Kathmandu : Fonepay, Nepal’s largest payment network, today announced that Citizens Bank, a leading commercial bank of Nepal, launched Fonepay Credit Card. Fonepay has revealed that the eagerly anticipated Fonepay Credit Card is now technically and operationally ready and Citizens Bank becomes the first bank to introduce it to its customers. The Virtual Credit card scheme is expected to redefine the payment card industry and customer experience. Fonepay Credit Card is a fully functional Digital Card and customers can avail a card and transact from their mobile banking application.

Fonepay Credit Card scheme is a fully functional digital card solution which empowers card holders with unparalleled convenience, flexibility, and control over their credit card functionality. This card scheme facilitates a wide array of digital transactions across the Fonepay network where customers can make QR payments, online or ecommerce payments, and leverage advanced features like seamless EMI conversion.

The Fonepay Credit Card empowers customers by providing seamless onboarding and delivery of the card within few seconds in their mobile banking apps. Customers can benefit from new and advanced features of Fonepay card enhancing their full control over card management, limit control, statement delivery etc. setting it apart from conventional payment cards.

“We are excited to introduce the Fonepay Credit Card Scheme as the latest addition to our suite of digital payment solutions,” said Diwas Kumar, CEO of Fonepay. Our mission has always been to prioritize customers and this new product embodies that commitment. With an aim of democratizing credit, we’re ensuring that credit access is within reach of all. For merchants, this means a boost in business and a cost-effective solution. Since this is a domestic scheme, we will also be saving millions for the economy as we lead the charge towards a more inclusive and prosperous financial future for all Nepalese.”

Kumar concluded, “Fonepay extends its gratitude and congratulations to Citizens Bank for placing their trust in our solution and for being the FIRST bank in Nepal to introduce Nepal’s own Virtual Card Scheme.”

Kathmandu, March 30 : On the occasion of its 26th annual celebration, Reporter’s Club Nepal has honored its Treasurer, Ishwar Karki, with a special award. Recognizing Karki’s outstanding contribution to the club’s prestige, reputation, and growth through excellent work and significant contributions, the club awarded him a special honor along with a cash prize of one lakh rupees.

The special ceremony, held at Hotel Everest in Kathmandu on Saturday, saw Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ conferring the honor upon Karki, along with a citation and cash prize. Karki, who has been actively involved in the club’s management and administration for a decade, has also contributed to the successful management of Reporter’s Nepal News Portal.

Apart from his involvement with the club, the awardee has remained active in various social service sectors through organizations like the Nepal Red Cross Society, Lions Club, Blood Donors Association, among others. Furthermore, under his leadership, the Himalaya app has been actively involved in information technology business.

The 26th annual celebration of Reporter’s Club Nepal witnessed the presence of former Prime Minister and Chairman of Nepal Communist Party (Unified Socialist) KP Sharma Oli, former Chief Justice Hari Krishna Karki, ministers of the Nepal government, members of parliament, secretaries, heads of security agencies, and distinguished personalities from various fields, along with civil society representatives.

Nishant Sharma : Australia has long been a melting pot of cultures, welcoming people from all corners of the globe to call it home. One such community that has seen significant growth in recent years is the Nepali diaspora. There are now over 130,000 (anecdotal) Nepali people residing in Australia, with an  additional 60,000 Nepali international students pursuing their education in the country. This influx of Nepali residents and students has led to the establishment of vibrant communities in various Australian suburbs. However, this rapid growth also presents unique challenges that need to be addressed by both the government and the community itself.

The Top Suburbs for Nepali-born:

Nepali communities in Australia have formed strong bonds, primarily in the following suburbs:

1. Auburn, NSW
2. Hurstville, NSW
3. Strathfield, NSW
4. Rockdale, NSW
5. Campsie, NSW
6. Granville, NSW
7. Kogarah, NSW
8. Glenroy, VIC
9. Parramatta, NSW
10. Ashfield, NSW 

These suburbs have become hubs for Nepali culture, offering a sense of familiarity and community for those who have made the journey from Nepal to Australia. From restaurants serving traditional Nepali cuisine to cultural events and festivals, these neighborhoods have embraced and celebrated their new residents.

While the growth of the Nepali population in Australia is undoubtedly a positive development, it also brings forth various challenges that need to be addressed:  

1. Legal issues: Australia’s diverse cultural landscape extends far beyond the surface, encompassing the triumphs and challenges faced by each Among these communities, the Nepali population in Australia is no exception and, like any other, grapples with legal issues that demand attention and action. In particular, issues related to domestic violence, unconsented sex, and sexual offenses, employment exploitation, underpayment, and workplace sexual harassment require proactive measures to ensure justice and support for those affected. Initiatives must focus on raising awareness, offering legal education, and providing accessible resources tailored to the unique needs of Nepali immigrants. By addressing these legal concerns and fostering a culture of awareness and empowerment, the community can strengthen its resilience and create safer and more equitable environments for all its members within the multicultural society of Australia.

2. Mental Health Issues: The process of migration and adjusting to a new culture can be emotionally Many Nepali immigrants may struggle with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Cultural nuances and language barriers can further complicate access to mental health services. Thus, the availability of culturally sensitive mental health support becomes paramount. Providing resources for counseling, therapy, and mental health education in Nepali languages can significantly enhance the community’s well-being.

The Nepali community is facing a growing concern regarding suicide rates. The pressures of migration, adapting to a new culture, and the challenges of integration can take a toll on mental well-being. The rising number of suicides within the Nepali population underscores the urgent need for mental health support and intervention tailored to the community’s specific needs.

3. Child Health Issues and Autism: The Nepali community in Australia has grown significantly over the years, and with it comes a unique set of challenges faced by parents, especially when their children are born with developmental issues like While Australia has made strides in providing support for children with developmental disorders through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), temporary visa holders often find themselves in a difficult situation, as they are not eligible for NDIS funding. This issue not only places financial strain on families but can also impact their chances of obtaining permanent residency due to health criteria concerns. There is a pressing need for increased awareness and advocacy on this topic within the Nepali community.

Child health issues and challenges faced by Nepali parents in Australia, particularly in cases of autism and developmental disorders, requires a collaborative effort from the community, government, and advocacy groups. Increased awareness and advocacy can lead to policy changes that better support temporary visa holders in accessing the necessary services and ensure that no child’s developmental needs go unmet due to visa status.

4. Visa related Issues: One of the critical challenges faced by the Nepali community in Australia, particularly those pursuing visas and immigration status, is the prevalence of fraud and misconduct within the migration advice This issue has resulted in unfortunate consequences, including individuals unknowingly becoming unlawful immigrants due to misinformation or lack of knowledge. To address this pressing concern, it is essential for both the Australian government and the Nepali community to take proactive steps. The government should invest in educational campaigns targeted at immigrant communities, including the Nepali population, to inform them about the risks associated with unlawful migration advice and the importance of using registered and reputable migration agents/lawyers.

5. Passport Issues: The Nepal Embassy in Australia plays a pivotal role in passport issuance and renewal for Nepali nationals residing in the country. However, the demand for passport services has surged in recent years due to the increase in population, outstripping the embassy’s capacity to efficiently process Insufficient staff, lengthy waiting times, and administrative delays have become recurring challenges, leaving many Nepali individuals in a precarious legal situation.

It’s worth noting that the current Ambassador, H.E Mr. Kailash Raj Pokharel, has made commendable efforts to alleviate the passport renewal hardships faced by the Nepali people in recent transactions. His dedication to addressing the issue has provided some relief to the community. However, the problem of limited resources at the embassy persists and requires sustained attention.

6. Employment Issues: Many Nepali immigrants in Australia encounter challenges in securing employment within their nominated or preferred occupations, often finding themselves compelled to take on basic frontline employment. Despite their qualifications, skills, and aspirations, the realities of the job market may force them into roles that do not align with their professional This situation can be frustrating and may not fully utilize their potential, highlighting the need for support and initiatives that help match their qualifications with suitable employment opportunities.

In terms of occupations, many Nepali immigrants in Australia are engaged in various sectors. The healthcare sector sees a significant presence of Nepali individuals, with many working as nurses, healthcare assistants, and aged care workers. In the field of education, some Nepali immigrants hold positions as teachers, childcare workers, or in educational support roles. Additionally, the hospitality and retail industries also include Nepali workers, with roles spanning from restaurant staff and chefs to retail sales associates. In the construction sector, some Nepali immigrants are involved as tradespeople, laborers, or in related roles. Moreover, jobs in the transportation sector, such as driving taxis or providing rideshare services, are pursued by some members of the Nepali community in Australia.

The Nepali community in Australia can assist its members in finding employment through networking, mentorship programs, and skill development workshops. They can offer resume and interview preparation support, advocate for foreign qualification recognition, and collaborate with local organizations. Promoting entrepreneurship and advocating for inclusive hiring practices also play essential roles in helping community members secure employment, fostering their integration into the Australian job market and enhancing their overall well- being.

In conclusion, addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort, proactive measures, increased awareness, and policy changes to ensure that the Nepali community in Australia can thrive and contribute to the multicultural fabric of the nation while enjoying a safe and prosperous life in their adopted homeland. Furthermore, in addressing the challenges faced by the Nepali community in Australia, it is crucial to highlight the role of the Nepal government in providing additional support and resources through its embassy and diplomatic channels.

(Writer Sharma is NSW Supreme Court Lawyer, Australia)

Kathmandu : Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane have held a meeting today at the former’s official residence at Baluwatar.

During the meeting, the two leaders held discussions on the contemporary political situation of the country, RSP Vice President Dol Prasad Aryal said. According to Aryal, PM held a meeting with the RSP leadership to figure out the RSP’s take on the government.

“Views were exchanged on contemporary political matters. Our party has convened the meeting of the Central Committee and the Parliamentary Party tomorrow. The Prime Minister held discussion with the party president to get an idea of what RSP was thinking of the government in that context,” Aryal added.

PM Dahal on the occasion congratulated the RSP President on his election to the post of Member of Parliament through the by-election. The RSP central committee is scheduled to meet at 11.00 am tomorrow. RSS

Kathmandu : Flights at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) have got affected due to bad weather, said the TIA office. Due to low visibility, both domestic and international flights are not able to take off on time, and some international flights are on hold in the sky, said TIA general manager Pratap Babu Tiwari.

As a result of bad weather, a Colombo-Kathmandu aircraft of Sri Lankan Airlines was on hold in the Kathmandu sky for half an hour, and that of Batik Air was on hold in the Simara Sky, he said, adding that there is a delay in domestic flights to take off.

Rainfall is taking place in most parts of the country with the impact of the Westerly wind and local wind, according to the Meteorological Forecasting Division.

Flights were affected on Saturday afternoon as well due to rain. (RSS)

Kathmandu : Members for the thematic committees of the House of Representatives (HoR) have been nominated.

In today’s HoR meeting, the Speaker proposed parliament members be remained in 10 different thematic committees as per the HoR Regulation, 2079, Rule 173.

The meeting unanimously endorsed the proposal with the names of HoR members to be included in thematic committees.

Members to be included in the HoR finance committee, international relations, tourism, industry and commerce, labour and consumers interest, law, justice and human rights, agriculture, cooperative and natural resources, women and social affairs, state affairs and good governance, infrastructure development, education, health and information technology and public accounts committee were nominated. (RSS)

Kathmandu : Members for the thematic committees of the House of Representatives (HoR) have been nominated.

In today’s HoR meeting, the Speaker proposed parliament members be remained in 10 different thematic committees as per the HoR Regulation, 2079, Rule 173.

The meeting unanimously endorsed the proposal with the names of HoR members to be included in thematic committees.

Members to be included in the HoR finance committee, international relations, tourism, industry and commerce, labour and consumers interest, law, justice and human rights, agriculture, cooperative and natural resources, women and social affairs, state affairs and good governance, infrastructure development, education, health and information technology and public accounts committee were nominated. (RSS)

Kathmandu : The Election Commission (EC) has submitted a report on the April 23 by-election of the House of Representatives (HoR) before Acting President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav.

The report was presented today before the Acting President by Chief Election Commissioner, Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya, amidst a programme at the Office of the President, Shital Niwas.

On the occasion, the Acting President thanked the EC for successfully concluding the election and fulfilling the constitutional and legal responsibilities.

The Chief Election Commissioner apprised the Acting President the election was held in a free and impartial atmosphere. Election Commissioners Ram Prasad Bhandari, Dr Janaki Kumar Tuladhar, Election Commission secretary Gokarnamani Duwadi and joint-secretary Shaligram Sharma Poudel were among those present on the occasion.

As per the law, the report of the election shall be presented to the President within a week of the election results. (RSS)

Kathmandu: Three earthquakes have happened in Bajura district since last night.

According to National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre, Lainchaur, three separate quakes took place with their epicenter in Dahakot of Bajura district.

According to the Centre, the first quake with 4.9 Richter scale in the magnitude occurred at 11:58 pm and second with 5.9 in the Richter scale happened at 1:30 in the night.

Likewise, the third quake jolted the district at 3.9 in the Richter scale at 1:51 in the night.
The detail of the damages caused due to the quakes is not received yet, it is stated.

Earlier, a quake had occurred with its epicenter at Jugada area of the district on April 17.
The western belt of the country has witnessed increased number of earthquakes in the recent days.RSS

Kathmandu : A plane of Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) made a successful test flight at Resunga Airport at 7:39 am today.

NAC’s plane (9N-ABT) departed from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, landed at Resunga Airport located at Simichaur of Resunga Municipality-10 in Gulmi.

The NAC made a test flight today for commercial flights as per the agreement between the NAC and municipality.
Spokesperson of the Nepal Airlines Operators Association, Yograj Kandel, said that plans are afoot for the commercial flights after today’s successful test flight. He said that the NAC will begin commercial flight after carrying out needed assessment from a technical team.

According to Kandel, the travel fare and the number of passenger in a flight would be determined after the study. “However, the plane fare could be around Rs 6,000 per person for Resunga-Kathmandu flight,” he added.
Captain Manish Bista of NAC said that regular flights would be conducted after submitting today’s flight report to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) within a week.

Construction of the airport was completed some months ago after 16 years of its commencement. Constructed with the investment of Rs 330 million, the airport’s runway is 520 metres long and 20 metres wide. Located at an elevation of 1,526 metres above the sea level, the airport is spread over 156 ropani of land.

After the successful test flight, Mayor of Resunga Municipality Khildhowj Panthi expressed his happiness stating that the dream of folks here to travel to Kathmandu by plane is being materialised soon.
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