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<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	There has been a surge of extreme sports in the Himalayan Kingdom in recent years. Along with the developments in the tourism sector, the recreation industry has also benefitted by luring an increasing number of foreign tourists, urban youth and others for a number of exciting adventure sports.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Nepal is largely seen as a popular trekking destination. “Above 40 per cent of all tourists coming into Nepal go for trekking which is an integral part of tourism in Nepal,” says Mani Raj Lamichhane, Manager for Tourism Product &amp; Resource Development at Nepal Tourism Board. He further adds that around 60-70 per cent of all foreign tourists opt for various extreme sports activities altogether.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Domestic tourism is doing well currently and Nepalis are participating in rafting activities in an enthusiastic manner,” analyses Nani Kaji Thapa, President of Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA). As for foreigners, 20 per cent of all tourists coming to tour Nepal go for rafting to various destinations in the country, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Manish Byanjankar, Sales Executive of The Last Resort says, “Besides the foreign tourists, Nepalis too have started taking part actively in adventure sports, particularly during the off season.” Most Nepalis indulge in adventure sports during their holidays and free time.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ideal Season</strong></p>
<p>
	“Summer is an ideal time for adventure sports activities in Nepal,” informs Lamichhane. He adds, “Besides the usual foreign tourists who come to Nepal for adventure activities, the Nepali people are also participating in high numbers.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The time period from Falgun (February – March) to Jestha (May – June), just before monsoon, is the ideal time for people to go rafting, says Thapa. “Nepalis contribute 5-10 per cent of all tourists who take part in rafting activities,” he adds. Another ideal time for rafting starts right after the monsoon period, from September to November. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Target Group</strong></p>
<p>
	Adventure Sports has mostly been associated with young people in the age group of 20-25 years. However, there is a surge in people in the age group of 30-40 years taking to extreme sports in an enthusiastic manner. “The entire thinking of the mature populace has changed. They want to enjoy these activities and make up for the experiences they missed during their youth,” observes Byanjankar.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Marketing Adventure Products</strong></p>
<p>
	Lamichhane says that Nepal Tourism Board markets adventure activities abroad while holding exhibitions and seminars in different countries. “Extreme sports are popular with tourists around the world and we look to cash in on this while marketing Nepal as a tourist destination in foreign countries,” he explains.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	One of the most prominent providers of some of these activities is The Last Resort, located on top of a gorge in the mountainous region of Panglang close to the Tibetan border. “Besides individual tourists, we see a lot of corporate houses sending their employees these days, notably for team building exercises,” informs Byanjankar.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He adds, “The group activities that the corporate houses mostly seek are hiking, high ropes, canyoning and rafting.” These activities are popular for team building exercises because they require participation from all group members to accomplish tasks and thus inculcate team value in them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“There has been a gradual rise in the participation of these sports as people now are starting to go out of the house more often and have fun,” an employee with Initiatives Outdoor states. She adds, “There is an increasing awareness regarding health which has led a lot of young people as well as working professionals to start challenging themselves for different adventure activities.”</p>
<p>
	“We send our top performing agents to adventure destinations once in a while. We do so to motivate them to do better in the future,” says an Insurance Executive. A lot of Nepali companies send employees for extreme sports packages to break the monotony that people feel at work.</p>
<p>
	Thapa says that most people prefer Trishuli River for rafting while Bhote Koshi River is the second most preferred destination for rafting. He also informs, “There is a total investment of Rs 2 billion in rafting activities and around 1,500 are employed with this sector.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The Nepali youth and the working professionals are getting more adventurous than ever before. This aspect is holding the extreme sports sector in good stead, say adventure sports entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<hr />
<p style="text-align: center;">
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Adventure Sports Activities in Nepal</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">White-water Rafting&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	With many rivers in the country, there are suitable choices for all levels, from fun rapids to hardcore rides. Nepal is famous for its long trips, such as a 12-day journey into the wilderness along the remote Karnali River. There are day trips along the Trishuli River as well as a wild ride along the monster rapids of Sun Koshi that begins near the Tibetan border.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Paragliding&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Paragliding has carved a niche for itself in Nepal. There are a number of companies in Pokhara offering great views via a tandem paraglide flight. Silence is a sublime experience once up there over the Pokhara valley and in the midst of the mighty Annapurna range.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Zip Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	The world’s longest adventurous zip-flyer, located in Nepal, runs at a speed of 140 km per hour and two people can make a ride at once in two trolleys sitting side-by-side suspended by the cable in the middle. The journey in the zip-flyer starts from a height of 5032 ft in Sarangkot and ends at 3,000 ft in Hemja plain covering a distance of 1,860 meters in length.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Mountain Biking</strong></p>
<p>
	The rural tracks in Nepal seem to be tailor-made for mountain biking. Mountain-bikers can tailor their routes combining cultural sites with mountain views on a mix of single tracks and jeep trails. One needs to be a fairly experienced rider with good fitness levels as mountain-biking across Nepal will have a lot of uphill sections.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ultra-light Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	Ultra-light Flying is a new era of recreational aviation in Nepal. Since its launch, scores of people have discovered the magic of this simple, elemental, pure flight. One can feel the wind in the face, observe clear, unobstructed views and explore the stunning landscapes, surrounded by a backdrop of lofty mountain peaks.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Bungy Jumping</strong></p>
<p>
	This leap of faith has already become a growing and immensely popular adventure sport in Nepal’s tourism scenario. The Last Resort facilitates the bungy jump from high above the Bhote Koshi River from a 500 ft suspension bridge nestled between the mountains. Bungy Jumping has become extremely popular among the foreign tourists as well as the Nepali nationals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Canyoning</strong></p>
<p>
	This adventure sport involves abseiling, sliding, jumping and climbing down canyon walls alongside waterfalls to deep pools below. One gets to swim into narrow passages through powerful blasts of water and past wild rock formations. This unique combination of skills gives a person the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful places.</p>
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			'description' => 'Be it bungy jumping, canyoning, rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking or flying an ultralight aircraft, adventure activities are no longer expected of foreign tourists alone. Nepalis are increasingly being drawn to extreme sports in the country in large numbers.',
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			'title' => 'Summer Market 2013',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	Amid growing consumer base and fierce competition, it’s time for the sellers to display new products and indulge in promotional campaigns to grab a share of the Nepali market. Manufacturers and traders of different summer products are cashing in on the opportunity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The increasing income of the consumers along with a rise in awareness among them has helped open new markets. Besides, growing urbanisation and the concept of nuclear families has played its part in boosting the market for different products. A lot of products are now increasingly seen as necessary items instead of being treated as luxury commodities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#f00;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Branded Wear</span></strong></span></p>
<p>
	Majority would agree that summer is the most fashion-active time of the year. Fashion frenzy for the year has already started with most stores displaying latest summer apparels. It’s time to shed bulky sweaters and jackets and get into light and bright coloured attires. Fashion outlets across the country only know it too well. “We are looking forward to an activity-filled summer,” says Nripesh Shrestha, Manager of U.F.O. The Clothing Store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Fashion keeps evolving with new trends emerging every season and it’s not going to be any different this time around. Leading stores such as U.F.O., United Colors of Benetton, Dot Fashion Wear and Springwood have showcased t-shirts, tops, shorts, bermudas and shirts, among others. Store owners say that they expect the summer shoppers to revitalise the market. &nbsp;Popular multi brand retail chain Dot Fashion Wear is selling summer apparels of established brands including Scotch &amp; Soda, Tommy Hilfiger, Bossini and Levi’s, among others, from its three stores at Khichapokhari, Kathmandu Mall and City Centre. “We certainly expect to do better than last summer with fresh collections from manufacturers around the world,” Sabin Jonchhe, Managing Director of Dot Fashion Wear, confides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	United Colors of Benetton, that has a single outlet in the country at Durbarmarg, has summer apparels for everyone – men, women and children alike. Pradip Subedi, Accountant with the store informs, “We have our summer collection, both formal and casual, on display since the beginning of April.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Love for Branded Wear</strong></p>
<p>
	The attraction for branded wear has grown immensely over the last few years, say industry insiders. According to an estimate, 60-70 per cent of the visitors at fashion retail outlets now emphasise on checking out branded wear. A staff member at a popular store credits this trend to the youngsters’ affinity for Internet and TV channels that target the youth.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	U.F.O. The Clothing Store, that has a quarterly turnover of Rs 5 million, has made a swift transition from non-branded to branded wear over the last three to four years, claims Shrestha. He adds that this move is in line with the youngsters’ desire to be seen wearing branded wear. The youth of age group 20–25 are more inclined towards fashion and frequent his stores most, he says.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pricing Strategy</strong></p>
<p>
	Most stores price their products at a minimum margin in order to ensure maximum footfall and provide value for money. It also becomes important for stores like U.F.O. and Dot Fashion Wear to make sure that their products are priced at par with their competitors in the market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br />
	</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Cooling Appliances</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Summer Market 2013" height="367" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cooling_appliances.jpg" style="float:left;margin:0 10px 0 0" width="280" />With yet another summer, major consumer durables players in the country are looking forward to a great season. Industry experts opine that the sales volume for summer appliances will see a growth of around 25 per cent this season.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The likes of major electronic brands such as Bajaj, CG, Samsung and LG are upbeat about their sales prospects for the Baishakh – Asar (mid April – mid July) quarter.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Rajan Sangpang, the Showroom In charge of CG Digital at UWTC in Tripureshwor, claims that though a home-grown brand, the quality of CG products is at par with international brands. “We are expecting a sales growth of 20–25 per cent at this store for the Baishakh – Asar quarter,” he says.</p>
<p>
	Nikita Thapaliya, Sales Executive with Him Plaza at Civil Mall, feels that the sale of fans at her store is bound to be good this summer. She says, “Bajaj fans at our store have been selling well since January, in anticipation of a long summer.” The plaza sells products of Bajaj and Himstar brands.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Our strategy is to focus on LG refrigerators from our dedicated stores in Minbhawan and Sundhara besides other outlets across Nepal,” says Sandesh Bhurtel, Assistant Manager at CG Electronics, who looks after LG brand in the company’s sales department. Though he feels that the market has become very competitive with a lot of brands vying for a stake, “Bringing in new ideas and sustaining business operations over a period of time will lead to success,” he believes. LG has been selling refrigerators in the domestic market for the last one and a half decade, while it has been present in the air conditioner segment for around 10 years.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Broader Market Presence</strong></p>
<p>
	Apart from its two authorised showrooms in the Kathmandu Valley, LG has over 275 distributors and dealers across Nepal to ensure penetration all over the country. Bhurtel attributes this to the growing demand for home appliances in cities and towns across Nepal, especially in the Terai belt. “Our outlets located outside the Kathmandu Valley are doing well due to the fast maturing market and we are selling more in towns outside the capital,” says Bhurtel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	While most players have their primary focus on the Kathmandu market, the markets outside the Kathmandu Valley have developed well in the last few years and are catching up. “I believe that the changing market dynamics are beginning to alter the way marketers think and the towns outside the capital no longer take the backseat for their market strategies,” he comments. While refrigerators in the medium price range do well in smaller towns, top-end refrigerators still largely depend on the Kathmandu market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>New Products&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	A fast-growing brand like CG has introduced a new portfolio of energy-efficient models that include two each of single and double-door refrigerators, an air cooler, a showcase chiller and an air conditioner.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	A leading brand, Samsung, &nbsp;is also growing in confidence and, as a result, has launched sale of air conditioners at its Civil Mall outlet as well. “Samsung is a tremendous brand and the first preference for many,” says Kalpana Bhattarai, Showroom In Charge of Samsung Plaza at Civil Mall in Sundhara. Samsung has four other exclusive stores in the Kathmandu Valley besides a number of outlets selling its products across the country.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Cool Food &amp; Beverages</span></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;"><img alt="Cool Food and Beverages" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cool_food_beverages.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season has the soft drinks giants, fruit juices, aerated drinks and ice cream manufacturers hitting the market with all they have. Summer is peak season for businesses dealing in drinks and food that offer relief during the hot weather. “We do a business of 500 bottles a day from this very shop during summer as compared to about 100 bottles per day during the winter season,” says Naresh Suwal, the second-generation proprietor of Ranjana Galli ko Purano Jana Soda Pasal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“We sell around 3,000 litres of ice cream per day on an average, in the summer season,” adds Arniko Rajbhandary, the Executive Director of Nepal Dairy Pvt Ltd, producer and marketer of the famous nd’s brand.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	During the period of seven to eight months from Falgun (mid February – mid March) till the time Dashain festival gets over, the ice cream industry registers a business of close to 12,000 litres per day, says Rajbhandary. “I am talking from the perspective of branded ice creams only,” he quickly adds, “As for the off season, the market is only about 30 per cent of the figure I just quoted.”</p>
<p>
	Rajbhandary claims that the ice cream industry has been growing at a steady 25 – 30 per cent each year and the growth of his own enterprise is in accordance with that. “Affordability is the key,” he declares. To drive home his point, he tells that nd’s has introduced ‘Phuchche Kulfi’ aimed at kids which is priced at Rs 20. “The 30 ml kulfi will encourage children to have quality ice creams at a price that suit their pockets.”</p>
<p>
	As for the branded soft drinks, the industry in Nepal is doing well and registering growth on an annual basis. However, the per capita consumption of soft drinks in Nepal is disappointing, claim industry insiders. The related companies look to drive consumption frequency and penetration by launching innovative and consumer-focused initiatives. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Summer Destinations</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season offers business opportunities to high altitude destinations in the country where people seek retreat to beat the heat at low lying altitudes elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Prem Kantha Dhwoju, Managing Director of Dhulikhel Lodge Resort in Dhulikhel, says, “The business is okay at this time of the year and our occupancy rate is close to 50 per cent currently.” Badri Prasad Makaju, Managing Director of Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn and Hotel Green Valley in Nagarkot, also says that his two properties are enjoying over 50 per cent occupancy.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Summer Packages</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><img alt="Summer Destinations" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_summer_destinations.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	Hoteliers in popular getaways like Dhulikhel and Nagarkot have introduced packages especially for the summer season. Dhulikhel Lodge Resort offers 1 night/2 days package for Nepali tourists @ Rs 5,000 (inclusive of all taxes) for two and the offer is valid till July, says Dhwoju. Similarly, Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn in Nagarkot has the same package, however, it will only be applicable in June and July, informs Makaju. Both packages provide welcome drink, accommodation, dinner and breakfast on twin sharing basis.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“While it’s hot in Kathmandu, people come to Nagarkot to enjoy the fresh air and cool environ here,” says Makaju. He adds that he and other hoteliers in the hill town have decided to target European tourists to promote Nagarkot as a destination which not only offers sunrise and sunset but also a lot of other activities. This strategy has been introduced in order to make tourists stay for at least 2 or 3 nights, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Local Infrastructure</strong></p>
<p>
	“We have requested the government to provide connectivity in terms of airline services and road connections,” says Pavitra Kumar Karki, President of Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA). Once better connectivity is accomplished, he assures that the private sector can certainly facilitate local infrastructure such as hotels or bus services, as well as market the products to lure tourists.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Tapping Markets</strong></p>
<p>
	Experts say that, from the tourism perspective of Nepal, the Indian and Chinese markets are growing. Domestic tourism &nbsp;is also on the rise, which is a very positive sign. &nbsp;“Nepalis have become more tourism oriented in recent times,” admits Dhwoju.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“People from the Middle East and the Indians want to come to Nepal for shopping and entertainment purposes during summer but first, we must be able to offer what they want,” recommends Mihika Dhakhwa, Managing Director of Zets Holidays. She adds, “We are competing with countries in the region that are focusing heavily on tourism so it becomes even more important for us to develop the tourism sector in Nepal.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The domestic tourist movement is bound to increase with time,” says Karki, and adds, “The overall environment of the country, notably the business environment, must improve so that people have the disposable income to spend on travelling.”</p>
<p>
	Makaju believes that political stability in the country is mandatory to guarantee tourism fortunes and the sector must be given the priority it deserves. Tourism entrepreneurs agree in unison that developing new products along with proper marketing of the same can make tourism in Nepal during the summer season a lucrative proposition.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The enhanced lifestyle and high aspiration level of &nbsp;Nepali people, the growing number of nuclear families and increasing affluence of &nbsp;population – notably in small cities and towns – have resulted in a growing demand for summer products.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'As the mercury soars, the demand for summer wear, cooling appliances, aerated drinks and ice creams, among other products, has increased. The weather also has people holidaying in various hill-stations of Nepal to beat the heat in low lying altitudes.',
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			'title' => 'Beer Ads On Nepali Television? Why Not?',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="text-align: justify;">By Abhaya Panday</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<img alt="Advertising, February 2013" height="190" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/advertising_feb2013.jpg" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	One fine day in 1999 AD, the then His Majesty’s Government decided to ban beer ads on the television. Media reports suggest that it was done under the recommendations of the WHO, the organization which holds immense influence over a poor country like ours. The fact that the same ‘world body’ becomes powerless about the beer ads in countries like the USA is another story altogether. Rumours following the ban also suggested that the decision was made at the behest of a business house which enjoyed monopoly in the country’s beer market. Banning the beer ads on TV would have made it an uphill task for new entrants to increase their market share and thus that ban would have been in the interest of the market leader.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But whatever the reasons, apparent or underlying, that is irrelevant. What is important is to question the basis on which the government of the day chose to impose the ban. And why did the party in power, which brands its ideology as the most scientific and revolutionary, choose to continue the legacy of the ‘old regime’? Had the ‘old regime’ conducted a reliable scientific research on the effects of beer ads on its consumption? Let’s forget about a reliable and scientific research for a moment. Did the government conduct any research at all? Nothing suggests that it did. The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising. The latest example of this arbitrariness is the recent decision of one-door policy for government ads.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Does the Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) possess more expertise in appropriating government ads than the other ministries? Evidence of arbitrariness was seen in the recent past when the Insurance Board decided to curb the spending of insurance companies on their promotional activities, thus negatively affecting the advertising industry. Sometime back, the TV commercial I had made for Digital Cable TV was banned by the MoIC without any clear cut policy on comparative advertising and in the absence of an independent and competent regulatory body on advertising. These are just a few examples which highlight the attitude of the state towards advertising. &nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Let me get back to the ban on beer ads on television. Was it necessary to impose the ban? I don’t think so. Because the assumption that beer advertising results in the increase of overall consumption is unfounded. First, the objective of any advertising exercise is to influence purchase decisions, not to increase the overall consumption. Moreover, in a product category like alcohol that is already widely consumed- in one form or the other- increasing the overall consumption of alcohol is an objective unworthy of pursuit for an advertiser. From the viewer’s perspective, does watching beer ads on TV help the drinker consume more beer than he/she normally does? Or does it entice a non-drinker to have a pint or more? Is advertising the ‘cause’ or the ‘effect’ of alcohol consumption? If the government believes that advertising is the ‘cause’ then perhaps it overestimates the power of advertising. In that case, the government should let the advertising agencies run the nation and by the sheer power of advertising, they shall eradicate all the evils of society. The fact that commercial advertising is mostly the reflection of the society’s values and aspirations and not the cause puts the power of advertising in the proper perspective.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Whether beer ads actually increase the overall consumption is an issue that has been raised in the US Parliament more than once. In response, the Federal Trade Commission, The Department of Health and a Senate subcommittee have submitted their reports on different occasions. And their findings suggest a clear absence of correlation between beer advertising and beer consumption. A 21-year long study conducted by Texas University also corroborates the findings. And let’s not forget that we are discussing a country whose per capita alcohol consumption is four times more than that of ours. Some countries in Europe have the figures six times as much, yet beer advertising enjoys considerable freedom in those countries. Of course, the content and placement of beer advertising is regulated and that is what we should be doing in Nepal. Lift the ban on beer advertising on TV and regulate the content and placement. Ironically, the government ignored to impose the ban in the print media, probably under the impression that print advertising is less effective than TV advertising.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Is beer drinking good or bad for health? Is moderate drinking medically acceptable or even beneficial? These are medical issues that should be addressed by the medical and health experts. Why do people begin consuming alcohol and, when they do, why do some turn alcoholics? Will we become a better society if we impose a total ban on alcohol? These are different issues altogether. I am neither a medical expert nor a sociologist and nor a psychologist. But as an advertiser, I am led to believe, on the basis of various scientific research conducted in countries where credible scientific &nbsp;research are produced, that advertising of beer on TV does not promote its overall consumption.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Advertising, in this view, can only influence the choice of the brand. You may choose to drink beer A instead of beer B, having been influenced by the advertisement of A. But it is most unlikely that you will drink more than what the context allows or, as a non-drinker, you will decide to drink beer A without the psychological need. If the government wants to reduce the consumption of beer or alcohol, then it must address the issues surrounding the psychological and social needs that lead to the consumption of beer or alcoholic products in general. Necessity is not only the mother of invention but also consumption. &nbsp;Kill the enemy, if you can. Don’t kill the messenger.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11px;">The writer is an advertising professional.</span></p>',
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			'title' => 'Merger: A Morale-booster',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="" height="214" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/merger.jpg" style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px;" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that. This merger will create a bigger capital base and infrastructure for the new entity, which in turn would help serve the clients better and lend strength to the nation’s fledgling banking industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	As of now, any individual bank’s lending capacity is far from being impressive. The banks are not able to finance cost-intensive projects. For business and commerce to intensify and industries to grow, a strong banking system with financial depth is a prerequisite. It’s heartening that the country has a plethora of banks. The only problem is that they lack capacity and that is a big drawback. Institutional capacity and strong capital base are the fundamental parameters for the banking industry the world over. And, Nepali banks will have to do the catching up before they are taken seriously both within and outside the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	A merger of this kind where two commercial banks rated highly for their institutional and financial strengths are merging helps the industry in a big way. Now, the new entity can finance even more cost-intensive projects. This is good news for the industry and the economy of the country. Industrial development has not taken off in the country as yet but with a more stable political environment, this is likely to begin soon. And, for that to begin, banks need to be in a position to drive and sustain such growth, which basically means they need to have the institutional capacity and capital base of a different level, something perhaps unimaginable now.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But as they say, take a step at a time and take it in the right direction. This latest merger of two commercial banks is surely such a step – taken in the right direction. For Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and particularly its Governor Dr Yuvaraj Khatiwada, who is said to have been pursuing the merger policy aggressively, this is a big morale-booster. We hope NRB will continue with its merger policy with the same gusto and give us a cleaner and more reliable banking industry in the country.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that.',
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			'title' => 'Cycling Thrills',
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			'content' => '<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;">By Abha Dhital</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	<img alt="youths " border="1" height="181" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths_featured.jpg" vspace="10" width="338" /><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span style="font-size:
59.0pt">T</span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">he roads of Kathmandu have increasingly begun to witness a new passion emerging among young health enthusiasts. These people set out for a minimum of three to six hours excursion every weekend. In their jerseys, shorts and helmets, riding their super chic mountain bikes they always manage to become head turners for the locals. Yes, cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today. One particular group – C’mon Cyclists –takes cycling very seriously despite all the fun they have. C’mon Cyclists is a growing group of 15 young men who make it a point to ride to a foothill every Saturday. If only time allowed perhaps they would ride more often. But six hours a week is generally all they can afford because these cyclists are mostly young executives.</span></div>
<div>
	<br />
	<img alt="youths" border="1" height="155" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths.jpg" vspace="10" width="400" /><br />
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;text-indent:14.0pt">
	<span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">Before cycling turned into a regular activity for C’mon Cyclists back in 2009, it began as a natural excuse for a get-together between four-five friends. Given the busy, hectic life they lived, it used to be a recreation for them. As the group started growing and their muscles stopped cramping, they realized it was not just about meeting friends. They started acknowledging cycling as an intense workout and a daring passion. Almost </span><span 000="" 600="" a="" about="" adventure="" also="" and="" be="" best="" between="" build="" burn="" busy="" but="" calorie="" calories="" can="" capacity="" cardiovascular="" considered="" cycling="" depending="" div="" down="" every="" exercise="" exercise.="" fit="" fit.="" friday.="" from="" have="" having="" he="" helps="" hour="" i="" improves="" in="" is="" it="" keep="" limited="" lung="" mandir="" muscles="" not="" of="" on="" over="" part="" per="" re="" realized="" rides="" s="" says="" shrestha="" span="" speed="" stay="" strengthens="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sunday="" that="" the="" them="" they="" three="" through="" to="" topography="" usually="" who="" wholesale="" without="" years="" you="" your="">Cycling is a sport that contributes to an overall sense of happiness and well being, factors that are very important for the young leaders. While offering a sense of challenge and adventure, cycling can also teach you a lot of skills that could be used in the business profession. Cycling has team work at its core; cyclists know that to succeed they have to ride as a team and in one pace. At certain intervals, each rider becomes responsible for pulling the group, and others follow close behind. Like any business, cycling demands shared responsibility and collaboration that contributes to a faster, stronger and more motivated team. Hence, cycling skills can always be applied to business and management and thus, these cyclists have been implementing them .Cycling is also about getting out of your comfort zone and building self reliance. In addition to being fun and bringing cyclists closer to the nature, it offers a surplus of physical, emotional and social benefit to those who partake. No wonder, cycling is growing only more popular.</span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" about="" admit="" adventure="" all="" along="" also="" although="" an="" and="" any="" are="" around="" asked="" at="" be="" because="" bhanjyang="" careful="" chandan="" city.="" come="" comes="" concern="" country="" cycle="" cycling="" cyclists="" definitely="" destinations="" destinations.="" div="" dogs="" favorite="" five-10="" foothills="" foothills.="" for="" fun="" have="" he="" his="" in="" including="" inexpensive="" instantly="" is="" kathmandu="" kilometers="" lack="" lakure="" lanes="" like="" limited="" little="" magnificent="" most="" nagarjuna="" name="" nepal.="" not="" of="" off="" on="" other="" outside="" perform="" places="" popular="" price.="" range="" regarding="" riders="" risk="" risks="" road="" says="" shivapuri="" some="" span="" spectacular="" stunts.="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" talking="" tamrakar.="" that="" the="" their="" these="" they="" this="" to="" vehicles="" very="" voices="" we="" when="" with="">When you look at the riders in their jerseys and shorts, helmets and shoes you might wonder if they are merely making a style statement. Partly yes, cycling is in fact stylishly sporty but mostly; all the apparels and equipments are used for a reason. So much so that as cycling becomes increasingly popular, it could as well be a major economic influence in a country like Nepal. When it comes to cycling, there are a number of equipments that are totally worth investing on. The complete gear with apparels and tools ranges from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 in cost. The cycle itself usually costs in the range of Rs 100,000–200,000 on an average. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" and="" apparels="" are="" besides="" bike="" course.="" cycling="" div="" for="" here="" is="" list="" mountain="" of="" required="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" tools="">The complete cyclist “must haves”: </span></div>
<div>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 1.="" are="" away="" body.="" but="" comfortable="" div="" draw="" from="" help="" important="" is="" it="" jersey:="" jerseys="" might="" more="" most="" mostly="" note="" people="" prefer="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sweat="" t-shirts="" that="" the="" these.="" to="" wearing="" will="" you="" your="">2. Shorts/ Tights: These help absorb sweat and allow you a comfortable ride. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 3.="" cold="" conditions.="" div="" important="" in="" is="" jacket="" jacket:="" re="" riding="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" when="">4. Base Layer: Base layer is useful when you’re riding in the cool weather. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 5.="" all="" are="" barrier="" cold.="" div="" from="" in="" mostly="" protect="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" these="" useful="" vest:="" you="">6. Socks: It is important to wear socks as they prevent your feet from getting blisters and cold. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 7.="" and="" by="" caused="" cycling.="" div="" gloves:="" hands="" protect="" reduce="" soreness="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" they="" your="">8. Helmet: Although cycling is fun, it cannot be taken for granted as mountain biking can prove to be dangerous. Needless to say, helmet is an essential. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 9.="" any="" biking="" div="" do.="" good="" grip.="" just="" mountain="" need="" shoes="" shoes:="" span="" sports="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" with="" you="">10. Glasses: These protect your eyes from dust, sun and everything else that might obstruct your ride. Many come with interchangeable lenses for different occasions. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 11.="" a="" allows="" as="" camelbak="" camelbak:="" div="" drink="" drinking="" hydrated="" important="" make="" might="" more="" pausing="" re="" ride.="" riding.="" s="" span="" stay="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" to="" use="" well="" while="" without="" you="">12. Headlights: Lights spare you the mysteries and accidents of the dark. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 13.="" and="" are="" as="" could="" div="" if="" it.="" judge="" obsessed="" span="" speed="" speedometer:="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" to="" use="" want="" well="" with="" you="" your="">14. Tool Kit: Punctures are inevitable and hence you should always be prepared. Always carry a pump and puncture repair kit. You can also buy a multi tool. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10.0pt;line-height:115%;Myriad Pro" ;color:#221e1f"="">(Note: Commencal, Trek and Giant are some recommended brands for cycling apparels and equipments)</strong></div>',
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			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
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			'description' => 'Cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today.',
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			'title' => 'Adventure Sports For Everyone',
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			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	There has been a surge of extreme sports in the Himalayan Kingdom in recent years. Along with the developments in the tourism sector, the recreation industry has also benefitted by luring an increasing number of foreign tourists, urban youth and others for a number of exciting adventure sports.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Nepal is largely seen as a popular trekking destination. “Above 40 per cent of all tourists coming into Nepal go for trekking which is an integral part of tourism in Nepal,” says Mani Raj Lamichhane, Manager for Tourism Product &amp; Resource Development at Nepal Tourism Board. He further adds that around 60-70 per cent of all foreign tourists opt for various extreme sports activities altogether.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Domestic tourism is doing well currently and Nepalis are participating in rafting activities in an enthusiastic manner,” analyses Nani Kaji Thapa, President of Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA). As for foreigners, 20 per cent of all tourists coming to tour Nepal go for rafting to various destinations in the country, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Manish Byanjankar, Sales Executive of The Last Resort says, “Besides the foreign tourists, Nepalis too have started taking part actively in adventure sports, particularly during the off season.” Most Nepalis indulge in adventure sports during their holidays and free time.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ideal Season</strong></p>
<p>
	“Summer is an ideal time for adventure sports activities in Nepal,” informs Lamichhane. He adds, “Besides the usual foreign tourists who come to Nepal for adventure activities, the Nepali people are also participating in high numbers.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The time period from Falgun (February – March) to Jestha (May – June), just before monsoon, is the ideal time for people to go rafting, says Thapa. “Nepalis contribute 5-10 per cent of all tourists who take part in rafting activities,” he adds. Another ideal time for rafting starts right after the monsoon period, from September to November. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Target Group</strong></p>
<p>
	Adventure Sports has mostly been associated with young people in the age group of 20-25 years. However, there is a surge in people in the age group of 30-40 years taking to extreme sports in an enthusiastic manner. “The entire thinking of the mature populace has changed. They want to enjoy these activities and make up for the experiences they missed during their youth,” observes Byanjankar.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Marketing Adventure Products</strong></p>
<p>
	Lamichhane says that Nepal Tourism Board markets adventure activities abroad while holding exhibitions and seminars in different countries. “Extreme sports are popular with tourists around the world and we look to cash in on this while marketing Nepal as a tourist destination in foreign countries,” he explains.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	One of the most prominent providers of some of these activities is The Last Resort, located on top of a gorge in the mountainous region of Panglang close to the Tibetan border. “Besides individual tourists, we see a lot of corporate houses sending their employees these days, notably for team building exercises,” informs Byanjankar.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He adds, “The group activities that the corporate houses mostly seek are hiking, high ropes, canyoning and rafting.” These activities are popular for team building exercises because they require participation from all group members to accomplish tasks and thus inculcate team value in them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“There has been a gradual rise in the participation of these sports as people now are starting to go out of the house more often and have fun,” an employee with Initiatives Outdoor states. She adds, “There is an increasing awareness regarding health which has led a lot of young people as well as working professionals to start challenging themselves for different adventure activities.”</p>
<p>
	“We send our top performing agents to adventure destinations once in a while. We do so to motivate them to do better in the future,” says an Insurance Executive. A lot of Nepali companies send employees for extreme sports packages to break the monotony that people feel at work.</p>
<p>
	Thapa says that most people prefer Trishuli River for rafting while Bhote Koshi River is the second most preferred destination for rafting. He also informs, “There is a total investment of Rs 2 billion in rafting activities and around 1,500 are employed with this sector.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The Nepali youth and the working professionals are getting more adventurous than ever before. This aspect is holding the extreme sports sector in good stead, say adventure sports entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<hr />
<p style="text-align: center;">
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Adventure Sports Activities in Nepal</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">White-water Rafting&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	With many rivers in the country, there are suitable choices for all levels, from fun rapids to hardcore rides. Nepal is famous for its long trips, such as a 12-day journey into the wilderness along the remote Karnali River. There are day trips along the Trishuli River as well as a wild ride along the monster rapids of Sun Koshi that begins near the Tibetan border.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Paragliding&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Paragliding has carved a niche for itself in Nepal. There are a number of companies in Pokhara offering great views via a tandem paraglide flight. Silence is a sublime experience once up there over the Pokhara valley and in the midst of the mighty Annapurna range.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Zip Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	The world’s longest adventurous zip-flyer, located in Nepal, runs at a speed of 140 km per hour and two people can make a ride at once in two trolleys sitting side-by-side suspended by the cable in the middle. The journey in the zip-flyer starts from a height of 5032 ft in Sarangkot and ends at 3,000 ft in Hemja plain covering a distance of 1,860 meters in length.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Mountain Biking</strong></p>
<p>
	The rural tracks in Nepal seem to be tailor-made for mountain biking. Mountain-bikers can tailor their routes combining cultural sites with mountain views on a mix of single tracks and jeep trails. One needs to be a fairly experienced rider with good fitness levels as mountain-biking across Nepal will have a lot of uphill sections.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ultra-light Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	Ultra-light Flying is a new era of recreational aviation in Nepal. Since its launch, scores of people have discovered the magic of this simple, elemental, pure flight. One can feel the wind in the face, observe clear, unobstructed views and explore the stunning landscapes, surrounded by a backdrop of lofty mountain peaks.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Bungy Jumping</strong></p>
<p>
	This leap of faith has already become a growing and immensely popular adventure sport in Nepal’s tourism scenario. The Last Resort facilitates the bungy jump from high above the Bhote Koshi River from a 500 ft suspension bridge nestled between the mountains. Bungy Jumping has become extremely popular among the foreign tourists as well as the Nepali nationals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Canyoning</strong></p>
<p>
	This adventure sport involves abseiling, sliding, jumping and climbing down canyon walls alongside waterfalls to deep pools below. One gets to swim into narrow passages through powerful blasts of water and past wild rock formations. This unique combination of skills gives a person the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful places.</p>
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			'description' => 'Be it bungy jumping, canyoning, rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking or flying an ultralight aircraft, adventure activities are no longer expected of foreign tourists alone. Nepalis are increasingly being drawn to extreme sports in the country in large numbers.',
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			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Summer Market 2013',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	Amid growing consumer base and fierce competition, it’s time for the sellers to display new products and indulge in promotional campaigns to grab a share of the Nepali market. Manufacturers and traders of different summer products are cashing in on the opportunity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The increasing income of the consumers along with a rise in awareness among them has helped open new markets. Besides, growing urbanisation and the concept of nuclear families has played its part in boosting the market for different products. A lot of products are now increasingly seen as necessary items instead of being treated as luxury commodities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#f00;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Branded Wear</span></strong></span></p>
<p>
	Majority would agree that summer is the most fashion-active time of the year. Fashion frenzy for the year has already started with most stores displaying latest summer apparels. It’s time to shed bulky sweaters and jackets and get into light and bright coloured attires. Fashion outlets across the country only know it too well. “We are looking forward to an activity-filled summer,” says Nripesh Shrestha, Manager of U.F.O. The Clothing Store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Fashion keeps evolving with new trends emerging every season and it’s not going to be any different this time around. Leading stores such as U.F.O., United Colors of Benetton, Dot Fashion Wear and Springwood have showcased t-shirts, tops, shorts, bermudas and shirts, among others. Store owners say that they expect the summer shoppers to revitalise the market. &nbsp;Popular multi brand retail chain Dot Fashion Wear is selling summer apparels of established brands including Scotch &amp; Soda, Tommy Hilfiger, Bossini and Levi’s, among others, from its three stores at Khichapokhari, Kathmandu Mall and City Centre. “We certainly expect to do better than last summer with fresh collections from manufacturers around the world,” Sabin Jonchhe, Managing Director of Dot Fashion Wear, confides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	United Colors of Benetton, that has a single outlet in the country at Durbarmarg, has summer apparels for everyone – men, women and children alike. Pradip Subedi, Accountant with the store informs, “We have our summer collection, both formal and casual, on display since the beginning of April.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Love for Branded Wear</strong></p>
<p>
	The attraction for branded wear has grown immensely over the last few years, say industry insiders. According to an estimate, 60-70 per cent of the visitors at fashion retail outlets now emphasise on checking out branded wear. A staff member at a popular store credits this trend to the youngsters’ affinity for Internet and TV channels that target the youth.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	U.F.O. The Clothing Store, that has a quarterly turnover of Rs 5 million, has made a swift transition from non-branded to branded wear over the last three to four years, claims Shrestha. He adds that this move is in line with the youngsters’ desire to be seen wearing branded wear. The youth of age group 20–25 are more inclined towards fashion and frequent his stores most, he says.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pricing Strategy</strong></p>
<p>
	Most stores price their products at a minimum margin in order to ensure maximum footfall and provide value for money. It also becomes important for stores like U.F.O. and Dot Fashion Wear to make sure that their products are priced at par with their competitors in the market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br />
	</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Cooling Appliances</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Summer Market 2013" height="367" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cooling_appliances.jpg" style="float:left;margin:0 10px 0 0" width="280" />With yet another summer, major consumer durables players in the country are looking forward to a great season. Industry experts opine that the sales volume for summer appliances will see a growth of around 25 per cent this season.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The likes of major electronic brands such as Bajaj, CG, Samsung and LG are upbeat about their sales prospects for the Baishakh – Asar (mid April – mid July) quarter.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Rajan Sangpang, the Showroom In charge of CG Digital at UWTC in Tripureshwor, claims that though a home-grown brand, the quality of CG products is at par with international brands. “We are expecting a sales growth of 20–25 per cent at this store for the Baishakh – Asar quarter,” he says.</p>
<p>
	Nikita Thapaliya, Sales Executive with Him Plaza at Civil Mall, feels that the sale of fans at her store is bound to be good this summer. She says, “Bajaj fans at our store have been selling well since January, in anticipation of a long summer.” The plaza sells products of Bajaj and Himstar brands.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Our strategy is to focus on LG refrigerators from our dedicated stores in Minbhawan and Sundhara besides other outlets across Nepal,” says Sandesh Bhurtel, Assistant Manager at CG Electronics, who looks after LG brand in the company’s sales department. Though he feels that the market has become very competitive with a lot of brands vying for a stake, “Bringing in new ideas and sustaining business operations over a period of time will lead to success,” he believes. LG has been selling refrigerators in the domestic market for the last one and a half decade, while it has been present in the air conditioner segment for around 10 years.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Broader Market Presence</strong></p>
<p>
	Apart from its two authorised showrooms in the Kathmandu Valley, LG has over 275 distributors and dealers across Nepal to ensure penetration all over the country. Bhurtel attributes this to the growing demand for home appliances in cities and towns across Nepal, especially in the Terai belt. “Our outlets located outside the Kathmandu Valley are doing well due to the fast maturing market and we are selling more in towns outside the capital,” says Bhurtel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	While most players have their primary focus on the Kathmandu market, the markets outside the Kathmandu Valley have developed well in the last few years and are catching up. “I believe that the changing market dynamics are beginning to alter the way marketers think and the towns outside the capital no longer take the backseat for their market strategies,” he comments. While refrigerators in the medium price range do well in smaller towns, top-end refrigerators still largely depend on the Kathmandu market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>New Products&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	A fast-growing brand like CG has introduced a new portfolio of energy-efficient models that include two each of single and double-door refrigerators, an air cooler, a showcase chiller and an air conditioner.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	A leading brand, Samsung, &nbsp;is also growing in confidence and, as a result, has launched sale of air conditioners at its Civil Mall outlet as well. “Samsung is a tremendous brand and the first preference for many,” says Kalpana Bhattarai, Showroom In Charge of Samsung Plaza at Civil Mall in Sundhara. Samsung has four other exclusive stores in the Kathmandu Valley besides a number of outlets selling its products across the country.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Cool Food &amp; Beverages</span></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;"><img alt="Cool Food and Beverages" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cool_food_beverages.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season has the soft drinks giants, fruit juices, aerated drinks and ice cream manufacturers hitting the market with all they have. Summer is peak season for businesses dealing in drinks and food that offer relief during the hot weather. “We do a business of 500 bottles a day from this very shop during summer as compared to about 100 bottles per day during the winter season,” says Naresh Suwal, the second-generation proprietor of Ranjana Galli ko Purano Jana Soda Pasal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“We sell around 3,000 litres of ice cream per day on an average, in the summer season,” adds Arniko Rajbhandary, the Executive Director of Nepal Dairy Pvt Ltd, producer and marketer of the famous nd’s brand.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	During the period of seven to eight months from Falgun (mid February – mid March) till the time Dashain festival gets over, the ice cream industry registers a business of close to 12,000 litres per day, says Rajbhandary. “I am talking from the perspective of branded ice creams only,” he quickly adds, “As for the off season, the market is only about 30 per cent of the figure I just quoted.”</p>
<p>
	Rajbhandary claims that the ice cream industry has been growing at a steady 25 – 30 per cent each year and the growth of his own enterprise is in accordance with that. “Affordability is the key,” he declares. To drive home his point, he tells that nd’s has introduced ‘Phuchche Kulfi’ aimed at kids which is priced at Rs 20. “The 30 ml kulfi will encourage children to have quality ice creams at a price that suit their pockets.”</p>
<p>
	As for the branded soft drinks, the industry in Nepal is doing well and registering growth on an annual basis. However, the per capita consumption of soft drinks in Nepal is disappointing, claim industry insiders. The related companies look to drive consumption frequency and penetration by launching innovative and consumer-focused initiatives. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Summer Destinations</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season offers business opportunities to high altitude destinations in the country where people seek retreat to beat the heat at low lying altitudes elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Prem Kantha Dhwoju, Managing Director of Dhulikhel Lodge Resort in Dhulikhel, says, “The business is okay at this time of the year and our occupancy rate is close to 50 per cent currently.” Badri Prasad Makaju, Managing Director of Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn and Hotel Green Valley in Nagarkot, also says that his two properties are enjoying over 50 per cent occupancy.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Summer Packages</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><img alt="Summer Destinations" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_summer_destinations.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	Hoteliers in popular getaways like Dhulikhel and Nagarkot have introduced packages especially for the summer season. Dhulikhel Lodge Resort offers 1 night/2 days package for Nepali tourists @ Rs 5,000 (inclusive of all taxes) for two and the offer is valid till July, says Dhwoju. Similarly, Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn in Nagarkot has the same package, however, it will only be applicable in June and July, informs Makaju. Both packages provide welcome drink, accommodation, dinner and breakfast on twin sharing basis.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“While it’s hot in Kathmandu, people come to Nagarkot to enjoy the fresh air and cool environ here,” says Makaju. He adds that he and other hoteliers in the hill town have decided to target European tourists to promote Nagarkot as a destination which not only offers sunrise and sunset but also a lot of other activities. This strategy has been introduced in order to make tourists stay for at least 2 or 3 nights, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Local Infrastructure</strong></p>
<p>
	“We have requested the government to provide connectivity in terms of airline services and road connections,” says Pavitra Kumar Karki, President of Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA). Once better connectivity is accomplished, he assures that the private sector can certainly facilitate local infrastructure such as hotels or bus services, as well as market the products to lure tourists.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Tapping Markets</strong></p>
<p>
	Experts say that, from the tourism perspective of Nepal, the Indian and Chinese markets are growing. Domestic tourism &nbsp;is also on the rise, which is a very positive sign. &nbsp;“Nepalis have become more tourism oriented in recent times,” admits Dhwoju.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“People from the Middle East and the Indians want to come to Nepal for shopping and entertainment purposes during summer but first, we must be able to offer what they want,” recommends Mihika Dhakhwa, Managing Director of Zets Holidays. She adds, “We are competing with countries in the region that are focusing heavily on tourism so it becomes even more important for us to develop the tourism sector in Nepal.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The domestic tourist movement is bound to increase with time,” says Karki, and adds, “The overall environment of the country, notably the business environment, must improve so that people have the disposable income to spend on travelling.”</p>
<p>
	Makaju believes that political stability in the country is mandatory to guarantee tourism fortunes and the sector must be given the priority it deserves. Tourism entrepreneurs agree in unison that developing new products along with proper marketing of the same can make tourism in Nepal during the summer season a lucrative proposition.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The enhanced lifestyle and high aspiration level of &nbsp;Nepali people, the growing number of nuclear families and increasing affluence of &nbsp;population – notably in small cities and towns – have resulted in a growing demand for summer products.&nbsp;</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-05-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-07',
			'keywords' => 'Summer Market 2013, Pinaki Roy, Trends, New Business Age, Summer',
			'description' => 'As the mercury soars, the demand for summer wear, cooling appliances, aerated drinks and ice creams, among other products, has increased. The weather also has people holidaying in various hill-stations of Nepal to beat the heat in low lying altitudes.',
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	(int) 2 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '880',
			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Beer Ads On Nepali Television? Why Not?',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="text-align: justify;">By Abhaya Panday</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<img alt="Advertising, February 2013" height="190" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/advertising_feb2013.jpg" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	One fine day in 1999 AD, the then His Majesty’s Government decided to ban beer ads on the television. Media reports suggest that it was done under the recommendations of the WHO, the organization which holds immense influence over a poor country like ours. The fact that the same ‘world body’ becomes powerless about the beer ads in countries like the USA is another story altogether. Rumours following the ban also suggested that the decision was made at the behest of a business house which enjoyed monopoly in the country’s beer market. Banning the beer ads on TV would have made it an uphill task for new entrants to increase their market share and thus that ban would have been in the interest of the market leader.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But whatever the reasons, apparent or underlying, that is irrelevant. What is important is to question the basis on which the government of the day chose to impose the ban. And why did the party in power, which brands its ideology as the most scientific and revolutionary, choose to continue the legacy of the ‘old regime’? Had the ‘old regime’ conducted a reliable scientific research on the effects of beer ads on its consumption? Let’s forget about a reliable and scientific research for a moment. Did the government conduct any research at all? Nothing suggests that it did. The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising. The latest example of this arbitrariness is the recent decision of one-door policy for government ads.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Does the Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) possess more expertise in appropriating government ads than the other ministries? Evidence of arbitrariness was seen in the recent past when the Insurance Board decided to curb the spending of insurance companies on their promotional activities, thus negatively affecting the advertising industry. Sometime back, the TV commercial I had made for Digital Cable TV was banned by the MoIC without any clear cut policy on comparative advertising and in the absence of an independent and competent regulatory body on advertising. These are just a few examples which highlight the attitude of the state towards advertising. &nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Let me get back to the ban on beer ads on television. Was it necessary to impose the ban? I don’t think so. Because the assumption that beer advertising results in the increase of overall consumption is unfounded. First, the objective of any advertising exercise is to influence purchase decisions, not to increase the overall consumption. Moreover, in a product category like alcohol that is already widely consumed- in one form or the other- increasing the overall consumption of alcohol is an objective unworthy of pursuit for an advertiser. From the viewer’s perspective, does watching beer ads on TV help the drinker consume more beer than he/she normally does? Or does it entice a non-drinker to have a pint or more? Is advertising the ‘cause’ or the ‘effect’ of alcohol consumption? If the government believes that advertising is the ‘cause’ then perhaps it overestimates the power of advertising. In that case, the government should let the advertising agencies run the nation and by the sheer power of advertising, they shall eradicate all the evils of society. The fact that commercial advertising is mostly the reflection of the society’s values and aspirations and not the cause puts the power of advertising in the proper perspective.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Whether beer ads actually increase the overall consumption is an issue that has been raised in the US Parliament more than once. In response, the Federal Trade Commission, The Department of Health and a Senate subcommittee have submitted their reports on different occasions. And their findings suggest a clear absence of correlation between beer advertising and beer consumption. A 21-year long study conducted by Texas University also corroborates the findings. And let’s not forget that we are discussing a country whose per capita alcohol consumption is four times more than that of ours. Some countries in Europe have the figures six times as much, yet beer advertising enjoys considerable freedom in those countries. Of course, the content and placement of beer advertising is regulated and that is what we should be doing in Nepal. Lift the ban on beer advertising on TV and regulate the content and placement. Ironically, the government ignored to impose the ban in the print media, probably under the impression that print advertising is less effective than TV advertising.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Is beer drinking good or bad for health? Is moderate drinking medically acceptable or even beneficial? These are medical issues that should be addressed by the medical and health experts. Why do people begin consuming alcohol and, when they do, why do some turn alcoholics? Will we become a better society if we impose a total ban on alcohol? These are different issues altogether. I am neither a medical expert nor a sociologist and nor a psychologist. But as an advertiser, I am led to believe, on the basis of various scientific research conducted in countries where credible scientific &nbsp;research are produced, that advertising of beer on TV does not promote its overall consumption.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Advertising, in this view, can only influence the choice of the brand. You may choose to drink beer A instead of beer B, having been influenced by the advertisement of A. But it is most unlikely that you will drink more than what the context allows or, as a non-drinker, you will decide to drink beer A without the psychological need. If the government wants to reduce the consumption of beer or alcohol, then it must address the issues surrounding the psychological and social needs that lead to the consumption of beer or alcoholic products in general. Necessity is not only the mother of invention but also consumption. &nbsp;Kill the enemy, if you can. Don’t kill the messenger.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11px;">The writer is an advertising professional.</span></p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-03-16',
			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become 
the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '827',
			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Merger: A Morale-booster',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="" height="214" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/merger.jpg" style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px;" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that. This merger will create a bigger capital base and infrastructure for the new entity, which in turn would help serve the clients better and lend strength to the nation’s fledgling banking industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	As of now, any individual bank’s lending capacity is far from being impressive. The banks are not able to finance cost-intensive projects. For business and commerce to intensify and industries to grow, a strong banking system with financial depth is a prerequisite. It’s heartening that the country has a plethora of banks. The only problem is that they lack capacity and that is a big drawback. Institutional capacity and strong capital base are the fundamental parameters for the banking industry the world over. And, Nepali banks will have to do the catching up before they are taken seriously both within and outside the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	A merger of this kind where two commercial banks rated highly for their institutional and financial strengths are merging helps the industry in a big way. Now, the new entity can finance even more cost-intensive projects. This is good news for the industry and the economy of the country. Industrial development has not taken off in the country as yet but with a more stable political environment, this is likely to begin soon. And, for that to begin, banks need to be in a position to drive and sustain such growth, which basically means they need to have the institutional capacity and capital base of a different level, something perhaps unimaginable now.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But as they say, take a step at a time and take it in the right direction. This latest merger of two commercial banks is surely such a step – taken in the right direction. For Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and particularly its Governor Dr Yuvaraj Khatiwada, who is said to have been pursuing the merger policy aggressively, this is a big morale-booster. We hope NRB will continue with its merger policy with the same gusto and give us a cleaner and more reliable banking industry in the country.&nbsp;</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-03-15',
			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that.',
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			'id' => '750',
			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Cycling Thrills',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;">By Abha Dhital</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	<img alt="youths " border="1" height="181" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths_featured.jpg" vspace="10" width="338" /><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span style="font-size:
59.0pt">T</span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">he roads of Kathmandu have increasingly begun to witness a new passion emerging among young health enthusiasts. These people set out for a minimum of three to six hours excursion every weekend. In their jerseys, shorts and helmets, riding their super chic mountain bikes they always manage to become head turners for the locals. Yes, cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today. One particular group – C’mon Cyclists –takes cycling very seriously despite all the fun they have. C’mon Cyclists is a growing group of 15 young men who make it a point to ride to a foothill every Saturday. If only time allowed perhaps they would ride more often. But six hours a week is generally all they can afford because these cyclists are mostly young executives.</span></div>
<div>
	<br />
	<img alt="youths" border="1" height="155" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths.jpg" vspace="10" width="400" /><br />
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;text-indent:14.0pt">
	<span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">Before cycling turned into a regular activity for C’mon Cyclists back in 2009, it began as a natural excuse for a get-together between four-five friends. Given the busy, hectic life they lived, it used to be a recreation for them. As the group started growing and their muscles stopped cramping, they realized it was not just about meeting friends. They started acknowledging cycling as an intense workout and a daring passion. Almost </span><span 000="" 600="" a="" about="" adventure="" also="" and="" be="" best="" between="" build="" burn="" busy="" but="" calorie="" calories="" can="" capacity="" cardiovascular="" considered="" cycling="" depending="" div="" down="" every="" exercise="" exercise.="" fit="" fit.="" friday.="" from="" have="" having="" he="" helps="" hour="" i="" improves="" in="" is="" it="" keep="" limited="" lung="" mandir="" muscles="" not="" of="" on="" over="" part="" per="" re="" realized="" rides="" s="" says="" shrestha="" span="" speed="" stay="" strengthens="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sunday="" that="" the="" them="" they="" three="" through="" to="" topography="" usually="" who="" wholesale="" without="" years="" you="" your="">Cycling is a sport that contributes to an overall sense of happiness and well being, factors that are very important for the young leaders. While offering a sense of challenge and adventure, cycling can also teach you a lot of skills that could be used in the business profession. Cycling has team work at its core; cyclists know that to succeed they have to ride as a team and in one pace. At certain intervals, each rider becomes responsible for pulling the group, and others follow close behind. Like any business, cycling demands shared responsibility and collaboration that contributes to a faster, stronger and more motivated team. Hence, cycling skills can always be applied to business and management and thus, these cyclists have been implementing them .Cycling is also about getting out of your comfort zone and building self reliance. In addition to being fun and bringing cyclists closer to the nature, it offers a surplus of physical, emotional and social benefit to those who partake. No wonder, cycling is growing only more popular.</span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" about="" admit="" adventure="" all="" along="" also="" although="" an="" and="" any="" are="" around="" asked="" at="" be="" because="" bhanjyang="" careful="" chandan="" city.="" come="" comes="" concern="" country="" cycle="" cycling="" cyclists="" definitely="" destinations="" destinations.="" div="" dogs="" favorite="" five-10="" foothills="" foothills.="" for="" fun="" have="" he="" his="" in="" including="" inexpensive="" instantly="" is="" kathmandu="" kilometers="" lack="" lakure="" lanes="" like="" limited="" little="" magnificent="" most="" nagarjuna="" name="" nepal.="" not="" of="" off="" on="" other="" outside="" perform="" places="" popular="" price.="" range="" regarding="" riders="" risk="" risks="" road="" says="" shivapuri="" some="" span="" spectacular="" stunts.="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" talking="" tamrakar.="" that="" the="" their="" these="" they="" this="" to="" vehicles="" very="" voices="" we="" when="" with="">When you look at the riders in their jerseys and shorts, helmets and shoes you might wonder if they are merely making a style statement. Partly yes, cycling is in fact stylishly sporty but mostly; all the apparels and equipments are used for a reason. So much so that as cycling becomes increasingly popular, it could as well be a major economic influence in a country like Nepal. When it comes to cycling, there are a number of equipments that are totally worth investing on. The complete gear with apparels and tools ranges from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 in cost. The cycle itself usually costs in the range of Rs 100,000–200,000 on an average. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" and="" apparels="" are="" besides="" bike="" course.="" cycling="" div="" for="" here="" is="" list="" mountain="" of="" required="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" tools="">The complete cyclist “must haves”: </span></div>
<div>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 1.="" are="" away="" body.="" but="" comfortable="" div="" draw="" from="" help="" important="" is="" it="" jersey:="" jerseys="" might="" more="" most="" mostly="" note="" people="" prefer="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sweat="" t-shirts="" that="" the="" these.="" to="" wearing="" will="" you="" your="">2. Shorts/ Tights: These help absorb sweat and allow you a comfortable ride. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 3.="" cold="" conditions.="" div="" important="" in="" is="" jacket="" jacket:="" re="" riding="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" when="">4. Base Layer: Base layer is useful when you’re riding in the cool weather. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 5.="" all="" are="" barrier="" cold.="" div="" from="" in="" mostly="" protect="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" these="" useful="" vest:="" you="">6. Socks: It is important to wear socks as they prevent your feet from getting blisters and cold. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 7.="" and="" by="" caused="" cycling.="" div="" gloves:="" hands="" protect="" reduce="" soreness="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" they="" your="">8. Helmet: Although cycling is fun, it cannot be taken for granted as mountain biking can prove to be dangerous. Needless to say, helmet is an essential. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 9.="" any="" biking="" div="" do.="" good="" grip.="" just="" mountain="" need="" shoes="" shoes:="" span="" sports="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" with="" you="">10. Glasses: These protect your eyes from dust, sun and everything else that might obstruct your ride. Many come with interchangeable lenses for different occasions. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 11.="" a="" allows="" as="" camelbak="" camelbak:="" div="" drink="" drinking="" hydrated="" important="" make="" might="" more="" pausing="" re="" ride.="" riding.="" s="" span="" stay="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" to="" use="" well="" while="" without="" you="">12. Headlights: Lights spare you the mysteries and accidents of the dark. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 13.="" and="" are="" as="" could="" div="" if="" it.="" judge="" obsessed="" span="" speed="" speedometer:="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" to="" use="" want="" well="" with="" you="" your="">14. Tool Kit: Punctures are inevitable and hence you should always be prepared. Always carry a pump and puncture repair kit. You can also buy a multi tool. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10.0pt;line-height:115%;Myriad Pro" ;color:#221e1f"="">(Note: Commencal, Trek and Giant are some recommended brands for cycling apparels and equipments)</strong></div>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2012-12-13',
			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today.',
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			'title' => 'Adventure Sports For Everyone',
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<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	There has been a surge of extreme sports in the Himalayan Kingdom in recent years. Along with the developments in the tourism sector, the recreation industry has also benefitted by luring an increasing number of foreign tourists, urban youth and others for a number of exciting adventure sports.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Nepal is largely seen as a popular trekking destination. “Above 40 per cent of all tourists coming into Nepal go for trekking which is an integral part of tourism in Nepal,” says Mani Raj Lamichhane, Manager for Tourism Product &amp; Resource Development at Nepal Tourism Board. He further adds that around 60-70 per cent of all foreign tourists opt for various extreme sports activities altogether.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Domestic tourism is doing well currently and Nepalis are participating in rafting activities in an enthusiastic manner,” analyses Nani Kaji Thapa, President of Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA). As for foreigners, 20 per cent of all tourists coming to tour Nepal go for rafting to various destinations in the country, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Manish Byanjankar, Sales Executive of The Last Resort says, “Besides the foreign tourists, Nepalis too have started taking part actively in adventure sports, particularly during the off season.” Most Nepalis indulge in adventure sports during their holidays and free time.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ideal Season</strong></p>
<p>
	“Summer is an ideal time for adventure sports activities in Nepal,” informs Lamichhane. He adds, “Besides the usual foreign tourists who come to Nepal for adventure activities, the Nepali people are also participating in high numbers.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The time period from Falgun (February – March) to Jestha (May – June), just before monsoon, is the ideal time for people to go rafting, says Thapa. “Nepalis contribute 5-10 per cent of all tourists who take part in rafting activities,” he adds. Another ideal time for rafting starts right after the monsoon period, from September to November. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Target Group</strong></p>
<p>
	Adventure Sports has mostly been associated with young people in the age group of 20-25 years. However, there is a surge in people in the age group of 30-40 years taking to extreme sports in an enthusiastic manner. “The entire thinking of the mature populace has changed. They want to enjoy these activities and make up for the experiences they missed during their youth,” observes Byanjankar.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Marketing Adventure Products</strong></p>
<p>
	Lamichhane says that Nepal Tourism Board markets adventure activities abroad while holding exhibitions and seminars in different countries. “Extreme sports are popular with tourists around the world and we look to cash in on this while marketing Nepal as a tourist destination in foreign countries,” he explains.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	One of the most prominent providers of some of these activities is The Last Resort, located on top of a gorge in the mountainous region of Panglang close to the Tibetan border. “Besides individual tourists, we see a lot of corporate houses sending their employees these days, notably for team building exercises,” informs Byanjankar.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He adds, “The group activities that the corporate houses mostly seek are hiking, high ropes, canyoning and rafting.” These activities are popular for team building exercises because they require participation from all group members to accomplish tasks and thus inculcate team value in them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“There has been a gradual rise in the participation of these sports as people now are starting to go out of the house more often and have fun,” an employee with Initiatives Outdoor states. She adds, “There is an increasing awareness regarding health which has led a lot of young people as well as working professionals to start challenging themselves for different adventure activities.”</p>
<p>
	“We send our top performing agents to adventure destinations once in a while. We do so to motivate them to do better in the future,” says an Insurance Executive. A lot of Nepali companies send employees for extreme sports packages to break the monotony that people feel at work.</p>
<p>
	Thapa says that most people prefer Trishuli River for rafting while Bhote Koshi River is the second most preferred destination for rafting. He also informs, “There is a total investment of Rs 2 billion in rafting activities and around 1,500 are employed with this sector.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The Nepali youth and the working professionals are getting more adventurous than ever before. This aspect is holding the extreme sports sector in good stead, say adventure sports entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<hr />
<p style="text-align: center;">
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Adventure Sports Activities in Nepal</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">White-water Rafting&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	With many rivers in the country, there are suitable choices for all levels, from fun rapids to hardcore rides. Nepal is famous for its long trips, such as a 12-day journey into the wilderness along the remote Karnali River. There are day trips along the Trishuli River as well as a wild ride along the monster rapids of Sun Koshi that begins near the Tibetan border.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Paragliding&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Paragliding has carved a niche for itself in Nepal. There are a number of companies in Pokhara offering great views via a tandem paraglide flight. Silence is a sublime experience once up there over the Pokhara valley and in the midst of the mighty Annapurna range.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Zip Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	The world’s longest adventurous zip-flyer, located in Nepal, runs at a speed of 140 km per hour and two people can make a ride at once in two trolleys sitting side-by-side suspended by the cable in the middle. The journey in the zip-flyer starts from a height of 5032 ft in Sarangkot and ends at 3,000 ft in Hemja plain covering a distance of 1,860 meters in length.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Mountain Biking</strong></p>
<p>
	The rural tracks in Nepal seem to be tailor-made for mountain biking. Mountain-bikers can tailor their routes combining cultural sites with mountain views on a mix of single tracks and jeep trails. One needs to be a fairly experienced rider with good fitness levels as mountain-biking across Nepal will have a lot of uphill sections.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ultra-light Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	Ultra-light Flying is a new era of recreational aviation in Nepal. Since its launch, scores of people have discovered the magic of this simple, elemental, pure flight. One can feel the wind in the face, observe clear, unobstructed views and explore the stunning landscapes, surrounded by a backdrop of lofty mountain peaks.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Bungy Jumping</strong></p>
<p>
	This leap of faith has already become a growing and immensely popular adventure sport in Nepal’s tourism scenario. The Last Resort facilitates the bungy jump from high above the Bhote Koshi River from a 500 ft suspension bridge nestled between the mountains. Bungy Jumping has become extremely popular among the foreign tourists as well as the Nepali nationals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Canyoning</strong></p>
<p>
	This adventure sport involves abseiling, sliding, jumping and climbing down canyon walls alongside waterfalls to deep pools below. One gets to swim into narrow passages through powerful blasts of water and past wild rock formations. This unique combination of skills gives a person the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful places.</p>
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			'description' => 'Be it bungy jumping, canyoning, rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking or flying an ultralight aircraft, adventure activities are no longer expected of foreign tourists alone. Nepalis are increasingly being drawn to extreme sports in the country in large numbers.',
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			'title' => 'Summer Market 2013',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	Amid growing consumer base and fierce competition, it’s time for the sellers to display new products and indulge in promotional campaigns to grab a share of the Nepali market. Manufacturers and traders of different summer products are cashing in on the opportunity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The increasing income of the consumers along with a rise in awareness among them has helped open new markets. Besides, growing urbanisation and the concept of nuclear families has played its part in boosting the market for different products. A lot of products are now increasingly seen as necessary items instead of being treated as luxury commodities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#f00;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Branded Wear</span></strong></span></p>
<p>
	Majority would agree that summer is the most fashion-active time of the year. Fashion frenzy for the year has already started with most stores displaying latest summer apparels. It’s time to shed bulky sweaters and jackets and get into light and bright coloured attires. Fashion outlets across the country only know it too well. “We are looking forward to an activity-filled summer,” says Nripesh Shrestha, Manager of U.F.O. The Clothing Store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Fashion keeps evolving with new trends emerging every season and it’s not going to be any different this time around. Leading stores such as U.F.O., United Colors of Benetton, Dot Fashion Wear and Springwood have showcased t-shirts, tops, shorts, bermudas and shirts, among others. Store owners say that they expect the summer shoppers to revitalise the market. &nbsp;Popular multi brand retail chain Dot Fashion Wear is selling summer apparels of established brands including Scotch &amp; Soda, Tommy Hilfiger, Bossini and Levi’s, among others, from its three stores at Khichapokhari, Kathmandu Mall and City Centre. “We certainly expect to do better than last summer with fresh collections from manufacturers around the world,” Sabin Jonchhe, Managing Director of Dot Fashion Wear, confides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	United Colors of Benetton, that has a single outlet in the country at Durbarmarg, has summer apparels for everyone – men, women and children alike. Pradip Subedi, Accountant with the store informs, “We have our summer collection, both formal and casual, on display since the beginning of April.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Love for Branded Wear</strong></p>
<p>
	The attraction for branded wear has grown immensely over the last few years, say industry insiders. According to an estimate, 60-70 per cent of the visitors at fashion retail outlets now emphasise on checking out branded wear. A staff member at a popular store credits this trend to the youngsters’ affinity for Internet and TV channels that target the youth.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	U.F.O. The Clothing Store, that has a quarterly turnover of Rs 5 million, has made a swift transition from non-branded to branded wear over the last three to four years, claims Shrestha. He adds that this move is in line with the youngsters’ desire to be seen wearing branded wear. The youth of age group 20–25 are more inclined towards fashion and frequent his stores most, he says.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pricing Strategy</strong></p>
<p>
	Most stores price their products at a minimum margin in order to ensure maximum footfall and provide value for money. It also becomes important for stores like U.F.O. and Dot Fashion Wear to make sure that their products are priced at par with their competitors in the market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br />
	</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Cooling Appliances</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Summer Market 2013" height="367" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cooling_appliances.jpg" style="float:left;margin:0 10px 0 0" width="280" />With yet another summer, major consumer durables players in the country are looking forward to a great season. Industry experts opine that the sales volume for summer appliances will see a growth of around 25 per cent this season.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The likes of major electronic brands such as Bajaj, CG, Samsung and LG are upbeat about their sales prospects for the Baishakh – Asar (mid April – mid July) quarter.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Rajan Sangpang, the Showroom In charge of CG Digital at UWTC in Tripureshwor, claims that though a home-grown brand, the quality of CG products is at par with international brands. “We are expecting a sales growth of 20–25 per cent at this store for the Baishakh – Asar quarter,” he says.</p>
<p>
	Nikita Thapaliya, Sales Executive with Him Plaza at Civil Mall, feels that the sale of fans at her store is bound to be good this summer. She says, “Bajaj fans at our store have been selling well since January, in anticipation of a long summer.” The plaza sells products of Bajaj and Himstar brands.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Our strategy is to focus on LG refrigerators from our dedicated stores in Minbhawan and Sundhara besides other outlets across Nepal,” says Sandesh Bhurtel, Assistant Manager at CG Electronics, who looks after LG brand in the company’s sales department. Though he feels that the market has become very competitive with a lot of brands vying for a stake, “Bringing in new ideas and sustaining business operations over a period of time will lead to success,” he believes. LG has been selling refrigerators in the domestic market for the last one and a half decade, while it has been present in the air conditioner segment for around 10 years.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Broader Market Presence</strong></p>
<p>
	Apart from its two authorised showrooms in the Kathmandu Valley, LG has over 275 distributors and dealers across Nepal to ensure penetration all over the country. Bhurtel attributes this to the growing demand for home appliances in cities and towns across Nepal, especially in the Terai belt. “Our outlets located outside the Kathmandu Valley are doing well due to the fast maturing market and we are selling more in towns outside the capital,” says Bhurtel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	While most players have their primary focus on the Kathmandu market, the markets outside the Kathmandu Valley have developed well in the last few years and are catching up. “I believe that the changing market dynamics are beginning to alter the way marketers think and the towns outside the capital no longer take the backseat for their market strategies,” he comments. While refrigerators in the medium price range do well in smaller towns, top-end refrigerators still largely depend on the Kathmandu market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>New Products&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	A fast-growing brand like CG has introduced a new portfolio of energy-efficient models that include two each of single and double-door refrigerators, an air cooler, a showcase chiller and an air conditioner.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	A leading brand, Samsung, &nbsp;is also growing in confidence and, as a result, has launched sale of air conditioners at its Civil Mall outlet as well. “Samsung is a tremendous brand and the first preference for many,” says Kalpana Bhattarai, Showroom In Charge of Samsung Plaza at Civil Mall in Sundhara. Samsung has four other exclusive stores in the Kathmandu Valley besides a number of outlets selling its products across the country.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Cool Food &amp; Beverages</span></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;"><img alt="Cool Food and Beverages" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cool_food_beverages.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season has the soft drinks giants, fruit juices, aerated drinks and ice cream manufacturers hitting the market with all they have. Summer is peak season for businesses dealing in drinks and food that offer relief during the hot weather. “We do a business of 500 bottles a day from this very shop during summer as compared to about 100 bottles per day during the winter season,” says Naresh Suwal, the second-generation proprietor of Ranjana Galli ko Purano Jana Soda Pasal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“We sell around 3,000 litres of ice cream per day on an average, in the summer season,” adds Arniko Rajbhandary, the Executive Director of Nepal Dairy Pvt Ltd, producer and marketer of the famous nd’s brand.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	During the period of seven to eight months from Falgun (mid February – mid March) till the time Dashain festival gets over, the ice cream industry registers a business of close to 12,000 litres per day, says Rajbhandary. “I am talking from the perspective of branded ice creams only,” he quickly adds, “As for the off season, the market is only about 30 per cent of the figure I just quoted.”</p>
<p>
	Rajbhandary claims that the ice cream industry has been growing at a steady 25 – 30 per cent each year and the growth of his own enterprise is in accordance with that. “Affordability is the key,” he declares. To drive home his point, he tells that nd’s has introduced ‘Phuchche Kulfi’ aimed at kids which is priced at Rs 20. “The 30 ml kulfi will encourage children to have quality ice creams at a price that suit their pockets.”</p>
<p>
	As for the branded soft drinks, the industry in Nepal is doing well and registering growth on an annual basis. However, the per capita consumption of soft drinks in Nepal is disappointing, claim industry insiders. The related companies look to drive consumption frequency and penetration by launching innovative and consumer-focused initiatives. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Summer Destinations</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season offers business opportunities to high altitude destinations in the country where people seek retreat to beat the heat at low lying altitudes elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Prem Kantha Dhwoju, Managing Director of Dhulikhel Lodge Resort in Dhulikhel, says, “The business is okay at this time of the year and our occupancy rate is close to 50 per cent currently.” Badri Prasad Makaju, Managing Director of Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn and Hotel Green Valley in Nagarkot, also says that his two properties are enjoying over 50 per cent occupancy.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Summer Packages</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><img alt="Summer Destinations" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_summer_destinations.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	Hoteliers in popular getaways like Dhulikhel and Nagarkot have introduced packages especially for the summer season. Dhulikhel Lodge Resort offers 1 night/2 days package for Nepali tourists @ Rs 5,000 (inclusive of all taxes) for two and the offer is valid till July, says Dhwoju. Similarly, Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn in Nagarkot has the same package, however, it will only be applicable in June and July, informs Makaju. Both packages provide welcome drink, accommodation, dinner and breakfast on twin sharing basis.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“While it’s hot in Kathmandu, people come to Nagarkot to enjoy the fresh air and cool environ here,” says Makaju. He adds that he and other hoteliers in the hill town have decided to target European tourists to promote Nagarkot as a destination which not only offers sunrise and sunset but also a lot of other activities. This strategy has been introduced in order to make tourists stay for at least 2 or 3 nights, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Local Infrastructure</strong></p>
<p>
	“We have requested the government to provide connectivity in terms of airline services and road connections,” says Pavitra Kumar Karki, President of Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA). Once better connectivity is accomplished, he assures that the private sector can certainly facilitate local infrastructure such as hotels or bus services, as well as market the products to lure tourists.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Tapping Markets</strong></p>
<p>
	Experts say that, from the tourism perspective of Nepal, the Indian and Chinese markets are growing. Domestic tourism &nbsp;is also on the rise, which is a very positive sign. &nbsp;“Nepalis have become more tourism oriented in recent times,” admits Dhwoju.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“People from the Middle East and the Indians want to come to Nepal for shopping and entertainment purposes during summer but first, we must be able to offer what they want,” recommends Mihika Dhakhwa, Managing Director of Zets Holidays. She adds, “We are competing with countries in the region that are focusing heavily on tourism so it becomes even more important for us to develop the tourism sector in Nepal.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The domestic tourist movement is bound to increase with time,” says Karki, and adds, “The overall environment of the country, notably the business environment, must improve so that people have the disposable income to spend on travelling.”</p>
<p>
	Makaju believes that political stability in the country is mandatory to guarantee tourism fortunes and the sector must be given the priority it deserves. Tourism entrepreneurs agree in unison that developing new products along with proper marketing of the same can make tourism in Nepal during the summer season a lucrative proposition.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The enhanced lifestyle and high aspiration level of &nbsp;Nepali people, the growing number of nuclear families and increasing affluence of &nbsp;population – notably in small cities and towns – have resulted in a growing demand for summer products.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'As the mercury soars, the demand for summer wear, cooling appliances, aerated drinks and ice creams, among other products, has increased. The weather also has people holidaying in various hill-stations of Nepal to beat the heat in low lying altitudes.',
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			'title' => 'Beer Ads On Nepali Television? Why Not?',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="text-align: justify;">By Abhaya Panday</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<img alt="Advertising, February 2013" height="190" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/advertising_feb2013.jpg" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	One fine day in 1999 AD, the then His Majesty’s Government decided to ban beer ads on the television. Media reports suggest that it was done under the recommendations of the WHO, the organization which holds immense influence over a poor country like ours. The fact that the same ‘world body’ becomes powerless about the beer ads in countries like the USA is another story altogether. Rumours following the ban also suggested that the decision was made at the behest of a business house which enjoyed monopoly in the country’s beer market. Banning the beer ads on TV would have made it an uphill task for new entrants to increase their market share and thus that ban would have been in the interest of the market leader.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But whatever the reasons, apparent or underlying, that is irrelevant. What is important is to question the basis on which the government of the day chose to impose the ban. And why did the party in power, which brands its ideology as the most scientific and revolutionary, choose to continue the legacy of the ‘old regime’? Had the ‘old regime’ conducted a reliable scientific research on the effects of beer ads on its consumption? Let’s forget about a reliable and scientific research for a moment. Did the government conduct any research at all? Nothing suggests that it did. The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising. The latest example of this arbitrariness is the recent decision of one-door policy for government ads.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Does the Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) possess more expertise in appropriating government ads than the other ministries? Evidence of arbitrariness was seen in the recent past when the Insurance Board decided to curb the spending of insurance companies on their promotional activities, thus negatively affecting the advertising industry. Sometime back, the TV commercial I had made for Digital Cable TV was banned by the MoIC without any clear cut policy on comparative advertising and in the absence of an independent and competent regulatory body on advertising. These are just a few examples which highlight the attitude of the state towards advertising. &nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Let me get back to the ban on beer ads on television. Was it necessary to impose the ban? I don’t think so. Because the assumption that beer advertising results in the increase of overall consumption is unfounded. First, the objective of any advertising exercise is to influence purchase decisions, not to increase the overall consumption. Moreover, in a product category like alcohol that is already widely consumed- in one form or the other- increasing the overall consumption of alcohol is an objective unworthy of pursuit for an advertiser. From the viewer’s perspective, does watching beer ads on TV help the drinker consume more beer than he/she normally does? Or does it entice a non-drinker to have a pint or more? Is advertising the ‘cause’ or the ‘effect’ of alcohol consumption? If the government believes that advertising is the ‘cause’ then perhaps it overestimates the power of advertising. In that case, the government should let the advertising agencies run the nation and by the sheer power of advertising, they shall eradicate all the evils of society. The fact that commercial advertising is mostly the reflection of the society’s values and aspirations and not the cause puts the power of advertising in the proper perspective.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Whether beer ads actually increase the overall consumption is an issue that has been raised in the US Parliament more than once. In response, the Federal Trade Commission, The Department of Health and a Senate subcommittee have submitted their reports on different occasions. And their findings suggest a clear absence of correlation between beer advertising and beer consumption. A 21-year long study conducted by Texas University also corroborates the findings. And let’s not forget that we are discussing a country whose per capita alcohol consumption is four times more than that of ours. Some countries in Europe have the figures six times as much, yet beer advertising enjoys considerable freedom in those countries. Of course, the content and placement of beer advertising is regulated and that is what we should be doing in Nepal. Lift the ban on beer advertising on TV and regulate the content and placement. Ironically, the government ignored to impose the ban in the print media, probably under the impression that print advertising is less effective than TV advertising.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Is beer drinking good or bad for health? Is moderate drinking medically acceptable or even beneficial? These are medical issues that should be addressed by the medical and health experts. Why do people begin consuming alcohol and, when they do, why do some turn alcoholics? Will we become a better society if we impose a total ban on alcohol? These are different issues altogether. I am neither a medical expert nor a sociologist and nor a psychologist. But as an advertiser, I am led to believe, on the basis of various scientific research conducted in countries where credible scientific &nbsp;research are produced, that advertising of beer on TV does not promote its overall consumption.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Advertising, in this view, can only influence the choice of the brand. You may choose to drink beer A instead of beer B, having been influenced by the advertisement of A. But it is most unlikely that you will drink more than what the context allows or, as a non-drinker, you will decide to drink beer A without the psychological need. If the government wants to reduce the consumption of beer or alcohol, then it must address the issues surrounding the psychological and social needs that lead to the consumption of beer or alcoholic products in general. Necessity is not only the mother of invention but also consumption. &nbsp;Kill the enemy, if you can. Don’t kill the messenger.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11px;">The writer is an advertising professional.</span></p>',
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			'description' => 'The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become 
the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising.',
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			'title' => 'Merger: A Morale-booster',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="" height="214" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/merger.jpg" style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px;" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that. This merger will create a bigger capital base and infrastructure for the new entity, which in turn would help serve the clients better and lend strength to the nation’s fledgling banking industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	As of now, any individual bank’s lending capacity is far from being impressive. The banks are not able to finance cost-intensive projects. For business and commerce to intensify and industries to grow, a strong banking system with financial depth is a prerequisite. It’s heartening that the country has a plethora of banks. The only problem is that they lack capacity and that is a big drawback. Institutional capacity and strong capital base are the fundamental parameters for the banking industry the world over. And, Nepali banks will have to do the catching up before they are taken seriously both within and outside the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	A merger of this kind where two commercial banks rated highly for their institutional and financial strengths are merging helps the industry in a big way. Now, the new entity can finance even more cost-intensive projects. This is good news for the industry and the economy of the country. Industrial development has not taken off in the country as yet but with a more stable political environment, this is likely to begin soon. And, for that to begin, banks need to be in a position to drive and sustain such growth, which basically means they need to have the institutional capacity and capital base of a different level, something perhaps unimaginable now.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But as they say, take a step at a time and take it in the right direction. This latest merger of two commercial banks is surely such a step – taken in the right direction. For Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and particularly its Governor Dr Yuvaraj Khatiwada, who is said to have been pursuing the merger policy aggressively, this is a big morale-booster. We hope NRB will continue with its merger policy with the same gusto and give us a cleaner and more reliable banking industry in the country.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that.',
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			'title' => 'Cycling Thrills',
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			'content' => '<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;">By Abha Dhital</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	<img alt="youths " border="1" height="181" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths_featured.jpg" vspace="10" width="338" /><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span style="font-size:
59.0pt">T</span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">he roads of Kathmandu have increasingly begun to witness a new passion emerging among young health enthusiasts. These people set out for a minimum of three to six hours excursion every weekend. In their jerseys, shorts and helmets, riding their super chic mountain bikes they always manage to become head turners for the locals. Yes, cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today. One particular group – C’mon Cyclists –takes cycling very seriously despite all the fun they have. C’mon Cyclists is a growing group of 15 young men who make it a point to ride to a foothill every Saturday. If only time allowed perhaps they would ride more often. But six hours a week is generally all they can afford because these cyclists are mostly young executives.</span></div>
<div>
	<br />
	<img alt="youths" border="1" height="155" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths.jpg" vspace="10" width="400" /><br />
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;text-indent:14.0pt">
	<span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">Before cycling turned into a regular activity for C’mon Cyclists back in 2009, it began as a natural excuse for a get-together between four-five friends. Given the busy, hectic life they lived, it used to be a recreation for them. As the group started growing and their muscles stopped cramping, they realized it was not just about meeting friends. They started acknowledging cycling as an intense workout and a daring passion. Almost </span><span 000="" 600="" a="" about="" adventure="" also="" and="" be="" best="" between="" build="" burn="" busy="" but="" calorie="" calories="" can="" capacity="" cardiovascular="" considered="" cycling="" depending="" div="" down="" every="" exercise="" exercise.="" fit="" fit.="" friday.="" from="" have="" having="" he="" helps="" hour="" i="" improves="" in="" is="" it="" keep="" limited="" lung="" mandir="" muscles="" not="" of="" on="" over="" part="" per="" re="" realized="" rides="" s="" says="" shrestha="" span="" speed="" stay="" strengthens="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sunday="" that="" the="" them="" they="" three="" through="" to="" topography="" usually="" who="" wholesale="" without="" years="" you="" your="">Cycling is a sport that contributes to an overall sense of happiness and well being, factors that are very important for the young leaders. While offering a sense of challenge and adventure, cycling can also teach you a lot of skills that could be used in the business profession. Cycling has team work at its core; cyclists know that to succeed they have to ride as a team and in one pace. At certain intervals, each rider becomes responsible for pulling the group, and others follow close behind. Like any business, cycling demands shared responsibility and collaboration that contributes to a faster, stronger and more motivated team. Hence, cycling skills can always be applied to business and management and thus, these cyclists have been implementing them .Cycling is also about getting out of your comfort zone and building self reliance. In addition to being fun and bringing cyclists closer to the nature, it offers a surplus of physical, emotional and social benefit to those who partake. No wonder, cycling is growing only more popular.</span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" about="" admit="" adventure="" all="" along="" also="" although="" an="" and="" any="" are="" around="" asked="" at="" be="" because="" bhanjyang="" careful="" chandan="" city.="" come="" comes="" concern="" country="" cycle="" cycling="" cyclists="" definitely="" destinations="" destinations.="" div="" dogs="" favorite="" five-10="" foothills="" foothills.="" for="" fun="" have="" he="" his="" in="" including="" inexpensive="" instantly="" is="" kathmandu="" kilometers="" lack="" lakure="" lanes="" like="" limited="" little="" magnificent="" most="" nagarjuna="" name="" nepal.="" not="" of="" off="" on="" other="" outside="" perform="" places="" popular="" price.="" range="" regarding="" riders="" risk="" risks="" road="" says="" shivapuri="" some="" span="" spectacular="" stunts.="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" talking="" tamrakar.="" that="" the="" their="" these="" they="" this="" to="" vehicles="" very="" voices="" we="" when="" with="">When you look at the riders in their jerseys and shorts, helmets and shoes you might wonder if they are merely making a style statement. Partly yes, cycling is in fact stylishly sporty but mostly; all the apparels and equipments are used for a reason. So much so that as cycling becomes increasingly popular, it could as well be a major economic influence in a country like Nepal. When it comes to cycling, there are a number of equipments that are totally worth investing on. The complete gear with apparels and tools ranges from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 in cost. The cycle itself usually costs in the range of Rs 100,000–200,000 on an average. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" and="" apparels="" are="" besides="" bike="" course.="" cycling="" div="" for="" here="" is="" list="" mountain="" of="" required="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" tools="">The complete cyclist “must haves”: </span></div>
<div>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 1.="" are="" away="" body.="" but="" comfortable="" div="" draw="" from="" help="" important="" is="" it="" jersey:="" jerseys="" might="" more="" most="" mostly="" note="" people="" prefer="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sweat="" t-shirts="" that="" the="" these.="" to="" wearing="" will="" you="" your="">2. Shorts/ Tights: These help absorb sweat and allow you a comfortable ride. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 3.="" cold="" conditions.="" div="" important="" in="" is="" jacket="" jacket:="" re="" riding="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" when="">4. Base Layer: Base layer is useful when you’re riding in the cool weather. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 5.="" all="" are="" barrier="" cold.="" div="" from="" in="" mostly="" protect="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" these="" useful="" vest:="" you="">6. Socks: It is important to wear socks as they prevent your feet from getting blisters and cold. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 7.="" and="" by="" caused="" cycling.="" div="" gloves:="" hands="" protect="" reduce="" soreness="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" they="" your="">8. Helmet: Although cycling is fun, it cannot be taken for granted as mountain biking can prove to be dangerous. Needless to say, helmet is an essential. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 9.="" any="" biking="" div="" do.="" good="" grip.="" just="" mountain="" need="" shoes="" shoes:="" span="" sports="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" with="" you="">10. Glasses: These protect your eyes from dust, sun and everything else that might obstruct your ride. Many come with interchangeable lenses for different occasions. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 11.="" a="" allows="" as="" camelbak="" camelbak:="" div="" drink="" drinking="" hydrated="" important="" make="" might="" more="" pausing="" re="" ride.="" riding.="" s="" span="" stay="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" to="" use="" well="" while="" without="" you="">12. Headlights: Lights spare you the mysteries and accidents of the dark. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 13.="" and="" are="" as="" could="" div="" if="" it.="" judge="" obsessed="" span="" speed="" speedometer:="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" to="" use="" want="" well="" with="" you="" your="">14. Tool Kit: Punctures are inevitable and hence you should always be prepared. Always carry a pump and puncture repair kit. You can also buy a multi tool. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10.0pt;line-height:115%;Myriad Pro" ;color:#221e1f"="">(Note: Commencal, Trek and Giant are some recommended brands for cycling apparels and equipments)</strong></div>',
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			'description' => 'Cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today.',
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			'title' => 'Adventure Sports For Everyone',
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			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	There has been a surge of extreme sports in the Himalayan Kingdom in recent years. Along with the developments in the tourism sector, the recreation industry has also benefitted by luring an increasing number of foreign tourists, urban youth and others for a number of exciting adventure sports.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Nepal is largely seen as a popular trekking destination. “Above 40 per cent of all tourists coming into Nepal go for trekking which is an integral part of tourism in Nepal,” says Mani Raj Lamichhane, Manager for Tourism Product &amp; Resource Development at Nepal Tourism Board. He further adds that around 60-70 per cent of all foreign tourists opt for various extreme sports activities altogether.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Domestic tourism is doing well currently and Nepalis are participating in rafting activities in an enthusiastic manner,” analyses Nani Kaji Thapa, President of Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA). As for foreigners, 20 per cent of all tourists coming to tour Nepal go for rafting to various destinations in the country, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Manish Byanjankar, Sales Executive of The Last Resort says, “Besides the foreign tourists, Nepalis too have started taking part actively in adventure sports, particularly during the off season.” Most Nepalis indulge in adventure sports during their holidays and free time.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ideal Season</strong></p>
<p>
	“Summer is an ideal time for adventure sports activities in Nepal,” informs Lamichhane. He adds, “Besides the usual foreign tourists who come to Nepal for adventure activities, the Nepali people are also participating in high numbers.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The time period from Falgun (February – March) to Jestha (May – June), just before monsoon, is the ideal time for people to go rafting, says Thapa. “Nepalis contribute 5-10 per cent of all tourists who take part in rafting activities,” he adds. Another ideal time for rafting starts right after the monsoon period, from September to November. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Target Group</strong></p>
<p>
	Adventure Sports has mostly been associated with young people in the age group of 20-25 years. However, there is a surge in people in the age group of 30-40 years taking to extreme sports in an enthusiastic manner. “The entire thinking of the mature populace has changed. They want to enjoy these activities and make up for the experiences they missed during their youth,” observes Byanjankar.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Marketing Adventure Products</strong></p>
<p>
	Lamichhane says that Nepal Tourism Board markets adventure activities abroad while holding exhibitions and seminars in different countries. “Extreme sports are popular with tourists around the world and we look to cash in on this while marketing Nepal as a tourist destination in foreign countries,” he explains.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	One of the most prominent providers of some of these activities is The Last Resort, located on top of a gorge in the mountainous region of Panglang close to the Tibetan border. “Besides individual tourists, we see a lot of corporate houses sending their employees these days, notably for team building exercises,” informs Byanjankar.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He adds, “The group activities that the corporate houses mostly seek are hiking, high ropes, canyoning and rafting.” These activities are popular for team building exercises because they require participation from all group members to accomplish tasks and thus inculcate team value in them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“There has been a gradual rise in the participation of these sports as people now are starting to go out of the house more often and have fun,” an employee with Initiatives Outdoor states. She adds, “There is an increasing awareness regarding health which has led a lot of young people as well as working professionals to start challenging themselves for different adventure activities.”</p>
<p>
	“We send our top performing agents to adventure destinations once in a while. We do so to motivate them to do better in the future,” says an Insurance Executive. A lot of Nepali companies send employees for extreme sports packages to break the monotony that people feel at work.</p>
<p>
	Thapa says that most people prefer Trishuli River for rafting while Bhote Koshi River is the second most preferred destination for rafting. He also informs, “There is a total investment of Rs 2 billion in rafting activities and around 1,500 are employed with this sector.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The Nepali youth and the working professionals are getting more adventurous than ever before. This aspect is holding the extreme sports sector in good stead, say adventure sports entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<hr />
<p style="text-align: center;">
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Adventure Sports Activities in Nepal</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">White-water Rafting&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	With many rivers in the country, there are suitable choices for all levels, from fun rapids to hardcore rides. Nepal is famous for its long trips, such as a 12-day journey into the wilderness along the remote Karnali River. There are day trips along the Trishuli River as well as a wild ride along the monster rapids of Sun Koshi that begins near the Tibetan border.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Paragliding&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Paragliding has carved a niche for itself in Nepal. There are a number of companies in Pokhara offering great views via a tandem paraglide flight. Silence is a sublime experience once up there over the Pokhara valley and in the midst of the mighty Annapurna range.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Zip Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	The world’s longest adventurous zip-flyer, located in Nepal, runs at a speed of 140 km per hour and two people can make a ride at once in two trolleys sitting side-by-side suspended by the cable in the middle. The journey in the zip-flyer starts from a height of 5032 ft in Sarangkot and ends at 3,000 ft in Hemja plain covering a distance of 1,860 meters in length.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Mountain Biking</strong></p>
<p>
	The rural tracks in Nepal seem to be tailor-made for mountain biking. Mountain-bikers can tailor their routes combining cultural sites with mountain views on a mix of single tracks and jeep trails. One needs to be a fairly experienced rider with good fitness levels as mountain-biking across Nepal will have a lot of uphill sections.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Ultra-light Flying</strong></p>
<p>
	Ultra-light Flying is a new era of recreational aviation in Nepal. Since its launch, scores of people have discovered the magic of this simple, elemental, pure flight. One can feel the wind in the face, observe clear, unobstructed views and explore the stunning landscapes, surrounded by a backdrop of lofty mountain peaks.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Bungy Jumping</strong></p>
<p>
	This leap of faith has already become a growing and immensely popular adventure sport in Nepal’s tourism scenario. The Last Resort facilitates the bungy jump from high above the Bhote Koshi River from a 500 ft suspension bridge nestled between the mountains. Bungy Jumping has become extremely popular among the foreign tourists as well as the Nepali nationals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Canyoning</strong></p>
<p>
	This adventure sport involves abseiling, sliding, jumping and climbing down canyon walls alongside waterfalls to deep pools below. One gets to swim into narrow passages through powerful blasts of water and past wild rock formations. This unique combination of skills gives a person the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful places.</p>
<div>
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			'created' => '2013-06-07',
			'modified' => '2013-06-07',
			'keywords' => 'Adventure Sports For Everyone, Trends, New Business Age',
			'description' => 'Be it bungy jumping, canyoning, rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking or flying an ultralight aircraft, adventure activities are no longer expected of foreign tourists alone. Nepalis are increasingly being drawn to extreme sports in the country in large numbers.',
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			'title' => 'Summer Market 2013',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Pinaki Roy</strong></p>
<p>
	Amid growing consumer base and fierce competition, it’s time for the sellers to display new products and indulge in promotional campaigns to grab a share of the Nepali market. Manufacturers and traders of different summer products are cashing in on the opportunity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The increasing income of the consumers along with a rise in awareness among them has helped open new markets. Besides, growing urbanisation and the concept of nuclear families has played its part in boosting the market for different products. A lot of products are now increasingly seen as necessary items instead of being treated as luxury commodities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#f00;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Branded Wear</span></strong></span></p>
<p>
	Majority would agree that summer is the most fashion-active time of the year. Fashion frenzy for the year has already started with most stores displaying latest summer apparels. It’s time to shed bulky sweaters and jackets and get into light and bright coloured attires. Fashion outlets across the country only know it too well. “We are looking forward to an activity-filled summer,” says Nripesh Shrestha, Manager of U.F.O. The Clothing Store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Fashion keeps evolving with new trends emerging every season and it’s not going to be any different this time around. Leading stores such as U.F.O., United Colors of Benetton, Dot Fashion Wear and Springwood have showcased t-shirts, tops, shorts, bermudas and shirts, among others. Store owners say that they expect the summer shoppers to revitalise the market. &nbsp;Popular multi brand retail chain Dot Fashion Wear is selling summer apparels of established brands including Scotch &amp; Soda, Tommy Hilfiger, Bossini and Levi’s, among others, from its three stores at Khichapokhari, Kathmandu Mall and City Centre. “We certainly expect to do better than last summer with fresh collections from manufacturers around the world,” Sabin Jonchhe, Managing Director of Dot Fashion Wear, confides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	United Colors of Benetton, that has a single outlet in the country at Durbarmarg, has summer apparels for everyone – men, women and children alike. Pradip Subedi, Accountant with the store informs, “We have our summer collection, both formal and casual, on display since the beginning of April.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Love for Branded Wear</strong></p>
<p>
	The attraction for branded wear has grown immensely over the last few years, say industry insiders. According to an estimate, 60-70 per cent of the visitors at fashion retail outlets now emphasise on checking out branded wear. A staff member at a popular store credits this trend to the youngsters’ affinity for Internet and TV channels that target the youth.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	U.F.O. The Clothing Store, that has a quarterly turnover of Rs 5 million, has made a swift transition from non-branded to branded wear over the last three to four years, claims Shrestha. He adds that this move is in line with the youngsters’ desire to be seen wearing branded wear. The youth of age group 20–25 are more inclined towards fashion and frequent his stores most, he says.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pricing Strategy</strong></p>
<p>
	Most stores price their products at a minimum margin in order to ensure maximum footfall and provide value for money. It also becomes important for stores like U.F.O. and Dot Fashion Wear to make sure that their products are priced at par with their competitors in the market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br />
	</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Cooling Appliances</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Summer Market 2013" height="367" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cooling_appliances.jpg" style="float:left;margin:0 10px 0 0" width="280" />With yet another summer, major consumer durables players in the country are looking forward to a great season. Industry experts opine that the sales volume for summer appliances will see a growth of around 25 per cent this season.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The likes of major electronic brands such as Bajaj, CG, Samsung and LG are upbeat about their sales prospects for the Baishakh – Asar (mid April – mid July) quarter.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Rajan Sangpang, the Showroom In charge of CG Digital at UWTC in Tripureshwor, claims that though a home-grown brand, the quality of CG products is at par with international brands. “We are expecting a sales growth of 20–25 per cent at this store for the Baishakh – Asar quarter,” he says.</p>
<p>
	Nikita Thapaliya, Sales Executive with Him Plaza at Civil Mall, feels that the sale of fans at her store is bound to be good this summer. She says, “Bajaj fans at our store have been selling well since January, in anticipation of a long summer.” The plaza sells products of Bajaj and Himstar brands.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Our strategy is to focus on LG refrigerators from our dedicated stores in Minbhawan and Sundhara besides other outlets across Nepal,” says Sandesh Bhurtel, Assistant Manager at CG Electronics, who looks after LG brand in the company’s sales department. Though he feels that the market has become very competitive with a lot of brands vying for a stake, “Bringing in new ideas and sustaining business operations over a period of time will lead to success,” he believes. LG has been selling refrigerators in the domestic market for the last one and a half decade, while it has been present in the air conditioner segment for around 10 years.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Broader Market Presence</strong></p>
<p>
	Apart from its two authorised showrooms in the Kathmandu Valley, LG has over 275 distributors and dealers across Nepal to ensure penetration all over the country. Bhurtel attributes this to the growing demand for home appliances in cities and towns across Nepal, especially in the Terai belt. “Our outlets located outside the Kathmandu Valley are doing well due to the fast maturing market and we are selling more in towns outside the capital,” says Bhurtel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	While most players have their primary focus on the Kathmandu market, the markets outside the Kathmandu Valley have developed well in the last few years and are catching up. “I believe that the changing market dynamics are beginning to alter the way marketers think and the towns outside the capital no longer take the backseat for their market strategies,” he comments. While refrigerators in the medium price range do well in smaller towns, top-end refrigerators still largely depend on the Kathmandu market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>New Products&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	A fast-growing brand like CG has introduced a new portfolio of energy-efficient models that include two each of single and double-door refrigerators, an air cooler, a showcase chiller and an air conditioner.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	A leading brand, Samsung, &nbsp;is also growing in confidence and, as a result, has launched sale of air conditioners at its Civil Mall outlet as well. “Samsung is a tremendous brand and the first preference for many,” says Kalpana Bhattarai, Showroom In Charge of Samsung Plaza at Civil Mall in Sundhara. Samsung has four other exclusive stores in the Kathmandu Valley besides a number of outlets selling its products across the country.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Cool Food &amp; Beverages</span></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;"><img alt="Cool Food and Beverages" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_cool_food_beverages.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season has the soft drinks giants, fruit juices, aerated drinks and ice cream manufacturers hitting the market with all they have. Summer is peak season for businesses dealing in drinks and food that offer relief during the hot weather. “We do a business of 500 bottles a day from this very shop during summer as compared to about 100 bottles per day during the winter season,” says Naresh Suwal, the second-generation proprietor of Ranjana Galli ko Purano Jana Soda Pasal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“We sell around 3,000 litres of ice cream per day on an average, in the summer season,” adds Arniko Rajbhandary, the Executive Director of Nepal Dairy Pvt Ltd, producer and marketer of the famous nd’s brand.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	During the period of seven to eight months from Falgun (mid February – mid March) till the time Dashain festival gets over, the ice cream industry registers a business of close to 12,000 litres per day, says Rajbhandary. “I am talking from the perspective of branded ice creams only,” he quickly adds, “As for the off season, the market is only about 30 per cent of the figure I just quoted.”</p>
<p>
	Rajbhandary claims that the ice cream industry has been growing at a steady 25 – 30 per cent each year and the growth of his own enterprise is in accordance with that. “Affordability is the key,” he declares. To drive home his point, he tells that nd’s has introduced ‘Phuchche Kulfi’ aimed at kids which is priced at Rs 20. “The 30 ml kulfi will encourage children to have quality ice creams at a price that suit their pockets.”</p>
<p>
	As for the branded soft drinks, the industry in Nepal is doing well and registering growth on an annual basis. However, the per capita consumption of soft drinks in Nepal is disappointing, claim industry insiders. The related companies look to drive consumption frequency and penetration by launching innovative and consumer-focused initiatives. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="color:#f00;">Summer Destinations</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The summer season offers business opportunities to high altitude destinations in the country where people seek retreat to beat the heat at low lying altitudes elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Prem Kantha Dhwoju, Managing Director of Dhulikhel Lodge Resort in Dhulikhel, says, “The business is okay at this time of the year and our occupancy rate is close to 50 per cent currently.” Badri Prasad Makaju, Managing Director of Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn and Hotel Green Valley in Nagarkot, also says that his two properties are enjoying over 50 per cent occupancy.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Summer Packages</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><img alt="Summer Destinations" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/trends_summer_market_May2013_summer_destinations.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 1px;" /><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	Hoteliers in popular getaways like Dhulikhel and Nagarkot have introduced packages especially for the summer season. Dhulikhel Lodge Resort offers 1 night/2 days package for Nepali tourists @ Rs 5,000 (inclusive of all taxes) for two and the offer is valid till July, says Dhwoju. Similarly, Hotel Chautari Paradise Inn in Nagarkot has the same package, however, it will only be applicable in June and July, informs Makaju. Both packages provide welcome drink, accommodation, dinner and breakfast on twin sharing basis.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“While it’s hot in Kathmandu, people come to Nagarkot to enjoy the fresh air and cool environ here,” says Makaju. He adds that he and other hoteliers in the hill town have decided to target European tourists to promote Nagarkot as a destination which not only offers sunrise and sunset but also a lot of other activities. This strategy has been introduced in order to make tourists stay for at least 2 or 3 nights, he adds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Local Infrastructure</strong></p>
<p>
	“We have requested the government to provide connectivity in terms of airline services and road connections,” says Pavitra Kumar Karki, President of Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA). Once better connectivity is accomplished, he assures that the private sector can certainly facilitate local infrastructure such as hotels or bus services, as well as market the products to lure tourists.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Tapping Markets</strong></p>
<p>
	Experts say that, from the tourism perspective of Nepal, the Indian and Chinese markets are growing. Domestic tourism &nbsp;is also on the rise, which is a very positive sign. &nbsp;“Nepalis have become more tourism oriented in recent times,” admits Dhwoju.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“People from the Middle East and the Indians want to come to Nepal for shopping and entertainment purposes during summer but first, we must be able to offer what they want,” recommends Mihika Dhakhwa, Managing Director of Zets Holidays. She adds, “We are competing with countries in the region that are focusing heavily on tourism so it becomes even more important for us to develop the tourism sector in Nepal.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The domestic tourist movement is bound to increase with time,” says Karki, and adds, “The overall environment of the country, notably the business environment, must improve so that people have the disposable income to spend on travelling.”</p>
<p>
	Makaju believes that political stability in the country is mandatory to guarantee tourism fortunes and the sector must be given the priority it deserves. Tourism entrepreneurs agree in unison that developing new products along with proper marketing of the same can make tourism in Nepal during the summer season a lucrative proposition.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The enhanced lifestyle and high aspiration level of &nbsp;Nepali people, the growing number of nuclear families and increasing affluence of &nbsp;population – notably in small cities and towns – have resulted in a growing demand for summer products.&nbsp;</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-05-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-07',
			'keywords' => 'Summer Market 2013, Pinaki Roy, Trends, New Business Age, Summer',
			'description' => 'As the mercury soars, the demand for summer wear, cooling appliances, aerated drinks and ice creams, among other products, has increased. The weather also has people holidaying in various hill-stations of Nepal to beat the heat in low lying altitudes.',
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	(int) 2 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '880',
			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Beer Ads On Nepali Television? Why Not?',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="text-align: justify;">By Abhaya Panday</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<img alt="Advertising, February 2013" height="190" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/advertising_feb2013.jpg" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	One fine day in 1999 AD, the then His Majesty’s Government decided to ban beer ads on the television. Media reports suggest that it was done under the recommendations of the WHO, the organization which holds immense influence over a poor country like ours. The fact that the same ‘world body’ becomes powerless about the beer ads in countries like the USA is another story altogether. Rumours following the ban also suggested that the decision was made at the behest of a business house which enjoyed monopoly in the country’s beer market. Banning the beer ads on TV would have made it an uphill task for new entrants to increase their market share and thus that ban would have been in the interest of the market leader.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But whatever the reasons, apparent or underlying, that is irrelevant. What is important is to question the basis on which the government of the day chose to impose the ban. And why did the party in power, which brands its ideology as the most scientific and revolutionary, choose to continue the legacy of the ‘old regime’? Had the ‘old regime’ conducted a reliable scientific research on the effects of beer ads on its consumption? Let’s forget about a reliable and scientific research for a moment. Did the government conduct any research at all? Nothing suggests that it did. The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising. The latest example of this arbitrariness is the recent decision of one-door policy for government ads.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Does the Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) possess more expertise in appropriating government ads than the other ministries? Evidence of arbitrariness was seen in the recent past when the Insurance Board decided to curb the spending of insurance companies on their promotional activities, thus negatively affecting the advertising industry. Sometime back, the TV commercial I had made for Digital Cable TV was banned by the MoIC without any clear cut policy on comparative advertising and in the absence of an independent and competent regulatory body on advertising. These are just a few examples which highlight the attitude of the state towards advertising. &nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Let me get back to the ban on beer ads on television. Was it necessary to impose the ban? I don’t think so. Because the assumption that beer advertising results in the increase of overall consumption is unfounded. First, the objective of any advertising exercise is to influence purchase decisions, not to increase the overall consumption. Moreover, in a product category like alcohol that is already widely consumed- in one form or the other- increasing the overall consumption of alcohol is an objective unworthy of pursuit for an advertiser. From the viewer’s perspective, does watching beer ads on TV help the drinker consume more beer than he/she normally does? Or does it entice a non-drinker to have a pint or more? Is advertising the ‘cause’ or the ‘effect’ of alcohol consumption? If the government believes that advertising is the ‘cause’ then perhaps it overestimates the power of advertising. In that case, the government should let the advertising agencies run the nation and by the sheer power of advertising, they shall eradicate all the evils of society. The fact that commercial advertising is mostly the reflection of the society’s values and aspirations and not the cause puts the power of advertising in the proper perspective.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Whether beer ads actually increase the overall consumption is an issue that has been raised in the US Parliament more than once. In response, the Federal Trade Commission, The Department of Health and a Senate subcommittee have submitted their reports on different occasions. And their findings suggest a clear absence of correlation between beer advertising and beer consumption. A 21-year long study conducted by Texas University also corroborates the findings. And let’s not forget that we are discussing a country whose per capita alcohol consumption is four times more than that of ours. Some countries in Europe have the figures six times as much, yet beer advertising enjoys considerable freedom in those countries. Of course, the content and placement of beer advertising is regulated and that is what we should be doing in Nepal. Lift the ban on beer advertising on TV and regulate the content and placement. Ironically, the government ignored to impose the ban in the print media, probably under the impression that print advertising is less effective than TV advertising.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Is beer drinking good or bad for health? Is moderate drinking medically acceptable or even beneficial? These are medical issues that should be addressed by the medical and health experts. Why do people begin consuming alcohol and, when they do, why do some turn alcoholics? Will we become a better society if we impose a total ban on alcohol? These are different issues altogether. I am neither a medical expert nor a sociologist and nor a psychologist. But as an advertiser, I am led to believe, on the basis of various scientific research conducted in countries where credible scientific &nbsp;research are produced, that advertising of beer on TV does not promote its overall consumption.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Advertising, in this view, can only influence the choice of the brand. You may choose to drink beer A instead of beer B, having been influenced by the advertisement of A. But it is most unlikely that you will drink more than what the context allows or, as a non-drinker, you will decide to drink beer A without the psychological need. If the government wants to reduce the consumption of beer or alcohol, then it must address the issues surrounding the psychological and social needs that lead to the consumption of beer or alcoholic products in general. Necessity is not only the mother of invention but also consumption. &nbsp;Kill the enemy, if you can. Don’t kill the messenger.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11px;">The writer is an advertising professional.</span></p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-03-16',
			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'The decision was arbitrary and arbitrariness has become 
the founding principle of the state in relation to advertising.',
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	(int) 3 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '827',
			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Merger: A Morale-booster',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="" height="214" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/merger.jpg" style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px;" width="350" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that. This merger will create a bigger capital base and infrastructure for the new entity, which in turn would help serve the clients better and lend strength to the nation’s fledgling banking industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	As of now, any individual bank’s lending capacity is far from being impressive. The banks are not able to finance cost-intensive projects. For business and commerce to intensify and industries to grow, a strong banking system with financial depth is a prerequisite. It’s heartening that the country has a plethora of banks. The only problem is that they lack capacity and that is a big drawback. Institutional capacity and strong capital base are the fundamental parameters for the banking industry the world over. And, Nepali banks will have to do the catching up before they are taken seriously both within and outside the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	A merger of this kind where two commercial banks rated highly for their institutional and financial strengths are merging helps the industry in a big way. Now, the new entity can finance even more cost-intensive projects. This is good news for the industry and the economy of the country. Industrial development has not taken off in the country as yet but with a more stable political environment, this is likely to begin soon. And, for that to begin, banks need to be in a position to drive and sustain such growth, which basically means they need to have the institutional capacity and capital base of a different level, something perhaps unimaginable now.&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
	But as they say, take a step at a time and take it in the right direction. This latest merger of two commercial banks is surely such a step – taken in the right direction. For Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and particularly its Governor Dr Yuvaraj Khatiwada, who is said to have been pursuing the merger policy aggressively, this is a big morale-booster. We hope NRB will continue with its merger policy with the same gusto and give us a cleaner and more reliable banking industry in the country.&nbsp;</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-03-15',
			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Nepal Rastra Bank’s policy to encourage merger between bank and financial institutions seems to be paying off. The latest merger inked on February 1 between NIC Bank and Bank of Asia, both ‘A Class’ commercial banks, shows just that.',
			'sortorder' => '713',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '750',
			'article_category_id' => '76',
			'title' => 'Cycling Thrills',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;">By Abha Dhital</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	<img alt="youths " border="1" height="181" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths_featured.jpg" vspace="10" width="338" /><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></strong></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div>
	<span style="font-size:14px;"><br />
	</span></div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span style="font-size:
59.0pt">T</span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">he roads of Kathmandu have increasingly begun to witness a new passion emerging among young health enthusiasts. These people set out for a minimum of three to six hours excursion every weekend. In their jerseys, shorts and helmets, riding their super chic mountain bikes they always manage to become head turners for the locals. Yes, cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today. One particular group – C’mon Cyclists –takes cycling very seriously despite all the fun they have. C’mon Cyclists is a growing group of 15 young men who make it a point to ride to a foothill every Saturday. If only time allowed perhaps they would ride more often. But six hours a week is generally all they can afford because these cyclists are mostly young executives.</span></div>
<div>
	<br />
	<img alt="youths" border="1" height="155" hspace="10" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/youths.jpg" vspace="10" width="400" /><br />
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify;text-indent:14.0pt">
	<span style="font-size:10.0pt;color:#221E1F">Before cycling turned into a regular activity for C’mon Cyclists back in 2009, it began as a natural excuse for a get-together between four-five friends. Given the busy, hectic life they lived, it used to be a recreation for them. As the group started growing and their muscles stopped cramping, they realized it was not just about meeting friends. They started acknowledging cycling as an intense workout and a daring passion. Almost </span><span 000="" 600="" a="" about="" adventure="" also="" and="" be="" best="" between="" build="" burn="" busy="" but="" calorie="" calories="" can="" capacity="" cardiovascular="" considered="" cycling="" depending="" div="" down="" every="" exercise="" exercise.="" fit="" fit.="" friday.="" from="" have="" having="" he="" helps="" hour="" i="" improves="" in="" is="" it="" keep="" limited="" lung="" mandir="" muscles="" not="" of="" on="" over="" part="" per="" re="" realized="" rides="" s="" says="" shrestha="" span="" speed="" stay="" strengthens="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sunday="" that="" the="" them="" they="" three="" through="" to="" topography="" usually="" who="" wholesale="" without="" years="" you="" your="">Cycling is a sport that contributes to an overall sense of happiness and well being, factors that are very important for the young leaders. While offering a sense of challenge and adventure, cycling can also teach you a lot of skills that could be used in the business profession. Cycling has team work at its core; cyclists know that to succeed they have to ride as a team and in one pace. At certain intervals, each rider becomes responsible for pulling the group, and others follow close behind. Like any business, cycling demands shared responsibility and collaboration that contributes to a faster, stronger and more motivated team. Hence, cycling skills can always be applied to business and management and thus, these cyclists have been implementing them .Cycling is also about getting out of your comfort zone and building self reliance. In addition to being fun and bringing cyclists closer to the nature, it offers a surplus of physical, emotional and social benefit to those who partake. No wonder, cycling is growing only more popular.</span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" about="" admit="" adventure="" all="" along="" also="" although="" an="" and="" any="" are="" around="" asked="" at="" be="" because="" bhanjyang="" careful="" chandan="" city.="" come="" comes="" concern="" country="" cycle="" cycling="" cyclists="" definitely="" destinations="" destinations.="" div="" dogs="" favorite="" five-10="" foothills="" foothills.="" for="" fun="" have="" he="" his="" in="" including="" inexpensive="" instantly="" is="" kathmandu="" kilometers="" lack="" lakure="" lanes="" like="" limited="" little="" magnificent="" most="" nagarjuna="" name="" nepal.="" not="" of="" off="" on="" other="" outside="" perform="" places="" popular="" price.="" range="" regarding="" riders="" risk="" risks="" road="" says="" shivapuri="" some="" span="" spectacular="" stunts.="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" talking="" tamrakar.="" that="" the="" their="" these="" they="" this="" to="" vehicles="" very="" voices="" we="" when="" with="">When you look at the riders in their jerseys and shorts, helmets and shoes you might wonder if they are merely making a style statement. Partly yes, cycling is in fact stylishly sporty but mostly; all the apparels and equipments are used for a reason. So much so that as cycling becomes increasingly popular, it could as well be a major economic influence in a country like Nepal. When it comes to cycling, there are a number of equipments that are totally worth investing on. The complete gear with apparels and tools ranges from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 in cost. The cycle itself usually costs in the range of Rs 100,000–200,000 on an average. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="text-align:justify">
	<span a="" and="" apparels="" are="" besides="" bike="" course.="" cycling="" div="" for="" here="" is="" list="" mountain="" of="" required="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" tools="">The complete cyclist “must haves”: </span></div>
<div>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 1.="" are="" away="" body.="" but="" comfortable="" div="" draw="" from="" help="" important="" is="" it="" jersey:="" jerseys="" might="" more="" most="" mostly="" note="" people="" prefer="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" sweat="" t-shirts="" that="" the="" these.="" to="" wearing="" will="" you="" your="">2. Shorts/ Tights: These help absorb sweat and allow you a comfortable ride. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 3.="" cold="" conditions.="" div="" important="" in="" is="" jacket="" jacket:="" re="" riding="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" when="">4. Base Layer: Base layer is useful when you’re riding in the cool weather. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 5.="" all="" are="" barrier="" cold.="" div="" from="" in="" mostly="" protect="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" these="" useful="" vest:="" you="">6. Socks: It is important to wear socks as they prevent your feet from getting blisters and cold. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 7.="" and="" by="" caused="" cycling.="" div="" gloves:="" hands="" protect="" reduce="" soreness="" span="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" they="" your="">8. Helmet: Although cycling is fun, it cannot be taken for granted as mountain biking can prove to be dangerous. Needless to say, helmet is an essential. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 9.="" any="" biking="" div="" do.="" good="" grip.="" just="" mountain="" need="" shoes="" shoes:="" span="" sports="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" t="" with="" you="">10. Glasses: These protect your eyes from dust, sun and everything else that might obstruct your ride. Many come with interchangeable lenses for different occasions. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 11.="" a="" allows="" as="" camelbak="" camelbak:="" div="" drink="" drinking="" hydrated="" important="" make="" might="" more="" pausing="" re="" ride.="" riding.="" s="" span="" stay="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" that="" the="" to="" use="" well="" while="" without="" you="">12. Headlights: Lights spare you the mysteries and accidents of the dark. </span></div>
<div style="margin-left:14.0pt;text-align:justify">
	<span 13.="" and="" are="" as="" could="" div="" if="" it.="" judge="" obsessed="" span="" speed="" speedometer:="" style="font-size:10.0pt;Myriad Pro" to="" use="" want="" well="" with="" you="" your="">14. Tool Kit: Punctures are inevitable and hence you should always be prepared. Always carry a pump and puncture repair kit. You can also buy a multi tool. </span></div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10.0pt;line-height:115%;Myriad Pro" ;color:#221e1f"="">(Note: Commencal, Trek and Giant are some recommended brands for cycling apparels and equipments)</strong></div>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2012-12-13',
			'modified' => '2013-05-24',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today.',
			'sortorder' => '640',
			'image' => null,
			'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00',
			'homepage' => false,
			'breaking_news' => false,
			'main_news' => false,
			'in_scroller' => false,
			'user_id' => '0'
		)
	)
)
$current_user = null
$logged_in = false
$xml = false
simplexml_load_file - [internal], line ??
include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224
View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418
include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117