Journey From Seattle To B
Salt Lake City
Friday, February 23, 2024
Millet Cultivation For Food Security In Nepal
Chhabi Lal Paudel
F
inger millet (Eleusine coracana) is the
main millet crop cultivated in Nepal over
267,071 hectares of farmland, with a pro-
duction of 339,462 metric tons. Other millets cul-
tivated in Nepal are Proso millet (Panicum mil-
iaceum), which is called Chino; Foxtail millet
(Setaria italica); Kaguno; Pearl millet (Pennies-
tum typhoides); Bajara; Sorghum bicolor; and
Junelo, of which production statistics are not
available. Barnyard millet (Echinochola frumen-
tacea), Sawa, and Kodo millet (Paspalum scro-
biculatum) are cultivated in nominal areas and
treated as weeds in other large areas.
Millets can be successfully cultivated in Nepal
from the Terai to the Himalayan region, up to an
altitude range of 3,000 metres above sea level.
Proso millet and foxtail millets are of Chinese
or Mongolian origin, and finger millet, pearl mil-
let, and sorghum are of African origin, which is
regarded as the indigenous crop species of Nepal.
There is a lot of local varietal diversity in proso
millet, finger millet, and foxtail millet.
Millets are small grains that are highly nutri-
tious for humans. They are naturally glutton-free
cereals. Millets contain 7 to 15 per cent protein,
depending on the type. Its carbohydrate content
is lower than that of rice, wheat, and maize. Mil-
lets are a good source of minerals, vitamins, and
dietary fibre and are thus regarded as a superfood.
They have a low glycemic index, which is helpful
in managing blood sugar levels. We can get nutri-
tional and health benefits from millets. Millets
have antioxidant properties that help with heart
health, body weight maintenance, gut health, bone
health, and reducing the risk of certain cancers.
Millets can serve as a dietary staple food, pro-
viding a significant portion of the daily caloric
intake. Many food products are prepared from
millets according to the taste and cultural impor-
tance of the place. Millets can be cooked like
rice in porridge, soups, and stews. They make
high-quality baby food. Millet grains can be
ground into flour to make bread, pancakes, sel
roti, and many other salty and sweet snack items.
Tin pane, our famous traditional alcoholic bever-
age, is also made from millets. Millets can also be
brewed to make beer and other beverages.
Capacity Development For Local Government
Aarati Neupane
C
apability is the combination of a person's or
a group’s knowledge, skills, mindsets, and
competence as a whole that enables them to
perform their tasks successfully. At the local level,
Capacity Development (CD) ensures that govern-
ment institutions and entities function effectively.
It aims to enhance their capability for proper exe-
cution of tasks. It includes the capacity to detect
issues, analyse alternative options to cope with
problems, make sound policies, and sustain these
efforts to execute them for the benefit of socio-eco-
nomic development. The United Nations Devel-
opment Assistance Framework (UNDAF) defines
enhancing capacities at three interconnected levels,
namely, capacity at the individual level, capacity at
the institutional level, and capacity at the enabling
environment. Capacity building at the individual
level refers to the strengthening and unleashing of
the knowledge, skills, proficiency, and competency
of human resources. Similarly, organisational
capacity building refers to enhancing managerial
performance through improvements in systems,
functions, plans, policies, strategies, guidelines,
structures, leadership, and other dynamics. Lastly,
capacity building in an enabling situation refers
to the creation of a conducive environment where
institutions and human resources operate.
CD at local level
Following the restoration of the multiparty
democratic system, the local bodies commenced
service delivery under specific legal frameworks,
including the Local Self-Governance Act 1999, the
Local Self-Governance Regulation LSGR 1999, and
the Local Body (Financial Administration) Regu-
lations 2007. The Ministry of Federal Affairs and
Local Development (MoFALD) implemented sev-
eral capacity development programmes, including
the Local Governance and Community Develop-
ment Programme (LGCDP) I from 2008 to 2013 and
LGCDP II from 2013 to 2017. These programmes
aimed to improve governance and community
development by addressing poverty reduction.
Millets have an important place in the farm-
ing systems of Nepal. They are drought-tolerant,
hardy crops that can be successfully cultivated
in different agroecological zones of the country.
Sorghum and pearl millet can be grown in hot
and dry areas. Proso millet and foxtail millet can
be cultivated in highland areas. Finger millet can
be cultivated everywhere. The water require-
ment is very low in millet cultivation compared
to rice. Millets require 70% less water than rice
and do not disturb soil health like rice. Water
stagnation in the field kills a lot of soil flora and
fauna useful in crop production. All the residual
plant materials from millets after harvesting
seeds can be used as fodder for livestock. Millets
and grains are also good sources of animal and
bird feed. Millet biomass can be used in mulch-
ing, composting, thatching, and making handi-
crafts. The below-ground biomass of the root sys-
tems of the millets is very good for maintaining
good soil health.
Millets are very important for food insecu-
rity. The skyrocketing food import situation in
the country indicates future food insecurity.
Nepal must seek self-sustaining food systems for
prosperity. Promotion of millets can bring food
self-sufficiency to the country. Millets can be
successfully cultivated in rain-fed conditions in
Nepal, as rainwater is sufficient for their growth
and development. Millets are a short-duration
crop and can be cultivated as a catch crop if other
main crops fail. They require less production
Output 5 of the LGCDP II focused on capacity
development (CD). The capacity development strat-
egy for the LGCDP II formulated in 2014 focused on
three major interrelated sectors, including individ-
ual human resource development (HRD), organ-
isational development, and systems and network
development. The capacity development strat-
egy for the LGCDP II outlined five primary entry
points to realise anticipated results during the
programme's duration, including the Ministry of
Federal Affairs and Local Development (MoFALD)
with its affiliated entities, the Local Development
Training Academy (LTDA) and Rural Development
Training Centres (RDTC), Local Bodies' Associa-
tions (LBAs) and Local Bodies (LBs), Social Mobil-
isers as an independent entity, and Service Provid-
ers (both national and local).
With the adoption of federalism in Nepal, the
constitution has devolved power, authority, and
responsibilities to local governments. The Local
Governance Operation Act 2017 has defined the
roles and functions of local levels, emphasising
participatory planning processes for budgetary
allocations and policy guidelines. Thus, a compe-
tent, capable, and effective local government and
institutions have become the prerequisites for good
governance. To build the capacity of provincial
and local governments, the government of Nepal
SUPPLEMENT
input and less tillage. They can be cultivated in a
cost-effective way. Millets are nutrient-dense and
can reduce malnutrition rates.
Policy recognition and priority are urgently
needed for millet promotion. Traditionally, mil-
lets were the minor underutilised crop species,
which are not fully recognised by the govern-
ment and donor groups. Research and develop-
ment of millets are very weak. Now, millet culti-
vation is gaining popularity internationally due
to its suitability in the context of climate change.
Nepal being one of the most vulnerable countries
to climate change, millets can be cultivated here
as climate-resilient crops. They have a very low
carbon footprint. They are good for nutritional
value, soil health, and significantly reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. They have a great role
in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Millets can contribute to achieving several
sustainable development goals, like zero hunger
(SDG 2), good health and wellbeing (SDG 3), clean
water and sanitation (SDG 6), decent work and
economic growth (SDG 8), responsible consump-
tion and production (SDG 12), and climate action
(SDG 13). By realising this, the UN and FAO cele-
brated 2023 as a millets year to create awareness
about millets and promote them globally for food
security. India is giving high priority to millet
cultivation. The Consultative Group on Interna-
tional Agriculture Research (CGIAR) under the
UN is redirecting its resources towards millet
research and development.
launched the Provincial and Local Governance
Support Programme (PLGSP) in 2019. The Minis-
try of Federal Affairs and General Administration
(MOFAGFA) has formulated and implemented
Innovative Local Economic Development (ILED)
Procedures 2080 to foster local economic develop-
ment. Moreover, 104 local levels from the seven
provinces have been eligible after fulfilling the
selected criteria to conduct the ILED programme
for the fiscal year 2080–81 B.S.
Assessment of CD
The Local Governance Capacity Need Assess-
ment Report 2078 reveals that 73 per cent of the
local levels don't have provision for landfill sites
for waste management. About 29 per cent have
formulated and implemented local periodic plans,
and only 15 per cent have established project banks.
About 57 per cent have not done IEE/EIA while
constructing infrastructure, and 31 per cent have
implemented non-eco-friendly approaches. The
percentage of locals with access to information
technology has reached 83 per cent. About 40 per
cent have conducted public-private partnership
dialogues. The report reveals that 91 per cent are
still lagging in the formulation of the capacity
development plan. The report on Capacity Needs
Assessment for the Transition to Federalism of
The International Crop Research Institute
on Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) is mandated
to do research and development on millets
globally. This organisation is developing mil-
let production and processing technologies for
the poor nations of the world. Nepal has free
access to varieties and technologies developed
by ICRISAT. The National Hill Crops Research
Programme (NHCRP) and the Nepal Agricul-
ture Research Council (NARC) are responsible
for doing research on millets in Nepal. The Hill
Crops Research Programme is located in Kavre,
Dolakha district. The programme coordinates
with ICRISAT to bring technologies and seed
varieties from ICRISAT. ICRISAT also provides
training to NARC scientists and extension per-
sonnel about millets and legumes research and
development. NARC is responsible for develop-
ing technologies, and the Department of Agricul-
ture is responsible for disseminating technolo-
gies to producers and farmers.
Farmers can get technologies for millet pro-
duction from NARC, ICRISAT, private com-
panies, and agriculture service providers to
enhance production and profitability. To maxi-
mise yield per unit area and minimise environ-
mental impacts, farmers need to adopt suitable
technologies according to the local microclimatic
conditions. Millet species and varietal selection,
conservation tillage, moisture management,
agro-ecological practices, integrated pest man-
agement, erosion control, resource-efficient
Nepal 2019 has exhibited widespread capacity gaps
in physical infrastructure, human resource man-
agement, public financial management, gender
equality and social inclusion (GESI), and account-
ability and transparency. Moreover, significant
disparities exist in physical infrastructure among
local governments, particularly in building owner-
ship, with over half relying on rented spaces. This
poses a potential obstacle to efficient public service
delivery, especially in rural areas facing challenges
in power, internet, and communication access.
Significant delays have been observed in the
development of crucial legal frameworks, such as
the Federal Civil Service Bills, Police Management
Bills, and sectoral laws on concurrent powers. Gen-
der Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) activities
encounter challenges because of inadequate mech-
anisms within programmatic local governments
(PLGs). The clarity of local government revenue
mobilisation and fiscal capacity is hindered by the
uncertain expenditure needs of PLGs and insuffi-
cient infrastructure funding. The majority of PLGs
still rely on outdated paper-based asset inventory
systems, lack robust monitoring and evaluation
mechanisms, and face challenges in performance
management.
The inadequacy of a skilled and proficient work-
force, the absence of written job descriptions, and
organisational policies for human resource man-
agement have been challenging. Local financial
management is advancing with software systems,
highlighting a need for capacity building. More-
over, this necessitates the standardisation of pub-
lic financial management (PFM) software and the
extension of PFM practices to provincial and local
governments.
Global approach
According to The Confluence, 2023, 70.3 per
cent of rural households in Bangladesh don't have
access to the internet. However, the Government of
Bangladesh has already made efforts to equip rural
areas with digital infrastructure to digitise ser-
vices and eliminate bureaucratic red tape. About
4,501 Union Digital Centres (UDCs) were opened
throughout the country in 2010, which escalated
to 8,280 in 2021. These serve as local-level digital
service centres established at the union level (the
smallest rural administrative unit in Bangladesh),
serving the rural population and mitigating the
risk of the digital divide. UDCs aim to contribute to
digital literacy and the empowerment of rural com-
munities by increasing access to online services,
educational and skill development opportunities,
and information.
Power Of Meditation C
risingnepaldaily.com
practices, waste reduction and circularity, and
education and training for farmers are some of
the important technologies and activities for mil-
let cultivation. Researchers need to come up with
climate-smart millet production technologies.
A market guarantee is a great incentive for
millet producers. The market demand for mil-
lets is increasing day by day due to their tre-
mendous health benefits and public awareness.
There has been a high demand for millets among
health-conscious urban consumers in recent
years. The nearest market is the most reliable
for the powerless small producers and also for
the poor consumers. Therefore, strengthening
the existing value chain and developing local
new value chains in millets is urgently needed to
take advantage of millet farming in the country.
Local food banks and local seed banks have also
played a great role in local value chain develop-
ment. Farmer training and community support
are also crucial. The government should develop
minimum infrastructure for value chain devel-
opment, like processing facilities, product diver-
sification, quality standards, value addition,
transport, and security situations. Local millet
production, processing, and product diversifica-
tion activities should be linked with agro-tour-
ism and with urban and rural market centres.
Millet production is a sustainable and versa-
tile agriculture practice that can simultaneously
address multiple challenges, including food
security, climate change mitigation, and rural
economic development. Millets, by nature, are
climate resilient and are successful in increasing
food production in areas of our country where
there is frequent crop failure due to drought.
Millets are a nutrient-rich food source, and
they help combat malnutrition and improve food
security in remote rural areas. They are very
suitable for crop rotation and local cropping pat-
terns, and they are good for atmospheric carbon
sequestration into the soil through their root
systems. Rural income generation is possible
through millet farming, processing, value addi-
tion, and product diversification.
The cultivation of millets has high potential
for Nepal. Their production should be increased
in the country for food import substitution and
local economic prosperity. Therefore, the govern-
ment should prioritise millet research and imple-
ment promotional activities in all districts of the
country. Then there will be successful partici-
pation from family farms, agribusinesses, pro-
cessors, and other value chain actors for millet
cultivation, processing, and marketing.
(The author is a senior agricultural scientist who
worked at the Agricultural Research Council-NARC.)
Indonesia has adopted legislation called the
Village Law (2015–2018) as a significant effort for
decentralisation of power and inclusive gover-
nance. This initiative is concerned with granting
more authority over development plans and bud-
gets and enhancing participatory decision-mak-
ing in rural villages. The law ensures that the
central government allocates a designated fund to
the 74,093 villages in Indonesia to independently
finance the development project based on their
needs and priorities. The objective is to empower
local communities by providing high-level auton-
omy and participatory decision-making authority
to the villages. The village law promotes commu-
nity development with various infrastructure proj-
ects, including education, healthcare, agriculture,
and well-being.
Ways for sustainability
Local governments should assess capacity
needs, considering diverse geographic and demo-
graphic landscapes like Kathmandu Valley and
remote areas. Provincial and federal governments
should provide expertise, technology transfer, and
knowledge sharing to support local capacity devel-
opment. The national CD plan should adopt a bot-
tom-up approach, addressing the unique demands
of each locality for inclusive and responsive local
development.
Human resources need improved skills in gov-
ernance, programme management, leadership,
and performance-based management. Local gov-
ernments and provincial good governance centres
should offer career development and mentorship
programs. Individuals should pursue innovative
learning through training and workshops. Culti-
vating a knowledge-sharing culture, leveraging
technology for education, and recognising individ-
ual achievements are crucial for enhancing capac-
ity development.
Tailored approaches are needed for capacity
development, considering diverse state, economic,
and societal realities. Policy coherence and coor-
dination are crucial, discouraging fragmented
approaches among development partners. The
LGCDP II's CD Strategy emphasises restructuring
the Local Development Training Academy (LDTA),
ensuring transparent leadership recruitment, and
predetermined Terms of Reference. Collaborative
efforts with academia, civil society organisations,
and institutions like LDTA as knowledge centres
on good governance are essential.
(The author is an under-secretary at the Ministry
of Federal Affairs and General Administration)
B Friday, February 23, 2024
risingnepaldaily.com
Journey From Seattle To Salt Lake City
Dr. Shyam Joshi
One of the main
attractions of the park is
Old Faithful, so named
because it erupts every
ninety-minute interval
regularly without fail. This
has been continuing since
its discovery in 1870 by an
expedition team.
D
uring our trip to the USA, we explored
the far-western states bordering Vancou-
ver, Canada, to the north and the Pacific
Ocean to the west. On June 29, 2023, despite
strong warnings from authorities to stay inside
because of the deadly smoke from the forest fire
in Canada, we had to implement our already-
booked travel plan. We landed in Seattle at 7
p.m. local time, which is 3 hours later than in
Hartford. Seattle is called an Emerald City in
Washington State, in the northwest of the USA,
bordering Vancouver, Canada. On June 30, we
visited several tourists’ attractions in Seattle.
Notable among them are the 605-foot-tall Space
Needle Spire at the Seattle Centre with an obser-
vation deck and rotating restaurant, the public
market known as Pike Place Market, which is
the farmers’ original market, the Climate Pledge
Arena, and Seattle downtown. Unlike the towers
in other cities in the USA, the new experience
in the Space Needle was walking in a revolv-
ing observatory and revolving glass floor from
where we can view the city directly downwards
with a risk of dizziness and fainting.
When in Seattle, I also visited the Discovery
Centre of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation,
established to disseminate information as to
what they are doing and how their activities are
affecting the lives of millions of people world-
wide. “The actions of a man can change the lives
of millions” was the catchphrase that caught
my attention as soon as I entered the Discovery
Center. We viewed their activities displayed in
printed and visual forms and watched videos.
As we came out of the public market, pop-
ularly known as Seattle’s historic Pike Place
Market, my eyes fell on a long queue of tourists
on the road opposite this market. Contrary to
TRAVELOGUE
my guess, this queue was not for a ticket to the
newly released Hollywood blockbuster “Mis-
sion Impossible: Dead Reckoning," but for a cup
of world-famous Starbucks coffee. The reason
behind this queue was that that restaurant was
the first Starbucks restaurant established in
1971. So, due to the history of the restaurant,
tourists visiting Seattle should not miss buying a
cup of coffee there. Soon after its establishment,
this restaurant chain spread worldwide and will
have covered eighty-four countries with 35711
locations by 2022.
Mt. Rainer
On July 1st, we observed Seattle and its sky-
line from a viewpoint known as Kerry Park. This
park is about 325 feet high. It presents incredibly
beautiful scenes of Seattle, including the majes-
tic look of Space Needle and Elliott Bay. As soon
as we reached Seattle, my eyes were desperate
to catch a glimpse of spectacular Mt. Rainer. It
was seen wrapped in a veil from inside our run-
ning car. Although our walking tour of Seattle
began early in the morning, we could not see the
mountain clearly from anywhere. Thus, when
my daughter proposed a cruise ride on the water
of dazzling Elliott Bay from Waterfront Park, I
immediately gave my consent in the hope that the
mountain might give its darshan. My sleepless
night in Seattle finally bore fruit when I could
have unbeatable and mind-blowing views of Mt.
Rainier. It is situated 95 kilometres southeast of
Seattle. On a clear day, the majestic volcano dom-
inates the horizon and seems to be backdropping
the big city, but on other cloudy days, viewing the
mountain is like peeping a bride’s face through a
bridal veil. This is a blessing in disguise since it
has enhanced the beauty of Seattle as a jewel on
its head, luring hundreds of tourists every year.
Mt. Rainer is to Seattle what Mt. Fishtail is to
Pokhara in Nepal and Mt. Fuji to Tokyo in Japan.
On July 1st, when proceeding towards our final
destination, we spent several hours observing
Snoqualmie Falls, one of the most popular falls
in Seattle, within a driving distance of a mere
56 minute west of Seattle, from the viewpoint
above and from the base of the falls. On July 2nd,
from Ellensburg, Washington, we resumed our
journey today after breakfast and, after 2 hours’
scenic drive, reached Spokane City, the second
largest city in Washington. It’s known as the
birthplace of ‘Father’s Day'. We visited Manito
Park, which consists of several gardens inside.
From there, after crossing Idaho State after 3
hours’ drive, we reached Missoula, Montana, at 5
p.m. and stayed in the Staybridge Suite. The time
there is one hour earlier than in Seattle due to
the change in time zone.
On July 3rd, after breakfast, we resumed our
journey, and after a four-hour drive, we arrived
at our final destination and our dreamland, Yel-
lowstone National Park (YNP). The YNP, the
world’s first national park, was established in
1872 and is so large in area that it is spread over
3500 square miles and is at an elevation of 8104 ft.
It is almost the size of Connecticut. It took more
than one hour by car to catch a glimpse of two
roaring falls and the Grand Canyon of Yellow-
stone from a nearby viewpoint.
Although most of the park is in Wyoming,
some of the park areas are spread to Idaho and
Montana. It is a recreation area in the wilder-
ness, atop a volcanic hot spot. Besides pictur-
esque and Rocky Mountains in the north and
west, it is famous for hot springs, roaring water-
falls, gushing geysers, the Grand Canyon of Yel-
lowstone, and several animal species, including
bison, elk, bears, wolves, and antelope. It is the
most important and prestigious tourist destina-
tion in the USA, visited on average by more than
four million tourists every year.
Old Faithful Geyser
The park, when we were there, was so crowded
that, in my rough estimate, there were about ten
thousand tourists throughout the park, and a lot
of private vehicles were seen parked everywhere.
We spent all day of July 4 watching mind-blowing
hot springs and geysers in the park. We viewed
the miracles of the other most important part
of the park, which I had recorded as an unfor-
gettable moment of my life. One of the main
attractions of the park is Old Faithful, so named
because it erupts every ninety-minute interval
regularly without fail. This has been continuing
since its discovery in 1870 by an expedition team.
This geyser is the park’s main attraction, where
the eruptions last from one to three minutes and
reach a height of 90 to 184 feet. When the vol-
cano erupts, it spews hot water and an incredible
amount of steam. Hence, witnessing this incredi-
ble event is the first choice for tourists.
Being unsatisfied by watching once, we vis-
ited the Old Faithful again on the morning of
July 4. The eruption of the Old Faithful was
predicted at 9 a.m. The crowd of tourists packed
about six rows of benches. Then, exactly at 9
a.m., an eruption took place for about five min-
utes and went about 40 feet high. The geyser
threw voluminous hot water with steam for a
longer time and higher than the day before. The
Midway Excelsior Geyser presents a stunning
view by discharging 55 gallons of hot water every
second into the Firehole River. Nearby is another
307-foot-wide, stunning Grand Prismatic Spring.
It is the biggest multicolor hot spring in the park,
presenting itself in vivid colours of blue, green,
orange, and gold. There are many other big hot
springs and geysers inside the park.
The park has its spectacular highest peak,
Eagle Peak, at 11350 feet. The gorgeous Hayden
Valley is a hot spot for wildlife viewing, such as
a large herd of bison, wolves, bears, and elk. Yel-
lowstone Lake, the natural lake called ‘Angler’s
Paradise’ at an altitude of 7732 feet above sea
level with 350 square kilometres of surface area,
presents a mesmerising view. This is the largest
high-altitude lake in North America and the sec-
ond largest in the world at such a high altitude.
We viewed all these amid large crowds of tourists
never seen before by both walking and driving a
car all day.
On July 5th, while on the road to Salt Lake
City, the capital of Utah, we decided to spend
the whole day catching breathtaking views of
the Teton Mountain range and the beautiful
lakes at its bottom, which are inside the Grand
Teton National Park. The park, covering 1300 sq
km and established in 1929 in Wyoming state, is
only 16 km south of the YNP. The park includes
the major peaks of the 64-kilometre-long Teton
Range. Grand Teton Peak, with 13775 ft, from
which the park name was given, is the tallest
mountain in the Teton range, and Mt. Owen,
with 12933 ft, is the second highest summit in the
range.
Teton Mountain
The park has several lakes. Including the 24
km-long Jackson Lake. Bedside, enjoying the
spectacular view of the five tallest Grand Teton
mountains from Jackson Lake, which lies at its
bottom, we also viewed the range from another
lake named Jenny Lake. Likewise, we viewed
the Teton range closely from the John Moulton
Barn, which lies at a higher elevation. Another
notable thing we saw was the Continental Divide
in the middle of the park. A continental divide is
a naturally occurring boundary or ridge separat-
ing a continent’s river system. After sightseeing,
we rushed towards our destination of that day
by car, looking at breathtaking scenes all around
us, and stopped at the Hampton Inn and Suites in
Pocatello, Idaho, at about 6 p.m. local time.
On July 6, as soon as we reached Salt Lake
City in Utah State, we first went to the Great Salt
Lake, the largest lake west of the Mississippi
River with a surface area of 2500 square kilome-
ters. It is one of the saltiest bodies of water on
earth. There are no fish in the lake because of
the unbearably high salt content in the water. We
viewed from its bank the magnificent lake, with
a mountain range stretching from north to south
in the west. After that, we went on a walking tour
of the city, including the downtown area, Utah’s
state capitol, Nordstrom, Macy’s Mall, and a
grand church known as the Marmon Tabernacle
Choir.
The Utah State Capitol is located on Capitol
Hill, overlooking downtown Salt Lake City. This
State Capitol Building has chambers and offices
of the Utah state legislature, office of the gover-
nor, and attorney general. Temple Square, one of
the tourist attractions of the city, is in the heart
of the city. The Church of Jesus Christ of Lat-
ter-day Saints owns the large complex in Temple
Square. This square consists of a temple, a taber-
nacle, an assembly hall, the seagull monument,
and two visitors’ centers. The square was des-
ignated a national historic landmark district in
1964.
On July 6, we did wind up our long but exciting
and unforgettable journey reluctantly and flew
back to Connecticut. We are so overwhelmed
with joy that we don’t find words to express
gratitude to my lovely daughter Shraddha, who
skillfully devised the travel plan; my son-in-law
Abhinaya Joshi, who precisely implemented
the plan and took the painstaking job of driving
about 2600 kilometres from Seattle, Washington,
to Salt Lake City, Utah, all alone; and last but not
least, my little grandson, Avay Joshi, who always
endeavoured to take care of grandparents and
keep them happy. I thought myself most fortu-
nate to observe all of these, which are usually
inaccessible for people like us in terms of the
high cost of travel to distant corners of the world.
(The author is a professor of business
economics.)
 Friday, February 23, 2024
risingnepaldaily.com C

Power Of Meditation FUTURE WATCH

(Based on birth names)

February 23rd to 29th 2024 - D. N. Lohani

The initial period will Minor health issues

take a progressive
course. Stomach dis-
Badri Prakash Ojha orders are predicted.
Health conditions will
improve today. Relatives
ARIES won’t cooperate. The
technical line will face
obstacles. Hardship will
yield some return.
won’t cause any prob-
lems. Regular gains will
provide some relief. The
second half is better. The
family will cooperate.
TAURUS Philanthropic activities
can face obstacles.

M
editation, as defined by the US Department
of Health and Human Services, is a mind-
body practice with diverse benefits. It pro-
motes calmness, relaxation, psychological balance,
and overall well-being. It involves the interaction of An entertaining week is
Despite your troubles, you
the brain, mind, body, and behavior. Meditation has in the store. Celebrations
will be less satisfied. Deci-
ancient roots, spanning various cultures and reli- or similar events can oc-
sive ability will guide you
gions. Though techniques and goals vary, its core cur. You will regularly
ahead, but you will fail to
aims for heightened awareness, mindfulness (Chet- meet friends and relatives.
fully utilise it. Health dis-
ana), inner peace (Samadhi), and ultimately salva- GEMINI orders are predicted for CANCER You will find it difficult to
tion (Moksha). Regular practice improves cognitive control expenses. defer a
the middle portion. Busi-
marital decision for some
functions like attention and concentration. Scientif- ness will keep you busy.
time.
ically proven, meditation effectively reduces stress. Study will take a progres-
Harvard University, School of Medical Science, sive course.
defines stress as a set of physiological and psycho-
logical reactions that the body and the brain have
when facing a threat or a challenge, known as the
fight or flight response, a term coined by Dr. Walter
Bradford Cannon, a professor at Harvard Medical Love-related expenses
School. can rise. Regular gains
Entertaining events will will help consolidate
The fight or flight response prepares our body to cortisol and adrenaline in the body reduce, breath- depression. Several studies have found that MBCT
occur. Foreign travel can your financial position.
either confront or escape the danger. It reflects the ing slows and becomes deeper, the heart rate can significantly reduce relapse in people who have
occur. Love can suffer set- You may face obstacles
two primary choices our ancestors faced when con- reduces, and the intelligent part of the brain has had previous episodes of major depression. Mind- backs. Studying will take
fronted with a threat: confront the danger head-on, a better chance of working to its optimal capacity. fulness-based interventions can improve physical in creative writing. Busi-
a progressive course after ness-related obstacles
fight, or flee to escape from it—flight. The amygdala also shrinks over time with regu- health, too. For example, mindfulness may reduce some focus. You will win on
According to Dr. Cannon, the stress response lar meditation. This means that when the stress pain, fatigue, and stress in people with chronic pain. LEO VIRGO can occur. The second
legal issues. Speculative ac- half is entertaining.
releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. response is triggered, it is less intense and much Other studies have found preliminary evidence that tivities can occur.
These hormones increase the heart rate, blood pres- shorter-lived. mindfulness might boost the immune system and
sure, breathing rate, and muscle tension, among Meditation teachers, neuroscientists, and psy- help people recover more quickly from a cold or flu.
other effects. The stress response can be helpful chiatricians administer various techniques to heal Chronic stress can impair the body's immune sys-
in short-term situations, but if it is prolonged or the traumatic states of people. Out of such many tem and make many other health problems worse.
repeated, it can have negative impacts on health techniques, mindfulness-based interventions By lowering the stress response, mindfulness may
and well-being. Whenever we receive a life-threat- (MBIs) are a type. These are a combination of psy- have downstream effects throughout the body. Though your expendi-
ening situation, a part of the brain called the amyg- cho-therapeutic techniques like meditation, relax- Psychological researchers have discovered that You will advance ahead,
ture level will rise, the overcoming emerging
dala becomes active. It is a region of the brain that is ation, and others to promote mindfulness, which mindfulness affects two distinct stress pathways present pace of progress challenges successfully.
involved in processing emotions, particularly fear. is the practice of paying attention to the present in the brain, altering brain structures and activity will keep you happy. Strong determination will
Our emotions guide our actions by reflecting our moment in a non-judgmental way. MBIs have been in areas linked to attention and emotional regula- Health conditions will guide you ahead. Friends
environment. They alert us to potential dangers, shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental tion. Through a review of meditation studies, they improve. The family will and family will cooperate.
prompting protective responses. However, emo- health conditions, including depression, anxiety, identified the specific components of mindfulness LIBRA provide appreciable sup- SCORPIO The expenditure level will
tions aren't always reliable indicators of threats, and stress. responsible for its positive effects. Findings indicate port. New friends can rise on Thursday.
sometimes leading to unnecessary anxiety and A recent review of studies published in the Jour- that individuals undergoing Mindfulness-Based join your circle.
stress. nal of the American Medical Association's (JAMA) Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) exhibited reduced ten-
Susan Spinks, a meditation teacher at the Sydney Internal Medicine found that MBIs were effective dencies for negative thoughts or unhelpful emo-
Institute of Meditation, states that, as we evolved, in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in tional reactions durin g stressful situations. More-
a rustle in the grass could be a dangerous wild adults. The review also found that MBIs were more over, participants in MBCT, or Mindfulness-Based
animal or a hostile person from another tribe. The effective than other types of psychotherapy, such as Stress Reduction (MBSR), demonstrated enhanced
stress response is what has kept mankind alive; it cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), in reducing present-moment focus and reduced repetitive neg-
has been key to our survival. symptoms of depression. ative thinking.
Today, most of us do not usually face these sit- A study in JAMA Psychiatry revealed that Mindfulness meditation changes our brain and The initial period will
You may have to tackle
uations. However, the evolution of our brain has mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) effec- biology in positive ways, improving mental and comprise obstacles. The
numerous obstacles. A
not kept pace with the rate at which our lives are tively prevent depression relapse post-treatment. physical health. This meditation involves training expenditure level will rise
health disorder is pre-
changing. The amygdala is constantly misinter- Participants in MBI programmes showed lower our attention to focus on the present moment and unnecessarily. Circum-
dicted. Friends will help
preting information entering the brain as well as relapse rates compared to non-participants. MBIs observing our thoughts and feelings without judg- stances will improve to-
you face opponents. The
what we are thinking. It detects threats that are not offer a safe and efficient approach for various men- ment. This can help interrupt the stress cycle and morrow. Decisive ability CAPRICORN job may not provide much
SAGITTARIUS will guide you ahead. Oth-
there. This can arise during relationship problems, tal health conditions, often conducted in group allow us to respond more calmly and effectively to satisfaction. Students will
ers will remain impressed
money worries, difficult living conditions, work settings or individually at home. The American stressful situations. have to work harder.
with your effort. Benefi-
issues, or certain events. Even a difference of opin- Psychological Association endorses mindfulness Strategies such as ignoring or denying stress,
cial causes will increase
ion with someone is enough to trigger it. meditation for its dual benefits for mental and phys- though momentarily effective, can detrimentally
expenses.
While the fight-or-flight response is crucial for ical health. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction impact long-term health and happiness. Research
survival in certain situations, chronic activation (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy from the Journal of Research in Personality reveals
of this stress response, especially in response to (MBCT) are notable interventions. MBSR involves that mindfulness, particularly present-moment
non-life-threatening stressors, can have negative weekly and daily mindfulness practices, including awareness, enhances stress resilience and coping
health consequences. Prolonged exposure to stress yoga and meditation, while MBCT combines MBSR skills. You will experience a
Success after struggle is
hormones can contribute to various health issues, and cognitive-behavioural therapy for depression Present-moment awareness entails focusing busy schedule. Undertak-
likely. Simple tasks will
en assignments will be
including cardiovascular problems, weakened treatment. on the current experience rather than fixating on require extra effort and
completed successfully.
immune function, and mental health disorders. Researchers reviewed more than two hun- future outcomes or past events. Studies suggest cost. Distant friends will
Regular gains will help
Techniques such as meditation and relaxation dred studies of mindfulness among healthy peo- that individuals embracing present moment living cooperate. Avoid risky
consolidate your financial
exercises are often employed to help counteract ple and found mindfulness-based therapy was enjoy various health advantages, such as reduced ventures on Monday. The
AQUARIUS position. The technical
the effects of chronic stress and promote overall especially effective for reducing stress, anxiety, stress, anxiety, and depression, elevated mood, and opposite sex will provide PISCES line will turn profitable.
well-being. and depression. Mindfulness can also help treat enhanced overall well-being. good support.
According to Spinks, within a few meditation people with specific problems, including depres-
practices, the physiological response of the body sion, pain, smoking, and addiction. Some of the (Ojha, a PhD in communication, is a meditation
is the opposite of the stress response. The levels of most promising research has looked at people with teacher.)

Second Memoirs Of A Seasoned Administrator

A
utobiographies and memoirs have
started to attain frequency among
Nepali writers. However, there are few
instances when people write memoirs more
than once. Civil servants are possible excep-
tions to this convention, as they probably feel
that they have more to share after coming out
with the first publication, along with a bureau-
crat's sense of discretion and reservation.
Sir Walter Crocker, the first Australian Ambas-
sador to Nepal, though a diplomat enjoying all
privileges and immunities, was unknowingly held
a virtual captive inside the precincts of the Singha
Durbar Secretariat for several hours on the fateful
day of December 15, 1960. He thought it prudent
to have two memoirs. However, it seems editors,
in their efforts to prune the lengths, probably
thought it not worthwhile to include Nepali expe-
rience in the books.
The prolific Australian diplomat completed his
centenary before his death in 2002. The same is the
case with at least two top Indian diplomats, K.P.S.
Menon and T.N. Kaul, who have penned more than
one memoir to share their long careers in bureau-
cracy, including their experience in Nepal.
In the second memoir of Damaru Ballabh Bhat-
tarai (D.B.), Secretary and Election Commissioner,
the author spent the early part of his civil service
as Chief District Officer for 12 years, covering
seven districts ranging from the Himalayan hills
to Terai and even Kathmandu. D.B. also holds the
unique experience of serving as Secretary to as
many as six Prime Ministers, which is not that sur-
prising in a country where political transition is a
rule rather than an exception, irrespective of any
form of government, monarchical, parliamentary,
constitutional, or republican. But the element of
surprise is his retention in the Prime Minister's
Office, as there is a feeling of being left out or
kicked out in this posting for our civil servants.
The new book entitled ALMALIYEKAA GORE-
TAAHARU: ANUTTARIT PRASANGAHARU,
which can roughly be translated as Confused Path-
ways: Unanswered Contexts, is quite reflective of
the saying that autobiography is a wound where
the blood of history does not dry. Three senior
administrators, Khem Raj Nepal, Hem Raj Paudel,
and Jayamukunda Khanal, have commented on
the content and context of the book.
D.B., in his characteristically simple and clearly
flowing language, has succinctly shared the expe-
rience of his life in 32 chapters on what he calls the
thought process, internal conflict, and tension. He
portrays negative trends prevalent in the Nepali
administrative milieu, as there is a tendency to
brand people with various accusations, including
those of political colour.
The first chapter is basically a prologue with
the writer's list of people who inspired, helped,
and assisted him in his long bureaucratic journey,
including people who egged him to write the sec-
ond memoir. His first book, ANUBHAV RA CHIN-
TAN (Experiences and Reflections), was published
more than two years ago. The author also names
two recent publications penned by former Prime
Minister Surya Bahadur Thapa and top cardiolo-
gist Dr. Bhagwan Koirala as having inspired him.
While making a free and frank assessment of
people he encountered during his long stint in
administration, D.B. has thought it appropriate
to appreciate the roles of some administrators.
Those falling under his positive evaluation include
Balaram Singh Malla, Mohan Dev Pant, Padam
Prasad Pokhrel, Hiranya Lal Regmi, Vidya Nath
Nepal, Mangal Krishna Shrestha, Ram Chandra
Malhotra, Shankar Raj Pathak, Dr. Suresh Raj
Sharma, Ranjan Singh Shah, and Arjun Mani
Dixit.
This work can also be taken as a study of
Nepal's administrative culture. It truly unravels
Madan Kumar Bhattarai
ALMALIYEKAA GORETAAHARU:
ANUTTARIT PRASANGAHARU
Damaru Ballabh Bhattarai (D.B.)
Publishers: Uma Sharma Bhattarai,
Kathmandu, 2022
Pages 130
Price: Rs. 350/-
anomalies of Nepali bureaucracy that can be
described as an exercise in administrative mess
where rules and regulations are more breached
than observed and policy-level corruption reigns
supreme. The author portrays a sharp depletion in
the standards of constitutional organs that have
badly been politicised over the years. The writer
has poor impressions of political class and defines
political changes as attempts as if to rob the coun-
try of its originality and perpetuate the influence
of corrupt elements trying to deny the rule of law
for their vested interests.
Chapters three and four are important in the
sense that the writer has the best appreciation
BOOK REVIEW
for King Birendra, who not only encouraged him
to fulfil his duty as Chief District Officer of Kath-
mandu but also showed sympathy for his sum-
mary dismissal from the service. There is, how-
ever, a context in which one senior official was
quite familiar with the author prior to his induc-
tion into palace service, having metamorphosed
into an unwieldy and bullying personality.
Incidentally, chapter three detailing his experi-
ence as CDO of Kathmandu, entitled Chaarkhaal-
maa Haraundaa (disappearing in the whirlpool
of Chaarkhaal), is also reproduced as article 7 in
Raastrasevak magazine (Vol. 26. No. 1, Septem-
ber 2022), published by the Council of Former
Public Servants of Nepal. D.B. makes particu-
lar reference to the observation of Chief Justice
Ratna Bahadur Bista that the judiciary was not
favourably inclined to accept the system of Thaado
Aadesh (direct order without recourse to courts as
practiced by administrators) during a workshop of
chief district officers.
The author points fingers at the actions and pos-
sible intentions of Prime Minister Girija Prasad
Koirala. He blames Koirala for injecting politi-
cisation into the bureaucracy. He has also given
context to Koirala's indirect confessions of what
he calls sanctions given by the Indian Foreign Sec-
retary to hijack Nepali Airlines with the intention
of robbing three million rupees of Nepal's cen-
tral bank after his overtures to get money from
an Indian intelligence outfit failed. Incidentally,
Kewal Singh was India's Foreign Secretary at the
time and has not mentioned this aspect in his
memoirs.
While the book is quite interesting, there are
some negative points. The first lacuna is that
presentations are not systematic but random.
Second, there are mistakes in names and descrip-
tions. As Shankar Raj Pathak is a professor and
Zonal Commissioner, apart from several other
functions he discharged, he is not a doctor. Like-
wise, Chandra Shekhar, who later became Prime
Minister of India and visited Nepal to take part
in the meetings of the then political formations,
was a senior politician but never an academic.
Despite such minor shortcomings, D.B.'s sec-
ond memoir is an admirable work depicting a
true picture of the Nepali bureaucracy that was
already on a downward slide and probably fell to
the bottom after the perfunctory and arbitrary
decision of Girija Prasad Koirala to dismiss a
large number of civil servants. I congratulate the
author on his tenacious efforts to bring out the
second book.
(Dr. Bhattarai is a former foreign secretary,
ambassador, and author.)
D Friday, February 23, 2024
risingnepaldaily.com

A Global Call For Climate Justice

individuals to speed up their efforts to cut emis-
sions. The declaration also emphasises the impor-
tance of global cooperation and solidarity in
addressing the climate crisis, protecting vulnera-
ble communities, and preserving the environment
for future generations.
Geeta Pandey, Director of Policy Advocacy and
Research at the Karnali Integrated Rural Develop-
Indira Aryal ment and Research Centre (KIRDARC) in Nepal,
expressed the opportunity to join forces in con-
fronting the dire impacts of climate change. Their
work in Nepal mirrors the challenges experienced
by regions worldwide, highlighting the shared

K
iprotich Peter, a youth activist from Kenya, struggle against these devastating consequences.
believes that taking loans to combat the The far-reaching impacts of the climate crisis
climate crisis is not the solution. Instead, childbirth from using salty water for hygiene exchange experiences, and forge strategies for stress that its effects span from the highlands of
he advocates for developed nations to assist devel- during menstruation. transformation. The convening of the Kathmandu Nepal to lowlands across the globe. She under-
oping countries in finding sustainable solutions. Mausami pointed out the frequent natural Forum marks a momentous milestone, highlight- scored the importance of safeguarding not only
Peter conveyed this message during his partici- disasters, like two to three cyclones, that worsen ing the enduring resilience and rich diversity islands and mountains but also the intercon-
pation in the World Social Forum in Kathmandu, the already tough conditions. She passionately inherent within global solidarity movements. nected ecosystems in between. However, Pandey
Nepal, held from February 15 to 19, 2024. He used called for justice, stressing the importance of Over 1,252 organisations from 92 countries lamented that, despite global commitments, many
the platform to highlight the climate crisis, recog- everyone receiving fair treatment in the face of actively participated, both in person and virtu- states, influenced by industry pressures and cor-
nising Nepal's own struggles with its impacts. the climate crisis. She emphasised the urgent ally, in the five-day forum. This event showcased porate interests, have yet to fulfil their obligations.
Holding a placard that reads, “The world’s poor- need for collective action to address the signifi- thematic panels, self-organised activities, and cul- This failure to act effectively leaves humanity vul-
est countries are being forced to take out loans to cant injustices experienced by her country and its tural programmes and provided ample opportuni- nerable to catastrophic temperature rises.
respond to a climate crisis, not of their making,” people. ties for networking and collaborative action. In light of this urgency, Pandey called for collec-
Peter emphasises the need for grants, not loans, Harjeet Singh, a climate change activist from The Forum encompassed a diverse array of the- tive action and decisive measures. She highlighted
for countries like Kenya and Nepal. Despite con- India, used the side forum of the Global Climate matic panels, assemblies, and activities spanning how this WSF has amplified the voices of affected
tributing little to greenhouse gas emissions, Justice Assembly, “Mountain in Peril: Together 13 distinct themes. These include critical topics communities and advocated for concrete steps
they suffer the worst impacts of climate change, for People and Planet,” at the WSF to shed light such as climate change, economic inequality and to address the injustices perpetuated by climate
including droughts and floods. Peter's message on the detrimental effects of climate change and the global financial system, gender equality and change.
resonates as a call for climate justice and solidar- the alarming proliferation of fossil fuel plants by women's rights, labour rights and migration, as The declaration raises concerns about the rapid Pandey pledged to continue advocating for
ity among nations. Calls for climate justice echoed developed nations. "We must persist in our fight well as peace, justice, and human rights. melting of the Himalayan glaciers due to climate accountability from governments and corpora-
resoundingly amidst the gatherings of activists for climate justice," he asserted. change, which affects billions of people who rely tions while striving for more just and sustainable
from 92 countries. Singh addressed the audience from the per- Kathmandu declaration on them for water. It urges international efforts solutions that benefit all, particularly the poor,
Mausami, from Bangladesh, working with a spective of a mountainous country, emphasising The civil society organisations working in to prioritise action and investments in mountain marginalised, women, girls, and individuals of all
global platform in her country, brought atten- the direct link between melting glaciers and the Nepal on climate change issues crafted the Kath- regions to address this threat. genders.
tion to the severe challenges faced due to climate continued use of fossil fuels. "The impacts you're mandu Declaration, ‘Together for Climate Jus- The declaration also criticises the current global Climate actions must not reinforce existing
change. She described Bangladesh as disas- seeing are a direct result of these actions," he said. tice’. This declaration stresses that actions to financial system for not adequately supporting social inequalities but instead create opportu-
ter-prone and shared the unbearable suffering Singh stressed the importance of holding account- tackle climate change, like reducing emissions developing countries in their efforts to address cli- nities for access to information, resources, and
experienced, especially by those in coastal areas. able those countries responsible for exacerbating and adapting to its effects, must be fair and just. mate change. It calls for urgent reforms to ensure opportunities for all. Pandey critiqued the mod-
"The situation in the coastal belt, particularly for climate change. He urged for a collective effort to It highlights the importance of considering the that money flows transparently and fairly to help ern economic system for prioritising private own-
minority groups and women, is extremely dis- address the consequences and ensure account- needs of marginalised groups, such as women, these countries transition to sustainable develop- ership and profit, which often leads to extreme
tressing," Mausami expressed during the WSF. ability for the well-being of all communities children, people with disabilities, and indigenous ment and cope with climate-related damage. extraction of natural resources and environ-
She emphasised the difficult journey women affected by the impacts of climate change. peoples. These groups should have a say in deci- Moreover, the Kathmandu Declaration empha- mental degradation. Addressing climate justice
undertake, walking three to five kilometres to sion-making about climate issues. The declaration sises the need for immediate action to reduce requires not only systemic change but also a fun-
collect safe drinking water, often encountering Why WSF also calls for sharing the responsibilities and ben- greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects damental reevaluation of humanity's relationship
harassment from men or boys along the way. Since its establishment in 2001, the WSF has efits of climate action fairly among countries, con- of climate change. It stresses the importance of with the planet and with each other.
This struggle leads to women experiencing served as a guiding light for social movements, sidering their historical contributions and future using scientific evidence to guide decision-mak-
vaginal infections and complications during trade unions, and activists worldwide to unite, impacts. ing and urges all countries, businesses, and (Aryal is a journalist at The Rising Nepal.)

TRN CROSSWORD PUZZLE NO. 1778 CREATIVE CORNER

1 2 3 4 5
Wonderful Winter
6 7 Vacation
a really amazing and unforgettable
moment for me.
After we finished the zip line, we
8 9 10 11 took some photos. Then, I tried sky
cycling, which was really cool. Sky
cycling is when you ride a bike on a
rope high up in the air. We also walked
around the Trishuli Riverbank in the
12 13 14 15 Parineety Regmi evening. Before dinner, we listened to
live music and had fun dancing and
singing together. Later, we had din-
Brisha Wagle, Grade :III, The Chandbagh School
ner. Since it was cold, we sat around
a campfire before going to bed. After
16 warming up, we decided it was time to

A
trip means a journey in which go to sleep.
you go somewhere, usually
for a short time, and come
back again. I had a winter vacation
17 18 for 15 days due to the extremely cold
weather. So, my family decided to go
on a trip to Trisuli Riverside Resort,
Name .................................................................................. Across located on the bank of the Trisuli
1. A sudden attack River in Dhading. Udhav Kadel estab-
Address ............................................................................. 4. Break apart lished this resort, which has earned a
6. The future good reputation in the field of rafting
Signature .......................................................................... 8. Of considerable size and adventure in Nepal.
9. A haymaking machine On the trip, there were five mem-
12. The latest bers, including my father, mother,
14. A right to reject a decision brother, sister, and myself. First, we
16. Way in
took a bus from New Buspark. It took The next morning, we woke up a bit
around 4 hours from Kathmandu to late and headed for breakfast. After
17. Main actor
Last date of entry: reach the resort. eating, we went on a short hike. Along
18. Sanitising hydrocarbon
February 28, 2024 After reaching there, we had the way, we saw people working on
Down
lunch together. After taking some their farms.
2. Store of valuable things
Win a prize of Rs. 600. In case there are more rest, we decided to take advantage Then, we returned to the riverbank
3. Keep apart of some adventurous activities avail- for some photos—it was a wonderful
than one correct entry the prize will be split 4. A serious dispute able at the resort. So, we all headed to moment. When we got back to the
into three sums of Rs. 200 each. The winner will 5. Not true Zip Line. resort, we packed our bags and had
be selected by a lucky draw. Only cuttings (not 7. A sound of knocking Zip lining is an action filled with lunch. It was time to go back to Kath-
8. Impair the quality recreational activity that involves rid- mandu, so we caught a bus. I told my
photo copy) that include the Crossword Puzzle
10. Departing from usual standards ing a steel cable on a protective seat or relatives and friends all about our
no. will be accepted. 11. Kangaroo a belt between two points. We wore the adventure.
13. Escape paying tax safety belts, and my father went first
15. In bad style to another side. (Grade: VI, Xavier International
Shaman Paudel, Grade: V, Occidental Public School, Anamnagar Kathmandu
16. A person who is overly emotional Then we all did the same. That was School)

Solutions to TRN Crossword Puzzle No. 1777

TRN PUZZLE NUMBER-410
All you have to do is to fill
ACROSS: 1. EPOPEE 4. FULL 6. RAVENING 8. ANTI 9. LETTER 12. ORATOR
up in the seven boxes below
14. ASAP 16. BAD DEBTS 17. PLUG 18. DRYERS 82 42 44 53 62
with the numbers in such a
way that the sum will be 420 41 52 70
DOWN : 2. PLAIN 3. PREDICT 4. FOG 5. LEAVE 7. ILLBRED 8. ADO
10. TRAGEDY 11. RIP 13. REPEL 15. ACTOR 16. BUG whether you go diagonally, 49 60 71
horizontally or vertically. The
50 68 79
numbers should be 36 to 84
between. The number should 58 76 38

LUCKY Archana Devi Shrestha

Krishna Chandra Gautam
not be used twice.
Radheshyam Shrestha
WINNER
94 103 112 65 74 83 92

102 111 71 73 82 91 93

110 70 72 81 90 99 101
TRN PUZZLE
ALL CORRECT ANSWER 69 78 80 89 98 100 109
SOLUTION-409
Bal Krishna Shrestha, Sunil Sharma Bhattarai 77 79 88 97 106 108 68

85 87 96 105 107 67 76
Prepared by: Bishwo Nath Kharel

86 95 104 113 66 75 84 Sailaja Dani, Grade:III,Times International School