and droughts) events and damage. Nepal has; therefore, to develop a comprehensive disaster management strategies and frameworks for disasters risk reduction to adjust the sudden shocks.
14. It may be recalled that Nepal is known to be one of the richest countries in water resources. With her more than 6,000 rivers, having a combined run-off of more than 200 billion cubic meters (bcm), and contributing 46% (as high as 71% during the lean season) of the flow in the Ganges has immense potential for the development of hydropower, which, if developed to the maximum possible extent, would not only fulfill the total demand of the country but also some requirements of other countries of South Asia: India and Bangladesh. The theoretical hydropower potential of Nepal's rivers is estimated to be about 83,000 mega watts (MW) of which about 43,000 MW is considered to be financially and technically feasible for exploitation. However, Nepal’s per capita energy consumption is one of the lowest in the world reflecting the low level of development and prosperity. As of March 2008, the country had exploited only 556.4 MW of hydropower (public sector: 408.1 MW and private sector: 148.3 MW) of the hydropower potential. The country is undergoing 16 hours of reeling load shedding having serious consequences in the economy. It is most likely to increase in the days to come. Despite the fact that Nepal may organize programme to celebrate 100 years of the establishment of the first hydropower plant, 500 KW Pharping power plant, in two year's time, she seems to going back to the dark days. Thus one major question that needs to be raised: Why we are undergoing the worst load shedding in Nepal's history? Have the Initial Environmental Examination and Environmental Impact Assessment laws and regulations relating to hydropower development become a burden or, a constraint? The government's recent 35 Point Agenda that has been brought to deal with load shedding problem appears to indicate that.
15. The current energy consumption scenario shows that Nepal’s energy supply is primarily based on traditional, commercial and alternative energy of which the large portion of the energy consumption (over 85%) is dominated by the use of traditional non commercial forms of energy, the biomass fuels particularly fuel wood, agriculture residue and animal dung. As population increases, and economy expands, the energy demand would also increase. Coping the increasing demand and diversifying the sources of energy are the major challenges before the country.
16. The way the present and future demands are met affects not only the environment but also the overall development. Indiscriminate use of fossil fuel is leading to global warming and climate change. Nepal, therefore, has to pursue an energy policy that ensures energy for present and future use from sources that are dependable, affordable, safe and environmental friendly. Nepal’s energy development therefore got to be guided by the following principles:
Firstly, promotion of indigenous renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass, hydro etc.
Secondly, energy diversification as no single source is likely to fulfill all types of energy needs and dependence on one source alone is not sustainable in the long run.
Last but not the least, efficient use of energy in the production, supply and consumption stages need to be maintained.
The key to a secure energy future is the efficient and effective use of a diverse mix of energy sources. But how sustainable, without the donor support, in solar, wind and biomass for a country like Nepal needs to be seriously analysed.
17. In the light of all the facts and realities, what I personally think is that friends of scholars working on Nepal, and professionals in the subject matters covered by this symposium, should in addition to undertaking studies and researches pay attention to the following matters and provide solid analytical basis to understand the problems and undertake the measures that would address the problems:
- Find out what has been done to deal with the issues related to climate change, measures undertaken, their success or hard realities and lapses?
- Successes and lapses in controlling river pollution and contamination and growing scarcity of drinking water especially in urban areas and arsenic problem related to the ground water.
- Warning system and alertness/preparedness to deal with the GLOF burst and glacier related issues.
- Development of more non-grid based hydro projects in isolated pockets and getting them hooked to the national grid.
- Concerted and sustained effort to develop different energy sources.
Above all, I want to urge all of you to make an analytical study and diagnose the chronicle disease that Nepal has been suffering for a long time, i.e. Nepal is good in plan preparation but in the water and energy: no drinking water, no power, and cesspools all around. What a paradox?
Kathmandu
March 31, 2009
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