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			'title' => 'Enhancing  Livelihood The NEAT Way',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">When the landless and marginalised communities did not have neither land nor crops in their farmland, they probably did not have other option than blaming their ‘bad fortune.’ USAID Nepal’s project, named Nepal Economic, Agriculture, and Trade (NEAT), has become a partner in ensuring food security and increasing financial access in Banke and Bardiya districts.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	With the support of the project, farmers across 14 districts now have different crops that are not only ensuring the food security of small farmers but also being a handsome source of income.</p>
<p>
	Farmers have now &nbsp;gained skills, knowledge and access to the market. According to Phillip C Broughton, Chief of Party of the NEAT, when these conditions take place the impact of a project is there to stay. However, Hari Lal Dhakal, farmer of Vaishashur of Deudakala VDC, is not confident regarding the economic future of farmers &nbsp;like him, once the project comes to an end.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The project, which began on December 2010, has been working in order to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, increase food security and improve people’s lives in Nepal. According to the NEAT, the project’s objective to enhance economic opportunities and food security is divided into strengthening economic policies, increasing competitiveness of selected sector, enhancing food security and increasing access to microfinance services.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Food Security</strong></p>
<p>
	The NEAT has been working with disadvantaged households that have been facing food insecurity. Though some of the donor driven projects seem to have fuelled dependency syndrome on recipients, NEAT has worked with a model to make farmers independent. According to USAID, the NEAT has enrolled farmers in phases, reducing the support on each phase and, therefore, making farmers self dependent with the knowledge, skills and market knowhow.</p>
<p>
	Since the NEAT began intervening farmers across several districts, they have adopted profit making crops instead of the traditional crops they were habituated. Tharu community of Motipur VDC in Bardiya is now involved in vegetables farming such as cabbage, cauliflower and cucumber, along with staple crops like paddy and wheat. Women in the community are now not only financially capable but also socially active. Radhika Chaudhary, a local farmer says, “We are now able to express our voice and actively participating in the self help groups.” &nbsp;Most of the households living in the area were dependent on either subsistence farming of staple food crops or labour work.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	In the Motipur village, farmers now are making around Rs 100,000 to 150,000 per year depending upon the size of farmlands. Rajendra Sahu, Food Security Manager of the NEAT, said that one person makes Rs 30,000 in a season on average from cauliflower and Rs 40,000 from cucumbers in an area of three katthas of land. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	With the increased income, Jagat Pyari, one of the exemplary farmers of Deudakala VDC, has added five katthas of land with the income made from her farmland. Along with 1.5 bighas of land of her own, she is also leasing two bighas of land and cultivating vegetables and cucumber along with crops like paddy and maize. With the increasing income level, farmers have also started sending children to schools. There are around 50 landless households who now &nbsp;farm either leasing or owning the land..&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Similarly, in Vaishasur village, onion block of Deudakala VDC &nbsp; there are 17 agricultural groups. In these groups, 278 &nbsp;members are female and the remaining 104 are males. They farm onion, beans, cucumber and cauliflower. According to Kewal Singh Chaudhary, Field Technician, every group is involved in cultivation of four crops.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhim Bahadur Khatri, a returnee migrant worker of Saudi Arabia now regrets going abroad where he could not earn a good income. But now, working in his farmland, is making Rs 50,000 every six months and is building a house for his family. He says that he did not even make Rs 100,000 in three years working in Saudi Arabia. “I will never go abroad. When I am happy earning from home, why would I go there?” he said.</p>
<p>
	Although the agricultural policies prescribed by donors are said to be failing in Nepal. The attempt made by the NEAT project seems fruitful so far. Beneficiaries of the project, low scale farmers in Bardia and Banke district, are happy that NEAT was there to provide them support and lead them to be self sustaining on food and financial security.</p>
<p>
	According to the USAID, so far 71,342 households have benefitted from the USAID NEAT. Similarly, farmers’ sales have increased by US $ 85.44 million within one year working with NEAT. Likewise, 9,212 hectares lands are under improved management practices across the country. The NEAT also provided food security productivity trainings to local farmers and also linked food security farmers with input suppliers, collection centres, traders and micro finance institutions. Moreover, the project also equipped farmers with irrigation facilities and supplied tools and labours to complete the irrigation schemes. According to the official records of the NEAT, 1,203 irrigation systems were installed covering 2,567 hectares.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Financial Services</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is said to have around 80 percent of its population away from access to formal financial services. However, with the launching of cashless mobile banking services, people in rural areas with access to mobile telephony can now enjoy the banking services from their mobile phones. These services were launched after NEAT organized a summit in Kathmandu to address this issue.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Ramesh Kumar Chaudhary, resident of Thakurdwara VDC of Bardiya, is working as an agent of Laxmi Bank’s Hello Paisa initiative. He now has 160 customers from the village and registers a daily transaction of up to Rs 200,000. He is satisfied to see happy consumers who send and receive money from cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara and Nepalgunj. Before he provided mobile banking services, locals had to go to Bhurigaun, which is about 25 kilometres far away from the village.</p>
<p>
	Chaudhary is the first agent in the area. He says that a person is allowed to make a transaction of Rs 50,000 per day but only up to a limit of Rs 500,000 , as he is only given authority of that limit. Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, a customer, says that the availability of Hello Paisa agent in the village has helped him save time and cost to travel all the way to a nearest bank. “In that time, I can indulge in my own business,” said Bhattarai.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Lentils enhance income sources</strong></p>
<p>
	Lentil farming under the competitiveness element of the NEAT has helped in increasing the yield of lentil crops by more than 50 per cent over baseline, according to the NEAT. Nepali lentil is finding its market in Bangladesh. Broughton says that the NEAT has also worked on bridging the gap between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Dharma Prasad Pandey, Senior Programme Officer of FORWARD , there are 18 groups operating alone in Sanoshree VDC in lentil farming and a few more will be &nbsp;formed soon. He revealed that NEAT provided an assistance of Rs 50 million to the FORWARD.</p>
<p>
	Farmers think that they have now skills to be efficient and produce more. The productivity has increased by up to 35 per cent. Also, they are getting better prices for their products mainly because &nbsp;of the skills they have gained for grading &nbsp; of lentil grains and also because the collection centre pays a good price to them. In the past, farmers used to take their products to nearby markets such as Kohalpur but now buyers come to the village to purchase the production.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><strong>LEADER SPEAK</strong></span></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Phillip C. Broughton, Development Partner" height="253" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/development_partner_vol3_14_neat_phillip.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" /><strong>‘We had several noteworthy&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">accomplishments in all project areas’</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><em><br />
	</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>- Phillip C. Broughton</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Chief of Party, USAID Nepal Economic,&nbsp;</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Agriculture and Trade (NEAT) Activity</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
	</span></p>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<div>
		<strong>NEAT project is almost coming to an end. How do you evaluate the success of the project?</strong></div>
	<div>
		NEAT is a broad project that aims to increase economic opportunities and enhance food security. We work in different sectors including agriculture, microfinance, and policy. For each of the components of NEAT, there are different indicators of success. In the agriculture component, we are looking to sustainably improve food security and resilience and increase income and competitiveness. In the microfinance component we are looking at enhancing access to financial services for disadvantaged populations and increasing the incomes of micro-entrepreneurs. We especially want to see more people having access to financial services in the rural area. Under our policy component, we are working with both the public and private sectors to improve the business and policy environment. At the policy level we are supporting improvements in trade, investment, and agriculture. In addition, we support fiscal policy improvements to improve the government’s ability to finance its budget.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Among various components which one do you think was the most successful one?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Well, I don’t think one is more successful than the others. This project is relatively short in nature, 32 months. Even though it is short, we have had great many accomplishments in all project areas. For example agriculture sales of project beneficiaries are significantly up over baseline figures. The number of rural households with access to financial services is increasing and in many cases through innovative outreach strategies such as mobile banking. And on the policy front, we have worked with the government and the private sector on more 35 different policies, 6 of which have already been implemented and many more are ready to be implemented once the new government is in place. We are very pleased with our progress and, even though this project is short, it is part of USAID’s long term strategy so our successful work will continue.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Trade is also one of the components of the NEAT. What are the achievements on this front?</strong></div>
	<div>
		In the trade area, we work on different levels – we have supported government and the private sector in analyzing trade issues with India and China, to identify issues that should be taken to the negotiating table to improve Nepal’s trading environment. We’ve supported government to look at transit issues given the cost of transporting cargo in and out of Nepal, and we’ve supported capacity building within the government related to trade, including on trade analysis and negotiation. At the operational level, we are helping to improve competitiveness and market access for tea, ginger and lentil. For example, with lentil, Bangladesh is the primary market. We are identifying ways to strengthen the relationship between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers. And we are also analyzing alternative markets so that Nepal’s lentil sector is not so dependent on Bangladesh.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How do you view the sustainability of these projects?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Sustainability is a key objective for us in all project areas. For example, under our food security component we work with over 28,000 beneficiaries. We provide training over 4 to 5 crop cycles, we help establish channels for high quality inputs, and we facilitate market access. 94 per cent of project beneficiaries said they now have access to high quality inputs, up from 21 per cent before the project started. 92 per cent of project beneficiaries are confident they have a market to sell their products in, up from just 50 per cent before the project started. Once project beneficiaries have skills and continuing access to inputs and markets, these won’t just go away. These are key factors in the sustainability of our food security work.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How long would it take to multiply the good impacts of NEAT to reach to the extent of import substitution?&nbsp;</strong></div>
	<div>
		Around 70 per cent of onions consumed in Nepal are imported from India. Given the market potential for Nepali grown onions, this season NEAT food security beneficiaries grew onions on more that 700 hectares of land and they have made very good income. We train farmers how to identify market opportunities. With import substitution, if there is opportunity to make money, farmers are going to do that. This is happening. We see it with onion and we see it with other commodities such as maize for the feed business.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>A new project KISAN is being launched soon by USAID. How will this project give continuity to the activities of NEAT?</strong></div>
	<div>
		KISAN is working in many of the same districts as NEAT. They started just a few weeks ago yet we have already had several information sharing meetings. It is very important to USAID, NEAT, and KISAN that KISAN takes advantage of the experience gained by previous USAID projects and activities such as NEAT, NFRP, and EIG as well as other donor, government and private sector initiatives.&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<div>
	 </div>',
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but also being a handsome source of income.',
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			'title' => 'Will South Asia Change  For The Better In Next One Year?',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Prof Ujjwal K Chowdhury</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Impending Elections</strong></p>
<p>
	General Elections are due in Pakistan in May 2013, being discussed for June 2013 in Nepal, are expected in late this year in Bangladesh and Maldives, and are scheduled for early 2014 in India (which can be preponed) and are in 2015 in Sri Lanka (which also can be preponed in the light of intense internal conflicts between Buddhist Sinhalese majority and Tamil Hindu and Muslim Sinhalese minorities).</p>
<p>
	Hence, within next 12 to 15 months, South Asia is surely up for a different scenario, hopefully qualitatively different too from what it is now.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Scenario Today</strong></p>
<p>
	The largest nation of the region, India, is virtually plagued with policy paralysis for quite some time now, the ruling dispensation facing serious corruption charges and being at the mercy of belligerent allies. With rise of Modi within BJP polarizing the electorate, and larger states of India being ruled by regional forces, the political scenario is ambiguous just now. The ensuing elections to state assemblies in Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan will throw some light on the political finals of General Elections.</p>
<p>
	Pakistan, for quite some time, has been an ungoverned and ungovernable state with terrorist and radical Islamic forces controlling certain parts of the country, youth force behind an aggressive political posturing by Imran Khan and his Tehreeq-E-Insaaf Party, anti-corruption movement led by the Pakistani crusader Muhammad Tahir ul Qadri being on, Nawaz Sharief’s Muslim League threatened as former military strongman Pervez Musharraf returns to activate his similarly positioned All Pakistan Muslim League, and ruling PPP plagued with corruption and incompetence, with army no signs of relenting ‘real power’ to the democratically elected forces.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Sri Lanka is moving from one round of ethnic cleansing of Tamil Hindus to another round, and this time of Sinhalese Muslims. Majority Buddhist Sinhalese nationalism is on the rise and doubts are being expressed about the survival of multi-party and multi-ethnic secular democracy in that country.</p>
<p>
	Bangladesh is in the throes of a bitter conflict between radical Islamists and Islamic political forces, represented by BNP-Jamaat alliance on one side and the liberal Awami League and left wing forces on the other, with the ruling Awami League floundering at every step. The conflict has permeated into culture, media, places of worship, street fights, rallies, violence, et al, and recent violence before and after Shahbaug protests by the secularists has taken more than 80 lives so far.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Birendra International Convention Center, BICC, South Asia" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_bicc.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" />Nepal is in its stage of political indecisiveness just now, having put in place an electoral government led by the sitting Chief Justice and some bureaucrats as ministers, but no election date and proper Election Commission still in place.</p>
<p>
	Maldives is divided bitterly, akin to Bangladesh, between the ruling Islamic political forces led by current President Mohamed Waheed Hussain Manik and the opposing liberal secular forces of former President Mohamed Nausheed, with India intervening on behalf of Nausheed recently. The difference is, unlike Bangladesh, the Islamic political forces are ruling Maldives ousting the democratically elected Nausheed’s government in a bloodless coup.</p>
<p>
	In effect, South Asia today is completely in a state of flux and uncertainty and the next 15 months are expected to ascertain the contours of the region for the next half a decade or more.</p>
<p>
	<strong>India@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Narendra Modi, BJP, South Asia" height="236" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_narendra_modi.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="350" />For the first time in a decade, India’s GDP growth has come below 5% in a year from as high as 9% a few years back. Price-rise, corruption, civil society activism, regional forces, discontent with the Centre: all have been on the rise unabated across the last three years, and larger part of the thinking-talking-arguing middle class is sure that Congress led UPA is sure to be defeated in the next election, and may even prepone the polls to avoid complete washout.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	BJP has turned backwards, bringing to the fore all Hindutva radical faces like Uma Bharati, Vinay Katiyar, Varun Gandhi, Amit Shah, Kalyan Singh and expecting to blend this majority-ism with the good governance record and personal charisma of Narendra Modi along with pro-farmer approach of Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh on Land Acquisition Bill, and create an infallible force to win 200 seats in some 545 member Lok Sabha, and then manage to come to power with old (Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, etc) and new (AIADMK, TDP, etc) allies.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pakistan@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Imran Khan, South Asia" height="242" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_imran_khan.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="350" />If you talk to youths on the streets of Karachi or Islamabad, Imran Khan is all set to make a thundering entry into power as the next PM of Pakistan. If you talk to the people in 40s and 50s, they are confused. Surely they expect PPP to be defeated after a spate of poor governance, but Musharraf and Nawaz Sharief battling for the rightist votes will only brighten prospects of PPP unless Imran Khan really makes the tide of the youths into that of the nation.</p>
<p>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Maldives and Bangladesh@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Free and fair elections in these countries and tacit role of India may ensure liberal forces of Nausheed in Maldives and Sheikh Haseena in Bangladesh to once again win. However, mobilization of the rural masses and Arabs funded radical Islamic forces may turn the apple-curt and retain power in Male and capture it in Dhaka.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Sri Lanka@2015</strong></p>
<p>
	Given the fact that the army stands solidly behind President Rajapakshye and the international community has limited role in the internal affairs of the island nation, while India’s role is curbed due to growing SL-China relations, the current rulers are expected to bulldoze all opposition and retain power in Colombo whenever the elections are conducted there.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepal@2014:</strong></p>
<p>
	The biggest question first is whether the elections will be held, if not in June, at least within November next, and if a popularly elected Constituent Assembly and thereby the government will come to power. Second, if elections are being held, whenever, whether they will be free and fair. Then, after elections, if at all any political force or coalition gets clear majority. Given the situation on ground today, ruling Maoists along with their Madhesi allies may be the largest political bloc, short of majority, while the rest of the opposition, together though a majority, may never come as a single bloc. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Alternative Scenario in South Asia by 2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Politics is the art of the impossible and science of changing human behaviour. So, there could be another scenario, come 2014.</p>
<p>
	Narendra Modi led BJP may enthuse the party and voters in a large number of states partly on development agenda and partly on nationalistic slogans and come to power in India with a clear majority (also with minor support from known allies). Nausheed captures power in Maldives and Haseena retains the same in Bangladesh with clear majority again. A Sinhalese opposition leader (e.g. former army chief Sharath Fonseka) with support of India, Tamils, Muslims and a part of Sinhalese people, captures power in a preponed elections in SL in 2014. Maoists-Madheshis get clear majority in CA and government in Nepal. Imran Khan does the apparently impossible feat of coming to power in Pakistan riding a wave of youth support.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	If this scenario happens and with comfortable majorities in each of these South Asian nations, which is also a probable scenario which, therefore, ensures 5 years of undeterred decision governance, the region may see the realization of its economic potentials.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Economic Potentials</strong></p>
<p>
	India has huge trading potentials in the region, hampered by regional skirmishes and conflicts, which can reduce if the alternative scenario above happens. Look East Policy will help India develop international trade and commerce with Bangladesh, Burma and Nepal to the benefit of all. Destructive competition on jute and agro-based products between India and Bangladesh can be reduced.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tourism in Maldives and Nepal can get a major fillip with peace and liberal regimes coming in these nations. In fact, Indian tourism has much more potentials with liberal visa regimes with Pakistan and Bangladesh as well.</p>
<p>
	Textiles, automobiles, food-grains et al can be traded cheaper, better, faster within the region with political stability returning. Foreign Direct Investments within the region can sharply increase as well with right welcoming policies in place in these countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Movement of students, cheaper educational options in the region, and regional cooperation on skills development will be another major area of development.</p>
<p>
	Energy Security in South Asia is bound to increase with Nepal’s huge hydro-power potentials being realized more and India’s immense solar power possibilities explore further (which anyway is a pet project of Narendra Modi).</p>
<p>
	Indo-Pak economic relations are with immense benefits to both the nations. India gets oil from Iran with stress and high costs due to non-cooperation from Pakistan and Pakistan imports several items of daily use and infra-structural growth from the West at a much higher costs than what it can get from India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The entire region needs a tremendous infra-structural push, banking and investments development, rise of social entrepreneurship, and value addition to their agricultural produce. In each of these areas, the South Asian nations have a lot to share if they learn to look at each other positively.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	Change is the spice of life. Irrespective of whether the status quo looks insurmountable, we must look at possibilities positively. South Asia has one-fifths of the world’s population, rich heritage and is the birth-place of Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Hinduism and various forms of animism. South Asia has world’s largest water-resource, highest peaks, longest coastal range, huge solar power reserves. South Asia’s demographic is the youngest in the world, a large number of them being English educated, IT savvy, secular, and democratic in attitude.</p>
<p>
	Mutually cooperative South Asia has a much larger dividend than the current region marred with conflicts and tensions.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The author is former Dean of Symbiosis International University and President of the advisory board at Whistling Woods School of Communication, Mumbai.</span></p>',
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			'title' => 'Cooled Down By Profit Booking',
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			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	Profit booking in different sectors persists now after the warming up of the secondary market for some time in the recent past. This follows nearly two years of down market. Investors started securing their positions as the Nepse index tested its level near 550. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Objection of the smaller political parties after the formation of the new government has also dragged the market down. Different protest programs from the small parties pulled the sentiments in a few sessions.</p>
<p>
	During the review period CDS and Clearing Ltd started its operation for digital clearing and settlement. Currently there are seven Depository Participants (DP) who can facilitate opening of demat accounts. Similarly, 6 out of 226 listed companies have signed for dematerialization of&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">their shares.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Full-fledged digital operation will facilitate quick transfer and settlement process. Similarly, right issue, voting and other matters can also be flashed on screen increasing the trade turnover rate.</p>
<p>
	Around eight companies have lodged application with Securities Board of Nepal for permission to issue an &nbsp;initial public offering(IPO). The combined weight of these applications is Rs 1.45 billion. Hence it is sure to increase the flow of share in the market while the direction of the market will be framed also by the upcoming quarterly financial reports.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Performance by Sector</strong></p>
<p>
	Banking sector with significant volume of trade in local exchange slipped 16.78 points or 3.21% to rest at 522.12. Others sector with heavy concentration of NTC plummeted 39.94 points or 5.96% to settle at 669.68. Hotels sector lost 13.59 points followed by 13.08 points down in hydropower sector to 649.99 and 1029.48 respectively. Development bank descended 7.13 points to close at 248.78 while the finance sector receded 4.01 points or 1.59% to 251.55. However, insurance sub-index accelerated 10.77 points or 1.21% to rest at 888.68.The manufacturing sector surged 4.88 points or 0.58% to settle at 840.23</p>
<p>
	Sensitive index that measures the performance of 120 blue chips at the secondary market plunged 4 points or 3.04% to 131.47 while the float index calculated on the basis of real transactions went downhill 0.86 points or 2.34% to 36.71. Total of Rs. 1,711,318,453 turnover was realized during the review period from 6,534,271 units of shares traded via 23,595 transactions.</p>
<p>
	The accompanying figure depicts the sector-wise distribution based on the total volume of trade. The commercial banking sector accumulated 75.08% of total volume of trade. The hydropower sector occupied 7.63% followed by the insurance sector with 7.16% while remaining sectors covered the rest.</p>
<p>
	Technically, the Simple Moving Average (SMA) shows stationary movement in short term as both Nepse index and 30 days SMA are moving flat. Persistent sell-off in this level can trigger upside correction. However, high volatility is not expected.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong>Review for 17 Mar to 16 Apr, 2013</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Sectorwise Distribution, Stock Taking" height="497" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_sectorwise_distribution.jpg" width="430" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Market Trend, Stock Taking" height="404" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_market_trend.jpg" width="442" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Movement In Indices, Stock Taking" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_movement_in_indices.jpg" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10px;">Chitrakar is a Stock Analyst with Jamb Technologies Pvt Ltd.</span></strong></p>',
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			'keywords' => 'Stock Taking, Cooled Down by Profit Booking',
			'description' => 'The secondary market of Nepal bid farewell to the year 2069 on a sweet note. However, profit booking cooled down the market a bit. The benchmark Nepse index descended 14.41 points or 2.77% to settle at 520.69 while the session’s high was on 17 March with 535.10 and lowest on 31 March with 511.45.',
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			'id' => '979',
			'article_category_id' => '47',
			'title' => 'From Led Zeppelin To Yoga Vasistha',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">By Sujan Tiwari</strong></p>
<p>
	Shashi Ram Bhandary, CEO of Kathmandu Housing and Leasing Company and Nirvana Country Club Health and Golf Resort in Dharan vividly remembers his first summer job while studying in the US. Working in the kitchen of the Marriott Hotel, he had a tough time cutting onions for a few hours, with tears in his eyes. That was when he was noticed by a Manager in the hotel and taught him how to cut onions without hurting the eyes, by soaking the onions in water for some time before cutting them. He told Bhandary that there were two ways to do anything, the right way and the wrong way. “This was the lesson I learnt for life, that things should be done the right way, and it didn’t just apply to onions,” says Bhandary.</p>
<p>
	When he was in Nepal for a vacation once, he went to &nbsp;the coffee shop in Annapurna Hotel and he wasn’t satisfied with the service there. So he left a note saying ‘the service wasn’t up to par’. &nbsp;To his surprise, he was called the very next day by the hotel and was offered a job. He didn’t want to join at first as he was on a vacation, but finally accepted the offer. “I took the job as a challenge. I was hired as Assistant Food and Beverage Manager. I worked there for two years,” recollects Bhandary. But he wasn’t going to be satisfied with a job in a hotel; he had other plans in the back of his head.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Once he went trekking to Upper Manang and realized the shortage of food and supplies there. That was the moment that decided his life. He came up with an ambitious plan of designing a hotel that was self sustained, with its own food and energy production. “I dreamt of a hotel that was dependent upon only a few products from outside. I thought of producing vegetables, rearing cows for dairy products and manure for energy and fertilizers,” says Bhandary. He wanted to experiment with the idea, the idea of a self sustainable hotel. Nirvana Country Club is the result of the same model. It has its own farm, a dairy and has the largest bio-gas plant in eastern Nepal. About 30 per cent of the required energy is produced by the Resort itself. It also produces dairy products like cream and butter, organic herbs and vegetables.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	But Nirvana Country Club was nothing like it is today when Bhandary first acquired the property back in 2000. When he bought the property, he says it was in complete ruins, with land, some structures and a pasture that is now the golf course of Nirvana. &nbsp;To start with, Bhandary brought some consultants from India. After their survey, he was advised not to start the project as the consultants didn’t find &nbsp;the land feasible. “The property was in a very bad condition, it didn’t meet the needed threshold. Also, there were not enough flights to Dharan back then. But I had a gut feeling, and I took the challenge against all odds. Today I am so glad that I took the challenge despite the adversities,” says Bhandary proudly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He started by literally sweeping the place clean. He renovated the structures, built the walls and developed the golf course. At present, Nirvana Country Club has a dairy with 50 cows, a 19\8 hole golf course, multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool, offers tennis and squash, provides yoga and meditation among other services. Also, there are 20 well furnished air conditioned bungalows with living, dining, kitchen and three bedrooms each. “In the last 12 years, I have entirely transformed the place from what it initially was. It is a complete turnaround,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Early Life</strong></p>
<p>
	Born in Kamaladi, Kathmandu in 1962 to Suna Bhandary and Late Banshi Ram Bhandary, he had five elder sisters before him. Bhandary says he was one of the first Nepali students to go to Lincoln School. He remembers cycling all around the valley with his friends, most of &nbsp;whom were from other countries. “I enjoyed a childhood without any worries as my family was quite well off. Everything was provided for us. I was lucky to be born in a big joint family with a good reputation and background. Bhandarys of Kamaldi were known by all in Kathmandu,” says Bhandary. Bhandary studied in Lincoln School from Kindergarten to 8th grade, and did his SLC from Anandakuti School. After that, he went to US for his further studies, he joined Gaithersburg High School in Maryland and graduated from high school there. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	After completing high school, he started working for Marriott Hotel as a summer job, as all the students in the US worked in summers. “I actually didn’t need to work for money, but I followed the American tradition. I was living with relatives at that time. I wanted to be independent, so I moved out and started to work,” remembers Bhandary. He says he worked right from the bottom, doing dishes and &nbsp;other forms of lowly work. Later, he became a supervisor and finally a manager in Marriott Hawaii. He worked for Marriott for seven years and later did his graduation in Hotel Management from US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Has was sent to US by his family to study medicine, but he loved dealing with people and loved service business. After his first summer job, he ended up studying hotel management. He didn’t reveal this to his family at first and so had to earn his own money. Bhandary believes this decision made him independent as he started working. “I didn’t have any specific aim, but I wanted to fly planes as a child, and I still want to,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Family</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary married with Kalpana Bhandary at the age of 21. Once when he was in Pokhara, he caught the eyes of Kalpana on a boat, and says he was instantly attracted to her. He went home and told his mother about the girl he saw, and their family arranged the rest. They met and got along well, and eventually got married. “My marriage was the biggest turning point in my life. I felt more responsible after I got married,” says Bhandary. Kalpana Bhandary is now the MD of Nirvana Country Club. According to Bhandary, he really wanted to be together with his spouse, and he kept her together, even at work. The couple has been blessed with two sons Rishikesh and Raghu.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Personal Side</strong></p>
<p>
	As a youngster, Bhandary grew up listening to rock bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and The Who. Now, he says he wants to spend time quietly.Inside, Bhandary says he is a very spiritual person, and loves to read, especially books &nbsp;about spiritual development. “Lately, I want to uncover the spiritual side of my own self. I want to know what my purpose in the world is, and I try to figure it out through meditation. I really want to be at peace,” he says. Bhandary is also a disciple of Shankaracharya. As he was brought up in a religious family, he liked to listen to prabachans religious-philosophical discourse as a child. “I found the words of wise men interesting from the beginning. After I read Yoga Vasistha, it completely turned around my life. It taught me that everything that exists is an illusion, and everything else is the working of mind. I was so influenced by it and entered into spirituality. Then, I started to look at life from a spiritual point of view, says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pastime</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary &nbsp;has been an avid animal lover since his childhood, and owns eight Tibetan mastiffs and one Alsatian, has a few barking deers in his farm and keeps his Japanese Spitz Casper with him wherever he goes. He drinks very rarely, as he says it disturbs the spiritual balance. Whenever free, Bhandary likes to cook and equally enjoys eating, and loves Khichadi, his all time favourite food. He lives mostly in Dharan, and travels frequently. His hobbies include playing golf, going for long drives and travelling. He says he is outside the country at least once a month, and has been to US, India, Europe, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhandary believes one needs to be determined and has to possess a will-do attitude to succeed. “One has to be commanding and friendly at the same time, has to have a balance of both. Also, we should be able to bring out the good in people,” he says. Bhandary says he is content with his life, as has no regrets. “I am living the life I wanted, married the women I wanted, &nbsp;I have done something for the country and am blessed with good children. There is nothing more &nbsp;I could have wanted,” says Bhandary. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Bhandary, things should always be done the right way and it will &nbsp;be done as there won’t be many obstacles. “Determination and good intentions are needed, it can really help you progress. &nbsp;It is not that hard to start a business and succeed in Nepal. No one needs to leave the country in pursuit of success. Things can be done right here, we just have to figure out the right way,” says he. For the future, Bhandary has plans of making Nirvana Country Club completely self sustainable and wants to open a Golf Academy. And if things favour him, he wants to learn to fly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Shashi Ram Bhandary, Personlity, From Led Zeppelin to Yoga Vasistha " height="546" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/personality_may2013_sashi_ram.jpg" width="450" /></p>',
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			'article_category_id' => '46',
			'title' => 'Nepal Is Land-linked,  We Should Take Advantage Of This',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img alt="Narayan Kazi Shrestha" height="472" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/interview_May2013_rajesh_kazi(1).jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	<strong>Rajesh Kazi Shrestha&nbsp;</strong><strong>Chairman&nbsp;</strong><strong>Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI)</strong></p>
<p>
	Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. He spoke with Siromani Dhungana of New Business Age about Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its involvement in promoting country’s business environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">How do you see the current role of Nepal’s private sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	Private sector should be taken as the engine of the national economy. Even though the entire country has been facing power scarcity and political instability, Nepal’s private sector is optimistic about leading the country to economic prosperity. In fact, private sector has been playing a crucial role for the overall economic development of the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry doing to address the problem of growing deficit in Nepal’s trade with China? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Actually, Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry is established to promote export of Nepali products to China and Chinese products to Nepal. In order to address growing trade deficit figure, we are doing our best to promote more Nepali products in China. The organization has been participating in many promotional activities such as trade fairs where we can promote Nepali products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Due to our promotional activities over the past few years, we can now say that many handicraft, thangka painting and wooden crafts entrepreneurs in many districts, including Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, are benefitted. However, those handicraft entrepreneurs from Lalitpur and Bhaktapur cannot survive if there are no Chinese buyers of their products. There are more examples of other sectors like this that show how Chinese market is becoming more important for us. It is also important to mention here that Nepal and China have signed zero tariff agreement, which ensures export of more than 7,787 items at zero-tariff into chinese market. The provision helps us to expand our trade with China. Nepal should also put its effort on trade promotion between the two countries. The construction of a well-facilitated dry port and a Special Economic Zone would help us to boost trade with China and to attract more Chinese investment. Now, we are more focused on how to get more facilities for our exporters, so we have requested support from the Finance Minister in order to increase trade between both countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepali traders have failed to take advantage of zero tariff facility provided by China, why?</strong></p>
<p>
	I do not think so. In fact, there are some norms set by the Chinese government which Nepali side has been failing to comply with. Especially, there are some problems such as the issuance of Certificate of Origin.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Non tariff barriers such as strict quarantine system, certification standards and rules of origin have created many challenges to the process of trade between the two countries. It’s obvious that there is a lack of effective coordination among Nepali traders and government agencies. Also, there are some other complications on both sides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	We are working to sort out current problems and we are optimistic about the settling of these issues very soon. We want to see a concrete agreement to ease quarantine related complications and other non-tariff barriers.</p>
<p>
	<strong>China’s Exim Bank is likely to set up its branch in Nepal. Considerig that Nepal didn’t get the expected benefits from the other foreign banks operating in Nepal, what should Nepal do to get benefits from the presence of Chinese Bank? &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We have been talking about the presence of Chinese Bank in Nepal for the last three or four years. It is not only for trading but also for investment. Chinese side is very positive. The current Chinese Ambassador is optimistic about the fact that Chinese Bank will start operating in Nepal during his tenure. Not only Exim Bank but also some other banks are negotiating about starting to offer their services in Nepal. If Exim Bank comes, it will have a positive impact on investment. Chinese banks have rational interest rate and also they have capacity to invest. Their presence will definitely help to attract Chinese investors to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing pretty fast in the recent years. Do you think that Chinese investment is actually helping Nepal? &nbsp;(it is also said that the interest of the Chinese in Nepal is more diplomatic than economic)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, the Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing at a rapid pace. Some mega projects such as Pokhara Airport, Kathmandu Ring Road or Dry Port of Sindhupalchowk will be started soon. Similarly, some Chinese investors are involved in mining and water resources projects too. Very soon, if the political situation improves, more Chinese investors will be interested in investing in Nepal. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Chinese investment may help the overall national development. As we represent the private sector, our main interest is to strengthen the trade and the economic relation between the two countries. We always lobby for the economic prosperity and investment with the Government of China and our other counterparts. Together, these two countries can achieve good economic prosperity.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the possible investment areas for China in Nepal? Would it be resource-seeking or market-seeking? Obviously, it not technology seeking, capital seeking or manpower seeking as China is better than Nepal in all these.</strong></p>
<p>
	Obviously, the first is hydropower sector. Second is tourism, third is mines and minerals and fourth is the agro sector. Nepal has enough resources and lots of business opportunities; however, it is a fact that the current investment size is extremely small. Chinese businessmen have been investing in small-scale sector such as hotels, restaurants and other small trades but we want Chinese investors to start some mega projects. The problem is that the unstable government and policies and the problem of power outage have created much hurdles to attract such investment. Despite the hurdles, there are still many chances to expedite Nepal-China business relationship. Around two or three Chinese delegations have been visiting Nepal every month to explore business opportunities. Chinese investors are very much interested but they often ask about the rules, regulations and opportunities. If the political scenario becomes stable and labour problem is solved, I hope many of them will come to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese goods have the reputation of being cheap and inferior in quality. In this context, what prospects do you see for such products in Nepal?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	It is not like that. Chinese manufactures produce goods according to the necessity of consumers. It depends on the type of goods consumers want. When you are in the USA, European countries or in most of Asian countries and seek high quality products, you will find Chinese ones. We get surprised when we see what we get here and what products are available there. It depends on the quality required and the purchasing power of the buyer. It depends on what type of goods Nepali traders want to import and that’s why I think it solely depends on the buyers’ choice and affordability.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How successful do you rate your own business link with China considering the general perception of Chinese goods being cheap and inferior?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We don’t evaluate the Chinese products supplied as per our demands and orders. The same goods can have high or low quality based on how much one can afford. It depends on our buying capacity. It’s us who are responsible for the low quality of the products because we often order low quality goods for Nepali market. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	It is often cited that Nepali industries are suffering from the cheap imports from China. What’s your opinion?&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Both Nepal and China are members of World Trade Organization (WTO). According to its principle, we can’t stop importing from its member countries. If we are able to manage our market, we don’t have to worry about cheap imports from China. On the other side, cheap goods imported from China have ensured mass access to the sophisticated goods and also to the daily consumable goods.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the critical trade barriers between Nepal and China?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are hurdles and barriers in all sectors but it is still an open and growing market. Some remedies would be to have better policies from the &nbsp;government, a friendly investment environment, labour reforms, security… etc. There are certain issues which should be resolved. We are solving the barriers step by step, as they appear in front of us.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How are the exporters and importers overcoming the language barrier in trade between China and Nepal? How is your chamber helping in this? (it is said that, due to language problems, Nepali traders in China are always in disadvantage in their dispute with Chinese importers or exporters)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, it is a little difficult but now most of the Chinese exporters understand English. Nowadays, there are English speaking employees in almost every office and different chambers. And some businessmen who are already doing business can understand Chinese also. If there is any dispute we step in to solve it, we are also giving information about the queries and problems of the business person there. The exporters were very much interested in trade fair there, we are participating there regularly and we exchange our delegation also from different chamber from different aspects.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What points do you think need to be revised in Nepal-China trade-related treaties?</strong></p>
<p>
	Both governments should have frequent meetings to understand and solve the obstacles, if there are. There are some area where we are facing &nbsp;problems, such as &nbsp;quarantine or infrastructures but these issues should be solved very soon. In China, they are not accepting Nepali quarantine certificates. Nepal has three issuing authorities for different sectors and product lines, which makes the Chinese confused as they think it should be done by a single authority. Because of that, we are facing difficulties to export our food items.</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Nepali government has planned to develop Rasuwa as another hub for Nepal-China trade. What is your assessment of the progress in this?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	The road is already there and, after Sigatse, the railway will come to Rasuwa. We are trying to join railway side from China and India so that Nepal will be linked with both of these countries. We can develop environment for tourism and business also. The government of China is committed on this and we are very optimistic about completing and operating it soon.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is often argued that Nepal should be developed as the transit point for China-India trade, but no concrete development seems to be taking place on this direction. What are the impediments?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are not a land-locked country but we are a land-linked country with two economic giants at north and south. We should take advantage of this unique geographical position. The main problem of this situation is that everyone has his or her own agenda and we have no unified and strong agenda and vision for concrete developments. A stable government, a strong linkage of these three countries and an open transit road are our most primary necessities.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '977',
			'article_category_id' => '48',
			'title' => 'Size Zero Economy',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Madan Lamsal</strong></p>
<p>
	Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.</p>
<p>
	The economic meaning of zero could be something different than the blissful imaginative hollow universe of a meditating sage. It is either recession or depression. Nepal has simplified the definition of these terms too: recession is when the builder of a housing company shifts to an apartment in his own project site and, it is depression when he is shifted to a free-to-live public apartment called jail.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The definition could be as many as the number of economists. That means you are free to have your own tailor-made definition of it. Many have it already. Our central bank governor says, an economy with zero growth rate &nbsp;and 10 percent inflation is still not in recession, and the finance minister doesn&rsquo;t have a say since he already has zero economic sense -- recession, depression, possession, obsession but commission are all the same for him. So why can&rsquo;t you have your own take on recession or depression and its shape and size.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	You may take some variables into account: once regarded successful business heroes have turned zeros, call it their size of the firm now. It is old news that CEOs of many banks are looking for alternative professions. Some have refused to take a paid forced leave fearing that someone might just play a prank with some zeros in their absence. This is the confidence indicator of our banking industry. Since, this leave is a compulsory one and he had but no alternative to take, some dedicated CEOs are seen loitering around bank&rsquo;s headquarters premises despite officially being &nbsp;on leave, enjoying their favorite chocolate bar called &nbsp;&lsquo;credit crunchy&rsquo;. What would you say to the new trend that CEOs of banks themselves are working as chief of the marketing department? It is a trend reversal and also a cost-saving measure.</p>
<p>
	Not only banks, academic institutions that promised jobs to their MBAs, in the once lucrative but now leery sector called banking now taste a pinch of salt. Some new MBAs are asking their school to return their money as they are ultimately landing on a zero chance job zone. Many other ambitious MBAs are trying for jobs in the sectors they had never imagined &nbsp;working &nbsp;in.</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;Good old days have returned. Dishonored cheques have become a normal phenomenon and nobody bothers why it got returned. The recipient never asks the bank whether the fund was insufficient in the account of the person who issued the cheque or in the coffers of the bank itself. The account holders don&rsquo;t have enough guts to send an enquiry note to the bank about the issue. These are good signs. &nbsp;No one is hostile to anyone else. Everyone knows we are revolving around a big zero and will continue to do so until this zero of &nbsp;an economy &nbsp;actually becomes a black hole or the Bermuda Triangle.</p>
<p>
	The signals in television channels are less wired and more weird. Don&rsquo;t blame it &nbsp;on load shedding. We will not have electricity pretty soon, when we are about to reach to a point of zero supply, thus no need of it. Call it a zero-gain bid that channels are showing the same program at least four times a week if not a day. They are selling &nbsp;commercial packages with schemes like buy one and get five free.</p>
<p>
	As the economy slims down to play &nbsp;the heroine of a big movie called &lsquo;New Nepal&rsquo;, many heroes are trending-up themselves. You must have seen the newspapers pictures of Min B Gurung rehearsing the act of shopping at his own Bhatbhateni stores, carrying a jute bag. Business tycoons like Golchhas and Jyotis are pictured practicing racing bikes, leaving luxury cars. Television clips show that leaders of proletarian parties are often in the public wearing Harrods suits and designed dresses. Looks like though finally we all are ready for &nbsp;a movie with Shakespearian tragedy, &nbsp;when this has a box-office success, Nepal will surely prosper.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-05-18',
			'modified' => '2013-10-21',
			'keywords' => 'No Laughing Matter, Size Zero Economy',
			'description' => 'Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.',
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	(int) 6 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '982',
			'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) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '981',
			'article_category_id' => '57',
			'title' => 'Digital Signage Concept',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Srijal Bhattarai&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">The advertising industry in Nepal has foreseen minor changes in the past. The traditional mediums of mass coverage like television, newspaper and radio have always made us feel their presence in our daily life. When we talk about BTL activities, the first thing that comes to our mind are the flex stands and the hoarding boards spread across the country. There has been very little presence of digital outdoor mediums for communication in the past. As a pioneer in Digital Signage concept, which began from the year 2011 at BhatBhateni stores, Media Space Solutions have seen a few companies that are trying to promote this concept. This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.</span></p>
<p>
	Digital signage has a lot of meanings with significant features which is useful for advertisers as well as the audience. One of the main features of digital signage concept is that this is a totally software driven concept which helps in minimizing cost and save resources.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Media Space Solutions- A Brand</strong></p>
<p>
	As the first step in establishing the concept of digital signage, Media Space Solutions (MSS) empowers advertisers with the ability to reach consumers through digital signage networks. &nbsp;MSS is dedicated to providing highly effective digital advertising and digital signage network solutions as a complete integrator of electronic signage network technology and applications.</p>
<p>
	The purpose of establishing Media Space Solutions was to create various differentiated media spaces to cater all the advertising needs of our clients in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">The Innovative Platforms</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">1. Media Space Solutions ePoPM (MSS ePoPM)</span></strong></p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM network has been expanding since its first phase implementation at the BhatBhateni Super Markets Pvt Ltd in BhatBhateni and Maharajgunj in March 2011. MSS ePoPM digital signage solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital screens located at high visibility areas within the departmental store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital electronic posters located on high visibility areas within stores. This results in increase in sales and brand awareness by capitalizing on the key time in consumers purchase decision making process i.e. while in front of products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>2. MSS MicroMedia</strong></p>
<p>
	MSS Micro Media is a digital signage platform that extends the communication power of information in the form of audio visual content beyond television sets at home and delivers them to citizens of Kathmandu Valley in the most efficient manner while they are travelling.</p>
<p>
	This digital signage network of 60 screens targets a daily audience of approximately 30,000 commuters along six different routes spread across the Kathmandu Valley i.e. a total of 900,000 commuters every month. This network ensures compulsive viewership inside enclosed spaces and captive reception of the intended messages and information.</p>
<p>
	The MSS Micro Media digital signage platform displays audio video entertainment content in the form of music videos, informative programs, television commercials and awareness campaigns. MSS MicroMedia is a platform which has an integrated approach to deliver intended messages and communication material to and from various stakeholders: commuters, vehicle owners, vehicle operators, Nepal Police, Department of Transport as well as companies interested in promoting their products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">3. Sajha Media Space</strong></p>
<p>
	Sajha Media Space is an on-board Digital Entertainment and Advertising Network on the soon to be launched fleet of 16 Sajha Yatayat buses in Kathmandu Valley. This digital signage network consists of 16 High Definition 24 inch screens which will target a daily audience of approximately 25,000 commuters along two different routes intersecting at the heart of the capital i.e. a total of 750,000 commuters every month.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The consumer recall and ROI for advertisements aired on the Sajha Media Space network is higher than the same advertisements aired on television networks with national coverage considering the advertising tariffs of the two. This network of displays currently airs a wide range of entertainment content in the form of Music Videos, Stand-up Comedy, Social Messages and advertisements geared specifically towards commuters of Kathmandu Valley. Media Space intends to enhance the quality of travel experience on Sajha Yatayat buses.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	In order to be competitive in the advertising industry, various innovative ideas and platforms need to be implemented. These platforms will allow advertisers to reach their target audiences in an effective manner and will allow the intended message to be delivered appropriately. The government has already initiated the process of bringing down hoarding boards from the city and this will also play a vital role in such innovative concepts being implemented in future.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Digital Signage Concept, Srijal Bhattarai" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/brand_talk_may2013_digital_signage_concept(1).jpg" /></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The writer is MD of Media Space Solutions and currently pursuing M Phil in management from Kathmandu University (KUSOM).&nbsp;</span></p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-05-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => 'Digital Signage Concept, Brand Talk, Srijal Bhattarai',
			'description' => 'This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '980',
			'article_category_id' => '80',
			'title' => 'Learning Has To Go Much Beyond The Classroom',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
	Ace Institute of Management has completed more than a decade in the field of management education, which has now become the most aspiring career option for students.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">Learning has to go much beyond the classroom. This is the basic mantra of the institution and also what makes it different from other (growing numbers of) business schools across the country. The institution is probably best known for its teaching methodology, but it merely excels in producing not only good managers but also good human beings as well.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Ashish Tiwari, Director of the Institution, says, “The main focus of the institution is on imparting the practice oriented teaching methodology.” The institution has robust management courses ranging from BBA to Executive MBA. The college emphasizes the shaping of &nbsp;professionals who eventually will become successful, effective leaders.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Established in 1999, the institution has built a reputation of conscientious learning centre among &nbsp;students who want to pursue management courses. <span style="font-size: 12px;">Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.</span></p>
<p>
	The college has launched an Executive-MBA course for the first time in the country. The MBA programme has acquired a distinguished reputation for being the most rigorous and fulfilling experience. The undergraduate programmes, BBA and BBA-BI, are considered among the best in the country. Students completing undergraduate programmes in ACE are widely sought after in the job market, claims the institution. In a short span of four years Ace A-Level has distinguished itself from the crowd with its individual centered approach to learning and its focus on management and social sciences stream only.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tiwari adds, ‘These thirteen years have been extremely rewarding and we continue with our vision and commitment to value based management education which has strong relevance to real life. We are deeply committed to promoting a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders and entrepreneurs. We will continue to provide our students with opportunities to explore and develop their potential so that they can make their mark in whatever they do.”</p>
<p>
	“Learning Strategy of our institution is guided by our philosophy that each one of us learns differently and that no one’s approach is superior to another, we encourage students to take responsibility for their learning,” he added.</p>
<p>
	Teachers are encouraged to serve as facilitators, helping students learn rather than teach them.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">Educational methods such as lectures, small group exercises, management games, work projects, case studies and presentations are used. Computers, statistical kits and audio visual aids are also extensively used.</span></p>
<p>
	Lecture sessions are interactive and students are encouraged to participate using case analysis and presentations, reviews and feedback and project works involving studies of real organizations.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">The quality of students churns out year after year</span><span style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Facilities</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The learning environment at Ace Institute of Management is supported by facilities that provide comfort as well as easy access to information and knowledge. “Our computer laboratory is fully equipped and every student is provided with Internet access. Furthermore, the entire campus is Wi-Fi enabled facilitating Internet connection from anywhere,” &nbsp;says Tiwari. The library offers a wide range of magazines and journals and is currently well stocked with books related to the subjects covered during the degree. New publications are continuously being added to meet the demands of students. The library has also subscribed to a large range of management publications and &nbsp;journals. Participants in the programmes require an adequate knowledge of computing. The computer centre provides computing facilities to the students from 8:00a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day, except on Saturdays and Sundays. The computer centre also carries out non-credit courses for beginners. In addition, there is a canteen which offers high quality food and snacks at reasonable prices.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Management, ACE" height="377" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management.jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong>Academic Programmes</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		EMBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		BBA-BI Programme</li>
	<li>
		A-Level Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBAe Programme&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Vision</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Enhance the capacity of individuals and institutions in Nepal to contribute to the nation’s development</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Mission</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Promote a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders, and entrepreneurs</li>
	<li>
		Promote entrepreneurship and professionalism by assisting entrepreneurs and institutions in acquiring and managing resources effectively</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Philosophy</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		We believe that one can never learn enough. Learning is a life-long process</li>
	<li>
		We believe that knowledge is much more beneficial when accompanied by wisdom and humility</li>
	<li>
		We believe that each one of us learns differently and that no particular approach is superior to another</li>
	<li>
		We believe that every individual is capable of contributing towards a positive social synergy&nbsp;</li>
	<li>
		We believe that we achieve and accomplish more when we compete with self and cooperate with others</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Values</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Honesty in work</li>
	<li>
		Sincerity in relationships</li>
	<li>
		Respect for self and others</li>
	<li>
		Responsibility for one’s actions</li>
	<li>
		Learning from mistakes</li>
	<li>
		Care for resources</li>
	<li>
		Adherence to regulations</li>
	<li>
		Questioning spirit</li>
</ul>
<div>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Managment, ACE" height="244" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management(1).jpg" width="590" /></div>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-05-19',
			'modified' => '2013-06-06',
			'keywords' => 'Learning Has to Go Much Beyond the Classroom',
			'description' => 'Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.',
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	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '975',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘Orient Has A Very Big Potential In Nepal’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Ghurmeet Singh, vice president ,Orient Fans, New Business Age" height="275" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Ghurmeet_Singh_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries. Fans, small home appliances and lighting are some of the areas that are served by the division. In an interview with New Business Age, Singh shared his idea on the Nepali market for his products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What prospects do you see for your business in Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is a big market because like India, Nepal is also largely populated with the people who are not so rich. And therefore there is big prospect and market for fans, which is going to remain for long time. And we find that because of the electricity cost as well as the relevancy, fans will be the primary cooling devices for many people for long time. Secondly, brands from India have very good scope here because India and Nepal have worked hand in hand for a long time. And Orient as number two brand in India for many years now has a very big potential here. We were selling here some fans also in the past. Last year we joined hands with Premier Overseas, a part of Sharda Group, so that we can distribute our products more widely. And we are very sure that, with their vast experiences and networks, we get very good stage from here and we will serve the people of Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is said that Nepali people love Indian brands. What has been your perception?</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, that is why I said that Nepal and India have joined hands for a long time. Nepali and Indian people are more or less similar, buying habits are also similar and more importantly they are interested in Indian brands. And we will like to serve Nepali people as well.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are you plans for the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	It feels good to introducing our products in Nepali market. Initially we are launching fans and small home appliances and later we also plan for our lighting series and try to be number one in the respective market segments.</p>
<p>
	<strong>So what is your market position in India?</strong></p>
<p>
	In India, we are in number one for manufacturing and two for sales. And for exports, we are the undisputed leader with over 55 percent of shares. And we are already exporting to 30 countries and in US. &nbsp;Having our own manufacturing base, we are conscious about the parties and quality of our products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you compare the trend of using your products in Nepal with other South Asian countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	In most of the South Asian countries, people largely use portable fans. And in India and Nepal people mostly use ceiling fans. In India, 75 percent sales are in ceiling and 25 percent portable fans and it is almost same here in Nepal. &nbsp;And most of the South Asian countries use fans as primary cooling devices.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Why should the people choose your products?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are highly quality conscious manufacturers. Our products are energy efficient and continuously receiving exports excellence award and we are rated as ‘Star Performer’ by the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) of India. We pioneered the most famous patented revolutionary concept PSPO in 90’s. We have capacity of nearly 10 million fans per year and in terms of quality we have accomplished various standards and tests. And we have fulfilled each and every requirement in all different countries (where our fans are exported) and we are the only Indian brand to export to US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are your plans for beating the competition and about the future strategies?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are very lucky that there are very few top brands available here and the competition is very less. And we are very confident that if we are able to appeal the market with good products, good prices and good energy saving products then the competition is not there and then we don’t need much time to become number one. And the second part is if everybody around you is your better competitor then you have to produce better product to sustain yourself and it is all good for the consumer.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
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			'description' => 'Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries.',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '974',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘The Customers Are Required To Get The Full Value For Their Money’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Koji Tanaka, vice president. Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Koji_Tanaka_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda. Recently, Syakar Trading Company, the authorized distributor of Honda Power Product launched the new EP 1000 and EG 1000 series of generators in Nepal and Tanaka was in Kathmandu in this connection. These new generators are small, portable and lighter compared to the previous generators. With the 4 Stroke technology, these models have some unique features like lesser fuel consumption (0.54ltr./ hr), more handling capacity (Rat. 750 VA), environmental friendly and available with decompression mechanism. Tanaka explained more in an interview with New Business Age.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What do you find interesting about your visit to Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Its been about three years that I have been living in Delhi. This is the first time that I got an opportunity to visit Nepal. Nepal is well known in Japan. There are many Japanese tourists who come here and many Japanese are also living here. Our purpose of visit is to study the potentiality of the Nepali market for Honda products. As on date, we are exposing two new products – Honda EG 10000 model and Honda EP 1000 model generator. We would also like to study the Nepali market for various Honda products and find areas to expand with 50 % partnership with Syakar group.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the brand value of Honda products in the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda Company is well reputed throughout the world for its quality products. Without Syakar Trading, it would be difficult to provide quality sales and service. It is not possible to expand in the market without their support. New customers can be treated with better goods and Syakar can provide the premium service towards customers in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How will the newly introduced Honda Spiel Power products affect the Nepali market? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are happy to find out that dealers from all over the country came to see the two new products. Comparatively, they are more fuel efficient. They consume upto 50% less fuel than the other former products. We are confident that we can expand the business of our products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What level of competition do you feel is present with regard to the products from Honda?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda has been selling motorcycles in Nepal for a long time. The major competition is from Bajaj. With regard to power products, Honda is still leading the market very much with help from Syakar Group. In Honda Philosophy, we do not compare ourselves with the competitors but instead compare us with ourselves. The customers are required to get the full value for their money. Honda owns 40% share of Nepali power products market. There are 69 dealers (branches and showrooms) of Honda products throughout Nepal. Honda products are so efficient that they are suitable for even above the altitude of 4000 meters from the sea level.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the future plans of Honda Company?</strong></p>
<p>
	We listen to customer’s voice. Upon receiving special requests, our R&amp;D (Research and Development) department develops these products. We come up with newer products. When we see the potentiality of a product in the market, we further investigate into it with help from the people at R&amp;D. After that, we check if there is a similar demand for such products in other regions as well. Only then, the new products will be developed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Are you launching any product targeting the agriculture sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	In 2010, we launched a more affordable 5 Hz power tiller in the market. But, currently it is not available in Nepal. With the decreasing number of farm workers, more tillers can be bought in order to do a more efficient agriculture. The process of mechanized agriculture is expanding. Many agricultural tools are also introduced through Honda’s factories in China. With the increasing demand from the consumers, lawn mowers, brush cutters, carriers etc can be introduced in Nepal. Honda’s motto is “Helping people get things done”. We do not limit ourselves to supplying generators only. When there is enough demand in the market, R&amp;D can make new concept products.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda.',
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '973',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘We Do Not Want To Become Just A Marketing Company’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p style="">
	<img align="right" alt="Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Denis_Borisovsky_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world. “The company has a diverse range of clients which includes different sized brokers, top-tier banks and also their white labels partners, who are involved in electronic trading of various asset-classes,” informs Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT. In an interview with New Business Age during his recent visit to Nepal, Borisovsky talked about the company’s product Protrader 2 and market prospects of his company in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Protrader 2 and what are the scopes?</strong></p>
<p>
	Protrader 2 is our platform for trading forex, stocks, futures and other sectors. It is developed for technological brokers and for exchangers in the long run. We started the company about ten years ago and the product Protrader 2 is the result of these ten years. Under this brand, we cover technology products for multiple sectors then go to stock market. We cover trading activities from exchange to traders, money managers, hedge funds, brokers or participants in one technology. Our products are quite unique and there is uniqueness of technology as well. We are not brokers though. We stay independent from brokerage and provide technology to different brokers. We have so many trading technology companies to help the brokers. We import technologies from different countries and bring them to different markets.</p>
<p>
	<strong>You’ve had a diverse career, how did you get into financial trading technologies?</strong></p>
<p>
	I worked 20 years as a programmer. I entered many fields including voice recognition. I also served in various technological firms. And that was difficult. I wanted to do something different, more difficult and challenging. So, I decided to make charts by myself and I found some clients for it. Then I started trading technology for brokerage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Our company is not that big in terms of people, but in terms of symmetry and our experience, it is quite big. The number of people working in our Ukraine office is around 50-52 and it’s a very good team. We are also focusing our business in emerging economies like China and India. I have just come from India where we have opened up our office. In China, we have been deploying five people for local support. In Europe, we have an office in Ukraine. We already have an office in US. We are also eying Nepal as the political and investment environment are improving.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What makes your company successful?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	First of all, it is focused. It’s very important to focus in something and make it best from any point. &nbsp;Our focus is technology for trading. We have only one thought and that is how to make trading technology more advanced. You need to have focus and extension, but careful extension. And you should keep a very good level of integrity between the company and the clients. Integrity is a key factor in every company. After this, you should be very high target to go.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you pursue the use of trading technology in emerging countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	We come with technology. We don’t want to become a marketing company, that’s why we are looking to the very good partners who have same vision and same expectations in terms of time. Time expectations is very important. If someone is interested in one year, it is one story and if he is looking for ten years, it is another story. My company sees five to ten year forward. So, it is very important for us to find such partners, who have same philosophies and who uses technologies and wants to expand them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What types of trading applications are being demanded and successful these days?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are lots of technologies right now. But, the main problem is that sometime these do not work in particular circumstances and market. And sometimes it is not useful to the market. So, it is very important to understand local market. &nbsp;It is the task of local partner which maintains adjustment to it. The local partner has to listen to the people, think about not only about making something but in terms of technology which could work in your market. We make customization, which is very important is putting many markets within one platform. And we have to make such things, which is already in demand.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you recall some the challenges you faced during automating stock exchanges and commodity exchanges?</strong></p>
<p>
	Every country is very different. In terms of brokers, more or less everybody has common techniques and it is quite similar. But, in terms of challenges it is totally different. The challenges in US are very different and more developed. And it is also challenging because lots of local participants are there. By the way, Nepal is more advanced. Nepal has seen changes in stock market for more than 20 years while it’s been five years for Ukraine. I mean the number of all types of market participants and functionalists is much lower.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the difference between brokerage automation and exchange automation?</strong></p>
<p>
	Exchange automation is of course a very complex process. We should work on different levels. It needs one to three years to implement and to make it work too. Brokerage automation process takes many years and is difficult as well. We need cooperation mostly from technology and some management level of companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How can you prove Protrader is better for the success of traders?</strong></p>
<p>
	We always cooperate with traders. We think the most important clients for us are the traders. We get their feedback. And we want them to be involved more. Usually we communicate with brokers and they provide us feedback from traders. If we get lots of feedback, we could pick up fast. Protrader is one of the most functionally useful software.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you please tell us about PFSoft’s future roadmap?</strong></p>
<p>
	We have a plan to promote ourselves. Because in 10 years we mostly worked with brokers, which was much time itself. We believe now technology is one of the best necessities. We will extend our promotion to we will customize the platform. Social trading concerns are new market plans.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Based on your vast experience of establishing ecosystem of trading business in developed and developing countries, what do you think about how countries like Nepal can benefit from trading business?</strong></p>
<p>
	“PFSoft and Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd have mutually agreed to develop a full-fledged commodity exchange system for Nepal. PFSoft is ready to customize the Information Technology required for Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal and it is great opportunity for us to have a partnership with Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd. We are making evolution of scalable trading solution of local products produced in Nepal, and we want to integrate that trading to global market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The trading is important in developing countries. Right now for trading to sustain, the political and economic system favor for that. But at the same time, financial system too should help the country’s economic growth.</p>',
			'published' => true,
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			'description' => 'PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world.',
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '972',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => 'Nepali Tea Gets 3 New Destinations',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Nepal Tea, Illam, New Business Age" height="356" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_economy_tea.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p>
	Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association. He further informed that the tea is currently being exported to these places as a test. “We are planning to commercially export within a month,” he said. Nepali organic tea is currently exported to Germany, France, Czech Republic, Japan and some other countries.</p>
<p>
	Under the testing phase, four tea industries are exporting around seven quintals of tea monthly. &nbsp;Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers, Gorkha Tea Estate and Guranse Tea Estate are exporting organic tea commercially. Mainali also shared that business representatives of respective countries are planning to visit Nepal for observation of Nepali tea industry. According to Mainali, all tea industries established for organic tea production still do not possess organic certificate. Countries like the USA, Japan and Australia among others have been providing certification. The association said that 16 industries are currently in the line of producing organic tea while only four industries have received organic certification. According to Mainali, in order to acquire organic certification, one industry must add about Rs 1.5 to 2 million investment. This year, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers acquired ‘organic certification’, said Mainali, who is also the Director of the company. Previously, Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Gorkha Tea State and Guranse Tea Estate had acquired organic certification.</p>
<p>
	‘A’ grade tea produced in Nepal is exported to third countries. The Association has informed that 300,000 kg of organic certified tea is produced annually in Nepal. “The demand for such tea in abroad is still high,” Mainali said. He further added, “Nepali companies are not being able to produce tea to meet the demand.” Tea industrialists say highly advanced technologies and skills are required for organic tea production in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<div>
	 </div>',
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
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			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '971',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => '21 Banks Subscribe To Thomson Reuters',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Thomsom Reuters, New Business Age" height="181" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_banking_thomson_reuters.jpg" width="338" /></p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX). This enables trading professionals to connect with one another, hold conversations about different FX products and prices, as well as conduct FX transactions.</p>
<p>
	According to the official press release issued by TR, this event will mark that the Nepali rupee trades on a global trading platform alongside major international currencies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The start of the dealing platform marks a move towards the automation in management of foreign exchange reserve in Nepal. It provides the Nepali banking sector with easy access to multiple counterparts at a time and helps to grasp the opportunities arising from changes in international financial markets. This will also maximize the efficiency of our people working in forex reserve management,” said Dr. Y.R. Khatiwada, Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank who officiated at a ceremony marking the occasion with the Nepal Bankers’ Association and the Foreign Exchange Dealers Association of Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Thomson Reuters Dealing serves the world’s largest professional trading community and we are delighted to welcome these 21 Nepalese banks into that community,” said Sriram Ramnarayan, Vice President for Financial and Risk South Asia at Thomson Reuters. “This represents a new era in transparency, efficiency and automation in the way trades are executed in Nepal. The availability of real-time pricing information and automated trading processes will open up new opportunities for Nepal’s banks and enable them to tap into the global FX markets - the largest financial market in the world.”</p>
<p>
	Used by more than 18,000 trading professionals globally in more than 5,000 organisations across 120 countries, Thomson Reuters Dealing is the industry standard for FX trading professionals for price discovery, trade execution and seamless integration with back office processes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters has had a presence in Nepal for more than a decade working closely with the financial industry and the banking community and is the leading international financial provider to operate in the country in association with Nepal’s ICTC Group.</p>
<div>
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			'description' => 'Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX).',
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	 </p>
<p>
	Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga. The Bank already has branches in western region of Nepal in Butwal, Bhairahawa, Palpa, Krishnagar, Damauli, and Walling. NIBL at present has over 500,000 customers, 68 ATM networks and one extension counter. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>',
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
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			'description' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga.',
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	<span style="font-size: 12px;">When the landless and marginalised communities did not have neither land nor crops in their farmland, they probably did not have other option than blaming their ‘bad fortune.’ USAID Nepal’s project, named Nepal Economic, Agriculture, and Trade (NEAT), has become a partner in ensuring food security and increasing financial access in Banke and Bardiya districts.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	With the support of the project, farmers across 14 districts now have different crops that are not only ensuring the food security of small farmers but also being a handsome source of income.</p>
<p>
	Farmers have now &nbsp;gained skills, knowledge and access to the market. According to Phillip C Broughton, Chief of Party of the NEAT, when these conditions take place the impact of a project is there to stay. However, Hari Lal Dhakal, farmer of Vaishashur of Deudakala VDC, is not confident regarding the economic future of farmers &nbsp;like him, once the project comes to an end.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The project, which began on December 2010, has been working in order to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, increase food security and improve people’s lives in Nepal. According to the NEAT, the project’s objective to enhance economic opportunities and food security is divided into strengthening economic policies, increasing competitiveness of selected sector, enhancing food security and increasing access to microfinance services.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Food Security</strong></p>
<p>
	The NEAT has been working with disadvantaged households that have been facing food insecurity. Though some of the donor driven projects seem to have fuelled dependency syndrome on recipients, NEAT has worked with a model to make farmers independent. According to USAID, the NEAT has enrolled farmers in phases, reducing the support on each phase and, therefore, making farmers self dependent with the knowledge, skills and market knowhow.</p>
<p>
	Since the NEAT began intervening farmers across several districts, they have adopted profit making crops instead of the traditional crops they were habituated. Tharu community of Motipur VDC in Bardiya is now involved in vegetables farming such as cabbage, cauliflower and cucumber, along with staple crops like paddy and wheat. Women in the community are now not only financially capable but also socially active. Radhika Chaudhary, a local farmer says, “We are now able to express our voice and actively participating in the self help groups.” &nbsp;Most of the households living in the area were dependent on either subsistence farming of staple food crops or labour work.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	In the Motipur village, farmers now are making around Rs 100,000 to 150,000 per year depending upon the size of farmlands. Rajendra Sahu, Food Security Manager of the NEAT, said that one person makes Rs 30,000 in a season on average from cauliflower and Rs 40,000 from cucumbers in an area of three katthas of land. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	With the increased income, Jagat Pyari, one of the exemplary farmers of Deudakala VDC, has added five katthas of land with the income made from her farmland. Along with 1.5 bighas of land of her own, she is also leasing two bighas of land and cultivating vegetables and cucumber along with crops like paddy and maize. With the increasing income level, farmers have also started sending children to schools. There are around 50 landless households who now &nbsp;farm either leasing or owning the land..&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Similarly, in Vaishasur village, onion block of Deudakala VDC &nbsp; there are 17 agricultural groups. In these groups, 278 &nbsp;members are female and the remaining 104 are males. They farm onion, beans, cucumber and cauliflower. According to Kewal Singh Chaudhary, Field Technician, every group is involved in cultivation of four crops.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhim Bahadur Khatri, a returnee migrant worker of Saudi Arabia now regrets going abroad where he could not earn a good income. But now, working in his farmland, is making Rs 50,000 every six months and is building a house for his family. He says that he did not even make Rs 100,000 in three years working in Saudi Arabia. “I will never go abroad. When I am happy earning from home, why would I go there?” he said.</p>
<p>
	Although the agricultural policies prescribed by donors are said to be failing in Nepal. The attempt made by the NEAT project seems fruitful so far. Beneficiaries of the project, low scale farmers in Bardia and Banke district, are happy that NEAT was there to provide them support and lead them to be self sustaining on food and financial security.</p>
<p>
	According to the USAID, so far 71,342 households have benefitted from the USAID NEAT. Similarly, farmers’ sales have increased by US $ 85.44 million within one year working with NEAT. Likewise, 9,212 hectares lands are under improved management practices across the country. The NEAT also provided food security productivity trainings to local farmers and also linked food security farmers with input suppliers, collection centres, traders and micro finance institutions. Moreover, the project also equipped farmers with irrigation facilities and supplied tools and labours to complete the irrigation schemes. According to the official records of the NEAT, 1,203 irrigation systems were installed covering 2,567 hectares.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Financial Services</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is said to have around 80 percent of its population away from access to formal financial services. However, with the launching of cashless mobile banking services, people in rural areas with access to mobile telephony can now enjoy the banking services from their mobile phones. These services were launched after NEAT organized a summit in Kathmandu to address this issue.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Ramesh Kumar Chaudhary, resident of Thakurdwara VDC of Bardiya, is working as an agent of Laxmi Bank’s Hello Paisa initiative. He now has 160 customers from the village and registers a daily transaction of up to Rs 200,000. He is satisfied to see happy consumers who send and receive money from cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara and Nepalgunj. Before he provided mobile banking services, locals had to go to Bhurigaun, which is about 25 kilometres far away from the village.</p>
<p>
	Chaudhary is the first agent in the area. He says that a person is allowed to make a transaction of Rs 50,000 per day but only up to a limit of Rs 500,000 , as he is only given authority of that limit. Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, a customer, says that the availability of Hello Paisa agent in the village has helped him save time and cost to travel all the way to a nearest bank. “In that time, I can indulge in my own business,” said Bhattarai.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Lentils enhance income sources</strong></p>
<p>
	Lentil farming under the competitiveness element of the NEAT has helped in increasing the yield of lentil crops by more than 50 per cent over baseline, according to the NEAT. Nepali lentil is finding its market in Bangladesh. Broughton says that the NEAT has also worked on bridging the gap between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Dharma Prasad Pandey, Senior Programme Officer of FORWARD , there are 18 groups operating alone in Sanoshree VDC in lentil farming and a few more will be &nbsp;formed soon. He revealed that NEAT provided an assistance of Rs 50 million to the FORWARD.</p>
<p>
	Farmers think that they have now skills to be efficient and produce more. The productivity has increased by up to 35 per cent. Also, they are getting better prices for their products mainly because &nbsp;of the skills they have gained for grading &nbsp; of lentil grains and also because the collection centre pays a good price to them. In the past, farmers used to take their products to nearby markets such as Kohalpur but now buyers come to the village to purchase the production.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><strong>LEADER SPEAK</strong></span></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Phillip C. Broughton, Development Partner" height="253" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/development_partner_vol3_14_neat_phillip.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" /><strong>‘We had several noteworthy&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">accomplishments in all project areas’</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><em><br />
	</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>- Phillip C. Broughton</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Chief of Party, USAID Nepal Economic,&nbsp;</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Agriculture and Trade (NEAT) Activity</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
	</span></p>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<div>
		<strong>NEAT project is almost coming to an end. How do you evaluate the success of the project?</strong></div>
	<div>
		NEAT is a broad project that aims to increase economic opportunities and enhance food security. We work in different sectors including agriculture, microfinance, and policy. For each of the components of NEAT, there are different indicators of success. In the agriculture component, we are looking to sustainably improve food security and resilience and increase income and competitiveness. In the microfinance component we are looking at enhancing access to financial services for disadvantaged populations and increasing the incomes of micro-entrepreneurs. We especially want to see more people having access to financial services in the rural area. Under our policy component, we are working with both the public and private sectors to improve the business and policy environment. At the policy level we are supporting improvements in trade, investment, and agriculture. In addition, we support fiscal policy improvements to improve the government’s ability to finance its budget.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Among various components which one do you think was the most successful one?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Well, I don’t think one is more successful than the others. This project is relatively short in nature, 32 months. Even though it is short, we have had great many accomplishments in all project areas. For example agriculture sales of project beneficiaries are significantly up over baseline figures. The number of rural households with access to financial services is increasing and in many cases through innovative outreach strategies such as mobile banking. And on the policy front, we have worked with the government and the private sector on more 35 different policies, 6 of which have already been implemented and many more are ready to be implemented once the new government is in place. We are very pleased with our progress and, even though this project is short, it is part of USAID’s long term strategy so our successful work will continue.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Trade is also one of the components of the NEAT. What are the achievements on this front?</strong></div>
	<div>
		In the trade area, we work on different levels – we have supported government and the private sector in analyzing trade issues with India and China, to identify issues that should be taken to the negotiating table to improve Nepal’s trading environment. We’ve supported government to look at transit issues given the cost of transporting cargo in and out of Nepal, and we’ve supported capacity building within the government related to trade, including on trade analysis and negotiation. At the operational level, we are helping to improve competitiveness and market access for tea, ginger and lentil. For example, with lentil, Bangladesh is the primary market. We are identifying ways to strengthen the relationship between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers. And we are also analyzing alternative markets so that Nepal’s lentil sector is not so dependent on Bangladesh.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How do you view the sustainability of these projects?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Sustainability is a key objective for us in all project areas. For example, under our food security component we work with over 28,000 beneficiaries. We provide training over 4 to 5 crop cycles, we help establish channels for high quality inputs, and we facilitate market access. 94 per cent of project beneficiaries said they now have access to high quality inputs, up from 21 per cent before the project started. 92 per cent of project beneficiaries are confident they have a market to sell their products in, up from just 50 per cent before the project started. Once project beneficiaries have skills and continuing access to inputs and markets, these won’t just go away. These are key factors in the sustainability of our food security work.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How long would it take to multiply the good impacts of NEAT to reach to the extent of import substitution?&nbsp;</strong></div>
	<div>
		Around 70 per cent of onions consumed in Nepal are imported from India. Given the market potential for Nepali grown onions, this season NEAT food security beneficiaries grew onions on more that 700 hectares of land and they have made very good income. We train farmers how to identify market opportunities. With import substitution, if there is opportunity to make money, farmers are going to do that. This is happening. We see it with onion and we see it with other commodities such as maize for the feed business.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>A new project KISAN is being launched soon by USAID. How will this project give continuity to the activities of NEAT?</strong></div>
	<div>
		KISAN is working in many of the same districts as NEAT. They started just a few weeks ago yet we have already had several information sharing meetings. It is very important to USAID, NEAT, and KISAN that KISAN takes advantage of the experience gained by previous USAID projects and activities such as NEAT, NFRP, and EIG as well as other donor, government and private sector initiatives.&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<div>
	 </div>',
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but also being a handsome source of income.',
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			'title' => 'Will South Asia Change  For The Better In Next One Year?',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Prof Ujjwal K Chowdhury</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Impending Elections</strong></p>
<p>
	General Elections are due in Pakistan in May 2013, being discussed for June 2013 in Nepal, are expected in late this year in Bangladesh and Maldives, and are scheduled for early 2014 in India (which can be preponed) and are in 2015 in Sri Lanka (which also can be preponed in the light of intense internal conflicts between Buddhist Sinhalese majority and Tamil Hindu and Muslim Sinhalese minorities).</p>
<p>
	Hence, within next 12 to 15 months, South Asia is surely up for a different scenario, hopefully qualitatively different too from what it is now.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Scenario Today</strong></p>
<p>
	The largest nation of the region, India, is virtually plagued with policy paralysis for quite some time now, the ruling dispensation facing serious corruption charges and being at the mercy of belligerent allies. With rise of Modi within BJP polarizing the electorate, and larger states of India being ruled by regional forces, the political scenario is ambiguous just now. The ensuing elections to state assemblies in Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan will throw some light on the political finals of General Elections.</p>
<p>
	Pakistan, for quite some time, has been an ungoverned and ungovernable state with terrorist and radical Islamic forces controlling certain parts of the country, youth force behind an aggressive political posturing by Imran Khan and his Tehreeq-E-Insaaf Party, anti-corruption movement led by the Pakistani crusader Muhammad Tahir ul Qadri being on, Nawaz Sharief’s Muslim League threatened as former military strongman Pervez Musharraf returns to activate his similarly positioned All Pakistan Muslim League, and ruling PPP plagued with corruption and incompetence, with army no signs of relenting ‘real power’ to the democratically elected forces.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Sri Lanka is moving from one round of ethnic cleansing of Tamil Hindus to another round, and this time of Sinhalese Muslims. Majority Buddhist Sinhalese nationalism is on the rise and doubts are being expressed about the survival of multi-party and multi-ethnic secular democracy in that country.</p>
<p>
	Bangladesh is in the throes of a bitter conflict between radical Islamists and Islamic political forces, represented by BNP-Jamaat alliance on one side and the liberal Awami League and left wing forces on the other, with the ruling Awami League floundering at every step. The conflict has permeated into culture, media, places of worship, street fights, rallies, violence, et al, and recent violence before and after Shahbaug protests by the secularists has taken more than 80 lives so far.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Birendra International Convention Center, BICC, South Asia" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_bicc.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" />Nepal is in its stage of political indecisiveness just now, having put in place an electoral government led by the sitting Chief Justice and some bureaucrats as ministers, but no election date and proper Election Commission still in place.</p>
<p>
	Maldives is divided bitterly, akin to Bangladesh, between the ruling Islamic political forces led by current President Mohamed Waheed Hussain Manik and the opposing liberal secular forces of former President Mohamed Nausheed, with India intervening on behalf of Nausheed recently. The difference is, unlike Bangladesh, the Islamic political forces are ruling Maldives ousting the democratically elected Nausheed’s government in a bloodless coup.</p>
<p>
	In effect, South Asia today is completely in a state of flux and uncertainty and the next 15 months are expected to ascertain the contours of the region for the next half a decade or more.</p>
<p>
	<strong>India@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Narendra Modi, BJP, South Asia" height="236" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_narendra_modi.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="350" />For the first time in a decade, India’s GDP growth has come below 5% in a year from as high as 9% a few years back. Price-rise, corruption, civil society activism, regional forces, discontent with the Centre: all have been on the rise unabated across the last three years, and larger part of the thinking-talking-arguing middle class is sure that Congress led UPA is sure to be defeated in the next election, and may even prepone the polls to avoid complete washout.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	BJP has turned backwards, bringing to the fore all Hindutva radical faces like Uma Bharati, Vinay Katiyar, Varun Gandhi, Amit Shah, Kalyan Singh and expecting to blend this majority-ism with the good governance record and personal charisma of Narendra Modi along with pro-farmer approach of Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh on Land Acquisition Bill, and create an infallible force to win 200 seats in some 545 member Lok Sabha, and then manage to come to power with old (Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, etc) and new (AIADMK, TDP, etc) allies.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pakistan@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Imran Khan, South Asia" height="242" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_imran_khan.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="350" />If you talk to youths on the streets of Karachi or Islamabad, Imran Khan is all set to make a thundering entry into power as the next PM of Pakistan. If you talk to the people in 40s and 50s, they are confused. Surely they expect PPP to be defeated after a spate of poor governance, but Musharraf and Nawaz Sharief battling for the rightist votes will only brighten prospects of PPP unless Imran Khan really makes the tide of the youths into that of the nation.</p>
<p>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Maldives and Bangladesh@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Free and fair elections in these countries and tacit role of India may ensure liberal forces of Nausheed in Maldives and Sheikh Haseena in Bangladesh to once again win. However, mobilization of the rural masses and Arabs funded radical Islamic forces may turn the apple-curt and retain power in Male and capture it in Dhaka.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Sri Lanka@2015</strong></p>
<p>
	Given the fact that the army stands solidly behind President Rajapakshye and the international community has limited role in the internal affairs of the island nation, while India’s role is curbed due to growing SL-China relations, the current rulers are expected to bulldoze all opposition and retain power in Colombo whenever the elections are conducted there.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepal@2014:</strong></p>
<p>
	The biggest question first is whether the elections will be held, if not in June, at least within November next, and if a popularly elected Constituent Assembly and thereby the government will come to power. Second, if elections are being held, whenever, whether they will be free and fair. Then, after elections, if at all any political force or coalition gets clear majority. Given the situation on ground today, ruling Maoists along with their Madhesi allies may be the largest political bloc, short of majority, while the rest of the opposition, together though a majority, may never come as a single bloc. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Alternative Scenario in South Asia by 2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Politics is the art of the impossible and science of changing human behaviour. So, there could be another scenario, come 2014.</p>
<p>
	Narendra Modi led BJP may enthuse the party and voters in a large number of states partly on development agenda and partly on nationalistic slogans and come to power in India with a clear majority (also with minor support from known allies). Nausheed captures power in Maldives and Haseena retains the same in Bangladesh with clear majority again. A Sinhalese opposition leader (e.g. former army chief Sharath Fonseka) with support of India, Tamils, Muslims and a part of Sinhalese people, captures power in a preponed elections in SL in 2014. Maoists-Madheshis get clear majority in CA and government in Nepal. Imran Khan does the apparently impossible feat of coming to power in Pakistan riding a wave of youth support.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	If this scenario happens and with comfortable majorities in each of these South Asian nations, which is also a probable scenario which, therefore, ensures 5 years of undeterred decision governance, the region may see the realization of its economic potentials.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Economic Potentials</strong></p>
<p>
	India has huge trading potentials in the region, hampered by regional skirmishes and conflicts, which can reduce if the alternative scenario above happens. Look East Policy will help India develop international trade and commerce with Bangladesh, Burma and Nepal to the benefit of all. Destructive competition on jute and agro-based products between India and Bangladesh can be reduced.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tourism in Maldives and Nepal can get a major fillip with peace and liberal regimes coming in these nations. In fact, Indian tourism has much more potentials with liberal visa regimes with Pakistan and Bangladesh as well.</p>
<p>
	Textiles, automobiles, food-grains et al can be traded cheaper, better, faster within the region with political stability returning. Foreign Direct Investments within the region can sharply increase as well with right welcoming policies in place in these countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Movement of students, cheaper educational options in the region, and regional cooperation on skills development will be another major area of development.</p>
<p>
	Energy Security in South Asia is bound to increase with Nepal’s huge hydro-power potentials being realized more and India’s immense solar power possibilities explore further (which anyway is a pet project of Narendra Modi).</p>
<p>
	Indo-Pak economic relations are with immense benefits to both the nations. India gets oil from Iran with stress and high costs due to non-cooperation from Pakistan and Pakistan imports several items of daily use and infra-structural growth from the West at a much higher costs than what it can get from India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The entire region needs a tremendous infra-structural push, banking and investments development, rise of social entrepreneurship, and value addition to their agricultural produce. In each of these areas, the South Asian nations have a lot to share if they learn to look at each other positively.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	Change is the spice of life. Irrespective of whether the status quo looks insurmountable, we must look at possibilities positively. South Asia has one-fifths of the world’s population, rich heritage and is the birth-place of Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Hinduism and various forms of animism. South Asia has world’s largest water-resource, highest peaks, longest coastal range, huge solar power reserves. South Asia’s demographic is the youngest in the world, a large number of them being English educated, IT savvy, secular, and democratic in attitude.</p>
<p>
	Mutually cooperative South Asia has a much larger dividend than the current region marred with conflicts and tensions.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The author is former Dean of Symbiosis International University and President of the advisory board at Whistling Woods School of Communication, Mumbai.</span></p>',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '983',
			'article_category_id' => '42',
			'title' => 'Cooled Down By Profit Booking',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	Profit booking in different sectors persists now after the warming up of the secondary market for some time in the recent past. This follows nearly two years of down market. Investors started securing their positions as the Nepse index tested its level near 550. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Objection of the smaller political parties after the formation of the new government has also dragged the market down. Different protest programs from the small parties pulled the sentiments in a few sessions.</p>
<p>
	During the review period CDS and Clearing Ltd started its operation for digital clearing and settlement. Currently there are seven Depository Participants (DP) who can facilitate opening of demat accounts. Similarly, 6 out of 226 listed companies have signed for dematerialization of&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">their shares.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Full-fledged digital operation will facilitate quick transfer and settlement process. Similarly, right issue, voting and other matters can also be flashed on screen increasing the trade turnover rate.</p>
<p>
	Around eight companies have lodged application with Securities Board of Nepal for permission to issue an &nbsp;initial public offering(IPO). The combined weight of these applications is Rs 1.45 billion. Hence it is sure to increase the flow of share in the market while the direction of the market will be framed also by the upcoming quarterly financial reports.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Performance by Sector</strong></p>
<p>
	Banking sector with significant volume of trade in local exchange slipped 16.78 points or 3.21% to rest at 522.12. Others sector with heavy concentration of NTC plummeted 39.94 points or 5.96% to settle at 669.68. Hotels sector lost 13.59 points followed by 13.08 points down in hydropower sector to 649.99 and 1029.48 respectively. Development bank descended 7.13 points to close at 248.78 while the finance sector receded 4.01 points or 1.59% to 251.55. However, insurance sub-index accelerated 10.77 points or 1.21% to rest at 888.68.The manufacturing sector surged 4.88 points or 0.58% to settle at 840.23</p>
<p>
	Sensitive index that measures the performance of 120 blue chips at the secondary market plunged 4 points or 3.04% to 131.47 while the float index calculated on the basis of real transactions went downhill 0.86 points or 2.34% to 36.71. Total of Rs. 1,711,318,453 turnover was realized during the review period from 6,534,271 units of shares traded via 23,595 transactions.</p>
<p>
	The accompanying figure depicts the sector-wise distribution based on the total volume of trade. The commercial banking sector accumulated 75.08% of total volume of trade. The hydropower sector occupied 7.63% followed by the insurance sector with 7.16% while remaining sectors covered the rest.</p>
<p>
	Technically, the Simple Moving Average (SMA) shows stationary movement in short term as both Nepse index and 30 days SMA are moving flat. Persistent sell-off in this level can trigger upside correction. However, high volatility is not expected.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong>Review for 17 Mar to 16 Apr, 2013</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Sectorwise Distribution, Stock Taking" height="497" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_sectorwise_distribution.jpg" width="430" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Market Trend, Stock Taking" height="404" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_market_trend.jpg" width="442" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Movement In Indices, Stock Taking" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_movement_in_indices.jpg" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10px;">Chitrakar is a Stock Analyst with Jamb Technologies Pvt Ltd.</span></strong></p>',
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			'created' => '2013-05-20',
			'modified' => '2013-05-20',
			'keywords' => 'Stock Taking, Cooled Down by Profit Booking',
			'description' => 'The secondary market of Nepal bid farewell to the year 2069 on a sweet note. However, profit booking cooled down the market a bit. The benchmark Nepse index descended 14.41 points or 2.77% to settle at 520.69 while the session’s high was on 17 March with 535.10 and lowest on 31 March with 511.45.',
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			'article_category_id' => '47',
			'title' => 'From Led Zeppelin To Yoga Vasistha',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">By Sujan Tiwari</strong></p>
<p>
	Shashi Ram Bhandary, CEO of Kathmandu Housing and Leasing Company and Nirvana Country Club Health and Golf Resort in Dharan vividly remembers his first summer job while studying in the US. Working in the kitchen of the Marriott Hotel, he had a tough time cutting onions for a few hours, with tears in his eyes. That was when he was noticed by a Manager in the hotel and taught him how to cut onions without hurting the eyes, by soaking the onions in water for some time before cutting them. He told Bhandary that there were two ways to do anything, the right way and the wrong way. “This was the lesson I learnt for life, that things should be done the right way, and it didn’t just apply to onions,” says Bhandary.</p>
<p>
	When he was in Nepal for a vacation once, he went to &nbsp;the coffee shop in Annapurna Hotel and he wasn’t satisfied with the service there. So he left a note saying ‘the service wasn’t up to par’. &nbsp;To his surprise, he was called the very next day by the hotel and was offered a job. He didn’t want to join at first as he was on a vacation, but finally accepted the offer. “I took the job as a challenge. I was hired as Assistant Food and Beverage Manager. I worked there for two years,” recollects Bhandary. But he wasn’t going to be satisfied with a job in a hotel; he had other plans in the back of his head.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Once he went trekking to Upper Manang and realized the shortage of food and supplies there. That was the moment that decided his life. He came up with an ambitious plan of designing a hotel that was self sustained, with its own food and energy production. “I dreamt of a hotel that was dependent upon only a few products from outside. I thought of producing vegetables, rearing cows for dairy products and manure for energy and fertilizers,” says Bhandary. He wanted to experiment with the idea, the idea of a self sustainable hotel. Nirvana Country Club is the result of the same model. It has its own farm, a dairy and has the largest bio-gas plant in eastern Nepal. About 30 per cent of the required energy is produced by the Resort itself. It also produces dairy products like cream and butter, organic herbs and vegetables.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	But Nirvana Country Club was nothing like it is today when Bhandary first acquired the property back in 2000. When he bought the property, he says it was in complete ruins, with land, some structures and a pasture that is now the golf course of Nirvana. &nbsp;To start with, Bhandary brought some consultants from India. After their survey, he was advised not to start the project as the consultants didn’t find &nbsp;the land feasible. “The property was in a very bad condition, it didn’t meet the needed threshold. Also, there were not enough flights to Dharan back then. But I had a gut feeling, and I took the challenge against all odds. Today I am so glad that I took the challenge despite the adversities,” says Bhandary proudly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He started by literally sweeping the place clean. He renovated the structures, built the walls and developed the golf course. At present, Nirvana Country Club has a dairy with 50 cows, a 19\8 hole golf course, multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool, offers tennis and squash, provides yoga and meditation among other services. Also, there are 20 well furnished air conditioned bungalows with living, dining, kitchen and three bedrooms each. “In the last 12 years, I have entirely transformed the place from what it initially was. It is a complete turnaround,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Early Life</strong></p>
<p>
	Born in Kamaladi, Kathmandu in 1962 to Suna Bhandary and Late Banshi Ram Bhandary, he had five elder sisters before him. Bhandary says he was one of the first Nepali students to go to Lincoln School. He remembers cycling all around the valley with his friends, most of &nbsp;whom were from other countries. “I enjoyed a childhood without any worries as my family was quite well off. Everything was provided for us. I was lucky to be born in a big joint family with a good reputation and background. Bhandarys of Kamaldi were known by all in Kathmandu,” says Bhandary. Bhandary studied in Lincoln School from Kindergarten to 8th grade, and did his SLC from Anandakuti School. After that, he went to US for his further studies, he joined Gaithersburg High School in Maryland and graduated from high school there. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	After completing high school, he started working for Marriott Hotel as a summer job, as all the students in the US worked in summers. “I actually didn’t need to work for money, but I followed the American tradition. I was living with relatives at that time. I wanted to be independent, so I moved out and started to work,” remembers Bhandary. He says he worked right from the bottom, doing dishes and &nbsp;other forms of lowly work. Later, he became a supervisor and finally a manager in Marriott Hawaii. He worked for Marriott for seven years and later did his graduation in Hotel Management from US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Has was sent to US by his family to study medicine, but he loved dealing with people and loved service business. After his first summer job, he ended up studying hotel management. He didn’t reveal this to his family at first and so had to earn his own money. Bhandary believes this decision made him independent as he started working. “I didn’t have any specific aim, but I wanted to fly planes as a child, and I still want to,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Family</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary married with Kalpana Bhandary at the age of 21. Once when he was in Pokhara, he caught the eyes of Kalpana on a boat, and says he was instantly attracted to her. He went home and told his mother about the girl he saw, and their family arranged the rest. They met and got along well, and eventually got married. “My marriage was the biggest turning point in my life. I felt more responsible after I got married,” says Bhandary. Kalpana Bhandary is now the MD of Nirvana Country Club. According to Bhandary, he really wanted to be together with his spouse, and he kept her together, even at work. The couple has been blessed with two sons Rishikesh and Raghu.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Personal Side</strong></p>
<p>
	As a youngster, Bhandary grew up listening to rock bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and The Who. Now, he says he wants to spend time quietly.Inside, Bhandary says he is a very spiritual person, and loves to read, especially books &nbsp;about spiritual development. “Lately, I want to uncover the spiritual side of my own self. I want to know what my purpose in the world is, and I try to figure it out through meditation. I really want to be at peace,” he says. Bhandary is also a disciple of Shankaracharya. As he was brought up in a religious family, he liked to listen to prabachans religious-philosophical discourse as a child. “I found the words of wise men interesting from the beginning. After I read Yoga Vasistha, it completely turned around my life. It taught me that everything that exists is an illusion, and everything else is the working of mind. I was so influenced by it and entered into spirituality. Then, I started to look at life from a spiritual point of view, says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pastime</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary &nbsp;has been an avid animal lover since his childhood, and owns eight Tibetan mastiffs and one Alsatian, has a few barking deers in his farm and keeps his Japanese Spitz Casper with him wherever he goes. He drinks very rarely, as he says it disturbs the spiritual balance. Whenever free, Bhandary likes to cook and equally enjoys eating, and loves Khichadi, his all time favourite food. He lives mostly in Dharan, and travels frequently. His hobbies include playing golf, going for long drives and travelling. He says he is outside the country at least once a month, and has been to US, India, Europe, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhandary believes one needs to be determined and has to possess a will-do attitude to succeed. “One has to be commanding and friendly at the same time, has to have a balance of both. Also, we should be able to bring out the good in people,” he says. Bhandary says he is content with his life, as has no regrets. “I am living the life I wanted, married the women I wanted, &nbsp;I have done something for the country and am blessed with good children. There is nothing more &nbsp;I could have wanted,” says Bhandary. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Bhandary, things should always be done the right way and it will &nbsp;be done as there won’t be many obstacles. “Determination and good intentions are needed, it can really help you progress. &nbsp;It is not that hard to start a business and succeed in Nepal. No one needs to leave the country in pursuit of success. Things can be done right here, we just have to figure out the right way,” says he. For the future, Bhandary has plans of making Nirvana Country Club completely self sustainable and wants to open a Golf Academy. And if things favour him, he wants to learn to fly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Shashi Ram Bhandary, Personlity, From Led Zeppelin to Yoga Vasistha " height="546" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/personality_may2013_sashi_ram.jpg" width="450" /></p>',
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			'description' => 'Shashi Ram Bhandary wanted to experiment with the idea, the idea of a self sustainable hotel. Nirvana Country Club is the result of the same model. It has its own farm, a dairy and has the largest bio-gas plant in eastern Nepal. About 30 per cent of the required energy is produced by the Resort itself.',
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			'article_category_id' => '46',
			'title' => 'Nepal Is Land-linked,  We Should Take Advantage Of This',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img alt="Narayan Kazi Shrestha" height="472" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/interview_May2013_rajesh_kazi(1).jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	<strong>Rajesh Kazi Shrestha&nbsp;</strong><strong>Chairman&nbsp;</strong><strong>Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI)</strong></p>
<p>
	Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. He spoke with Siromani Dhungana of New Business Age about Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its involvement in promoting country’s business environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">How do you see the current role of Nepal’s private sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	Private sector should be taken as the engine of the national economy. Even though the entire country has been facing power scarcity and political instability, Nepal’s private sector is optimistic about leading the country to economic prosperity. In fact, private sector has been playing a crucial role for the overall economic development of the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry doing to address the problem of growing deficit in Nepal’s trade with China? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Actually, Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry is established to promote export of Nepali products to China and Chinese products to Nepal. In order to address growing trade deficit figure, we are doing our best to promote more Nepali products in China. The organization has been participating in many promotional activities such as trade fairs where we can promote Nepali products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Due to our promotional activities over the past few years, we can now say that many handicraft, thangka painting and wooden crafts entrepreneurs in many districts, including Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, are benefitted. However, those handicraft entrepreneurs from Lalitpur and Bhaktapur cannot survive if there are no Chinese buyers of their products. There are more examples of other sectors like this that show how Chinese market is becoming more important for us. It is also important to mention here that Nepal and China have signed zero tariff agreement, which ensures export of more than 7,787 items at zero-tariff into chinese market. The provision helps us to expand our trade with China. Nepal should also put its effort on trade promotion between the two countries. The construction of a well-facilitated dry port and a Special Economic Zone would help us to boost trade with China and to attract more Chinese investment. Now, we are more focused on how to get more facilities for our exporters, so we have requested support from the Finance Minister in order to increase trade between both countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepali traders have failed to take advantage of zero tariff facility provided by China, why?</strong></p>
<p>
	I do not think so. In fact, there are some norms set by the Chinese government which Nepali side has been failing to comply with. Especially, there are some problems such as the issuance of Certificate of Origin.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Non tariff barriers such as strict quarantine system, certification standards and rules of origin have created many challenges to the process of trade between the two countries. It’s obvious that there is a lack of effective coordination among Nepali traders and government agencies. Also, there are some other complications on both sides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	We are working to sort out current problems and we are optimistic about the settling of these issues very soon. We want to see a concrete agreement to ease quarantine related complications and other non-tariff barriers.</p>
<p>
	<strong>China’s Exim Bank is likely to set up its branch in Nepal. Considerig that Nepal didn’t get the expected benefits from the other foreign banks operating in Nepal, what should Nepal do to get benefits from the presence of Chinese Bank? &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We have been talking about the presence of Chinese Bank in Nepal for the last three or four years. It is not only for trading but also for investment. Chinese side is very positive. The current Chinese Ambassador is optimistic about the fact that Chinese Bank will start operating in Nepal during his tenure. Not only Exim Bank but also some other banks are negotiating about starting to offer their services in Nepal. If Exim Bank comes, it will have a positive impact on investment. Chinese banks have rational interest rate and also they have capacity to invest. Their presence will definitely help to attract Chinese investors to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing pretty fast in the recent years. Do you think that Chinese investment is actually helping Nepal? &nbsp;(it is also said that the interest of the Chinese in Nepal is more diplomatic than economic)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, the Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing at a rapid pace. Some mega projects such as Pokhara Airport, Kathmandu Ring Road or Dry Port of Sindhupalchowk will be started soon. Similarly, some Chinese investors are involved in mining and water resources projects too. Very soon, if the political situation improves, more Chinese investors will be interested in investing in Nepal. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Chinese investment may help the overall national development. As we represent the private sector, our main interest is to strengthen the trade and the economic relation between the two countries. We always lobby for the economic prosperity and investment with the Government of China and our other counterparts. Together, these two countries can achieve good economic prosperity.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the possible investment areas for China in Nepal? Would it be resource-seeking or market-seeking? Obviously, it not technology seeking, capital seeking or manpower seeking as China is better than Nepal in all these.</strong></p>
<p>
	Obviously, the first is hydropower sector. Second is tourism, third is mines and minerals and fourth is the agro sector. Nepal has enough resources and lots of business opportunities; however, it is a fact that the current investment size is extremely small. Chinese businessmen have been investing in small-scale sector such as hotels, restaurants and other small trades but we want Chinese investors to start some mega projects. The problem is that the unstable government and policies and the problem of power outage have created much hurdles to attract such investment. Despite the hurdles, there are still many chances to expedite Nepal-China business relationship. Around two or three Chinese delegations have been visiting Nepal every month to explore business opportunities. Chinese investors are very much interested but they often ask about the rules, regulations and opportunities. If the political scenario becomes stable and labour problem is solved, I hope many of them will come to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese goods have the reputation of being cheap and inferior in quality. In this context, what prospects do you see for such products in Nepal?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	It is not like that. Chinese manufactures produce goods according to the necessity of consumers. It depends on the type of goods consumers want. When you are in the USA, European countries or in most of Asian countries and seek high quality products, you will find Chinese ones. We get surprised when we see what we get here and what products are available there. It depends on the quality required and the purchasing power of the buyer. It depends on what type of goods Nepali traders want to import and that’s why I think it solely depends on the buyers’ choice and affordability.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How successful do you rate your own business link with China considering the general perception of Chinese goods being cheap and inferior?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We don’t evaluate the Chinese products supplied as per our demands and orders. The same goods can have high or low quality based on how much one can afford. It depends on our buying capacity. It’s us who are responsible for the low quality of the products because we often order low quality goods for Nepali market. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	It is often cited that Nepali industries are suffering from the cheap imports from China. What’s your opinion?&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Both Nepal and China are members of World Trade Organization (WTO). According to its principle, we can’t stop importing from its member countries. If we are able to manage our market, we don’t have to worry about cheap imports from China. On the other side, cheap goods imported from China have ensured mass access to the sophisticated goods and also to the daily consumable goods.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the critical trade barriers between Nepal and China?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are hurdles and barriers in all sectors but it is still an open and growing market. Some remedies would be to have better policies from the &nbsp;government, a friendly investment environment, labour reforms, security… etc. There are certain issues which should be resolved. We are solving the barriers step by step, as they appear in front of us.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How are the exporters and importers overcoming the language barrier in trade between China and Nepal? How is your chamber helping in this? (it is said that, due to language problems, Nepali traders in China are always in disadvantage in their dispute with Chinese importers or exporters)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, it is a little difficult but now most of the Chinese exporters understand English. Nowadays, there are English speaking employees in almost every office and different chambers. And some businessmen who are already doing business can understand Chinese also. If there is any dispute we step in to solve it, we are also giving information about the queries and problems of the business person there. The exporters were very much interested in trade fair there, we are participating there regularly and we exchange our delegation also from different chamber from different aspects.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What points do you think need to be revised in Nepal-China trade-related treaties?</strong></p>
<p>
	Both governments should have frequent meetings to understand and solve the obstacles, if there are. There are some area where we are facing &nbsp;problems, such as &nbsp;quarantine or infrastructures but these issues should be solved very soon. In China, they are not accepting Nepali quarantine certificates. Nepal has three issuing authorities for different sectors and product lines, which makes the Chinese confused as they think it should be done by a single authority. Because of that, we are facing difficulties to export our food items.</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Nepali government has planned to develop Rasuwa as another hub for Nepal-China trade. What is your assessment of the progress in this?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	The road is already there and, after Sigatse, the railway will come to Rasuwa. We are trying to join railway side from China and India so that Nepal will be linked with both of these countries. We can develop environment for tourism and business also. The government of China is committed on this and we are very optimistic about completing and operating it soon.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is often argued that Nepal should be developed as the transit point for China-India trade, but no concrete development seems to be taking place on this direction. What are the impediments?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are not a land-locked country but we are a land-linked country with two economic giants at north and south. We should take advantage of this unique geographical position. The main problem of this situation is that everyone has his or her own agenda and we have no unified and strong agenda and vision for concrete developments. A stable government, a strong linkage of these three countries and an open transit road are our most primary necessities.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '977',
			'article_category_id' => '48',
			'title' => 'Size Zero Economy',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Madan Lamsal</strong></p>
<p>
	Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.</p>
<p>
	The economic meaning of zero could be something different than the blissful imaginative hollow universe of a meditating sage. It is either recession or depression. Nepal has simplified the definition of these terms too: recession is when the builder of a housing company shifts to an apartment in his own project site and, it is depression when he is shifted to a free-to-live public apartment called jail.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The definition could be as many as the number of economists. That means you are free to have your own tailor-made definition of it. Many have it already. Our central bank governor says, an economy with zero growth rate &nbsp;and 10 percent inflation is still not in recession, and the finance minister doesn&rsquo;t have a say since he already has zero economic sense -- recession, depression, possession, obsession but commission are all the same for him. So why can&rsquo;t you have your own take on recession or depression and its shape and size.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	You may take some variables into account: once regarded successful business heroes have turned zeros, call it their size of the firm now. It is old news that CEOs of many banks are looking for alternative professions. Some have refused to take a paid forced leave fearing that someone might just play a prank with some zeros in their absence. This is the confidence indicator of our banking industry. Since, this leave is a compulsory one and he had but no alternative to take, some dedicated CEOs are seen loitering around bank&rsquo;s headquarters premises despite officially being &nbsp;on leave, enjoying their favorite chocolate bar called &nbsp;&lsquo;credit crunchy&rsquo;. What would you say to the new trend that CEOs of banks themselves are working as chief of the marketing department? It is a trend reversal and also a cost-saving measure.</p>
<p>
	Not only banks, academic institutions that promised jobs to their MBAs, in the once lucrative but now leery sector called banking now taste a pinch of salt. Some new MBAs are asking their school to return their money as they are ultimately landing on a zero chance job zone. Many other ambitious MBAs are trying for jobs in the sectors they had never imagined &nbsp;working &nbsp;in.</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;Good old days have returned. Dishonored cheques have become a normal phenomenon and nobody bothers why it got returned. The recipient never asks the bank whether the fund was insufficient in the account of the person who issued the cheque or in the coffers of the bank itself. The account holders don&rsquo;t have enough guts to send an enquiry note to the bank about the issue. These are good signs. &nbsp;No one is hostile to anyone else. Everyone knows we are revolving around a big zero and will continue to do so until this zero of &nbsp;an economy &nbsp;actually becomes a black hole or the Bermuda Triangle.</p>
<p>
	The signals in television channels are less wired and more weird. Don&rsquo;t blame it &nbsp;on load shedding. We will not have electricity pretty soon, when we are about to reach to a point of zero supply, thus no need of it. Call it a zero-gain bid that channels are showing the same program at least four times a week if not a day. They are selling &nbsp;commercial packages with schemes like buy one and get five free.</p>
<p>
	As the economy slims down to play &nbsp;the heroine of a big movie called &lsquo;New Nepal&rsquo;, many heroes are trending-up themselves. You must have seen the newspapers pictures of Min B Gurung rehearsing the act of shopping at his own Bhatbhateni stores, carrying a jute bag. Business tycoons like Golchhas and Jyotis are pictured practicing racing bikes, leaving luxury cars. Television clips show that leaders of proletarian parties are often in the public wearing Harrods suits and designed dresses. Looks like though finally we all are ready for &nbsp;a movie with Shakespearian tragedy, &nbsp;when this has a box-office success, Nepal will surely prosper.</p>',
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			'created' => '2013-05-18',
			'modified' => '2013-10-21',
			'keywords' => 'No Laughing Matter, Size Zero Economy',
			'description' => 'Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '982',
			'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) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '981',
			'article_category_id' => '57',
			'title' => 'Digital Signage Concept',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Srijal Bhattarai&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">The advertising industry in Nepal has foreseen minor changes in the past. The traditional mediums of mass coverage like television, newspaper and radio have always made us feel their presence in our daily life. When we talk about BTL activities, the first thing that comes to our mind are the flex stands and the hoarding boards spread across the country. There has been very little presence of digital outdoor mediums for communication in the past. As a pioneer in Digital Signage concept, which began from the year 2011 at BhatBhateni stores, Media Space Solutions have seen a few companies that are trying to promote this concept. This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.</span></p>
<p>
	Digital signage has a lot of meanings with significant features which is useful for advertisers as well as the audience. One of the main features of digital signage concept is that this is a totally software driven concept which helps in minimizing cost and save resources.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Media Space Solutions- A Brand</strong></p>
<p>
	As the first step in establishing the concept of digital signage, Media Space Solutions (MSS) empowers advertisers with the ability to reach consumers through digital signage networks. &nbsp;MSS is dedicated to providing highly effective digital advertising and digital signage network solutions as a complete integrator of electronic signage network technology and applications.</p>
<p>
	The purpose of establishing Media Space Solutions was to create various differentiated media spaces to cater all the advertising needs of our clients in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">The Innovative Platforms</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">1. Media Space Solutions ePoPM (MSS ePoPM)</span></strong></p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM network has been expanding since its first phase implementation at the BhatBhateni Super Markets Pvt Ltd in BhatBhateni and Maharajgunj in March 2011. MSS ePoPM digital signage solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital screens located at high visibility areas within the departmental store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital electronic posters located on high visibility areas within stores. This results in increase in sales and brand awareness by capitalizing on the key time in consumers purchase decision making process i.e. while in front of products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>2. MSS MicroMedia</strong></p>
<p>
	MSS Micro Media is a digital signage platform that extends the communication power of information in the form of audio visual content beyond television sets at home and delivers them to citizens of Kathmandu Valley in the most efficient manner while they are travelling.</p>
<p>
	This digital signage network of 60 screens targets a daily audience of approximately 30,000 commuters along six different routes spread across the Kathmandu Valley i.e. a total of 900,000 commuters every month. This network ensures compulsive viewership inside enclosed spaces and captive reception of the intended messages and information.</p>
<p>
	The MSS Micro Media digital signage platform displays audio video entertainment content in the form of music videos, informative programs, television commercials and awareness campaigns. MSS MicroMedia is a platform which has an integrated approach to deliver intended messages and communication material to and from various stakeholders: commuters, vehicle owners, vehicle operators, Nepal Police, Department of Transport as well as companies interested in promoting their products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">3. Sajha Media Space</strong></p>
<p>
	Sajha Media Space is an on-board Digital Entertainment and Advertising Network on the soon to be launched fleet of 16 Sajha Yatayat buses in Kathmandu Valley. This digital signage network consists of 16 High Definition 24 inch screens which will target a daily audience of approximately 25,000 commuters along two different routes intersecting at the heart of the capital i.e. a total of 750,000 commuters every month.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The consumer recall and ROI for advertisements aired on the Sajha Media Space network is higher than the same advertisements aired on television networks with national coverage considering the advertising tariffs of the two. This network of displays currently airs a wide range of entertainment content in the form of Music Videos, Stand-up Comedy, Social Messages and advertisements geared specifically towards commuters of Kathmandu Valley. Media Space intends to enhance the quality of travel experience on Sajha Yatayat buses.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	In order to be competitive in the advertising industry, various innovative ideas and platforms need to be implemented. These platforms will allow advertisers to reach their target audiences in an effective manner and will allow the intended message to be delivered appropriately. The government has already initiated the process of bringing down hoarding boards from the city and this will also play a vital role in such innovative concepts being implemented in future.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Digital Signage Concept, Srijal Bhattarai" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/brand_talk_may2013_digital_signage_concept(1).jpg" /></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The writer is MD of Media Space Solutions and currently pursuing M Phil in management from Kathmandu University (KUSOM).&nbsp;</span></p>',
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			'created' => '2013-05-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => 'Digital Signage Concept, Brand Talk, Srijal Bhattarai',
			'description' => 'This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '980',
			'article_category_id' => '80',
			'title' => 'Learning Has To Go Much Beyond The Classroom',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
	Ace Institute of Management has completed more than a decade in the field of management education, which has now become the most aspiring career option for students.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">Learning has to go much beyond the classroom. This is the basic mantra of the institution and also what makes it different from other (growing numbers of) business schools across the country. The institution is probably best known for its teaching methodology, but it merely excels in producing not only good managers but also good human beings as well.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Ashish Tiwari, Director of the Institution, says, “The main focus of the institution is on imparting the practice oriented teaching methodology.” The institution has robust management courses ranging from BBA to Executive MBA. The college emphasizes the shaping of &nbsp;professionals who eventually will become successful, effective leaders.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Established in 1999, the institution has built a reputation of conscientious learning centre among &nbsp;students who want to pursue management courses. <span style="font-size: 12px;">Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.</span></p>
<p>
	The college has launched an Executive-MBA course for the first time in the country. The MBA programme has acquired a distinguished reputation for being the most rigorous and fulfilling experience. The undergraduate programmes, BBA and BBA-BI, are considered among the best in the country. Students completing undergraduate programmes in ACE are widely sought after in the job market, claims the institution. In a short span of four years Ace A-Level has distinguished itself from the crowd with its individual centered approach to learning and its focus on management and social sciences stream only.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tiwari adds, ‘These thirteen years have been extremely rewarding and we continue with our vision and commitment to value based management education which has strong relevance to real life. We are deeply committed to promoting a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders and entrepreneurs. We will continue to provide our students with opportunities to explore and develop their potential so that they can make their mark in whatever they do.”</p>
<p>
	“Learning Strategy of our institution is guided by our philosophy that each one of us learns differently and that no one’s approach is superior to another, we encourage students to take responsibility for their learning,” he added.</p>
<p>
	Teachers are encouraged to serve as facilitators, helping students learn rather than teach them.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">Educational methods such as lectures, small group exercises, management games, work projects, case studies and presentations are used. Computers, statistical kits and audio visual aids are also extensively used.</span></p>
<p>
	Lecture sessions are interactive and students are encouraged to participate using case analysis and presentations, reviews and feedback and project works involving studies of real organizations.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">The quality of students churns out year after year</span><span style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Facilities</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The learning environment at Ace Institute of Management is supported by facilities that provide comfort as well as easy access to information and knowledge. “Our computer laboratory is fully equipped and every student is provided with Internet access. Furthermore, the entire campus is Wi-Fi enabled facilitating Internet connection from anywhere,” &nbsp;says Tiwari. The library offers a wide range of magazines and journals and is currently well stocked with books related to the subjects covered during the degree. New publications are continuously being added to meet the demands of students. The library has also subscribed to a large range of management publications and &nbsp;journals. Participants in the programmes require an adequate knowledge of computing. The computer centre provides computing facilities to the students from 8:00a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day, except on Saturdays and Sundays. The computer centre also carries out non-credit courses for beginners. In addition, there is a canteen which offers high quality food and snacks at reasonable prices.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Management, ACE" height="377" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management.jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong>Academic Programmes</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		EMBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		BBA-BI Programme</li>
	<li>
		A-Level Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBAe Programme&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Vision</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Enhance the capacity of individuals and institutions in Nepal to contribute to the nation’s development</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Mission</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Promote a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders, and entrepreneurs</li>
	<li>
		Promote entrepreneurship and professionalism by assisting entrepreneurs and institutions in acquiring and managing resources effectively</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Philosophy</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		We believe that one can never learn enough. Learning is a life-long process</li>
	<li>
		We believe that knowledge is much more beneficial when accompanied by wisdom and humility</li>
	<li>
		We believe that each one of us learns differently and that no particular approach is superior to another</li>
	<li>
		We believe that every individual is capable of contributing towards a positive social synergy&nbsp;</li>
	<li>
		We believe that we achieve and accomplish more when we compete with self and cooperate with others</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Values</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Honesty in work</li>
	<li>
		Sincerity in relationships</li>
	<li>
		Respect for self and others</li>
	<li>
		Responsibility for one’s actions</li>
	<li>
		Learning from mistakes</li>
	<li>
		Care for resources</li>
	<li>
		Adherence to regulations</li>
	<li>
		Questioning spirit</li>
</ul>
<div>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Managment, ACE" height="244" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management(1).jpg" width="590" /></div>',
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			'created' => '2013-05-19',
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			'keywords' => 'Learning Has to Go Much Beyond the Classroom',
			'description' => 'Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.',
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	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '975',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘Orient Has A Very Big Potential In Nepal’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Ghurmeet Singh, vice president ,Orient Fans, New Business Age" height="275" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Ghurmeet_Singh_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries. Fans, small home appliances and lighting are some of the areas that are served by the division. In an interview with New Business Age, Singh shared his idea on the Nepali market for his products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What prospects do you see for your business in Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is a big market because like India, Nepal is also largely populated with the people who are not so rich. And therefore there is big prospect and market for fans, which is going to remain for long time. And we find that because of the electricity cost as well as the relevancy, fans will be the primary cooling devices for many people for long time. Secondly, brands from India have very good scope here because India and Nepal have worked hand in hand for a long time. And Orient as number two brand in India for many years now has a very big potential here. We were selling here some fans also in the past. Last year we joined hands with Premier Overseas, a part of Sharda Group, so that we can distribute our products more widely. And we are very sure that, with their vast experiences and networks, we get very good stage from here and we will serve the people of Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is said that Nepali people love Indian brands. What has been your perception?</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, that is why I said that Nepal and India have joined hands for a long time. Nepali and Indian people are more or less similar, buying habits are also similar and more importantly they are interested in Indian brands. And we will like to serve Nepali people as well.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are you plans for the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	It feels good to introducing our products in Nepali market. Initially we are launching fans and small home appliances and later we also plan for our lighting series and try to be number one in the respective market segments.</p>
<p>
	<strong>So what is your market position in India?</strong></p>
<p>
	In India, we are in number one for manufacturing and two for sales. And for exports, we are the undisputed leader with over 55 percent of shares. And we are already exporting to 30 countries and in US. &nbsp;Having our own manufacturing base, we are conscious about the parties and quality of our products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you compare the trend of using your products in Nepal with other South Asian countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	In most of the South Asian countries, people largely use portable fans. And in India and Nepal people mostly use ceiling fans. In India, 75 percent sales are in ceiling and 25 percent portable fans and it is almost same here in Nepal. &nbsp;And most of the South Asian countries use fans as primary cooling devices.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Why should the people choose your products?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are highly quality conscious manufacturers. Our products are energy efficient and continuously receiving exports excellence award and we are rated as ‘Star Performer’ by the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) of India. We pioneered the most famous patented revolutionary concept PSPO in 90’s. We have capacity of nearly 10 million fans per year and in terms of quality we have accomplished various standards and tests. And we have fulfilled each and every requirement in all different countries (where our fans are exported) and we are the only Indian brand to export to US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are your plans for beating the competition and about the future strategies?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are very lucky that there are very few top brands available here and the competition is very less. And we are very confident that if we are able to appeal the market with good products, good prices and good energy saving products then the competition is not there and then we don’t need much time to become number one. And the second part is if everybody around you is your better competitor then you have to produce better product to sustain yourself and it is all good for the consumer.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries.',
			'sortorder' => '854',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '974',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘The Customers Are Required To Get The Full Value For Their Money’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Koji Tanaka, vice president. Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Koji_Tanaka_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda. Recently, Syakar Trading Company, the authorized distributor of Honda Power Product launched the new EP 1000 and EG 1000 series of generators in Nepal and Tanaka was in Kathmandu in this connection. These new generators are small, portable and lighter compared to the previous generators. With the 4 Stroke technology, these models have some unique features like lesser fuel consumption (0.54ltr./ hr), more handling capacity (Rat. 750 VA), environmental friendly and available with decompression mechanism. Tanaka explained more in an interview with New Business Age.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What do you find interesting about your visit to Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Its been about three years that I have been living in Delhi. This is the first time that I got an opportunity to visit Nepal. Nepal is well known in Japan. There are many Japanese tourists who come here and many Japanese are also living here. Our purpose of visit is to study the potentiality of the Nepali market for Honda products. As on date, we are exposing two new products – Honda EG 10000 model and Honda EP 1000 model generator. We would also like to study the Nepali market for various Honda products and find areas to expand with 50 % partnership with Syakar group.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the brand value of Honda products in the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda Company is well reputed throughout the world for its quality products. Without Syakar Trading, it would be difficult to provide quality sales and service. It is not possible to expand in the market without their support. New customers can be treated with better goods and Syakar can provide the premium service towards customers in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How will the newly introduced Honda Spiel Power products affect the Nepali market? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are happy to find out that dealers from all over the country came to see the two new products. Comparatively, they are more fuel efficient. They consume upto 50% less fuel than the other former products. We are confident that we can expand the business of our products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What level of competition do you feel is present with regard to the products from Honda?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda has been selling motorcycles in Nepal for a long time. The major competition is from Bajaj. With regard to power products, Honda is still leading the market very much with help from Syakar Group. In Honda Philosophy, we do not compare ourselves with the competitors but instead compare us with ourselves. The customers are required to get the full value for their money. Honda owns 40% share of Nepali power products market. There are 69 dealers (branches and showrooms) of Honda products throughout Nepal. Honda products are so efficient that they are suitable for even above the altitude of 4000 meters from the sea level.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the future plans of Honda Company?</strong></p>
<p>
	We listen to customer’s voice. Upon receiving special requests, our R&amp;D (Research and Development) department develops these products. We come up with newer products. When we see the potentiality of a product in the market, we further investigate into it with help from the people at R&amp;D. After that, we check if there is a similar demand for such products in other regions as well. Only then, the new products will be developed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Are you launching any product targeting the agriculture sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	In 2010, we launched a more affordable 5 Hz power tiller in the market. But, currently it is not available in Nepal. With the decreasing number of farm workers, more tillers can be bought in order to do a more efficient agriculture. The process of mechanized agriculture is expanding. Many agricultural tools are also introduced through Honda’s factories in China. With the increasing demand from the consumers, lawn mowers, brush cutters, carriers etc can be introduced in Nepal. Honda’s motto is “Helping people get things done”. We do not limit ourselves to supplying generators only. When there is enough demand in the market, R&amp;D can make new concept products.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda.',
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '973',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘We Do Not Want To Become Just A Marketing Company’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p style="">
	<img align="right" alt="Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Denis_Borisovsky_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world. “The company has a diverse range of clients which includes different sized brokers, top-tier banks and also their white labels partners, who are involved in electronic trading of various asset-classes,” informs Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT. In an interview with New Business Age during his recent visit to Nepal, Borisovsky talked about the company’s product Protrader 2 and market prospects of his company in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Protrader 2 and what are the scopes?</strong></p>
<p>
	Protrader 2 is our platform for trading forex, stocks, futures and other sectors. It is developed for technological brokers and for exchangers in the long run. We started the company about ten years ago and the product Protrader 2 is the result of these ten years. Under this brand, we cover technology products for multiple sectors then go to stock market. We cover trading activities from exchange to traders, money managers, hedge funds, brokers or participants in one technology. Our products are quite unique and there is uniqueness of technology as well. We are not brokers though. We stay independent from brokerage and provide technology to different brokers. We have so many trading technology companies to help the brokers. We import technologies from different countries and bring them to different markets.</p>
<p>
	<strong>You’ve had a diverse career, how did you get into financial trading technologies?</strong></p>
<p>
	I worked 20 years as a programmer. I entered many fields including voice recognition. I also served in various technological firms. And that was difficult. I wanted to do something different, more difficult and challenging. So, I decided to make charts by myself and I found some clients for it. Then I started trading technology for brokerage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Our company is not that big in terms of people, but in terms of symmetry and our experience, it is quite big. The number of people working in our Ukraine office is around 50-52 and it’s a very good team. We are also focusing our business in emerging economies like China and India. I have just come from India where we have opened up our office. In China, we have been deploying five people for local support. In Europe, we have an office in Ukraine. We already have an office in US. We are also eying Nepal as the political and investment environment are improving.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What makes your company successful?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	First of all, it is focused. It’s very important to focus in something and make it best from any point. &nbsp;Our focus is technology for trading. We have only one thought and that is how to make trading technology more advanced. You need to have focus and extension, but careful extension. And you should keep a very good level of integrity between the company and the clients. Integrity is a key factor in every company. After this, you should be very high target to go.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you pursue the use of trading technology in emerging countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	We come with technology. We don’t want to become a marketing company, that’s why we are looking to the very good partners who have same vision and same expectations in terms of time. Time expectations is very important. If someone is interested in one year, it is one story and if he is looking for ten years, it is another story. My company sees five to ten year forward. So, it is very important for us to find such partners, who have same philosophies and who uses technologies and wants to expand them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What types of trading applications are being demanded and successful these days?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are lots of technologies right now. But, the main problem is that sometime these do not work in particular circumstances and market. And sometimes it is not useful to the market. So, it is very important to understand local market. &nbsp;It is the task of local partner which maintains adjustment to it. The local partner has to listen to the people, think about not only about making something but in terms of technology which could work in your market. We make customization, which is very important is putting many markets within one platform. And we have to make such things, which is already in demand.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you recall some the challenges you faced during automating stock exchanges and commodity exchanges?</strong></p>
<p>
	Every country is very different. In terms of brokers, more or less everybody has common techniques and it is quite similar. But, in terms of challenges it is totally different. The challenges in US are very different and more developed. And it is also challenging because lots of local participants are there. By the way, Nepal is more advanced. Nepal has seen changes in stock market for more than 20 years while it’s been five years for Ukraine. I mean the number of all types of market participants and functionalists is much lower.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the difference between brokerage automation and exchange automation?</strong></p>
<p>
	Exchange automation is of course a very complex process. We should work on different levels. It needs one to three years to implement and to make it work too. Brokerage automation process takes many years and is difficult as well. We need cooperation mostly from technology and some management level of companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How can you prove Protrader is better for the success of traders?</strong></p>
<p>
	We always cooperate with traders. We think the most important clients for us are the traders. We get their feedback. And we want them to be involved more. Usually we communicate with brokers and they provide us feedback from traders. If we get lots of feedback, we could pick up fast. Protrader is one of the most functionally useful software.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you please tell us about PFSoft’s future roadmap?</strong></p>
<p>
	We have a plan to promote ourselves. Because in 10 years we mostly worked with brokers, which was much time itself. We believe now technology is one of the best necessities. We will extend our promotion to we will customize the platform. Social trading concerns are new market plans.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Based on your vast experience of establishing ecosystem of trading business in developed and developing countries, what do you think about how countries like Nepal can benefit from trading business?</strong></p>
<p>
	“PFSoft and Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd have mutually agreed to develop a full-fledged commodity exchange system for Nepal. PFSoft is ready to customize the Information Technology required for Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal and it is great opportunity for us to have a partnership with Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd. We are making evolution of scalable trading solution of local products produced in Nepal, and we want to integrate that trading to global market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The trading is important in developing countries. Right now for trading to sustain, the political and economic system favor for that. But at the same time, financial system too should help the country’s economic growth.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world.',
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '972',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => 'Nepali Tea Gets 3 New Destinations',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Nepal Tea, Illam, New Business Age" height="356" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_economy_tea.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p>
	Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association. He further informed that the tea is currently being exported to these places as a test. “We are planning to commercially export within a month,” he said. Nepali organic tea is currently exported to Germany, France, Czech Republic, Japan and some other countries.</p>
<p>
	Under the testing phase, four tea industries are exporting around seven quintals of tea monthly. &nbsp;Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers, Gorkha Tea Estate and Guranse Tea Estate are exporting organic tea commercially. Mainali also shared that business representatives of respective countries are planning to visit Nepal for observation of Nepali tea industry. According to Mainali, all tea industries established for organic tea production still do not possess organic certificate. Countries like the USA, Japan and Australia among others have been providing certification. The association said that 16 industries are currently in the line of producing organic tea while only four industries have received organic certification. According to Mainali, in order to acquire organic certification, one industry must add about Rs 1.5 to 2 million investment. This year, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers acquired ‘organic certification’, said Mainali, who is also the Director of the company. Previously, Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Gorkha Tea State and Guranse Tea Estate had acquired organic certification.</p>
<p>
	‘A’ grade tea produced in Nepal is exported to third countries. The Association has informed that 300,000 kg of organic certified tea is produced annually in Nepal. “The demand for such tea in abroad is still high,” Mainali said. He further added, “Nepali companies are not being able to produce tea to meet the demand.” Tea industrialists say highly advanced technologies and skills are required for organic tea production in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<div>
	 </div>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association.',
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	(int) 13 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '971',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => '21 Banks Subscribe To Thomson Reuters',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Thomsom Reuters, New Business Age" height="181" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_banking_thomson_reuters.jpg" width="338" /></p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX). This enables trading professionals to connect with one another, hold conversations about different FX products and prices, as well as conduct FX transactions.</p>
<p>
	According to the official press release issued by TR, this event will mark that the Nepali rupee trades on a global trading platform alongside major international currencies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The start of the dealing platform marks a move towards the automation in management of foreign exchange reserve in Nepal. It provides the Nepali banking sector with easy access to multiple counterparts at a time and helps to grasp the opportunities arising from changes in international financial markets. This will also maximize the efficiency of our people working in forex reserve management,” said Dr. Y.R. Khatiwada, Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank who officiated at a ceremony marking the occasion with the Nepal Bankers’ Association and the Foreign Exchange Dealers Association of Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Thomson Reuters Dealing serves the world’s largest professional trading community and we are delighted to welcome these 21 Nepalese banks into that community,” said Sriram Ramnarayan, Vice President for Financial and Risk South Asia at Thomson Reuters. “This represents a new era in transparency, efficiency and automation in the way trades are executed in Nepal. The availability of real-time pricing information and automated trading processes will open up new opportunities for Nepal’s banks and enable them to tap into the global FX markets - the largest financial market in the world.”</p>
<p>
	Used by more than 18,000 trading professionals globally in more than 5,000 organisations across 120 countries, Thomson Reuters Dealing is the industry standard for FX trading professionals for price discovery, trade execution and seamless integration with back office processes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters has had a presence in Nepal for more than a decade working closely with the financial industry and the banking community and is the leading international financial provider to operate in the country in association with Nepal’s ICTC Group.</p>
<div>
	 </div>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX).',
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			'title' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga. The Bank already has branches in western region of Nepal in Butwal, Bhairahawa, Palpa, Krishnagar, Damauli, and Walling. NIBL at present has over 500,000 customers, 68 ATM networks and one extension counter. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '986',
			'article_category_id' => '73',
			'title' => 'Enhancing  Livelihood The NEAT Way',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">When the landless and marginalised communities did not have neither land nor crops in their farmland, they probably did not have other option than blaming their ‘bad fortune.’ USAID Nepal’s project, named Nepal Economic, Agriculture, and Trade (NEAT), has become a partner in ensuring food security and increasing financial access in Banke and Bardiya districts.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	With the support of the project, farmers across 14 districts now have different crops that are not only ensuring the food security of small farmers but also being a handsome source of income.</p>
<p>
	Farmers have now &nbsp;gained skills, knowledge and access to the market. According to Phillip C Broughton, Chief of Party of the NEAT, when these conditions take place the impact of a project is there to stay. However, Hari Lal Dhakal, farmer of Vaishashur of Deudakala VDC, is not confident regarding the economic future of farmers &nbsp;like him, once the project comes to an end.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The project, which began on December 2010, has been working in order to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, increase food security and improve people’s lives in Nepal. According to the NEAT, the project’s objective to enhance economic opportunities and food security is divided into strengthening economic policies, increasing competitiveness of selected sector, enhancing food security and increasing access to microfinance services.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Food Security</strong></p>
<p>
	The NEAT has been working with disadvantaged households that have been facing food insecurity. Though some of the donor driven projects seem to have fuelled dependency syndrome on recipients, NEAT has worked with a model to make farmers independent. According to USAID, the NEAT has enrolled farmers in phases, reducing the support on each phase and, therefore, making farmers self dependent with the knowledge, skills and market knowhow.</p>
<p>
	Since the NEAT began intervening farmers across several districts, they have adopted profit making crops instead of the traditional crops they were habituated. Tharu community of Motipur VDC in Bardiya is now involved in vegetables farming such as cabbage, cauliflower and cucumber, along with staple crops like paddy and wheat. Women in the community are now not only financially capable but also socially active. Radhika Chaudhary, a local farmer says, “We are now able to express our voice and actively participating in the self help groups.” &nbsp;Most of the households living in the area were dependent on either subsistence farming of staple food crops or labour work.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	In the Motipur village, farmers now are making around Rs 100,000 to 150,000 per year depending upon the size of farmlands. Rajendra Sahu, Food Security Manager of the NEAT, said that one person makes Rs 30,000 in a season on average from cauliflower and Rs 40,000 from cucumbers in an area of three katthas of land. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	With the increased income, Jagat Pyari, one of the exemplary farmers of Deudakala VDC, has added five katthas of land with the income made from her farmland. Along with 1.5 bighas of land of her own, she is also leasing two bighas of land and cultivating vegetables and cucumber along with crops like paddy and maize. With the increasing income level, farmers have also started sending children to schools. There are around 50 landless households who now &nbsp;farm either leasing or owning the land..&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Similarly, in Vaishasur village, onion block of Deudakala VDC &nbsp; there are 17 agricultural groups. In these groups, 278 &nbsp;members are female and the remaining 104 are males. They farm onion, beans, cucumber and cauliflower. According to Kewal Singh Chaudhary, Field Technician, every group is involved in cultivation of four crops.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhim Bahadur Khatri, a returnee migrant worker of Saudi Arabia now regrets going abroad where he could not earn a good income. But now, working in his farmland, is making Rs 50,000 every six months and is building a house for his family. He says that he did not even make Rs 100,000 in three years working in Saudi Arabia. “I will never go abroad. When I am happy earning from home, why would I go there?” he said.</p>
<p>
	Although the agricultural policies prescribed by donors are said to be failing in Nepal. The attempt made by the NEAT project seems fruitful so far. Beneficiaries of the project, low scale farmers in Bardia and Banke district, are happy that NEAT was there to provide them support and lead them to be self sustaining on food and financial security.</p>
<p>
	According to the USAID, so far 71,342 households have benefitted from the USAID NEAT. Similarly, farmers’ sales have increased by US $ 85.44 million within one year working with NEAT. Likewise, 9,212 hectares lands are under improved management practices across the country. The NEAT also provided food security productivity trainings to local farmers and also linked food security farmers with input suppliers, collection centres, traders and micro finance institutions. Moreover, the project also equipped farmers with irrigation facilities and supplied tools and labours to complete the irrigation schemes. According to the official records of the NEAT, 1,203 irrigation systems were installed covering 2,567 hectares.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Financial Services</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is said to have around 80 percent of its population away from access to formal financial services. However, with the launching of cashless mobile banking services, people in rural areas with access to mobile telephony can now enjoy the banking services from their mobile phones. These services were launched after NEAT organized a summit in Kathmandu to address this issue.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Ramesh Kumar Chaudhary, resident of Thakurdwara VDC of Bardiya, is working as an agent of Laxmi Bank’s Hello Paisa initiative. He now has 160 customers from the village and registers a daily transaction of up to Rs 200,000. He is satisfied to see happy consumers who send and receive money from cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara and Nepalgunj. Before he provided mobile banking services, locals had to go to Bhurigaun, which is about 25 kilometres far away from the village.</p>
<p>
	Chaudhary is the first agent in the area. He says that a person is allowed to make a transaction of Rs 50,000 per day but only up to a limit of Rs 500,000 , as he is only given authority of that limit. Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, a customer, says that the availability of Hello Paisa agent in the village has helped him save time and cost to travel all the way to a nearest bank. “In that time, I can indulge in my own business,” said Bhattarai.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Lentils enhance income sources</strong></p>
<p>
	Lentil farming under the competitiveness element of the NEAT has helped in increasing the yield of lentil crops by more than 50 per cent over baseline, according to the NEAT. Nepali lentil is finding its market in Bangladesh. Broughton says that the NEAT has also worked on bridging the gap between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Dharma Prasad Pandey, Senior Programme Officer of FORWARD , there are 18 groups operating alone in Sanoshree VDC in lentil farming and a few more will be &nbsp;formed soon. He revealed that NEAT provided an assistance of Rs 50 million to the FORWARD.</p>
<p>
	Farmers think that they have now skills to be efficient and produce more. The productivity has increased by up to 35 per cent. Also, they are getting better prices for their products mainly because &nbsp;of the skills they have gained for grading &nbsp; of lentil grains and also because the collection centre pays a good price to them. In the past, farmers used to take their products to nearby markets such as Kohalpur but now buyers come to the village to purchase the production.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><strong>LEADER SPEAK</strong></span></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Phillip C. Broughton, Development Partner" height="253" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/development_partner_vol3_14_neat_phillip.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" /><strong>‘We had several noteworthy&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">accomplishments in all project areas’</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><em><br />
	</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>- Phillip C. Broughton</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Chief of Party, USAID Nepal Economic,&nbsp;</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Agriculture and Trade (NEAT) Activity</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
	</span></p>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<div>
		<strong>NEAT project is almost coming to an end. How do you evaluate the success of the project?</strong></div>
	<div>
		NEAT is a broad project that aims to increase economic opportunities and enhance food security. We work in different sectors including agriculture, microfinance, and policy. For each of the components of NEAT, there are different indicators of success. In the agriculture component, we are looking to sustainably improve food security and resilience and increase income and competitiveness. In the microfinance component we are looking at enhancing access to financial services for disadvantaged populations and increasing the incomes of micro-entrepreneurs. We especially want to see more people having access to financial services in the rural area. Under our policy component, we are working with both the public and private sectors to improve the business and policy environment. At the policy level we are supporting improvements in trade, investment, and agriculture. In addition, we support fiscal policy improvements to improve the government’s ability to finance its budget.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Among various components which one do you think was the most successful one?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Well, I don’t think one is more successful than the others. This project is relatively short in nature, 32 months. Even though it is short, we have had great many accomplishments in all project areas. For example agriculture sales of project beneficiaries are significantly up over baseline figures. The number of rural households with access to financial services is increasing and in many cases through innovative outreach strategies such as mobile banking. And on the policy front, we have worked with the government and the private sector on more 35 different policies, 6 of which have already been implemented and many more are ready to be implemented once the new government is in place. We are very pleased with our progress and, even though this project is short, it is part of USAID’s long term strategy so our successful work will continue.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Trade is also one of the components of the NEAT. What are the achievements on this front?</strong></div>
	<div>
		In the trade area, we work on different levels – we have supported government and the private sector in analyzing trade issues with India and China, to identify issues that should be taken to the negotiating table to improve Nepal’s trading environment. We’ve supported government to look at transit issues given the cost of transporting cargo in and out of Nepal, and we’ve supported capacity building within the government related to trade, including on trade analysis and negotiation. At the operational level, we are helping to improve competitiveness and market access for tea, ginger and lentil. For example, with lentil, Bangladesh is the primary market. We are identifying ways to strengthen the relationship between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers. And we are also analyzing alternative markets so that Nepal’s lentil sector is not so dependent on Bangladesh.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How do you view the sustainability of these projects?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Sustainability is a key objective for us in all project areas. For example, under our food security component we work with over 28,000 beneficiaries. We provide training over 4 to 5 crop cycles, we help establish channels for high quality inputs, and we facilitate market access. 94 per cent of project beneficiaries said they now have access to high quality inputs, up from 21 per cent before the project started. 92 per cent of project beneficiaries are confident they have a market to sell their products in, up from just 50 per cent before the project started. Once project beneficiaries have skills and continuing access to inputs and markets, these won’t just go away. These are key factors in the sustainability of our food security work.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How long would it take to multiply the good impacts of NEAT to reach to the extent of import substitution?&nbsp;</strong></div>
	<div>
		Around 70 per cent of onions consumed in Nepal are imported from India. Given the market potential for Nepali grown onions, this season NEAT food security beneficiaries grew onions on more that 700 hectares of land and they have made very good income. We train farmers how to identify market opportunities. With import substitution, if there is opportunity to make money, farmers are going to do that. This is happening. We see it with onion and we see it with other commodities such as maize for the feed business.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>A new project KISAN is being launched soon by USAID. How will this project give continuity to the activities of NEAT?</strong></div>
	<div>
		KISAN is working in many of the same districts as NEAT. They started just a few weeks ago yet we have already had several information sharing meetings. It is very important to USAID, NEAT, and KISAN that KISAN takes advantage of the experience gained by previous USAID projects and activities such as NEAT, NFRP, and EIG as well as other donor, government and private sector initiatives.&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<div>
	 </div>',
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			'keywords' => 'Enhancing  Livelihood The NEAT Way, Development Partner, New Business Age',
			'description' => 'With the support of USAID NEAT, farmers across 14 districts now have different crops that are not only ensuring the food security of small farmers 
but also being a handsome source of income.',
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			'title' => 'Will South Asia Change  For The Better In Next One Year?',
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			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Prof Ujjwal K Chowdhury</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Impending Elections</strong></p>
<p>
	General Elections are due in Pakistan in May 2013, being discussed for June 2013 in Nepal, are expected in late this year in Bangladesh and Maldives, and are scheduled for early 2014 in India (which can be preponed) and are in 2015 in Sri Lanka (which also can be preponed in the light of intense internal conflicts between Buddhist Sinhalese majority and Tamil Hindu and Muslim Sinhalese minorities).</p>
<p>
	Hence, within next 12 to 15 months, South Asia is surely up for a different scenario, hopefully qualitatively different too from what it is now.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Scenario Today</strong></p>
<p>
	The largest nation of the region, India, is virtually plagued with policy paralysis for quite some time now, the ruling dispensation facing serious corruption charges and being at the mercy of belligerent allies. With rise of Modi within BJP polarizing the electorate, and larger states of India being ruled by regional forces, the political scenario is ambiguous just now. The ensuing elections to state assemblies in Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan will throw some light on the political finals of General Elections.</p>
<p>
	Pakistan, for quite some time, has been an ungoverned and ungovernable state with terrorist and radical Islamic forces controlling certain parts of the country, youth force behind an aggressive political posturing by Imran Khan and his Tehreeq-E-Insaaf Party, anti-corruption movement led by the Pakistani crusader Muhammad Tahir ul Qadri being on, Nawaz Sharief’s Muslim League threatened as former military strongman Pervez Musharraf returns to activate his similarly positioned All Pakistan Muslim League, and ruling PPP plagued with corruption and incompetence, with army no signs of relenting ‘real power’ to the democratically elected forces.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Sri Lanka is moving from one round of ethnic cleansing of Tamil Hindus to another round, and this time of Sinhalese Muslims. Majority Buddhist Sinhalese nationalism is on the rise and doubts are being expressed about the survival of multi-party and multi-ethnic secular democracy in that country.</p>
<p>
	Bangladesh is in the throes of a bitter conflict between radical Islamists and Islamic political forces, represented by BNP-Jamaat alliance on one side and the liberal Awami League and left wing forces on the other, with the ruling Awami League floundering at every step. The conflict has permeated into culture, media, places of worship, street fights, rallies, violence, et al, and recent violence before and after Shahbaug protests by the secularists has taken more than 80 lives so far.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Birendra International Convention Center, BICC, South Asia" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_bicc.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" />Nepal is in its stage of political indecisiveness just now, having put in place an electoral government led by the sitting Chief Justice and some bureaucrats as ministers, but no election date and proper Election Commission still in place.</p>
<p>
	Maldives is divided bitterly, akin to Bangladesh, between the ruling Islamic political forces led by current President Mohamed Waheed Hussain Manik and the opposing liberal secular forces of former President Mohamed Nausheed, with India intervening on behalf of Nausheed recently. The difference is, unlike Bangladesh, the Islamic political forces are ruling Maldives ousting the democratically elected Nausheed’s government in a bloodless coup.</p>
<p>
	In effect, South Asia today is completely in a state of flux and uncertainty and the next 15 months are expected to ascertain the contours of the region for the next half a decade or more.</p>
<p>
	<strong>India@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Narendra Modi, BJP, South Asia" height="236" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_narendra_modi.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="350" />For the first time in a decade, India’s GDP growth has come below 5% in a year from as high as 9% a few years back. Price-rise, corruption, civil society activism, regional forces, discontent with the Centre: all have been on the rise unabated across the last three years, and larger part of the thinking-talking-arguing middle class is sure that Congress led UPA is sure to be defeated in the next election, and may even prepone the polls to avoid complete washout.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	BJP has turned backwards, bringing to the fore all Hindutva radical faces like Uma Bharati, Vinay Katiyar, Varun Gandhi, Amit Shah, Kalyan Singh and expecting to blend this majority-ism with the good governance record and personal charisma of Narendra Modi along with pro-farmer approach of Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh on Land Acquisition Bill, and create an infallible force to win 200 seats in some 545 member Lok Sabha, and then manage to come to power with old (Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, etc) and new (AIADMK, TDP, etc) allies.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pakistan@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Imran Khan, South Asia" height="242" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_imran_khan.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="350" />If you talk to youths on the streets of Karachi or Islamabad, Imran Khan is all set to make a thundering entry into power as the next PM of Pakistan. If you talk to the people in 40s and 50s, they are confused. Surely they expect PPP to be defeated after a spate of poor governance, but Musharraf and Nawaz Sharief battling for the rightist votes will only brighten prospects of PPP unless Imran Khan really makes the tide of the youths into that of the nation.</p>
<p>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Maldives and Bangladesh@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Free and fair elections in these countries and tacit role of India may ensure liberal forces of Nausheed in Maldives and Sheikh Haseena in Bangladesh to once again win. However, mobilization of the rural masses and Arabs funded radical Islamic forces may turn the apple-curt and retain power in Male and capture it in Dhaka.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Sri Lanka@2015</strong></p>
<p>
	Given the fact that the army stands solidly behind President Rajapakshye and the international community has limited role in the internal affairs of the island nation, while India’s role is curbed due to growing SL-China relations, the current rulers are expected to bulldoze all opposition and retain power in Colombo whenever the elections are conducted there.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepal@2014:</strong></p>
<p>
	The biggest question first is whether the elections will be held, if not in June, at least within November next, and if a popularly elected Constituent Assembly and thereby the government will come to power. Second, if elections are being held, whenever, whether they will be free and fair. Then, after elections, if at all any political force or coalition gets clear majority. Given the situation on ground today, ruling Maoists along with their Madhesi allies may be the largest political bloc, short of majority, while the rest of the opposition, together though a majority, may never come as a single bloc. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Alternative Scenario in South Asia by 2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Politics is the art of the impossible and science of changing human behaviour. So, there could be another scenario, come 2014.</p>
<p>
	Narendra Modi led BJP may enthuse the party and voters in a large number of states partly on development agenda and partly on nationalistic slogans and come to power in India with a clear majority (also with minor support from known allies). Nausheed captures power in Maldives and Haseena retains the same in Bangladesh with clear majority again. A Sinhalese opposition leader (e.g. former army chief Sharath Fonseka) with support of India, Tamils, Muslims and a part of Sinhalese people, captures power in a preponed elections in SL in 2014. Maoists-Madheshis get clear majority in CA and government in Nepal. Imran Khan does the apparently impossible feat of coming to power in Pakistan riding a wave of youth support.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	If this scenario happens and with comfortable majorities in each of these South Asian nations, which is also a probable scenario which, therefore, ensures 5 years of undeterred decision governance, the region may see the realization of its economic potentials.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Economic Potentials</strong></p>
<p>
	India has huge trading potentials in the region, hampered by regional skirmishes and conflicts, which can reduce if the alternative scenario above happens. Look East Policy will help India develop international trade and commerce with Bangladesh, Burma and Nepal to the benefit of all. Destructive competition on jute and agro-based products between India and Bangladesh can be reduced.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tourism in Maldives and Nepal can get a major fillip with peace and liberal regimes coming in these nations. In fact, Indian tourism has much more potentials with liberal visa regimes with Pakistan and Bangladesh as well.</p>
<p>
	Textiles, automobiles, food-grains et al can be traded cheaper, better, faster within the region with political stability returning. Foreign Direct Investments within the region can sharply increase as well with right welcoming policies in place in these countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Movement of students, cheaper educational options in the region, and regional cooperation on skills development will be another major area of development.</p>
<p>
	Energy Security in South Asia is bound to increase with Nepal’s huge hydro-power potentials being realized more and India’s immense solar power possibilities explore further (which anyway is a pet project of Narendra Modi).</p>
<p>
	Indo-Pak economic relations are with immense benefits to both the nations. India gets oil from Iran with stress and high costs due to non-cooperation from Pakistan and Pakistan imports several items of daily use and infra-structural growth from the West at a much higher costs than what it can get from India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The entire region needs a tremendous infra-structural push, banking and investments development, rise of social entrepreneurship, and value addition to their agricultural produce. In each of these areas, the South Asian nations have a lot to share if they learn to look at each other positively.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	Change is the spice of life. Irrespective of whether the status quo looks insurmountable, we must look at possibilities positively. South Asia has one-fifths of the world’s population, rich heritage and is the birth-place of Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Hinduism and various forms of animism. South Asia has world’s largest water-resource, highest peaks, longest coastal range, huge solar power reserves. South Asia’s demographic is the youngest in the world, a large number of them being English educated, IT savvy, secular, and democratic in attitude.</p>
<p>
	Mutually cooperative South Asia has a much larger dividend than the current region marred with conflicts and tensions.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The author is former Dean of Symbiosis International University and President of the advisory board at Whistling Woods School of Communication, Mumbai.</span></p>',
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			'keywords' => 'Will South Asia Change for the Better in Next One Year?, South Asia, Prof Ujjwal k Chowdhury, New Business Age',
			'description' => 'Within next 12 to 15 months, South Asia is surely up 
for a different scenario, hopefully qualitatively different too from what it is now.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '983',
			'article_category_id' => '42',
			'title' => 'Cooled Down By Profit Booking',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	Profit booking in different sectors persists now after the warming up of the secondary market for some time in the recent past. This follows nearly two years of down market. Investors started securing their positions as the Nepse index tested its level near 550. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Objection of the smaller political parties after the formation of the new government has also dragged the market down. Different protest programs from the small parties pulled the sentiments in a few sessions.</p>
<p>
	During the review period CDS and Clearing Ltd started its operation for digital clearing and settlement. Currently there are seven Depository Participants (DP) who can facilitate opening of demat accounts. Similarly, 6 out of 226 listed companies have signed for dematerialization of&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">their shares.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Full-fledged digital operation will facilitate quick transfer and settlement process. Similarly, right issue, voting and other matters can also be flashed on screen increasing the trade turnover rate.</p>
<p>
	Around eight companies have lodged application with Securities Board of Nepal for permission to issue an &nbsp;initial public offering(IPO). The combined weight of these applications is Rs 1.45 billion. Hence it is sure to increase the flow of share in the market while the direction of the market will be framed also by the upcoming quarterly financial reports.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Performance by Sector</strong></p>
<p>
	Banking sector with significant volume of trade in local exchange slipped 16.78 points or 3.21% to rest at 522.12. Others sector with heavy concentration of NTC plummeted 39.94 points or 5.96% to settle at 669.68. Hotels sector lost 13.59 points followed by 13.08 points down in hydropower sector to 649.99 and 1029.48 respectively. Development bank descended 7.13 points to close at 248.78 while the finance sector receded 4.01 points or 1.59% to 251.55. However, insurance sub-index accelerated 10.77 points or 1.21% to rest at 888.68.The manufacturing sector surged 4.88 points or 0.58% to settle at 840.23</p>
<p>
	Sensitive index that measures the performance of 120 blue chips at the secondary market plunged 4 points or 3.04% to 131.47 while the float index calculated on the basis of real transactions went downhill 0.86 points or 2.34% to 36.71. Total of Rs. 1,711,318,453 turnover was realized during the review period from 6,534,271 units of shares traded via 23,595 transactions.</p>
<p>
	The accompanying figure depicts the sector-wise distribution based on the total volume of trade. The commercial banking sector accumulated 75.08% of total volume of trade. The hydropower sector occupied 7.63% followed by the insurance sector with 7.16% while remaining sectors covered the rest.</p>
<p>
	Technically, the Simple Moving Average (SMA) shows stationary movement in short term as both Nepse index and 30 days SMA are moving flat. Persistent sell-off in this level can trigger upside correction. However, high volatility is not expected.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong>Review for 17 Mar to 16 Apr, 2013</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Sectorwise Distribution, Stock Taking" height="497" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_sectorwise_distribution.jpg" width="430" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Market Trend, Stock Taking" height="404" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_market_trend.jpg" width="442" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Movement In Indices, Stock Taking" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_movement_in_indices.jpg" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10px;">Chitrakar is a Stock Analyst with Jamb Technologies Pvt Ltd.</span></strong></p>',
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			'keywords' => 'Stock Taking, Cooled Down by Profit Booking',
			'description' => 'The secondary market of Nepal bid farewell to the year 2069 on a sweet note. However, profit booking cooled down the market a bit. The benchmark Nepse index descended 14.41 points or 2.77% to settle at 520.69 while the session’s high was on 17 March with 535.10 and lowest on 31 March with 511.45.',
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			'title' => 'From Led Zeppelin To Yoga Vasistha',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">By Sujan Tiwari</strong></p>
<p>
	Shashi Ram Bhandary, CEO of Kathmandu Housing and Leasing Company and Nirvana Country Club Health and Golf Resort in Dharan vividly remembers his first summer job while studying in the US. Working in the kitchen of the Marriott Hotel, he had a tough time cutting onions for a few hours, with tears in his eyes. That was when he was noticed by a Manager in the hotel and taught him how to cut onions without hurting the eyes, by soaking the onions in water for some time before cutting them. He told Bhandary that there were two ways to do anything, the right way and the wrong way. “This was the lesson I learnt for life, that things should be done the right way, and it didn’t just apply to onions,” says Bhandary.</p>
<p>
	When he was in Nepal for a vacation once, he went to &nbsp;the coffee shop in Annapurna Hotel and he wasn’t satisfied with the service there. So he left a note saying ‘the service wasn’t up to par’. &nbsp;To his surprise, he was called the very next day by the hotel and was offered a job. He didn’t want to join at first as he was on a vacation, but finally accepted the offer. “I took the job as a challenge. I was hired as Assistant Food and Beverage Manager. I worked there for two years,” recollects Bhandary. But he wasn’t going to be satisfied with a job in a hotel; he had other plans in the back of his head.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Once he went trekking to Upper Manang and realized the shortage of food and supplies there. That was the moment that decided his life. He came up with an ambitious plan of designing a hotel that was self sustained, with its own food and energy production. “I dreamt of a hotel that was dependent upon only a few products from outside. I thought of producing vegetables, rearing cows for dairy products and manure for energy and fertilizers,” says Bhandary. He wanted to experiment with the idea, the idea of a self sustainable hotel. Nirvana Country Club is the result of the same model. It has its own farm, a dairy and has the largest bio-gas plant in eastern Nepal. About 30 per cent of the required energy is produced by the Resort itself. It also produces dairy products like cream and butter, organic herbs and vegetables.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	But Nirvana Country Club was nothing like it is today when Bhandary first acquired the property back in 2000. When he bought the property, he says it was in complete ruins, with land, some structures and a pasture that is now the golf course of Nirvana. &nbsp;To start with, Bhandary brought some consultants from India. After their survey, he was advised not to start the project as the consultants didn’t find &nbsp;the land feasible. “The property was in a very bad condition, it didn’t meet the needed threshold. Also, there were not enough flights to Dharan back then. But I had a gut feeling, and I took the challenge against all odds. Today I am so glad that I took the challenge despite the adversities,” says Bhandary proudly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He started by literally sweeping the place clean. He renovated the structures, built the walls and developed the golf course. At present, Nirvana Country Club has a dairy with 50 cows, a 19\8 hole golf course, multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool, offers tennis and squash, provides yoga and meditation among other services. Also, there are 20 well furnished air conditioned bungalows with living, dining, kitchen and three bedrooms each. “In the last 12 years, I have entirely transformed the place from what it initially was. It is a complete turnaround,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Early Life</strong></p>
<p>
	Born in Kamaladi, Kathmandu in 1962 to Suna Bhandary and Late Banshi Ram Bhandary, he had five elder sisters before him. Bhandary says he was one of the first Nepali students to go to Lincoln School. He remembers cycling all around the valley with his friends, most of &nbsp;whom were from other countries. “I enjoyed a childhood without any worries as my family was quite well off. Everything was provided for us. I was lucky to be born in a big joint family with a good reputation and background. Bhandarys of Kamaldi were known by all in Kathmandu,” says Bhandary. Bhandary studied in Lincoln School from Kindergarten to 8th grade, and did his SLC from Anandakuti School. After that, he went to US for his further studies, he joined Gaithersburg High School in Maryland and graduated from high school there. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	After completing high school, he started working for Marriott Hotel as a summer job, as all the students in the US worked in summers. “I actually didn’t need to work for money, but I followed the American tradition. I was living with relatives at that time. I wanted to be independent, so I moved out and started to work,” remembers Bhandary. He says he worked right from the bottom, doing dishes and &nbsp;other forms of lowly work. Later, he became a supervisor and finally a manager in Marriott Hawaii. He worked for Marriott for seven years and later did his graduation in Hotel Management from US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Has was sent to US by his family to study medicine, but he loved dealing with people and loved service business. After his first summer job, he ended up studying hotel management. He didn’t reveal this to his family at first and so had to earn his own money. Bhandary believes this decision made him independent as he started working. “I didn’t have any specific aim, but I wanted to fly planes as a child, and I still want to,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Family</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary married with Kalpana Bhandary at the age of 21. Once when he was in Pokhara, he caught the eyes of Kalpana on a boat, and says he was instantly attracted to her. He went home and told his mother about the girl he saw, and their family arranged the rest. They met and got along well, and eventually got married. “My marriage was the biggest turning point in my life. I felt more responsible after I got married,” says Bhandary. Kalpana Bhandary is now the MD of Nirvana Country Club. According to Bhandary, he really wanted to be together with his spouse, and he kept her together, even at work. The couple has been blessed with two sons Rishikesh and Raghu.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Personal Side</strong></p>
<p>
	As a youngster, Bhandary grew up listening to rock bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and The Who. Now, he says he wants to spend time quietly.Inside, Bhandary says he is a very spiritual person, and loves to read, especially books &nbsp;about spiritual development. “Lately, I want to uncover the spiritual side of my own self. I want to know what my purpose in the world is, and I try to figure it out through meditation. I really want to be at peace,” he says. Bhandary is also a disciple of Shankaracharya. As he was brought up in a religious family, he liked to listen to prabachans religious-philosophical discourse as a child. “I found the words of wise men interesting from the beginning. After I read Yoga Vasistha, it completely turned around my life. It taught me that everything that exists is an illusion, and everything else is the working of mind. I was so influenced by it and entered into spirituality. Then, I started to look at life from a spiritual point of view, says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pastime</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary &nbsp;has been an avid animal lover since his childhood, and owns eight Tibetan mastiffs and one Alsatian, has a few barking deers in his farm and keeps his Japanese Spitz Casper with him wherever he goes. He drinks very rarely, as he says it disturbs the spiritual balance. Whenever free, Bhandary likes to cook and equally enjoys eating, and loves Khichadi, his all time favourite food. He lives mostly in Dharan, and travels frequently. His hobbies include playing golf, going for long drives and travelling. He says he is outside the country at least once a month, and has been to US, India, Europe, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhandary believes one needs to be determined and has to possess a will-do attitude to succeed. “One has to be commanding and friendly at the same time, has to have a balance of both. Also, we should be able to bring out the good in people,” he says. Bhandary says he is content with his life, as has no regrets. “I am living the life I wanted, married the women I wanted, &nbsp;I have done something for the country and am blessed with good children. There is nothing more &nbsp;I could have wanted,” says Bhandary. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Bhandary, things should always be done the right way and it will &nbsp;be done as there won’t be many obstacles. “Determination and good intentions are needed, it can really help you progress. &nbsp;It is not that hard to start a business and succeed in Nepal. No one needs to leave the country in pursuit of success. Things can be done right here, we just have to figure out the right way,” says he. For the future, Bhandary has plans of making Nirvana Country Club completely self sustainable and wants to open a Golf Academy. And if things favour him, he wants to learn to fly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Shashi Ram Bhandary, Personlity, From Led Zeppelin to Yoga Vasistha " height="546" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/personality_may2013_sashi_ram.jpg" width="450" /></p>',
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			'title' => 'Nepal Is Land-linked,  We Should Take Advantage Of This',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<img alt="Narayan Kazi Shrestha" height="472" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/interview_May2013_rajesh_kazi(1).jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	<strong>Rajesh Kazi Shrestha&nbsp;</strong><strong>Chairman&nbsp;</strong><strong>Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI)</strong></p>
<p>
	Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. He spoke with Siromani Dhungana of New Business Age about Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its involvement in promoting country’s business environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">How do you see the current role of Nepal’s private sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	Private sector should be taken as the engine of the national economy. Even though the entire country has been facing power scarcity and political instability, Nepal’s private sector is optimistic about leading the country to economic prosperity. In fact, private sector has been playing a crucial role for the overall economic development of the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry doing to address the problem of growing deficit in Nepal’s trade with China? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Actually, Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry is established to promote export of Nepali products to China and Chinese products to Nepal. In order to address growing trade deficit figure, we are doing our best to promote more Nepali products in China. The organization has been participating in many promotional activities such as trade fairs where we can promote Nepali products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Due to our promotional activities over the past few years, we can now say that many handicraft, thangka painting and wooden crafts entrepreneurs in many districts, including Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, are benefitted. However, those handicraft entrepreneurs from Lalitpur and Bhaktapur cannot survive if there are no Chinese buyers of their products. There are more examples of other sectors like this that show how Chinese market is becoming more important for us. It is also important to mention here that Nepal and China have signed zero tariff agreement, which ensures export of more than 7,787 items at zero-tariff into chinese market. The provision helps us to expand our trade with China. Nepal should also put its effort on trade promotion between the two countries. The construction of a well-facilitated dry port and a Special Economic Zone would help us to boost trade with China and to attract more Chinese investment. Now, we are more focused on how to get more facilities for our exporters, so we have requested support from the Finance Minister in order to increase trade between both countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepali traders have failed to take advantage of zero tariff facility provided by China, why?</strong></p>
<p>
	I do not think so. In fact, there are some norms set by the Chinese government which Nepali side has been failing to comply with. Especially, there are some problems such as the issuance of Certificate of Origin.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Non tariff barriers such as strict quarantine system, certification standards and rules of origin have created many challenges to the process of trade between the two countries. It’s obvious that there is a lack of effective coordination among Nepali traders and government agencies. Also, there are some other complications on both sides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	We are working to sort out current problems and we are optimistic about the settling of these issues very soon. We want to see a concrete agreement to ease quarantine related complications and other non-tariff barriers.</p>
<p>
	<strong>China’s Exim Bank is likely to set up its branch in Nepal. Considerig that Nepal didn’t get the expected benefits from the other foreign banks operating in Nepal, what should Nepal do to get benefits from the presence of Chinese Bank? &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We have been talking about the presence of Chinese Bank in Nepal for the last three or four years. It is not only for trading but also for investment. Chinese side is very positive. The current Chinese Ambassador is optimistic about the fact that Chinese Bank will start operating in Nepal during his tenure. Not only Exim Bank but also some other banks are negotiating about starting to offer their services in Nepal. If Exim Bank comes, it will have a positive impact on investment. Chinese banks have rational interest rate and also they have capacity to invest. Their presence will definitely help to attract Chinese investors to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing pretty fast in the recent years. Do you think that Chinese investment is actually helping Nepal? &nbsp;(it is also said that the interest of the Chinese in Nepal is more diplomatic than economic)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, the Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing at a rapid pace. Some mega projects such as Pokhara Airport, Kathmandu Ring Road or Dry Port of Sindhupalchowk will be started soon. Similarly, some Chinese investors are involved in mining and water resources projects too. Very soon, if the political situation improves, more Chinese investors will be interested in investing in Nepal. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Chinese investment may help the overall national development. As we represent the private sector, our main interest is to strengthen the trade and the economic relation between the two countries. We always lobby for the economic prosperity and investment with the Government of China and our other counterparts. Together, these two countries can achieve good economic prosperity.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the possible investment areas for China in Nepal? Would it be resource-seeking or market-seeking? Obviously, it not technology seeking, capital seeking or manpower seeking as China is better than Nepal in all these.</strong></p>
<p>
	Obviously, the first is hydropower sector. Second is tourism, third is mines and minerals and fourth is the agro sector. Nepal has enough resources and lots of business opportunities; however, it is a fact that the current investment size is extremely small. Chinese businessmen have been investing in small-scale sector such as hotels, restaurants and other small trades but we want Chinese investors to start some mega projects. The problem is that the unstable government and policies and the problem of power outage have created much hurdles to attract such investment. Despite the hurdles, there are still many chances to expedite Nepal-China business relationship. Around two or three Chinese delegations have been visiting Nepal every month to explore business opportunities. Chinese investors are very much interested but they often ask about the rules, regulations and opportunities. If the political scenario becomes stable and labour problem is solved, I hope many of them will come to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese goods have the reputation of being cheap and inferior in quality. In this context, what prospects do you see for such products in Nepal?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	It is not like that. Chinese manufactures produce goods according to the necessity of consumers. It depends on the type of goods consumers want. When you are in the USA, European countries or in most of Asian countries and seek high quality products, you will find Chinese ones. We get surprised when we see what we get here and what products are available there. It depends on the quality required and the purchasing power of the buyer. It depends on what type of goods Nepali traders want to import and that’s why I think it solely depends on the buyers’ choice and affordability.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How successful do you rate your own business link with China considering the general perception of Chinese goods being cheap and inferior?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We don’t evaluate the Chinese products supplied as per our demands and orders. The same goods can have high or low quality based on how much one can afford. It depends on our buying capacity. It’s us who are responsible for the low quality of the products because we often order low quality goods for Nepali market. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	It is often cited that Nepali industries are suffering from the cheap imports from China. What’s your opinion?&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Both Nepal and China are members of World Trade Organization (WTO). According to its principle, we can’t stop importing from its member countries. If we are able to manage our market, we don’t have to worry about cheap imports from China. On the other side, cheap goods imported from China have ensured mass access to the sophisticated goods and also to the daily consumable goods.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the critical trade barriers between Nepal and China?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are hurdles and barriers in all sectors but it is still an open and growing market. Some remedies would be to have better policies from the &nbsp;government, a friendly investment environment, labour reforms, security… etc. There are certain issues which should be resolved. We are solving the barriers step by step, as they appear in front of us.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How are the exporters and importers overcoming the language barrier in trade between China and Nepal? How is your chamber helping in this? (it is said that, due to language problems, Nepali traders in China are always in disadvantage in their dispute with Chinese importers or exporters)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, it is a little difficult but now most of the Chinese exporters understand English. Nowadays, there are English speaking employees in almost every office and different chambers. And some businessmen who are already doing business can understand Chinese also. If there is any dispute we step in to solve it, we are also giving information about the queries and problems of the business person there. The exporters were very much interested in trade fair there, we are participating there regularly and we exchange our delegation also from different chamber from different aspects.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What points do you think need to be revised in Nepal-China trade-related treaties?</strong></p>
<p>
	Both governments should have frequent meetings to understand and solve the obstacles, if there are. There are some area where we are facing &nbsp;problems, such as &nbsp;quarantine or infrastructures but these issues should be solved very soon. In China, they are not accepting Nepali quarantine certificates. Nepal has three issuing authorities for different sectors and product lines, which makes the Chinese confused as they think it should be done by a single authority. Because of that, we are facing difficulties to export our food items.</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Nepali government has planned to develop Rasuwa as another hub for Nepal-China trade. What is your assessment of the progress in this?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	The road is already there and, after Sigatse, the railway will come to Rasuwa. We are trying to join railway side from China and India so that Nepal will be linked with both of these countries. We can develop environment for tourism and business also. The government of China is committed on this and we are very optimistic about completing and operating it soon.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is often argued that Nepal should be developed as the transit point for China-India trade, but no concrete development seems to be taking place on this direction. What are the impediments?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are not a land-locked country but we are a land-linked country with two economic giants at north and south. We should take advantage of this unique geographical position. The main problem of this situation is that everyone has his or her own agenda and we have no unified and strong agenda and vision for concrete developments. A stable government, a strong linkage of these three countries and an open transit road are our most primary necessities.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '977',
			'article_category_id' => '48',
			'title' => 'Size Zero Economy',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Madan Lamsal</strong></p>
<p>
	Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.</p>
<p>
	The economic meaning of zero could be something different than the blissful imaginative hollow universe of a meditating sage. It is either recession or depression. Nepal has simplified the definition of these terms too: recession is when the builder of a housing company shifts to an apartment in his own project site and, it is depression when he is shifted to a free-to-live public apartment called jail.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The definition could be as many as the number of economists. That means you are free to have your own tailor-made definition of it. Many have it already. Our central bank governor says, an economy with zero growth rate &nbsp;and 10 percent inflation is still not in recession, and the finance minister doesn&rsquo;t have a say since he already has zero economic sense -- recession, depression, possession, obsession but commission are all the same for him. So why can&rsquo;t you have your own take on recession or depression and its shape and size.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	You may take some variables into account: once regarded successful business heroes have turned zeros, call it their size of the firm now. It is old news that CEOs of many banks are looking for alternative professions. Some have refused to take a paid forced leave fearing that someone might just play a prank with some zeros in their absence. This is the confidence indicator of our banking industry. Since, this leave is a compulsory one and he had but no alternative to take, some dedicated CEOs are seen loitering around bank&rsquo;s headquarters premises despite officially being &nbsp;on leave, enjoying their favorite chocolate bar called &nbsp;&lsquo;credit crunchy&rsquo;. What would you say to the new trend that CEOs of banks themselves are working as chief of the marketing department? It is a trend reversal and also a cost-saving measure.</p>
<p>
	Not only banks, academic institutions that promised jobs to their MBAs, in the once lucrative but now leery sector called banking now taste a pinch of salt. Some new MBAs are asking their school to return their money as they are ultimately landing on a zero chance job zone. Many other ambitious MBAs are trying for jobs in the sectors they had never imagined &nbsp;working &nbsp;in.</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;Good old days have returned. Dishonored cheques have become a normal phenomenon and nobody bothers why it got returned. The recipient never asks the bank whether the fund was insufficient in the account of the person who issued the cheque or in the coffers of the bank itself. The account holders don&rsquo;t have enough guts to send an enquiry note to the bank about the issue. These are good signs. &nbsp;No one is hostile to anyone else. Everyone knows we are revolving around a big zero and will continue to do so until this zero of &nbsp;an economy &nbsp;actually becomes a black hole or the Bermuda Triangle.</p>
<p>
	The signals in television channels are less wired and more weird. Don&rsquo;t blame it &nbsp;on load shedding. We will not have electricity pretty soon, when we are about to reach to a point of zero supply, thus no need of it. Call it a zero-gain bid that channels are showing the same program at least four times a week if not a day. They are selling &nbsp;commercial packages with schemes like buy one and get five free.</p>
<p>
	As the economy slims down to play &nbsp;the heroine of a big movie called &lsquo;New Nepal&rsquo;, many heroes are trending-up themselves. You must have seen the newspapers pictures of Min B Gurung rehearsing the act of shopping at his own Bhatbhateni stores, carrying a jute bag. Business tycoons like Golchhas and Jyotis are pictured practicing racing bikes, leaving luxury cars. Television clips show that leaders of proletarian parties are often in the public wearing Harrods suits and designed dresses. Looks like though finally we all are ready for &nbsp;a movie with Shakespearian tragedy, &nbsp;when this has a box-office success, Nepal will surely prosper.</p>',
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			'title' => 'Summer Market 2013',
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			'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) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '981',
			'article_category_id' => '57',
			'title' => 'Digital Signage Concept',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Srijal Bhattarai&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">The advertising industry in Nepal has foreseen minor changes in the past. The traditional mediums of mass coverage like television, newspaper and radio have always made us feel their presence in our daily life. When we talk about BTL activities, the first thing that comes to our mind are the flex stands and the hoarding boards spread across the country. There has been very little presence of digital outdoor mediums for communication in the past. As a pioneer in Digital Signage concept, which began from the year 2011 at BhatBhateni stores, Media Space Solutions have seen a few companies that are trying to promote this concept. This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.</span></p>
<p>
	Digital signage has a lot of meanings with significant features which is useful for advertisers as well as the audience. One of the main features of digital signage concept is that this is a totally software driven concept which helps in minimizing cost and save resources.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Media Space Solutions- A Brand</strong></p>
<p>
	As the first step in establishing the concept of digital signage, Media Space Solutions (MSS) empowers advertisers with the ability to reach consumers through digital signage networks. &nbsp;MSS is dedicated to providing highly effective digital advertising and digital signage network solutions as a complete integrator of electronic signage network technology and applications.</p>
<p>
	The purpose of establishing Media Space Solutions was to create various differentiated media spaces to cater all the advertising needs of our clients in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">The Innovative Platforms</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">1. Media Space Solutions ePoPM (MSS ePoPM)</span></strong></p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM network has been expanding since its first phase implementation at the BhatBhateni Super Markets Pvt Ltd in BhatBhateni and Maharajgunj in March 2011. MSS ePoPM digital signage solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital screens located at high visibility areas within the departmental store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital electronic posters located on high visibility areas within stores. This results in increase in sales and brand awareness by capitalizing on the key time in consumers purchase decision making process i.e. while in front of products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>2. MSS MicroMedia</strong></p>
<p>
	MSS Micro Media is a digital signage platform that extends the communication power of information in the form of audio visual content beyond television sets at home and delivers them to citizens of Kathmandu Valley in the most efficient manner while they are travelling.</p>
<p>
	This digital signage network of 60 screens targets a daily audience of approximately 30,000 commuters along six different routes spread across the Kathmandu Valley i.e. a total of 900,000 commuters every month. This network ensures compulsive viewership inside enclosed spaces and captive reception of the intended messages and information.</p>
<p>
	The MSS Micro Media digital signage platform displays audio video entertainment content in the form of music videos, informative programs, television commercials and awareness campaigns. MSS MicroMedia is a platform which has an integrated approach to deliver intended messages and communication material to and from various stakeholders: commuters, vehicle owners, vehicle operators, Nepal Police, Department of Transport as well as companies interested in promoting their products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">3. Sajha Media Space</strong></p>
<p>
	Sajha Media Space is an on-board Digital Entertainment and Advertising Network on the soon to be launched fleet of 16 Sajha Yatayat buses in Kathmandu Valley. This digital signage network consists of 16 High Definition 24 inch screens which will target a daily audience of approximately 25,000 commuters along two different routes intersecting at the heart of the capital i.e. a total of 750,000 commuters every month.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The consumer recall and ROI for advertisements aired on the Sajha Media Space network is higher than the same advertisements aired on television networks with national coverage considering the advertising tariffs of the two. This network of displays currently airs a wide range of entertainment content in the form of Music Videos, Stand-up Comedy, Social Messages and advertisements geared specifically towards commuters of Kathmandu Valley. Media Space intends to enhance the quality of travel experience on Sajha Yatayat buses.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	In order to be competitive in the advertising industry, various innovative ideas and platforms need to be implemented. These platforms will allow advertisers to reach their target audiences in an effective manner and will allow the intended message to be delivered appropriately. The government has already initiated the process of bringing down hoarding boards from the city and this will also play a vital role in such innovative concepts being implemented in future.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Digital Signage Concept, Srijal Bhattarai" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/brand_talk_may2013_digital_signage_concept(1).jpg" /></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The writer is MD of Media Space Solutions and currently pursuing M Phil in management from Kathmandu University (KUSOM).&nbsp;</span></p>',
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			'created' => '2013-05-20',
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			'description' => 'This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '980',
			'article_category_id' => '80',
			'title' => 'Learning Has To Go Much Beyond The Classroom',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
	Ace Institute of Management has completed more than a decade in the field of management education, which has now become the most aspiring career option for students.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">Learning has to go much beyond the classroom. This is the basic mantra of the institution and also what makes it different from other (growing numbers of) business schools across the country. The institution is probably best known for its teaching methodology, but it merely excels in producing not only good managers but also good human beings as well.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Ashish Tiwari, Director of the Institution, says, “The main focus of the institution is on imparting the practice oriented teaching methodology.” The institution has robust management courses ranging from BBA to Executive MBA. The college emphasizes the shaping of &nbsp;professionals who eventually will become successful, effective leaders.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Established in 1999, the institution has built a reputation of conscientious learning centre among &nbsp;students who want to pursue management courses. <span style="font-size: 12px;">Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.</span></p>
<p>
	The college has launched an Executive-MBA course for the first time in the country. The MBA programme has acquired a distinguished reputation for being the most rigorous and fulfilling experience. The undergraduate programmes, BBA and BBA-BI, are considered among the best in the country. Students completing undergraduate programmes in ACE are widely sought after in the job market, claims the institution. In a short span of four years Ace A-Level has distinguished itself from the crowd with its individual centered approach to learning and its focus on management and social sciences stream only.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tiwari adds, ‘These thirteen years have been extremely rewarding and we continue with our vision and commitment to value based management education which has strong relevance to real life. We are deeply committed to promoting a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders and entrepreneurs. We will continue to provide our students with opportunities to explore and develop their potential so that they can make their mark in whatever they do.”</p>
<p>
	“Learning Strategy of our institution is guided by our philosophy that each one of us learns differently and that no one’s approach is superior to another, we encourage students to take responsibility for their learning,” he added.</p>
<p>
	Teachers are encouraged to serve as facilitators, helping students learn rather than teach them.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">Educational methods such as lectures, small group exercises, management games, work projects, case studies and presentations are used. Computers, statistical kits and audio visual aids are also extensively used.</span></p>
<p>
	Lecture sessions are interactive and students are encouraged to participate using case analysis and presentations, reviews and feedback and project works involving studies of real organizations.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">The quality of students churns out year after year</span><span style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Facilities</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The learning environment at Ace Institute of Management is supported by facilities that provide comfort as well as easy access to information and knowledge. “Our computer laboratory is fully equipped and every student is provided with Internet access. Furthermore, the entire campus is Wi-Fi enabled facilitating Internet connection from anywhere,” &nbsp;says Tiwari. The library offers a wide range of magazines and journals and is currently well stocked with books related to the subjects covered during the degree. New publications are continuously being added to meet the demands of students. The library has also subscribed to a large range of management publications and &nbsp;journals. Participants in the programmes require an adequate knowledge of computing. The computer centre provides computing facilities to the students from 8:00a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day, except on Saturdays and Sundays. The computer centre also carries out non-credit courses for beginners. In addition, there is a canteen which offers high quality food and snacks at reasonable prices.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Management, ACE" height="377" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management.jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong>Academic Programmes</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		EMBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		BBA-BI Programme</li>
	<li>
		A-Level Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBAe Programme&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Vision</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Enhance the capacity of individuals and institutions in Nepal to contribute to the nation’s development</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Mission</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Promote a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders, and entrepreneurs</li>
	<li>
		Promote entrepreneurship and professionalism by assisting entrepreneurs and institutions in acquiring and managing resources effectively</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Philosophy</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		We believe that one can never learn enough. Learning is a life-long process</li>
	<li>
		We believe that knowledge is much more beneficial when accompanied by wisdom and humility</li>
	<li>
		We believe that each one of us learns differently and that no particular approach is superior to another</li>
	<li>
		We believe that every individual is capable of contributing towards a positive social synergy&nbsp;</li>
	<li>
		We believe that we achieve and accomplish more when we compete with self and cooperate with others</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Values</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Honesty in work</li>
	<li>
		Sincerity in relationships</li>
	<li>
		Respect for self and others</li>
	<li>
		Responsibility for one’s actions</li>
	<li>
		Learning from mistakes</li>
	<li>
		Care for resources</li>
	<li>
		Adherence to regulations</li>
	<li>
		Questioning spirit</li>
</ul>
<div>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Managment, ACE" height="244" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management(1).jpg" width="590" /></div>',
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	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '975',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘Orient Has A Very Big Potential In Nepal’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Ghurmeet Singh, vice president ,Orient Fans, New Business Age" height="275" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Ghurmeet_Singh_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries. Fans, small home appliances and lighting are some of the areas that are served by the division. In an interview with New Business Age, Singh shared his idea on the Nepali market for his products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What prospects do you see for your business in Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is a big market because like India, Nepal is also largely populated with the people who are not so rich. And therefore there is big prospect and market for fans, which is going to remain for long time. And we find that because of the electricity cost as well as the relevancy, fans will be the primary cooling devices for many people for long time. Secondly, brands from India have very good scope here because India and Nepal have worked hand in hand for a long time. And Orient as number two brand in India for many years now has a very big potential here. We were selling here some fans also in the past. Last year we joined hands with Premier Overseas, a part of Sharda Group, so that we can distribute our products more widely. And we are very sure that, with their vast experiences and networks, we get very good stage from here and we will serve the people of Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is said that Nepali people love Indian brands. What has been your perception?</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, that is why I said that Nepal and India have joined hands for a long time. Nepali and Indian people are more or less similar, buying habits are also similar and more importantly they are interested in Indian brands. And we will like to serve Nepali people as well.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are you plans for the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	It feels good to introducing our products in Nepali market. Initially we are launching fans and small home appliances and later we also plan for our lighting series and try to be number one in the respective market segments.</p>
<p>
	<strong>So what is your market position in India?</strong></p>
<p>
	In India, we are in number one for manufacturing and two for sales. And for exports, we are the undisputed leader with over 55 percent of shares. And we are already exporting to 30 countries and in US. &nbsp;Having our own manufacturing base, we are conscious about the parties and quality of our products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you compare the trend of using your products in Nepal with other South Asian countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	In most of the South Asian countries, people largely use portable fans. And in India and Nepal people mostly use ceiling fans. In India, 75 percent sales are in ceiling and 25 percent portable fans and it is almost same here in Nepal. &nbsp;And most of the South Asian countries use fans as primary cooling devices.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Why should the people choose your products?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are highly quality conscious manufacturers. Our products are energy efficient and continuously receiving exports excellence award and we are rated as ‘Star Performer’ by the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) of India. We pioneered the most famous patented revolutionary concept PSPO in 90’s. We have capacity of nearly 10 million fans per year and in terms of quality we have accomplished various standards and tests. And we have fulfilled each and every requirement in all different countries (where our fans are exported) and we are the only Indian brand to export to US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are your plans for beating the competition and about the future strategies?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are very lucky that there are very few top brands available here and the competition is very less. And we are very confident that if we are able to appeal the market with good products, good prices and good energy saving products then the competition is not there and then we don’t need much time to become number one. And the second part is if everybody around you is your better competitor then you have to produce better product to sustain yourself and it is all good for the consumer.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries.',
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			'id' => '974',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘The Customers Are Required To Get The Full Value For Their Money’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Koji Tanaka, vice president. Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Koji_Tanaka_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda. Recently, Syakar Trading Company, the authorized distributor of Honda Power Product launched the new EP 1000 and EG 1000 series of generators in Nepal and Tanaka was in Kathmandu in this connection. These new generators are small, portable and lighter compared to the previous generators. With the 4 Stroke technology, these models have some unique features like lesser fuel consumption (0.54ltr./ hr), more handling capacity (Rat. 750 VA), environmental friendly and available with decompression mechanism. Tanaka explained more in an interview with New Business Age.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What do you find interesting about your visit to Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Its been about three years that I have been living in Delhi. This is the first time that I got an opportunity to visit Nepal. Nepal is well known in Japan. There are many Japanese tourists who come here and many Japanese are also living here. Our purpose of visit is to study the potentiality of the Nepali market for Honda products. As on date, we are exposing two new products – Honda EG 10000 model and Honda EP 1000 model generator. We would also like to study the Nepali market for various Honda products and find areas to expand with 50 % partnership with Syakar group.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the brand value of Honda products in the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda Company is well reputed throughout the world for its quality products. Without Syakar Trading, it would be difficult to provide quality sales and service. It is not possible to expand in the market without their support. New customers can be treated with better goods and Syakar can provide the premium service towards customers in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How will the newly introduced Honda Spiel Power products affect the Nepali market? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are happy to find out that dealers from all over the country came to see the two new products. Comparatively, they are more fuel efficient. They consume upto 50% less fuel than the other former products. We are confident that we can expand the business of our products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What level of competition do you feel is present with regard to the products from Honda?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda has been selling motorcycles in Nepal for a long time. The major competition is from Bajaj. With regard to power products, Honda is still leading the market very much with help from Syakar Group. In Honda Philosophy, we do not compare ourselves with the competitors but instead compare us with ourselves. The customers are required to get the full value for their money. Honda owns 40% share of Nepali power products market. There are 69 dealers (branches and showrooms) of Honda products throughout Nepal. Honda products are so efficient that they are suitable for even above the altitude of 4000 meters from the sea level.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the future plans of Honda Company?</strong></p>
<p>
	We listen to customer’s voice. Upon receiving special requests, our R&amp;D (Research and Development) department develops these products. We come up with newer products. When we see the potentiality of a product in the market, we further investigate into it with help from the people at R&amp;D. After that, we check if there is a similar demand for such products in other regions as well. Only then, the new products will be developed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Are you launching any product targeting the agriculture sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	In 2010, we launched a more affordable 5 Hz power tiller in the market. But, currently it is not available in Nepal. With the decreasing number of farm workers, more tillers can be bought in order to do a more efficient agriculture. The process of mechanized agriculture is expanding. Many agricultural tools are also introduced through Honda’s factories in China. With the increasing demand from the consumers, lawn mowers, brush cutters, carriers etc can be introduced in Nepal. Honda’s motto is “Helping people get things done”. We do not limit ourselves to supplying generators only. When there is enough demand in the market, R&amp;D can make new concept products.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
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			'description' => 'Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda.',
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '973',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘We Do Not Want To Become Just A Marketing Company’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p style="">
	<img align="right" alt="Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Denis_Borisovsky_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world. “The company has a diverse range of clients which includes different sized brokers, top-tier banks and also their white labels partners, who are involved in electronic trading of various asset-classes,” informs Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT. In an interview with New Business Age during his recent visit to Nepal, Borisovsky talked about the company’s product Protrader 2 and market prospects of his company in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Protrader 2 and what are the scopes?</strong></p>
<p>
	Protrader 2 is our platform for trading forex, stocks, futures and other sectors. It is developed for technological brokers and for exchangers in the long run. We started the company about ten years ago and the product Protrader 2 is the result of these ten years. Under this brand, we cover technology products for multiple sectors then go to stock market. We cover trading activities from exchange to traders, money managers, hedge funds, brokers or participants in one technology. Our products are quite unique and there is uniqueness of technology as well. We are not brokers though. We stay independent from brokerage and provide technology to different brokers. We have so many trading technology companies to help the brokers. We import technologies from different countries and bring them to different markets.</p>
<p>
	<strong>You’ve had a diverse career, how did you get into financial trading technologies?</strong></p>
<p>
	I worked 20 years as a programmer. I entered many fields including voice recognition. I also served in various technological firms. And that was difficult. I wanted to do something different, more difficult and challenging. So, I decided to make charts by myself and I found some clients for it. Then I started trading technology for brokerage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Our company is not that big in terms of people, but in terms of symmetry and our experience, it is quite big. The number of people working in our Ukraine office is around 50-52 and it’s a very good team. We are also focusing our business in emerging economies like China and India. I have just come from India where we have opened up our office. In China, we have been deploying five people for local support. In Europe, we have an office in Ukraine. We already have an office in US. We are also eying Nepal as the political and investment environment are improving.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What makes your company successful?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	First of all, it is focused. It’s very important to focus in something and make it best from any point. &nbsp;Our focus is technology for trading. We have only one thought and that is how to make trading technology more advanced. You need to have focus and extension, but careful extension. And you should keep a very good level of integrity between the company and the clients. Integrity is a key factor in every company. After this, you should be very high target to go.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you pursue the use of trading technology in emerging countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	We come with technology. We don’t want to become a marketing company, that’s why we are looking to the very good partners who have same vision and same expectations in terms of time. Time expectations is very important. If someone is interested in one year, it is one story and if he is looking for ten years, it is another story. My company sees five to ten year forward. So, it is very important for us to find such partners, who have same philosophies and who uses technologies and wants to expand them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What types of trading applications are being demanded and successful these days?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are lots of technologies right now. But, the main problem is that sometime these do not work in particular circumstances and market. And sometimes it is not useful to the market. So, it is very important to understand local market. &nbsp;It is the task of local partner which maintains adjustment to it. The local partner has to listen to the people, think about not only about making something but in terms of technology which could work in your market. We make customization, which is very important is putting many markets within one platform. And we have to make such things, which is already in demand.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you recall some the challenges you faced during automating stock exchanges and commodity exchanges?</strong></p>
<p>
	Every country is very different. In terms of brokers, more or less everybody has common techniques and it is quite similar. But, in terms of challenges it is totally different. The challenges in US are very different and more developed. And it is also challenging because lots of local participants are there. By the way, Nepal is more advanced. Nepal has seen changes in stock market for more than 20 years while it’s been five years for Ukraine. I mean the number of all types of market participants and functionalists is much lower.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the difference between brokerage automation and exchange automation?</strong></p>
<p>
	Exchange automation is of course a very complex process. We should work on different levels. It needs one to three years to implement and to make it work too. Brokerage automation process takes many years and is difficult as well. We need cooperation mostly from technology and some management level of companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How can you prove Protrader is better for the success of traders?</strong></p>
<p>
	We always cooperate with traders. We think the most important clients for us are the traders. We get their feedback. And we want them to be involved more. Usually we communicate with brokers and they provide us feedback from traders. If we get lots of feedback, we could pick up fast. Protrader is one of the most functionally useful software.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you please tell us about PFSoft’s future roadmap?</strong></p>
<p>
	We have a plan to promote ourselves. Because in 10 years we mostly worked with brokers, which was much time itself. We believe now technology is one of the best necessities. We will extend our promotion to we will customize the platform. Social trading concerns are new market plans.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Based on your vast experience of establishing ecosystem of trading business in developed and developing countries, what do you think about how countries like Nepal can benefit from trading business?</strong></p>
<p>
	“PFSoft and Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd have mutually agreed to develop a full-fledged commodity exchange system for Nepal. PFSoft is ready to customize the Information Technology required for Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal and it is great opportunity for us to have a partnership with Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd. We are making evolution of scalable trading solution of local products produced in Nepal, and we want to integrate that trading to global market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The trading is important in developing countries. Right now for trading to sustain, the political and economic system favor for that. But at the same time, financial system too should help the country’s economic growth.</p>',
			'published' => true,
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			'description' => 'PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world.',
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '972',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => 'Nepali Tea Gets 3 New Destinations',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Nepal Tea, Illam, New Business Age" height="356" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_economy_tea.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p>
	Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association. He further informed that the tea is currently being exported to these places as a test. “We are planning to commercially export within a month,” he said. Nepali organic tea is currently exported to Germany, France, Czech Republic, Japan and some other countries.</p>
<p>
	Under the testing phase, four tea industries are exporting around seven quintals of tea monthly. &nbsp;Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers, Gorkha Tea Estate and Guranse Tea Estate are exporting organic tea commercially. Mainali also shared that business representatives of respective countries are planning to visit Nepal for observation of Nepali tea industry. According to Mainali, all tea industries established for organic tea production still do not possess organic certificate. Countries like the USA, Japan and Australia among others have been providing certification. The association said that 16 industries are currently in the line of producing organic tea while only four industries have received organic certification. According to Mainali, in order to acquire organic certification, one industry must add about Rs 1.5 to 2 million investment. This year, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers acquired ‘organic certification’, said Mainali, who is also the Director of the company. Previously, Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Gorkha Tea State and Guranse Tea Estate had acquired organic certification.</p>
<p>
	‘A’ grade tea produced in Nepal is exported to third countries. The Association has informed that 300,000 kg of organic certified tea is produced annually in Nepal. “The demand for such tea in abroad is still high,” Mainali said. He further added, “Nepali companies are not being able to produce tea to meet the demand.” Tea industrialists say highly advanced technologies and skills are required for organic tea production in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<div>
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
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			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '971',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => '21 Banks Subscribe To Thomson Reuters',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Thomsom Reuters, New Business Age" height="181" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_banking_thomson_reuters.jpg" width="338" /></p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX). This enables trading professionals to connect with one another, hold conversations about different FX products and prices, as well as conduct FX transactions.</p>
<p>
	According to the official press release issued by TR, this event will mark that the Nepali rupee trades on a global trading platform alongside major international currencies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The start of the dealing platform marks a move towards the automation in management of foreign exchange reserve in Nepal. It provides the Nepali banking sector with easy access to multiple counterparts at a time and helps to grasp the opportunities arising from changes in international financial markets. This will also maximize the efficiency of our people working in forex reserve management,” said Dr. Y.R. Khatiwada, Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank who officiated at a ceremony marking the occasion with the Nepal Bankers’ Association and the Foreign Exchange Dealers Association of Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Thomson Reuters Dealing serves the world’s largest professional trading community and we are delighted to welcome these 21 Nepalese banks into that community,” said Sriram Ramnarayan, Vice President for Financial and Risk South Asia at Thomson Reuters. “This represents a new era in transparency, efficiency and automation in the way trades are executed in Nepal. The availability of real-time pricing information and automated trading processes will open up new opportunities for Nepal’s banks and enable them to tap into the global FX markets - the largest financial market in the world.”</p>
<p>
	Used by more than 18,000 trading professionals globally in more than 5,000 organisations across 120 countries, Thomson Reuters Dealing is the industry standard for FX trading professionals for price discovery, trade execution and seamless integration with back office processes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters has had a presence in Nepal for more than a decade working closely with the financial industry and the banking community and is the leading international financial provider to operate in the country in association with Nepal’s ICTC Group.</p>
<div>
	 </div>',
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
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			'description' => 'Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX).',
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			'title' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited',
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	 </p>
<p>
	Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga. The Bank already has branches in western region of Nepal in Butwal, Bhairahawa, Palpa, Krishnagar, Damauli, and Walling. NIBL at present has over 500,000 customers, 68 ATM networks and one extension counter. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>',
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
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			'description' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga.',
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			'id' => '986',
			'article_category_id' => '73',
			'title' => 'Enhancing  Livelihood The NEAT Way',
			'sub_title' => '',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">When the landless and marginalised communities did not have neither land nor crops in their farmland, they probably did not have other option than blaming their ‘bad fortune.’ USAID Nepal’s project, named Nepal Economic, Agriculture, and Trade (NEAT), has become a partner in ensuring food security and increasing financial access in Banke and Bardiya districts.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	With the support of the project, farmers across 14 districts now have different crops that are not only ensuring the food security of small farmers but also being a handsome source of income.</p>
<p>
	Farmers have now &nbsp;gained skills, knowledge and access to the market. According to Phillip C Broughton, Chief of Party of the NEAT, when these conditions take place the impact of a project is there to stay. However, Hari Lal Dhakal, farmer of Vaishashur of Deudakala VDC, is not confident regarding the economic future of farmers &nbsp;like him, once the project comes to an end.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The project, which began on December 2010, has been working in order to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, increase food security and improve people’s lives in Nepal. According to the NEAT, the project’s objective to enhance economic opportunities and food security is divided into strengthening economic policies, increasing competitiveness of selected sector, enhancing food security and increasing access to microfinance services.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Food Security</strong></p>
<p>
	The NEAT has been working with disadvantaged households that have been facing food insecurity. Though some of the donor driven projects seem to have fuelled dependency syndrome on recipients, NEAT has worked with a model to make farmers independent. According to USAID, the NEAT has enrolled farmers in phases, reducing the support on each phase and, therefore, making farmers self dependent with the knowledge, skills and market knowhow.</p>
<p>
	Since the NEAT began intervening farmers across several districts, they have adopted profit making crops instead of the traditional crops they were habituated. Tharu community of Motipur VDC in Bardiya is now involved in vegetables farming such as cabbage, cauliflower and cucumber, along with staple crops like paddy and wheat. Women in the community are now not only financially capable but also socially active. Radhika Chaudhary, a local farmer says, “We are now able to express our voice and actively participating in the self help groups.” &nbsp;Most of the households living in the area were dependent on either subsistence farming of staple food crops or labour work.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	In the Motipur village, farmers now are making around Rs 100,000 to 150,000 per year depending upon the size of farmlands. Rajendra Sahu, Food Security Manager of the NEAT, said that one person makes Rs 30,000 in a season on average from cauliflower and Rs 40,000 from cucumbers in an area of three katthas of land. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	With the increased income, Jagat Pyari, one of the exemplary farmers of Deudakala VDC, has added five katthas of land with the income made from her farmland. Along with 1.5 bighas of land of her own, she is also leasing two bighas of land and cultivating vegetables and cucumber along with crops like paddy and maize. With the increasing income level, farmers have also started sending children to schools. There are around 50 landless households who now &nbsp;farm either leasing or owning the land..&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Similarly, in Vaishasur village, onion block of Deudakala VDC &nbsp; there are 17 agricultural groups. In these groups, 278 &nbsp;members are female and the remaining 104 are males. They farm onion, beans, cucumber and cauliflower. According to Kewal Singh Chaudhary, Field Technician, every group is involved in cultivation of four crops.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhim Bahadur Khatri, a returnee migrant worker of Saudi Arabia now regrets going abroad where he could not earn a good income. But now, working in his farmland, is making Rs 50,000 every six months and is building a house for his family. He says that he did not even make Rs 100,000 in three years working in Saudi Arabia. “I will never go abroad. When I am happy earning from home, why would I go there?” he said.</p>
<p>
	Although the agricultural policies prescribed by donors are said to be failing in Nepal. The attempt made by the NEAT project seems fruitful so far. Beneficiaries of the project, low scale farmers in Bardia and Banke district, are happy that NEAT was there to provide them support and lead them to be self sustaining on food and financial security.</p>
<p>
	According to the USAID, so far 71,342 households have benefitted from the USAID NEAT. Similarly, farmers’ sales have increased by US $ 85.44 million within one year working with NEAT. Likewise, 9,212 hectares lands are under improved management practices across the country. The NEAT also provided food security productivity trainings to local farmers and also linked food security farmers with input suppliers, collection centres, traders and micro finance institutions. Moreover, the project also equipped farmers with irrigation facilities and supplied tools and labours to complete the irrigation schemes. According to the official records of the NEAT, 1,203 irrigation systems were installed covering 2,567 hectares.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Financial Services</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is said to have around 80 percent of its population away from access to formal financial services. However, with the launching of cashless mobile banking services, people in rural areas with access to mobile telephony can now enjoy the banking services from their mobile phones. These services were launched after NEAT organized a summit in Kathmandu to address this issue.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Ramesh Kumar Chaudhary, resident of Thakurdwara VDC of Bardiya, is working as an agent of Laxmi Bank’s Hello Paisa initiative. He now has 160 customers from the village and registers a daily transaction of up to Rs 200,000. He is satisfied to see happy consumers who send and receive money from cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara and Nepalgunj. Before he provided mobile banking services, locals had to go to Bhurigaun, which is about 25 kilometres far away from the village.</p>
<p>
	Chaudhary is the first agent in the area. He says that a person is allowed to make a transaction of Rs 50,000 per day but only up to a limit of Rs 500,000 , as he is only given authority of that limit. Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, a customer, says that the availability of Hello Paisa agent in the village has helped him save time and cost to travel all the way to a nearest bank. “In that time, I can indulge in my own business,” said Bhattarai.</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">Lentils enhance income sources</strong></p>
<p>
	Lentil farming under the competitiveness element of the NEAT has helped in increasing the yield of lentil crops by more than 50 per cent over baseline, according to the NEAT. Nepali lentil is finding its market in Bangladesh. Broughton says that the NEAT has also worked on bridging the gap between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Dharma Prasad Pandey, Senior Programme Officer of FORWARD , there are 18 groups operating alone in Sanoshree VDC in lentil farming and a few more will be &nbsp;formed soon. He revealed that NEAT provided an assistance of Rs 50 million to the FORWARD.</p>
<p>
	Farmers think that they have now skills to be efficient and produce more. The productivity has increased by up to 35 per cent. Also, they are getting better prices for their products mainly because &nbsp;of the skills they have gained for grading &nbsp; of lentil grains and also because the collection centre pays a good price to them. In the past, farmers used to take their products to nearby markets such as Kohalpur but now buyers come to the village to purchase the production.</p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><strong>LEADER SPEAK</strong></span></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Phillip C. Broughton, Development Partner" height="253" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/development_partner_vol3_14_neat_phillip.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" /><strong>‘We had several noteworthy&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">accomplishments in all project areas’</span></strong></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong><em><br />
	</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>- Phillip C. Broughton</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Chief of Party, USAID Nepal Economic,&nbsp;</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><em>Agriculture and Trade (NEAT) Activity</em></strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
	</span></p>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	 </div>
<div>
	<div>
		<strong>NEAT project is almost coming to an end. How do you evaluate the success of the project?</strong></div>
	<div>
		NEAT is a broad project that aims to increase economic opportunities and enhance food security. We work in different sectors including agriculture, microfinance, and policy. For each of the components of NEAT, there are different indicators of success. In the agriculture component, we are looking to sustainably improve food security and resilience and increase income and competitiveness. In the microfinance component we are looking at enhancing access to financial services for disadvantaged populations and increasing the incomes of micro-entrepreneurs. We especially want to see more people having access to financial services in the rural area. Under our policy component, we are working with both the public and private sectors to improve the business and policy environment. At the policy level we are supporting improvements in trade, investment, and agriculture. In addition, we support fiscal policy improvements to improve the government’s ability to finance its budget.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Among various components which one do you think was the most successful one?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Well, I don’t think one is more successful than the others. This project is relatively short in nature, 32 months. Even though it is short, we have had great many accomplishments in all project areas. For example agriculture sales of project beneficiaries are significantly up over baseline figures. The number of rural households with access to financial services is increasing and in many cases through innovative outreach strategies such as mobile banking. And on the policy front, we have worked with the government and the private sector on more 35 different policies, 6 of which have already been implemented and many more are ready to be implemented once the new government is in place. We are very pleased with our progress and, even though this project is short, it is part of USAID’s long term strategy so our successful work will continue.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>Trade is also one of the components of the NEAT. What are the achievements on this front?</strong></div>
	<div>
		In the trade area, we work on different levels – we have supported government and the private sector in analyzing trade issues with India and China, to identify issues that should be taken to the negotiating table to improve Nepal’s trading environment. We’ve supported government to look at transit issues given the cost of transporting cargo in and out of Nepal, and we’ve supported capacity building within the government related to trade, including on trade analysis and negotiation. At the operational level, we are helping to improve competitiveness and market access for tea, ginger and lentil. For example, with lentil, Bangladesh is the primary market. We are identifying ways to strengthen the relationship between Nepali sellers and Bangladeshi buyers. And we are also analyzing alternative markets so that Nepal’s lentil sector is not so dependent on Bangladesh.</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How do you view the sustainability of these projects?</strong></div>
	<div>
		Sustainability is a key objective for us in all project areas. For example, under our food security component we work with over 28,000 beneficiaries. We provide training over 4 to 5 crop cycles, we help establish channels for high quality inputs, and we facilitate market access. 94 per cent of project beneficiaries said they now have access to high quality inputs, up from 21 per cent before the project started. 92 per cent of project beneficiaries are confident they have a market to sell their products in, up from just 50 per cent before the project started. Once project beneficiaries have skills and continuing access to inputs and markets, these won’t just go away. These are key factors in the sustainability of our food security work.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>How long would it take to multiply the good impacts of NEAT to reach to the extent of import substitution?&nbsp;</strong></div>
	<div>
		Around 70 per cent of onions consumed in Nepal are imported from India. Given the market potential for Nepali grown onions, this season NEAT food security beneficiaries grew onions on more that 700 hectares of land and they have made very good income. We train farmers how to identify market opportunities. With import substitution, if there is opportunity to make money, farmers are going to do that. This is happening. We see it with onion and we see it with other commodities such as maize for the feed business.&nbsp;</div>
	<div>
		 </div>
	<div>
		<strong>A new project KISAN is being launched soon by USAID. How will this project give continuity to the activities of NEAT?</strong></div>
	<div>
		KISAN is working in many of the same districts as NEAT. They started just a few weeks ago yet we have already had several information sharing meetings. It is very important to USAID, NEAT, and KISAN that KISAN takes advantage of the experience gained by previous USAID projects and activities such as NEAT, NFRP, and EIG as well as other donor, government and private sector initiatives.&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<div>
	 </div>',
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			'keywords' => 'Enhancing  Livelihood The NEAT Way, Development Partner, New Business Age',
			'description' => 'With the support of USAID NEAT, farmers across 14 districts now have different crops that are not only ensuring the food security of small farmers 
but also being a handsome source of income.',
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			'title' => 'Will South Asia Change  For The Better In Next One Year?',
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			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Prof Ujjwal K Chowdhury</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Impending Elections</strong></p>
<p>
	General Elections are due in Pakistan in May 2013, being discussed for June 2013 in Nepal, are expected in late this year in Bangladesh and Maldives, and are scheduled for early 2014 in India (which can be preponed) and are in 2015 in Sri Lanka (which also can be preponed in the light of intense internal conflicts between Buddhist Sinhalese majority and Tamil Hindu and Muslim Sinhalese minorities).</p>
<p>
	Hence, within next 12 to 15 months, South Asia is surely up for a different scenario, hopefully qualitatively different too from what it is now.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Scenario Today</strong></p>
<p>
	The largest nation of the region, India, is virtually plagued with policy paralysis for quite some time now, the ruling dispensation facing serious corruption charges and being at the mercy of belligerent allies. With rise of Modi within BJP polarizing the electorate, and larger states of India being ruled by regional forces, the political scenario is ambiguous just now. The ensuing elections to state assemblies in Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan will throw some light on the political finals of General Elections.</p>
<p>
	Pakistan, for quite some time, has been an ungoverned and ungovernable state with terrorist and radical Islamic forces controlling certain parts of the country, youth force behind an aggressive political posturing by Imran Khan and his Tehreeq-E-Insaaf Party, anti-corruption movement led by the Pakistani crusader Muhammad Tahir ul Qadri being on, Nawaz Sharief’s Muslim League threatened as former military strongman Pervez Musharraf returns to activate his similarly positioned All Pakistan Muslim League, and ruling PPP plagued with corruption and incompetence, with army no signs of relenting ‘real power’ to the democratically elected forces.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Sri Lanka is moving from one round of ethnic cleansing of Tamil Hindus to another round, and this time of Sinhalese Muslims. Majority Buddhist Sinhalese nationalism is on the rise and doubts are being expressed about the survival of multi-party and multi-ethnic secular democracy in that country.</p>
<p>
	Bangladesh is in the throes of a bitter conflict between radical Islamists and Islamic political forces, represented by BNP-Jamaat alliance on one side and the liberal Awami League and left wing forces on the other, with the ruling Awami League floundering at every step. The conflict has permeated into culture, media, places of worship, street fights, rallies, violence, et al, and recent violence before and after Shahbaug protests by the secularists has taken more than 80 lives so far.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Birendra International Convention Center, BICC, South Asia" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_bicc.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" />Nepal is in its stage of political indecisiveness just now, having put in place an electoral government led by the sitting Chief Justice and some bureaucrats as ministers, but no election date and proper Election Commission still in place.</p>
<p>
	Maldives is divided bitterly, akin to Bangladesh, between the ruling Islamic political forces led by current President Mohamed Waheed Hussain Manik and the opposing liberal secular forces of former President Mohamed Nausheed, with India intervening on behalf of Nausheed recently. The difference is, unlike Bangladesh, the Islamic political forces are ruling Maldives ousting the democratically elected Nausheed’s government in a bloodless coup.</p>
<p>
	In effect, South Asia today is completely in a state of flux and uncertainty and the next 15 months are expected to ascertain the contours of the region for the next half a decade or more.</p>
<p>
	<strong>India@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Narendra Modi, BJP, South Asia" height="236" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_narendra_modi.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="350" />For the first time in a decade, India’s GDP growth has come below 5% in a year from as high as 9% a few years back. Price-rise, corruption, civil society activism, regional forces, discontent with the Centre: all have been on the rise unabated across the last three years, and larger part of the thinking-talking-arguing middle class is sure that Congress led UPA is sure to be defeated in the next election, and may even prepone the polls to avoid complete washout.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	BJP has turned backwards, bringing to the fore all Hindutva radical faces like Uma Bharati, Vinay Katiyar, Varun Gandhi, Amit Shah, Kalyan Singh and expecting to blend this majority-ism with the good governance record and personal charisma of Narendra Modi along with pro-farmer approach of Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh on Land Acquisition Bill, and create an infallible force to win 200 seats in some 545 member Lok Sabha, and then manage to come to power with old (Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, etc) and new (AIADMK, TDP, etc) allies.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pakistan@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	<img alt="Imran Khan, South Asia" height="242" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/south_asia_May2013_imran_khan.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="350" />If you talk to youths on the streets of Karachi or Islamabad, Imran Khan is all set to make a thundering entry into power as the next PM of Pakistan. If you talk to the people in 40s and 50s, they are confused. Surely they expect PPP to be defeated after a spate of poor governance, but Musharraf and Nawaz Sharief battling for the rightist votes will only brighten prospects of PPP unless Imran Khan really makes the tide of the youths into that of the nation.</p>
<p>
	<strong><br />
	</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>Maldives and Bangladesh@2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Free and fair elections in these countries and tacit role of India may ensure liberal forces of Nausheed in Maldives and Sheikh Haseena in Bangladesh to once again win. However, mobilization of the rural masses and Arabs funded radical Islamic forces may turn the apple-curt and retain power in Male and capture it in Dhaka.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Sri Lanka@2015</strong></p>
<p>
	Given the fact that the army stands solidly behind President Rajapakshye and the international community has limited role in the internal affairs of the island nation, while India’s role is curbed due to growing SL-China relations, the current rulers are expected to bulldoze all opposition and retain power in Colombo whenever the elections are conducted there.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepal@2014:</strong></p>
<p>
	The biggest question first is whether the elections will be held, if not in June, at least within November next, and if a popularly elected Constituent Assembly and thereby the government will come to power. Second, if elections are being held, whenever, whether they will be free and fair. Then, after elections, if at all any political force or coalition gets clear majority. Given the situation on ground today, ruling Maoists along with their Madhesi allies may be the largest political bloc, short of majority, while the rest of the opposition, together though a majority, may never come as a single bloc. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Alternative Scenario in South Asia by 2014</strong></p>
<p>
	Politics is the art of the impossible and science of changing human behaviour. So, there could be another scenario, come 2014.</p>
<p>
	Narendra Modi led BJP may enthuse the party and voters in a large number of states partly on development agenda and partly on nationalistic slogans and come to power in India with a clear majority (also with minor support from known allies). Nausheed captures power in Maldives and Haseena retains the same in Bangladesh with clear majority again. A Sinhalese opposition leader (e.g. former army chief Sharath Fonseka) with support of India, Tamils, Muslims and a part of Sinhalese people, captures power in a preponed elections in SL in 2014. Maoists-Madheshis get clear majority in CA and government in Nepal. Imran Khan does the apparently impossible feat of coming to power in Pakistan riding a wave of youth support.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	If this scenario happens and with comfortable majorities in each of these South Asian nations, which is also a probable scenario which, therefore, ensures 5 years of undeterred decision governance, the region may see the realization of its economic potentials.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Economic Potentials</strong></p>
<p>
	India has huge trading potentials in the region, hampered by regional skirmishes and conflicts, which can reduce if the alternative scenario above happens. Look East Policy will help India develop international trade and commerce with Bangladesh, Burma and Nepal to the benefit of all. Destructive competition on jute and agro-based products between India and Bangladesh can be reduced.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tourism in Maldives and Nepal can get a major fillip with peace and liberal regimes coming in these nations. In fact, Indian tourism has much more potentials with liberal visa regimes with Pakistan and Bangladesh as well.</p>
<p>
	Textiles, automobiles, food-grains et al can be traded cheaper, better, faster within the region with political stability returning. Foreign Direct Investments within the region can sharply increase as well with right welcoming policies in place in these countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Movement of students, cheaper educational options in the region, and regional cooperation on skills development will be another major area of development.</p>
<p>
	Energy Security in South Asia is bound to increase with Nepal’s huge hydro-power potentials being realized more and India’s immense solar power possibilities explore further (which anyway is a pet project of Narendra Modi).</p>
<p>
	Indo-Pak economic relations are with immense benefits to both the nations. India gets oil from Iran with stress and high costs due to non-cooperation from Pakistan and Pakistan imports several items of daily use and infra-structural growth from the West at a much higher costs than what it can get from India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The entire region needs a tremendous infra-structural push, banking and investments development, rise of social entrepreneurship, and value addition to their agricultural produce. In each of these areas, the South Asian nations have a lot to share if they learn to look at each other positively.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	Change is the spice of life. Irrespective of whether the status quo looks insurmountable, we must look at possibilities positively. South Asia has one-fifths of the world’s population, rich heritage and is the birth-place of Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Hinduism and various forms of animism. South Asia has world’s largest water-resource, highest peaks, longest coastal range, huge solar power reserves. South Asia’s demographic is the youngest in the world, a large number of them being English educated, IT savvy, secular, and democratic in attitude.</p>
<p>
	Mutually cooperative South Asia has a much larger dividend than the current region marred with conflicts and tensions.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The author is former Dean of Symbiosis International University and President of the advisory board at Whistling Woods School of Communication, Mumbai.</span></p>',
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			'description' => 'Within next 12 to 15 months, South Asia is surely up 
for a different scenario, hopefully qualitatively different too from what it is now.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '983',
			'article_category_id' => '42',
			'title' => 'Cooled Down By Profit Booking',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	Profit booking in different sectors persists now after the warming up of the secondary market for some time in the recent past. This follows nearly two years of down market. Investors started securing their positions as the Nepse index tested its level near 550. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Objection of the smaller political parties after the formation of the new government has also dragged the market down. Different protest programs from the small parties pulled the sentiments in a few sessions.</p>
<p>
	During the review period CDS and Clearing Ltd started its operation for digital clearing and settlement. Currently there are seven Depository Participants (DP) who can facilitate opening of demat accounts. Similarly, 6 out of 226 listed companies have signed for dematerialization of&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">their shares.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Full-fledged digital operation will facilitate quick transfer and settlement process. Similarly, right issue, voting and other matters can also be flashed on screen increasing the trade turnover rate.</p>
<p>
	Around eight companies have lodged application with Securities Board of Nepal for permission to issue an &nbsp;initial public offering(IPO). The combined weight of these applications is Rs 1.45 billion. Hence it is sure to increase the flow of share in the market while the direction of the market will be framed also by the upcoming quarterly financial reports.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Performance by Sector</strong></p>
<p>
	Banking sector with significant volume of trade in local exchange slipped 16.78 points or 3.21% to rest at 522.12. Others sector with heavy concentration of NTC plummeted 39.94 points or 5.96% to settle at 669.68. Hotels sector lost 13.59 points followed by 13.08 points down in hydropower sector to 649.99 and 1029.48 respectively. Development bank descended 7.13 points to close at 248.78 while the finance sector receded 4.01 points or 1.59% to 251.55. However, insurance sub-index accelerated 10.77 points or 1.21% to rest at 888.68.The manufacturing sector surged 4.88 points or 0.58% to settle at 840.23</p>
<p>
	Sensitive index that measures the performance of 120 blue chips at the secondary market plunged 4 points or 3.04% to 131.47 while the float index calculated on the basis of real transactions went downhill 0.86 points or 2.34% to 36.71. Total of Rs. 1,711,318,453 turnover was realized during the review period from 6,534,271 units of shares traded via 23,595 transactions.</p>
<p>
	The accompanying figure depicts the sector-wise distribution based on the total volume of trade. The commercial banking sector accumulated 75.08% of total volume of trade. The hydropower sector occupied 7.63% followed by the insurance sector with 7.16% while remaining sectors covered the rest.</p>
<p>
	Technically, the Simple Moving Average (SMA) shows stationary movement in short term as both Nepse index and 30 days SMA are moving flat. Persistent sell-off in this level can trigger upside correction. However, high volatility is not expected.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong>Review for 17 Mar to 16 Apr, 2013</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Sectorwise Distribution, Stock Taking" height="497" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_sectorwise_distribution.jpg" width="430" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Market Trend, Stock Taking" height="404" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_market_trend.jpg" width="442" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<span style="color:#00f;"><strong><img alt="Movement In Indices, Stock Taking" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/may2013_stock_taking_movement_in_indices.jpg" /><br />
	</strong></span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:10px;">Chitrakar is a Stock Analyst with Jamb Technologies Pvt Ltd.</span></strong></p>',
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			'description' => 'The secondary market of Nepal bid farewell to the year 2069 on a sweet note. However, profit booking cooled down the market a bit. The benchmark Nepse index descended 14.41 points or 2.77% to settle at 520.69 while the session’s high was on 17 March with 535.10 and lowest on 31 March with 511.45.',
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			'title' => 'From Led Zeppelin To Yoga Vasistha',
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	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">By Sujan Tiwari</strong></p>
<p>
	Shashi Ram Bhandary, CEO of Kathmandu Housing and Leasing Company and Nirvana Country Club Health and Golf Resort in Dharan vividly remembers his first summer job while studying in the US. Working in the kitchen of the Marriott Hotel, he had a tough time cutting onions for a few hours, with tears in his eyes. That was when he was noticed by a Manager in the hotel and taught him how to cut onions without hurting the eyes, by soaking the onions in water for some time before cutting them. He told Bhandary that there were two ways to do anything, the right way and the wrong way. “This was the lesson I learnt for life, that things should be done the right way, and it didn’t just apply to onions,” says Bhandary.</p>
<p>
	When he was in Nepal for a vacation once, he went to &nbsp;the coffee shop in Annapurna Hotel and he wasn’t satisfied with the service there. So he left a note saying ‘the service wasn’t up to par’. &nbsp;To his surprise, he was called the very next day by the hotel and was offered a job. He didn’t want to join at first as he was on a vacation, but finally accepted the offer. “I took the job as a challenge. I was hired as Assistant Food and Beverage Manager. I worked there for two years,” recollects Bhandary. But he wasn’t going to be satisfied with a job in a hotel; he had other plans in the back of his head.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Once he went trekking to Upper Manang and realized the shortage of food and supplies there. That was the moment that decided his life. He came up with an ambitious plan of designing a hotel that was self sustained, with its own food and energy production. “I dreamt of a hotel that was dependent upon only a few products from outside. I thought of producing vegetables, rearing cows for dairy products and manure for energy and fertilizers,” says Bhandary. He wanted to experiment with the idea, the idea of a self sustainable hotel. Nirvana Country Club is the result of the same model. It has its own farm, a dairy and has the largest bio-gas plant in eastern Nepal. About 30 per cent of the required energy is produced by the Resort itself. It also produces dairy products like cream and butter, organic herbs and vegetables.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	But Nirvana Country Club was nothing like it is today when Bhandary first acquired the property back in 2000. When he bought the property, he says it was in complete ruins, with land, some structures and a pasture that is now the golf course of Nirvana. &nbsp;To start with, Bhandary brought some consultants from India. After their survey, he was advised not to start the project as the consultants didn’t find &nbsp;the land feasible. “The property was in a very bad condition, it didn’t meet the needed threshold. Also, there were not enough flights to Dharan back then. But I had a gut feeling, and I took the challenge against all odds. Today I am so glad that I took the challenge despite the adversities,” says Bhandary proudly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	He started by literally sweeping the place clean. He renovated the structures, built the walls and developed the golf course. At present, Nirvana Country Club has a dairy with 50 cows, a 19\8 hole golf course, multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool, offers tennis and squash, provides yoga and meditation among other services. Also, there are 20 well furnished air conditioned bungalows with living, dining, kitchen and three bedrooms each. “In the last 12 years, I have entirely transformed the place from what it initially was. It is a complete turnaround,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Early Life</strong></p>
<p>
	Born in Kamaladi, Kathmandu in 1962 to Suna Bhandary and Late Banshi Ram Bhandary, he had five elder sisters before him. Bhandary says he was one of the first Nepali students to go to Lincoln School. He remembers cycling all around the valley with his friends, most of &nbsp;whom were from other countries. “I enjoyed a childhood without any worries as my family was quite well off. Everything was provided for us. I was lucky to be born in a big joint family with a good reputation and background. Bhandarys of Kamaldi were known by all in Kathmandu,” says Bhandary. Bhandary studied in Lincoln School from Kindergarten to 8th grade, and did his SLC from Anandakuti School. After that, he went to US for his further studies, he joined Gaithersburg High School in Maryland and graduated from high school there. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	After completing high school, he started working for Marriott Hotel as a summer job, as all the students in the US worked in summers. “I actually didn’t need to work for money, but I followed the American tradition. I was living with relatives at that time. I wanted to be independent, so I moved out and started to work,” remembers Bhandary. He says he worked right from the bottom, doing dishes and &nbsp;other forms of lowly work. Later, he became a supervisor and finally a manager in Marriott Hawaii. He worked for Marriott for seven years and later did his graduation in Hotel Management from US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Has was sent to US by his family to study medicine, but he loved dealing with people and loved service business. After his first summer job, he ended up studying hotel management. He didn’t reveal this to his family at first and so had to earn his own money. Bhandary believes this decision made him independent as he started working. “I didn’t have any specific aim, but I wanted to fly planes as a child, and I still want to,” says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Family</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary married with Kalpana Bhandary at the age of 21. Once when he was in Pokhara, he caught the eyes of Kalpana on a boat, and says he was instantly attracted to her. He went home and told his mother about the girl he saw, and their family arranged the rest. They met and got along well, and eventually got married. “My marriage was the biggest turning point in my life. I felt more responsible after I got married,” says Bhandary. Kalpana Bhandary is now the MD of Nirvana Country Club. According to Bhandary, he really wanted to be together with his spouse, and he kept her together, even at work. The couple has been blessed with two sons Rishikesh and Raghu.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Personal Side</strong></p>
<p>
	As a youngster, Bhandary grew up listening to rock bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and The Who. Now, he says he wants to spend time quietly.Inside, Bhandary says he is a very spiritual person, and loves to read, especially books &nbsp;about spiritual development. “Lately, I want to uncover the spiritual side of my own self. I want to know what my purpose in the world is, and I try to figure it out through meditation. I really want to be at peace,” he says. Bhandary is also a disciple of Shankaracharya. As he was brought up in a religious family, he liked to listen to prabachans religious-philosophical discourse as a child. “I found the words of wise men interesting from the beginning. After I read Yoga Vasistha, it completely turned around my life. It taught me that everything that exists is an illusion, and everything else is the working of mind. I was so influenced by it and entered into spirituality. Then, I started to look at life from a spiritual point of view, says Bhandary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Pastime</strong></p>
<p>
	Bhandary &nbsp;has been an avid animal lover since his childhood, and owns eight Tibetan mastiffs and one Alsatian, has a few barking deers in his farm and keeps his Japanese Spitz Casper with him wherever he goes. He drinks very rarely, as he says it disturbs the spiritual balance. Whenever free, Bhandary likes to cook and equally enjoys eating, and loves Khichadi, his all time favourite food. He lives mostly in Dharan, and travels frequently. His hobbies include playing golf, going for long drives and travelling. He says he is outside the country at least once a month, and has been to US, India, Europe, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Bhandary believes one needs to be determined and has to possess a will-do attitude to succeed. “One has to be commanding and friendly at the same time, has to have a balance of both. Also, we should be able to bring out the good in people,” he says. Bhandary says he is content with his life, as has no regrets. “I am living the life I wanted, married the women I wanted, &nbsp;I have done something for the country and am blessed with good children. There is nothing more &nbsp;I could have wanted,” says Bhandary. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	According to Bhandary, things should always be done the right way and it will &nbsp;be done as there won’t be many obstacles. “Determination and good intentions are needed, it can really help you progress. &nbsp;It is not that hard to start a business and succeed in Nepal. No one needs to leave the country in pursuit of success. Things can be done right here, we just have to figure out the right way,” says he. For the future, Bhandary has plans of making Nirvana Country Club completely self sustainable and wants to open a Golf Academy. And if things favour him, he wants to learn to fly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Shashi Ram Bhandary, Personlity, From Led Zeppelin to Yoga Vasistha " height="546" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/personality_may2013_sashi_ram.jpg" width="450" /></p>',
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			'description' => 'Shashi Ram Bhandary wanted to experiment with the idea, the idea of a self sustainable hotel. Nirvana Country Club is the result of the same model. It has its own farm, a dairy and has the largest bio-gas plant in eastern Nepal. About 30 per cent of the required energy is produced by the Resort itself.',
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			'title' => 'Nepal Is Land-linked,  We Should Take Advantage Of This',
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			'content' => '<p>
	<img alt="Narayan Kazi Shrestha" height="472" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/interview_May2013_rajesh_kazi(1).jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	<strong>Rajesh Kazi Shrestha&nbsp;</strong><strong>Chairman&nbsp;</strong><strong>Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI)</strong></p>
<p>
	Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. He spoke with Siromani Dhungana of New Business Age about Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its involvement in promoting country’s business environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">How do you see the current role of Nepal’s private sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	Private sector should be taken as the engine of the national economy. Even though the entire country has been facing power scarcity and political instability, Nepal’s private sector is optimistic about leading the country to economic prosperity. In fact, private sector has been playing a crucial role for the overall economic development of the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry doing to address the problem of growing deficit in Nepal’s trade with China? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	Actually, Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry is established to promote export of Nepali products to China and Chinese products to Nepal. In order to address growing trade deficit figure, we are doing our best to promote more Nepali products in China. The organization has been participating in many promotional activities such as trade fairs where we can promote Nepali products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Due to our promotional activities over the past few years, we can now say that many handicraft, thangka painting and wooden crafts entrepreneurs in many districts, including Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, are benefitted. However, those handicraft entrepreneurs from Lalitpur and Bhaktapur cannot survive if there are no Chinese buyers of their products. There are more examples of other sectors like this that show how Chinese market is becoming more important for us. It is also important to mention here that Nepal and China have signed zero tariff agreement, which ensures export of more than 7,787 items at zero-tariff into chinese market. The provision helps us to expand our trade with China. Nepal should also put its effort on trade promotion between the two countries. The construction of a well-facilitated dry port and a Special Economic Zone would help us to boost trade with China and to attract more Chinese investment. Now, we are more focused on how to get more facilities for our exporters, so we have requested support from the Finance Minister in order to increase trade between both countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Nepali traders have failed to take advantage of zero tariff facility provided by China, why?</strong></p>
<p>
	I do not think so. In fact, there are some norms set by the Chinese government which Nepali side has been failing to comply with. Especially, there are some problems such as the issuance of Certificate of Origin.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Non tariff barriers such as strict quarantine system, certification standards and rules of origin have created many challenges to the process of trade between the two countries. It’s obvious that there is a lack of effective coordination among Nepali traders and government agencies. Also, there are some other complications on both sides.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	We are working to sort out current problems and we are optimistic about the settling of these issues very soon. We want to see a concrete agreement to ease quarantine related complications and other non-tariff barriers.</p>
<p>
	<strong>China’s Exim Bank is likely to set up its branch in Nepal. Considerig that Nepal didn’t get the expected benefits from the other foreign banks operating in Nepal, what should Nepal do to get benefits from the presence of Chinese Bank? &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We have been talking about the presence of Chinese Bank in Nepal for the last three or four years. It is not only for trading but also for investment. Chinese side is very positive. The current Chinese Ambassador is optimistic about the fact that Chinese Bank will start operating in Nepal during his tenure. Not only Exim Bank but also some other banks are negotiating about starting to offer their services in Nepal. If Exim Bank comes, it will have a positive impact on investment. Chinese banks have rational interest rate and also they have capacity to invest. Their presence will definitely help to attract Chinese investors to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing pretty fast in the recent years. Do you think that Chinese investment is actually helping Nepal? &nbsp;(it is also said that the interest of the Chinese in Nepal is more diplomatic than economic)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, the Chinese investment in Nepal is increasing at a rapid pace. Some mega projects such as Pokhara Airport, Kathmandu Ring Road or Dry Port of Sindhupalchowk will be started soon. Similarly, some Chinese investors are involved in mining and water resources projects too. Very soon, if the political situation improves, more Chinese investors will be interested in investing in Nepal. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Chinese investment may help the overall national development. As we represent the private sector, our main interest is to strengthen the trade and the economic relation between the two countries. We always lobby for the economic prosperity and investment with the Government of China and our other counterparts. Together, these two countries can achieve good economic prosperity.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the possible investment areas for China in Nepal? Would it be resource-seeking or market-seeking? Obviously, it not technology seeking, capital seeking or manpower seeking as China is better than Nepal in all these.</strong></p>
<p>
	Obviously, the first is hydropower sector. Second is tourism, third is mines and minerals and fourth is the agro sector. Nepal has enough resources and lots of business opportunities; however, it is a fact that the current investment size is extremely small. Chinese businessmen have been investing in small-scale sector such as hotels, restaurants and other small trades but we want Chinese investors to start some mega projects. The problem is that the unstable government and policies and the problem of power outage have created much hurdles to attract such investment. Despite the hurdles, there are still many chances to expedite Nepal-China business relationship. Around two or three Chinese delegations have been visiting Nepal every month to explore business opportunities. Chinese investors are very much interested but they often ask about the rules, regulations and opportunities. If the political scenario becomes stable and labour problem is solved, I hope many of them will come to Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Chinese goods have the reputation of being cheap and inferior in quality. In this context, what prospects do you see for such products in Nepal?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	It is not like that. Chinese manufactures produce goods according to the necessity of consumers. It depends on the type of goods consumers want. When you are in the USA, European countries or in most of Asian countries and seek high quality products, you will find Chinese ones. We get surprised when we see what we get here and what products are available there. It depends on the quality required and the purchasing power of the buyer. It depends on what type of goods Nepali traders want to import and that’s why I think it solely depends on the buyers’ choice and affordability.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How successful do you rate your own business link with China considering the general perception of Chinese goods being cheap and inferior?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We don’t evaluate the Chinese products supplied as per our demands and orders. The same goods can have high or low quality based on how much one can afford. It depends on our buying capacity. It’s us who are responsible for the low quality of the products because we often order low quality goods for Nepali market. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	It is often cited that Nepali industries are suffering from the cheap imports from China. What’s your opinion?&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Both Nepal and China are members of World Trade Organization (WTO). According to its principle, we can’t stop importing from its member countries. If we are able to manage our market, we don’t have to worry about cheap imports from China. On the other side, cheap goods imported from China have ensured mass access to the sophisticated goods and also to the daily consumable goods.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the critical trade barriers between Nepal and China?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are hurdles and barriers in all sectors but it is still an open and growing market. Some remedies would be to have better policies from the &nbsp;government, a friendly investment environment, labour reforms, security… etc. There are certain issues which should be resolved. We are solving the barriers step by step, as they appear in front of us.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How are the exporters and importers overcoming the language barrier in trade between China and Nepal? How is your chamber helping in this? (it is said that, due to language problems, Nepali traders in China are always in disadvantage in their dispute with Chinese importers or exporters)</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, it is a little difficult but now most of the Chinese exporters understand English. Nowadays, there are English speaking employees in almost every office and different chambers. And some businessmen who are already doing business can understand Chinese also. If there is any dispute we step in to solve it, we are also giving information about the queries and problems of the business person there. The exporters were very much interested in trade fair there, we are participating there regularly and we exchange our delegation also from different chamber from different aspects.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What points do you think need to be revised in Nepal-China trade-related treaties?</strong></p>
<p>
	Both governments should have frequent meetings to understand and solve the obstacles, if there are. There are some area where we are facing &nbsp;problems, such as &nbsp;quarantine or infrastructures but these issues should be solved very soon. In China, they are not accepting Nepali quarantine certificates. Nepal has three issuing authorities for different sectors and product lines, which makes the Chinese confused as they think it should be done by a single authority. Because of that, we are facing difficulties to export our food items.</p>
<p>
	<strong>The Nepali government has planned to develop Rasuwa as another hub for Nepal-China trade. What is your assessment of the progress in this?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	The road is already there and, after Sigatse, the railway will come to Rasuwa. We are trying to join railway side from China and India so that Nepal will be linked with both of these countries. We can develop environment for tourism and business also. The government of China is committed on this and we are very optimistic about completing and operating it soon.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is often argued that Nepal should be developed as the transit point for China-India trade, but no concrete development seems to be taking place on this direction. What are the impediments?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are not a land-locked country but we are a land-linked country with two economic giants at north and south. We should take advantage of this unique geographical position. The main problem of this situation is that everyone has his or her own agenda and we have no unified and strong agenda and vision for concrete developments. A stable government, a strong linkage of these three countries and an open transit road are our most primary necessities.&nbsp;</p>',
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			'description' => 'Rajesh Kazi Shrestha is Chairman of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NCCCI) and International Chamber of Commerce, Nepal (ICC, Nepal). In the past, he has been in charge of various organizations, such as the Nepal Chamber of Commerce. He is also the former Assistant Minister at Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '977',
			'article_category_id' => '48',
			'title' => 'Size Zero Economy',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Madan Lamsal</strong></p>
<p>
	Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.</p>
<p>
	The economic meaning of zero could be something different than the blissful imaginative hollow universe of a meditating sage. It is either recession or depression. Nepal has simplified the definition of these terms too: recession is when the builder of a housing company shifts to an apartment in his own project site and, it is depression when he is shifted to a free-to-live public apartment called jail.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The definition could be as many as the number of economists. That means you are free to have your own tailor-made definition of it. Many have it already. Our central bank governor says, an economy with zero growth rate &nbsp;and 10 percent inflation is still not in recession, and the finance minister doesn&rsquo;t have a say since he already has zero economic sense -- recession, depression, possession, obsession but commission are all the same for him. So why can&rsquo;t you have your own take on recession or depression and its shape and size.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	You may take some variables into account: once regarded successful business heroes have turned zeros, call it their size of the firm now. It is old news that CEOs of many banks are looking for alternative professions. Some have refused to take a paid forced leave fearing that someone might just play a prank with some zeros in their absence. This is the confidence indicator of our banking industry. Since, this leave is a compulsory one and he had but no alternative to take, some dedicated CEOs are seen loitering around bank&rsquo;s headquarters premises despite officially being &nbsp;on leave, enjoying their favorite chocolate bar called &nbsp;&lsquo;credit crunchy&rsquo;. What would you say to the new trend that CEOs of banks themselves are working as chief of the marketing department? It is a trend reversal and also a cost-saving measure.</p>
<p>
	Not only banks, academic institutions that promised jobs to their MBAs, in the once lucrative but now leery sector called banking now taste a pinch of salt. Some new MBAs are asking their school to return their money as they are ultimately landing on a zero chance job zone. Many other ambitious MBAs are trying for jobs in the sectors they had never imagined &nbsp;working &nbsp;in.</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;Good old days have returned. Dishonored cheques have become a normal phenomenon and nobody bothers why it got returned. The recipient never asks the bank whether the fund was insufficient in the account of the person who issued the cheque or in the coffers of the bank itself. The account holders don&rsquo;t have enough guts to send an enquiry note to the bank about the issue. These are good signs. &nbsp;No one is hostile to anyone else. Everyone knows we are revolving around a big zero and will continue to do so until this zero of &nbsp;an economy &nbsp;actually becomes a black hole or the Bermuda Triangle.</p>
<p>
	The signals in television channels are less wired and more weird. Don&rsquo;t blame it &nbsp;on load shedding. We will not have electricity pretty soon, when we are about to reach to a point of zero supply, thus no need of it. Call it a zero-gain bid that channels are showing the same program at least four times a week if not a day. They are selling &nbsp;commercial packages with schemes like buy one and get five free.</p>
<p>
	As the economy slims down to play &nbsp;the heroine of a big movie called &lsquo;New Nepal&rsquo;, many heroes are trending-up themselves. You must have seen the newspapers pictures of Min B Gurung rehearsing the act of shopping at his own Bhatbhateni stores, carrying a jute bag. Business tycoons like Golchhas and Jyotis are pictured practicing racing bikes, leaving luxury cars. Television clips show that leaders of proletarian parties are often in the public wearing Harrods suits and designed dresses. Looks like though finally we all are ready for &nbsp;a movie with Shakespearian tragedy, &nbsp;when this has a box-office success, Nepal will surely prosper.</p>',
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			'description' => 'Size zero is the contemporary fad. Your potbelly wife, struggling models, overage heroines, all want to be zero-sized. Because you crave for that and with your wish granted the Nepali economy has now come to a real good shape of zero, and anyone surviving in it can only be skinny. You know the reason.',
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			'id' => '982',
			'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) 7 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '981',
			'article_category_id' => '57',
			'title' => 'Digital Signage Concept',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Srijal Bhattarai&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">The advertising industry in Nepal has foreseen minor changes in the past. The traditional mediums of mass coverage like television, newspaper and radio have always made us feel their presence in our daily life. When we talk about BTL activities, the first thing that comes to our mind are the flex stands and the hoarding boards spread across the country. There has been very little presence of digital outdoor mediums for communication in the past. As a pioneer in Digital Signage concept, which began from the year 2011 at BhatBhateni stores, Media Space Solutions have seen a few companies that are trying to promote this concept. This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.</span></p>
<p>
	Digital signage has a lot of meanings with significant features which is useful for advertisers as well as the audience. One of the main features of digital signage concept is that this is a totally software driven concept which helps in minimizing cost and save resources.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Media Space Solutions- A Brand</strong></p>
<p>
	As the first step in establishing the concept of digital signage, Media Space Solutions (MSS) empowers advertisers with the ability to reach consumers through digital signage networks. &nbsp;MSS is dedicated to providing highly effective digital advertising and digital signage network solutions as a complete integrator of electronic signage network technology and applications.</p>
<p>
	The purpose of establishing Media Space Solutions was to create various differentiated media spaces to cater all the advertising needs of our clients in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">The Innovative Platforms</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">1. Media Space Solutions ePoPM (MSS ePoPM)</span></strong></p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM network has been expanding since its first phase implementation at the BhatBhateni Super Markets Pvt Ltd in BhatBhateni and Maharajgunj in March 2011. MSS ePoPM digital signage solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital screens located at high visibility areas within the departmental store.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	MSS ePoPM solution allows you to display dynamic and eye-catching product advertisements on digital electronic posters located on high visibility areas within stores. This results in increase in sales and brand awareness by capitalizing on the key time in consumers purchase decision making process i.e. while in front of products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>2. MSS MicroMedia</strong></p>
<p>
	MSS Micro Media is a digital signage platform that extends the communication power of information in the form of audio visual content beyond television sets at home and delivers them to citizens of Kathmandu Valley in the most efficient manner while they are travelling.</p>
<p>
	This digital signage network of 60 screens targets a daily audience of approximately 30,000 commuters along six different routes spread across the Kathmandu Valley i.e. a total of 900,000 commuters every month. This network ensures compulsive viewership inside enclosed spaces and captive reception of the intended messages and information.</p>
<p>
	The MSS Micro Media digital signage platform displays audio video entertainment content in the form of music videos, informative programs, television commercials and awareness campaigns. MSS MicroMedia is a platform which has an integrated approach to deliver intended messages and communication material to and from various stakeholders: commuters, vehicle owners, vehicle operators, Nepal Police, Department of Transport as well as companies interested in promoting their products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong style="font-size: 12px;">3. Sajha Media Space</strong></p>
<p>
	Sajha Media Space is an on-board Digital Entertainment and Advertising Network on the soon to be launched fleet of 16 Sajha Yatayat buses in Kathmandu Valley. This digital signage network consists of 16 High Definition 24 inch screens which will target a daily audience of approximately 25,000 commuters along two different routes intersecting at the heart of the capital i.e. a total of 750,000 commuters every month.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The consumer recall and ROI for advertisements aired on the Sajha Media Space network is higher than the same advertisements aired on television networks with national coverage considering the advertising tariffs of the two. This network of displays currently airs a wide range of entertainment content in the form of Music Videos, Stand-up Comedy, Social Messages and advertisements geared specifically towards commuters of Kathmandu Valley. Media Space intends to enhance the quality of travel experience on Sajha Yatayat buses.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>
	In order to be competitive in the advertising industry, various innovative ideas and platforms need to be implemented. These platforms will allow advertisers to reach their target audiences in an effective manner and will allow the intended message to be delivered appropriately. The government has already initiated the process of bringing down hoarding boards from the city and this will also play a vital role in such innovative concepts being implemented in future.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Digital Signage Concept, Srijal Bhattarai" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/brand_talk_may2013_digital_signage_concept(1).jpg" /></p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size:10px;">The writer is MD of Media Space Solutions and currently pursuing M Phil in management from Kathmandu University (KUSOM).&nbsp;</span></p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-05-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => 'Digital Signage Concept, Brand Talk, Srijal Bhattarai',
			'description' => 'This concept will not only be useful for organizations but also for the entire advertising industry of Nepal.',
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	(int) 8 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '980',
			'article_category_id' => '80',
			'title' => 'Learning Has To Go Much Beyond The Classroom',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
	Ace Institute of Management has completed more than a decade in the field of management education, which has now become the most aspiring career option for students.</p>
<p>
	<span style="font-size: 12px;">Learning has to go much beyond the classroom. This is the basic mantra of the institution and also what makes it different from other (growing numbers of) business schools across the country. The institution is probably best known for its teaching methodology, but it merely excels in producing not only good managers but also good human beings as well.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	Ashish Tiwari, Director of the Institution, says, “The main focus of the institution is on imparting the practice oriented teaching methodology.” The institution has robust management courses ranging from BBA to Executive MBA. The college emphasizes the shaping of &nbsp;professionals who eventually will become successful, effective leaders.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Established in 1999, the institution has built a reputation of conscientious learning centre among &nbsp;students who want to pursue management courses. <span style="font-size: 12px;">Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.</span></p>
<p>
	The college has launched an Executive-MBA course for the first time in the country. The MBA programme has acquired a distinguished reputation for being the most rigorous and fulfilling experience. The undergraduate programmes, BBA and BBA-BI, are considered among the best in the country. Students completing undergraduate programmes in ACE are widely sought after in the job market, claims the institution. In a short span of four years Ace A-Level has distinguished itself from the crowd with its individual centered approach to learning and its focus on management and social sciences stream only.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Tiwari adds, ‘These thirteen years have been extremely rewarding and we continue with our vision and commitment to value based management education which has strong relevance to real life. We are deeply committed to promoting a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders and entrepreneurs. We will continue to provide our students with opportunities to explore and develop their potential so that they can make their mark in whatever they do.”</p>
<p>
	“Learning Strategy of our institution is guided by our philosophy that each one of us learns differently and that no one’s approach is superior to another, we encourage students to take responsibility for their learning,” he added.</p>
<p>
	Teachers are encouraged to serve as facilitators, helping students learn rather than teach them.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">Educational methods such as lectures, small group exercises, management games, work projects, case studies and presentations are used. Computers, statistical kits and audio visual aids are also extensively used.</span></p>
<p>
	Lecture sessions are interactive and students are encouraged to participate using case analysis and presentations, reviews and feedback and project works involving studies of real organizations.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12px;">The quality of students churns out year after year</span><span style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Facilities</span></strong></p>
<p>
	The learning environment at Ace Institute of Management is supported by facilities that provide comfort as well as easy access to information and knowledge. “Our computer laboratory is fully equipped and every student is provided with Internet access. Furthermore, the entire campus is Wi-Fi enabled facilitating Internet connection from anywhere,” &nbsp;says Tiwari. The library offers a wide range of magazines and journals and is currently well stocked with books related to the subjects covered during the degree. New publications are continuously being added to meet the demands of students. The library has also subscribed to a large range of management publications and &nbsp;journals. Participants in the programmes require an adequate knowledge of computing. The computer centre provides computing facilities to the students from 8:00a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day, except on Saturdays and Sundays. The computer centre also carries out non-credit courses for beginners. In addition, there is a canteen which offers high quality food and snacks at reasonable prices.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Management, ACE" height="377" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management.jpg" width="580" /></p>
<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<strong>Academic Programmes</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		EMBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBA Programme</li>
	<li>
		BBA-BI Programme</li>
	<li>
		A-Level Programme</li>
	<li>
		MBAe Programme&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Vision</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Enhance the capacity of individuals and institutions in Nepal to contribute to the nation’s development</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Mission</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Promote a learning environment where individuals rediscover themselves and learn to be thoughtful and responsible managers, leaders, and entrepreneurs</li>
	<li>
		Promote entrepreneurship and professionalism by assisting entrepreneurs and institutions in acquiring and managing resources effectively</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Philosophy</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		We believe that one can never learn enough. Learning is a life-long process</li>
	<li>
		We believe that knowledge is much more beneficial when accompanied by wisdom and humility</li>
	<li>
		We believe that each one of us learns differently and that no particular approach is superior to another</li>
	<li>
		We believe that every individual is capable of contributing towards a positive social synergy&nbsp;</li>
	<li>
		We believe that we achieve and accomplish more when we compete with self and cooperate with others</li>
</ul>
<p>
	<strong>Values</strong></p>
<ul>
	<li>
		Honesty in work</li>
	<li>
		Sincerity in relationships</li>
	<li>
		Respect for self and others</li>
	<li>
		Responsibility for one’s actions</li>
	<li>
		Learning from mistakes</li>
	<li>
		Care for resources</li>
	<li>
		Adherence to regulations</li>
	<li>
		Questioning spirit</li>
</ul>
<div>
	<img alt="Ace Institute of Managment, ACE" height="244" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_may2013_ace_institute_of_management(1).jpg" width="590" /></div>',
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			'created' => '2013-05-19',
			'modified' => '2013-06-06',
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			'description' => 'Based in excellence and quality, the institution has become successful establishing itself as one of the leading institutions enhancing the capacity of the students.',
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	(int) 9 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '975',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘Orient Has A Very Big Potential In Nepal’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Ghurmeet Singh, vice president ,Orient Fans, New Business Age" height="275" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Ghurmeet_Singh_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries. Fans, small home appliances and lighting are some of the areas that are served by the division. In an interview with New Business Age, Singh shared his idea on the Nepali market for his products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What prospects do you see for your business in Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Nepal is a big market because like India, Nepal is also largely populated with the people who are not so rich. And therefore there is big prospect and market for fans, which is going to remain for long time. And we find that because of the electricity cost as well as the relevancy, fans will be the primary cooling devices for many people for long time. Secondly, brands from India have very good scope here because India and Nepal have worked hand in hand for a long time. And Orient as number two brand in India for many years now has a very big potential here. We were selling here some fans also in the past. Last year we joined hands with Premier Overseas, a part of Sharda Group, so that we can distribute our products more widely. And we are very sure that, with their vast experiences and networks, we get very good stage from here and we will serve the people of Nepal.</p>
<p>
	<strong>It is said that Nepali people love Indian brands. What has been your perception?</strong></p>
<p>
	Yes, that is why I said that Nepal and India have joined hands for a long time. Nepali and Indian people are more or less similar, buying habits are also similar and more importantly they are interested in Indian brands. And we will like to serve Nepali people as well.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are you plans for the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	It feels good to introducing our products in Nepali market. Initially we are launching fans and small home appliances and later we also plan for our lighting series and try to be number one in the respective market segments.</p>
<p>
	<strong>So what is your market position in India?</strong></p>
<p>
	In India, we are in number one for manufacturing and two for sales. And for exports, we are the undisputed leader with over 55 percent of shares. And we are already exporting to 30 countries and in US. &nbsp;Having our own manufacturing base, we are conscious about the parties and quality of our products.</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you compare the trend of using your products in Nepal with other South Asian countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	In most of the South Asian countries, people largely use portable fans. And in India and Nepal people mostly use ceiling fans. In India, 75 percent sales are in ceiling and 25 percent portable fans and it is almost same here in Nepal. &nbsp;And most of the South Asian countries use fans as primary cooling devices.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Why should the people choose your products?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are highly quality conscious manufacturers. Our products are energy efficient and continuously receiving exports excellence award and we are rated as ‘Star Performer’ by the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) of India. We pioneered the most famous patented revolutionary concept PSPO in 90’s. We have capacity of nearly 10 million fans per year and in terms of quality we have accomplished various standards and tests. And we have fulfilled each and every requirement in all different countries (where our fans are exported) and we are the only Indian brand to export to US.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are your plans for beating the competition and about the future strategies?</strong></p>
<p>
	We are very lucky that there are very few top brands available here and the competition is very less. And we are very confident that if we are able to appeal the market with good products, good prices and good energy saving products then the competition is not there and then we don’t need much time to become number one. And the second part is if everybody around you is your better competitor then you have to produce better product to sustain yourself and it is all good for the consumer.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Ghurmeet Singh, vice president of Orient Fans was in Nepal to launch Orient Fans series recently. Premier Overseas (P) Ltd is the authorized distributor of Orient Fans in Nepal. Orient Fans is a division, under CK Birla group, and currently it exports its products over 30 countries.',
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	(int) 10 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '974',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘The Customers Are Required To Get The Full Value For Their Money’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	<img align="right" alt="Koji Tanaka, vice president. Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Koji_Tanaka_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda. Recently, Syakar Trading Company, the authorized distributor of Honda Power Product launched the new EP 1000 and EG 1000 series of generators in Nepal and Tanaka was in Kathmandu in this connection. These new generators are small, portable and lighter compared to the previous generators. With the 4 Stroke technology, these models have some unique features like lesser fuel consumption (0.54ltr./ hr), more handling capacity (Rat. 750 VA), environmental friendly and available with decompression mechanism. Tanaka explained more in an interview with New Business Age.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What do you find interesting about your visit to Nepal?</strong></p>
<p>
	Its been about three years that I have been living in Delhi. This is the first time that I got an opportunity to visit Nepal. Nepal is well known in Japan. There are many Japanese tourists who come here and many Japanese are also living here. Our purpose of visit is to study the potentiality of the Nepali market for Honda products. As on date, we are exposing two new products – Honda EG 10000 model and Honda EP 1000 model generator. We would also like to study the Nepali market for various Honda products and find areas to expand with 50 % partnership with Syakar group.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the brand value of Honda products in the Nepali market?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda Company is well reputed throughout the world for its quality products. Without Syakar Trading, it would be difficult to provide quality sales and service. It is not possible to expand in the market without their support. New customers can be treated with better goods and Syakar can provide the premium service towards customers in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How will the newly introduced Honda Spiel Power products affect the Nepali market? &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	We are happy to find out that dealers from all over the country came to see the two new products. Comparatively, they are more fuel efficient. They consume upto 50% less fuel than the other former products. We are confident that we can expand the business of our products.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What level of competition do you feel is present with regard to the products from Honda?</strong></p>
<p>
	Honda has been selling motorcycles in Nepal for a long time. The major competition is from Bajaj. With regard to power products, Honda is still leading the market very much with help from Syakar Group. In Honda Philosophy, we do not compare ourselves with the competitors but instead compare us with ourselves. The customers are required to get the full value for their money. Honda owns 40% share of Nepali power products market. There are 69 dealers (branches and showrooms) of Honda products throughout Nepal. Honda products are so efficient that they are suitable for even above the altitude of 4000 meters from the sea level.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What are the future plans of Honda Company?</strong></p>
<p>
	We listen to customer’s voice. Upon receiving special requests, our R&amp;D (Research and Development) department develops these products. We come up with newer products. When we see the potentiality of a product in the market, we further investigate into it with help from the people at R&amp;D. After that, we check if there is a similar demand for such products in other regions as well. Only then, the new products will be developed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Are you launching any product targeting the agriculture sector?</strong></p>
<p>
	In 2010, we launched a more affordable 5 Hz power tiller in the market. But, currently it is not available in Nepal. With the decreasing number of farm workers, more tillers can be bought in order to do a more efficient agriculture. The process of mechanized agriculture is expanding. Many agricultural tools are also introduced through Honda’s factories in China. With the increasing demand from the consumers, lawn mowers, brush cutters, carriers etc can be introduced in Nepal. Honda’s motto is “Helping people get things done”. We do not limit ourselves to supplying generators only. When there is enough demand in the market, R&amp;D can make new concept products.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Koji Tanaka is the vice president of Honda Spiel Power Product Ltd India. With over 26 years of experience with Honda Motor Company Ltd, he has been involved with various innovative endeavors of Honda.',
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	(int) 11 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '973',
			'article_category_id' => '31',
			'title' => '‘We Do Not Want To Become Just A Marketing Company’',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p style="">
	<img align="right" alt="Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT, New Business Age" height="302" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/visiting_business_people_Denis_Borisovsky_april2013.jpg" style="margin:0 0 0 10px;" width="250" />PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world. “The company has a diverse range of clients which includes different sized brokers, top-tier banks and also their white labels partners, who are involved in electronic trading of various asset-classes,” informs Denis Borisovsky, CEO of PFSOFT. In an interview with New Business Age during his recent visit to Nepal, Borisovsky talked about the company’s product Protrader 2 and market prospects of his company in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>
<p>
	<strong>What is Protrader 2 and what are the scopes?</strong></p>
<p>
	Protrader 2 is our platform for trading forex, stocks, futures and other sectors. It is developed for technological brokers and for exchangers in the long run. We started the company about ten years ago and the product Protrader 2 is the result of these ten years. Under this brand, we cover technology products for multiple sectors then go to stock market. We cover trading activities from exchange to traders, money managers, hedge funds, brokers or participants in one technology. Our products are quite unique and there is uniqueness of technology as well. We are not brokers though. We stay independent from brokerage and provide technology to different brokers. We have so many trading technology companies to help the brokers. We import technologies from different countries and bring them to different markets.</p>
<p>
	<strong>You’ve had a diverse career, how did you get into financial trading technologies?</strong></p>
<p>
	I worked 20 years as a programmer. I entered many fields including voice recognition. I also served in various technological firms. And that was difficult. I wanted to do something different, more difficult and challenging. So, I decided to make charts by myself and I found some clients for it. Then I started trading technology for brokerage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Our company is not that big in terms of people, but in terms of symmetry and our experience, it is quite big. The number of people working in our Ukraine office is around 50-52 and it’s a very good team. We are also focusing our business in emerging economies like China and India. I have just come from India where we have opened up our office. In China, we have been deploying five people for local support. In Europe, we have an office in Ukraine. We already have an office in US. We are also eying Nepal as the political and investment environment are improving.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What makes your company successful?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
	First of all, it is focused. It’s very important to focus in something and make it best from any point. &nbsp;Our focus is technology for trading. We have only one thought and that is how to make trading technology more advanced. You need to have focus and extension, but careful extension. And you should keep a very good level of integrity between the company and the clients. Integrity is a key factor in every company. After this, you should be very high target to go.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How do you pursue the use of trading technology in emerging countries?</strong></p>
<p>
	We come with technology. We don’t want to become a marketing company, that’s why we are looking to the very good partners who have same vision and same expectations in terms of time. Time expectations is very important. If someone is interested in one year, it is one story and if he is looking for ten years, it is another story. My company sees five to ten year forward. So, it is very important for us to find such partners, who have same philosophies and who uses technologies and wants to expand them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>What types of trading applications are being demanded and successful these days?</strong></p>
<p>
	There are lots of technologies right now. But, the main problem is that sometime these do not work in particular circumstances and market. And sometimes it is not useful to the market. So, it is very important to understand local market. &nbsp;It is the task of local partner which maintains adjustment to it. The local partner has to listen to the people, think about not only about making something but in terms of technology which could work in your market. We make customization, which is very important is putting many markets within one platform. And we have to make such things, which is already in demand.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you recall some the challenges you faced during automating stock exchanges and commodity exchanges?</strong></p>
<p>
	Every country is very different. In terms of brokers, more or less everybody has common techniques and it is quite similar. But, in terms of challenges it is totally different. The challenges in US are very different and more developed. And it is also challenging because lots of local participants are there. By the way, Nepal is more advanced. Nepal has seen changes in stock market for more than 20 years while it’s been five years for Ukraine. I mean the number of all types of market participants and functionalists is much lower.</p>
<p>
	<strong>What is the difference between brokerage automation and exchange automation?</strong></p>
<p>
	Exchange automation is of course a very complex process. We should work on different levels. It needs one to three years to implement and to make it work too. Brokerage automation process takes many years and is difficult as well. We need cooperation mostly from technology and some management level of companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<strong>How can you prove Protrader is better for the success of traders?</strong></p>
<p>
	We always cooperate with traders. We think the most important clients for us are the traders. We get their feedback. And we want them to be involved more. Usually we communicate with brokers and they provide us feedback from traders. If we get lots of feedback, we could pick up fast. Protrader is one of the most functionally useful software.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Could you please tell us about PFSoft’s future roadmap?</strong></p>
<p>
	We have a plan to promote ourselves. Because in 10 years we mostly worked with brokers, which was much time itself. We believe now technology is one of the best necessities. We will extend our promotion to we will customize the platform. Social trading concerns are new market plans.</p>
<p>
	<strong>Based on your vast experience of establishing ecosystem of trading business in developed and developing countries, what do you think about how countries like Nepal can benefit from trading business?</strong></p>
<p>
	“PFSoft and Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd have mutually agreed to develop a full-fledged commodity exchange system for Nepal. PFSoft is ready to customize the Information Technology required for Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal and it is great opportunity for us to have a partnership with Derivative and Commodity Exchange Nepal Ltd. We are making evolution of scalable trading solution of local products produced in Nepal, and we want to integrate that trading to global market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	The trading is important in developing countries. Right now for trading to sustain, the political and economic system favor for that. But at the same time, financial system too should help the country’s economic growth.</p>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-26',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'PFSOFT is one of the renowned trading security vendors worldwide. Its corporate client base exceeds thousands of companies located around the globe. The company, established in 2003 with its headquarters at Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine, has its offices in major cities in the world.',
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	(int) 12 => array(
		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '972',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => 'Nepali Tea Gets 3 New Destinations',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Nepal Tea, Illam, New Business Age" height="356" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_economy_tea.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p>
	Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association. He further informed that the tea is currently being exported to these places as a test. “We are planning to commercially export within a month,” he said. Nepali organic tea is currently exported to Germany, France, Czech Republic, Japan and some other countries.</p>
<p>
	Under the testing phase, four tea industries are exporting around seven quintals of tea monthly. &nbsp;Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers, Gorkha Tea Estate and Guranse Tea Estate are exporting organic tea commercially. Mainali also shared that business representatives of respective countries are planning to visit Nepal for observation of Nepali tea industry. According to Mainali, all tea industries established for organic tea production still do not possess organic certificate. Countries like the USA, Japan and Australia among others have been providing certification. The association said that 16 industries are currently in the line of producing organic tea while only four industries have received organic certification. According to Mainali, in order to acquire organic certification, one industry must add about Rs 1.5 to 2 million investment. This year, Himalayan Shangri-la Tea Producers acquired ‘organic certification’, said Mainali, who is also the Director of the company. Previously, Kanchanjangha Tea Estate, Gorkha Tea State and Guranse Tea Estate had acquired organic certification.</p>
<p>
	‘A’ grade tea produced in Nepal is exported to third countries. The Association has informed that 300,000 kg of organic certified tea is produced annually in Nepal. “The demand for such tea in abroad is still high,” Mainali said. He further added, “Nepali companies are not being able to produce tea to meet the demand.” Tea industrialists say highly advanced technologies and skills are required for organic tea production in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<div>
	 </div>',
			'published' => true,
			'created' => '2013-04-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Himalayan Orthodox Tea Producer’s Association of Nepal is planning to export organic tea to three new countries- China, USA, and Russia - within a month. “Export to these countries is the result of high demand of Nepali Tea there,” said Kamal Raj Mainali, Treasurer at the Association.',
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		'Article' => array(
			'id' => '971',
			'article_category_id' => '34',
			'title' => '21 Banks Subscribe To Thomson Reuters',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	<img alt="Thomsom Reuters, New Business Age" height="181" src="http://newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/biz_news_banking_thomson_reuters.jpg" width="338" /></p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX). This enables trading professionals to connect with one another, hold conversations about different FX products and prices, as well as conduct FX transactions.</p>
<p>
	According to the official press release issued by TR, this event will mark that the Nepali rupee trades on a global trading platform alongside major international currencies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“The start of the dealing platform marks a move towards the automation in management of foreign exchange reserve in Nepal. It provides the Nepali banking sector with easy access to multiple counterparts at a time and helps to grasp the opportunities arising from changes in international financial markets. This will also maximize the efficiency of our people working in forex reserve management,” said Dr. Y.R. Khatiwada, Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank who officiated at a ceremony marking the occasion with the Nepal Bankers’ Association and the Foreign Exchange Dealers Association of Nepal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	“Thomson Reuters Dealing serves the world’s largest professional trading community and we are delighted to welcome these 21 Nepalese banks into that community,” said Sriram Ramnarayan, Vice President for Financial and Risk South Asia at Thomson Reuters. “This represents a new era in transparency, efficiency and automation in the way trades are executed in Nepal. The availability of real-time pricing information and automated trading processes will open up new opportunities for Nepal’s banks and enable them to tap into the global FX markets - the largest financial market in the world.”</p>
<p>
	Used by more than 18,000 trading professionals globally in more than 5,000 organisations across 120 countries, Thomson Reuters Dealing is the industry standard for FX trading professionals for price discovery, trade execution and seamless integration with back office processes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Thomson Reuters has had a presence in Nepal for more than a decade working closely with the financial industry and the banking community and is the leading international financial provider to operate in the country in association with Nepal’s ICTC Group.</p>
<div>
	 </div>',
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
			'modified' => '2013-06-03',
			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Thomson Reuters (TR), the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced that 21 leading Nepali banks have signed up to Thomson Reuters Dealing, the company’s industry standard trading platform for foreign exchange (FX).',
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			'id' => '970',
			'article_category_id' => '56',
			'title' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited',
			'sub_title' => '',
			'summary' => null,
			'content' => '<p>
	 </p>
<p>
	Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga. The Bank already has branches in western region of Nepal in Butwal, Bhairahawa, Palpa, Krishnagar, Damauli, and Walling. NIBL at present has over 500,000 customers, 68 ATM networks and one extension counter. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
	 </p>',
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			'created' => '2013-04-20',
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			'keywords' => '',
			'description' => 'Nepal Investment Bank Limited has opened its 42nd branch at Lakeside, Pokhara. The newly opened branch is the second in Pokhara adding to the existing bank branch in Chipledhunga.',
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