Kathmandu faces severe air pollution, exacerbated by vehicle emissions, factory pollution, construction dust, and its valley location. Climatologist Sudeep Thakuri warns that climate change may worsen the situation by affecting rainfall patterns, which cleanse the air. The city's air quality is already a major health concern, with around 5,000 deaths annually. Wildfires, influenced by climate change, contribute to the pollution. Air quality specialist Bhupendra Das and conservationist Rajendra Narayan Suwal emphasize the need for regional cooperation and forest management to address the issue. The article suggests that tackling air pollution can also have positive impacts on emissions reduction.

Nepal's government has issued a controversial ordinance bypassing parliament to facilitate foreign investment in protected areas, potentially undermining conservation efforts. The ordinance, signed by President Ram Chandra Poudel, amends several laws, including the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, to allow infrastructure projects in areas previously considered sensitive. Critics argue this move could have long-term negative consequences for conservation and local communities. The ordinance was issued ahead of the Nepal Investment Summit to attract foreign investors, with projects like cable car lines in the Annapurna region and a hotel in Rara National Park on the agenda. The ordinance must be endorsed by parliament within six months to remain law.

A study published in the journal Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research found that tough microbes can survive extreme conditions on Mount Everest for decades. Despite strong winds at the South Col, microbes such as bacteria, protists, and fungi, including some found only at high altitudes, were detected in soil samples. The study, which involved researchers setting up the world's highest weather station, suggests that these microbes are surviving but not necessarily living, as they can remain dormant when frozen. The findings have implications for understanding microbial survival in harsh climates and potentially on other planets.

A study focusing on the impact of road traffic on tiger movements in Nepal's Bardiya National Park and Parsa National Park has revealed that roads significantly impede tiger movements within their habitats. Researchers observed a female tiger in Bardiya and a male tiger in Parsa, both fitted with GPS collars, and found that traffic volume affects their movements, space use, and habitat selection. The study, important in light of plans to expand the East-West Highway, showed that tigers adapted quickly to reduced traffic during COVID-19 lockdowns, suggesting potential mitigation measures. The study's findings are crucial for tiger conservation, as roads can alter hunting and mating behaviors, impacting survival and fitness at the population level. The government of Nepal has introduced guidelines for wildlife-friendly infrastructure but has seen little implementation. The study calls for more research and the use of mitigation measures to conserve tiger populations.

Orchids in Nepal face significant challenges due to unsustainable harvesting and international trade, particularly for use in traditional medicines. Conservation biologist Reshu Bashyal, working with Greenhood Nepal, highlights gaps in the implementation of CITES-related laws and the need for better field-level research and species management plans. The federal structure of Nepal adds complexity to conservation efforts, with local community forest user groups playing a crucial role. Challenges include road construction, which destroys orchid habitats, and the need for greater awareness and updated inventories of orchid species. Bashyal emphasizes the importance of appreciating wildflowers in their natural habitat and adhering to research ethics.

Nepal's grassland management practices, particularly in national parks like Bardiya and Chitwan, are under scrutiny as traditional methods may not be effective. Researcher Shyam Thapa suggests that manual cutting of grass four times a year could improve the quality of grass for herbivores, which in turn could support a higher density of tigers. The current reliance on mechanized cutting and burning is less effective in the long term and may harm the ecosystem. Thapa also recommends translocating herbivores to their historical ranges and involving local communities in grassland management to ensure sustainability and better outcomes for wildlife conservation.

Nepal faces a dilemma in managing tigers that have attacked or killed humans, a consequence of its successful conservation efforts that have tripled the tiger population since 2010. With 18 tigers currently in captivity, the government is exploring various solutions, including sport hunting, gifting to foreign zoos, and establishing rescue centers, but has yet to make a definitive decision. The financial and logistical challenges of managing these tigers are significant, with annual costs for their upkeep straining the environment ministry's budget. Different stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and academics, have proposed varied approaches, but consensus remains elusive.

New guidelines intended to streamline the process for Nepalis affected by human-wildlife conflict to receive relief and compensation have instead created delays due to budgetary issues. The guidelines, effective from July 17, 2023, expanded the list of animals covered and shifted the responsibility to provincial forest offices. However, these offices have not received the necessary budget from provincial governments, causing a bottleneck. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation is in discussions with provincial governments to resolve the issue, with a potential shift to insurance-based schemes being considered.

Dholes, or Indian wild dogs, are making a comeback in Nepal, reclaiming their historical range despite old and new threats. A study led by Yadav Ghimirey from Friends of Nature Nepal indicates that dholes have recolonized areas like the Annapurna Conservation Area and Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale forests. The study involved camera trap surveys, literature reviews, and interviews with herders and conservation practitioners. Factors such as reduced persecution, urbanization, and the return of prey like wild boars may have facilitated this recolonization. However, challenges remain, including habitat fragmentation, competition with tigers and leopards, and diseases from feral dogs. Conservationists emphasize the need for more focused studies and monitoring to ensure the dholes' continued recovery.

Nepal's Terai Arc Landscape (TAL) initiative, launched in 2004 to restore ecosystems and create dispersal space for tigers, has been recognized as one of seven U.N. World Restoration Flagships. The initiative has restored 66,800 hectares of forest and nearly tripled the Bengal tiger population. Despite this success, challenges such as infrastructure development, human-wildlife conflict, political instability, and climate change persist. The U.N. recognition will provide technical and financial support for further restoration. Experts emphasize the need for wildlife-friendly infrastructure and effective policy measures to sustain the initiative's success.

The Nepali government has approved a controversial policy allowing large-scale hydropower projects within protected areas, sparking backlash from conservationists and Indigenous communities. The new policy, published on January 4, 2024, permits hydropower developers to build projects entirely inside protected areas and reduces the required water release during the dry season. Critics argue this undermines decades of conservation efforts and poses risks to aquatic species. Despite public feedback, the policy remains largely unchanged, prompting potential legal challenges. Nepal's hydropower sector, crucial for domestic and export energy needs, faces criticism for lacking a coordinated development strategy.

Nepal's common leopards face increasing threats due to human-leopard conflicts, climate change, and disease transmission. Conservationists highlight the impact of canine distemper virus on leopard behavior, the potential for increased habitat overlap with tigers and snow leopards, and the need for proactive conservation measures. Studies suggest predator-proofing livestock to reduce conflicts and emphasize the importance of community-based approaches to foster coexistence between leopards and local communities.

Nepal's community forestry program has significantly increased the country's forest cover, with communities managing forests for their own use under government-approved plans. Teri Allendorf, a conservation biologist, highlights the success and challenges of community forestry in Nepal, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in biodiversity conservation. Despite political and social challenges, the program has thrived due to its alignment with community values and needs. The interview also touches on the role of local conservation expertise, caste issues, and the potential impact of youth migration on future conservation efforts.

In 2023, Nepal shifted its tiger conservation strategy from increasing numbers to sustaining the population, focusing on coexistence, connectivity, and genetic viability. The National Tiger Conservation Action Plan (NTCAP) for 2023-32 aims to manage habitats, reduce human-tiger conflicts, and enhance institutional capacity. Challenges include negative human-tiger interactions, infrastructure development, and food availability. Studies highlight the impact of roads on tiger behavior and the need for large prey to reduce livestock predation. Human migration to tiger habitats and a controversial proposal for sport hunting by Nepal's environment minister add to the complexities. Technological advancements like AI-powered deer tracking are being explored despite facing challenges.

Nepal's push for hydropower and road infrastructure to improve living standards is challenging bird conservation efforts. Ornithologist Hem Sagar Baral highlighted the threats to avian diversity, with Mongabay reporting on issues such as the stable numbers of endangered white-rumped vultures despite threats like poisoning, the impact of power lines from hydropower projects on birds, the conservation of sarus cranes in the Buddha's birthplace, hunting threats to cheer pheasants during mating season, and the mysterious gathering of a super flock of pigeons. The government's Vulture Conservation Action Plan aims to address some of these threats.

Abhaya Raj Joshi has written a series of articles focusing on various environmental and wildlife conservation issues in Nepal. Topics range from the lack of biodiversity research in Madhesh province, the threats faced by wild canines during the festival of Diwali, to the potential benefits of 'predator-proof' husbandry in reducing human-leopard conflicts. Joshi also covers technological advancements in tiger conservation, legal challenges to 'triple taxation' on community forests, and the underpowered but determined wildlife crime fighters in Nepal. The articles discuss the controversy over hydropower development in protected areas, the implications of gifting rhinos to China, the return of wolves to the Himalayas, and the first otter sighting in Chitwan National Park in two decades. Additionally, Joshi reports on a super flock of pigeons, snow leopard sightings, vulture colony threats, the cultural reverence for sarus cranes linked to the Buddha, the management of human-friendly rhinos, the threat to an endemic lizard by a highway, and revisions to Nepal's wildlife compensation program.

A study led by Hari Prasad Sharma from Tribhuvan University reveals that sloth bears in Nepal are increasingly confined to protected areas due to overexploitation of forest resources in non-protected regions. The research, conducted in the Chure region, highlights the severe degradation caused by human activities, which disrupts the habitat and food sources of sloth bears. The study calls for the establishment of conservation corridors to facilitate the movement and genetic diversity of sloth bears and other threatened species in Nepal's lowlands.

During Nepal's Tihar festival, dogs are celebrated, but the Asiatic wild dog, or dhole, faces threats such as human persecution, disease, wildfires, and competition with other predators. With a declining global population, conservationists emphasize the need for research and conservation plans, similar to those for other species in Nepal. The IUCN Dhole Working Group has discussed the impact of increasing tiger numbers on dholes, and the potential competition with recolonizing Himalayan wolves. Measures such as addressing human-dhole conflict and transboundary efforts are suggested for the dhole's long-term conservation.

Nepal's Supreme Court has mandated the removal of human-made structures within 65 meters of Fewa Lake to protect it from various threats, including invasive species. A study led by Hari Sharma from Tribhuvan University reveals that water hyacinths are facilitating the invasion of exotic fish species, which are outcompeting native fish. The research highlights the ecological impact of water hyacinths, which obstruct waterways and provide shelter for invasive fish like Nile tilapia and glassfish. Conservationists emphasize the need for urgent action to control these invasive species to protect the native biodiversity of Pokhara's lakes.

Madhesh province in Nepal faces significant challenges in biodiversity conservation and research, with a lack of focus on non-protected areas and agricultural lands. Incidents of human-wildlife conflict, such as the killing of a leopard mistaken for a tiger, highlight the region's knowledge and awareness gap. Despite its rich biodiversity, including farmland birds and migratory elephants, the province lacks a dedicated conservation office. Researchers advocate for the development of a wildlife corridor to connect Parsa National Park and Koshi Tappu Reserve, which could enhance conservation efforts. A strategic plan is needed to address the long-standing neglect of Madhesh's biodiversity.

Nepal's wild dog population, specifically the endangered Asiatic wild dog or dhole, faces significant threats from human persecution, disease spread, wildfires, and competition with other predators. Conservationists like Ambika Khatiwada and Hem Sagar Baral highlight the need for more research and conservation efforts, including addressing human-dhole conflict and implementing national and regional conservation plans. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and the IUCN Dhole Working Group emphasize the importance of transboundary efforts to ensure the connectivity of dhole populations across their range.

Nepali conservationists are outraged over a proposal by the Ministry of Forest and Environment to ease the construction of large-scale hydropower plants in protected areas. The draft proposal, which would allow developers to build projects entirely within these areas and release less water during the dry season, is criticized for its legal flaws and potential risks to conservation efforts. Experts argue that the changes could undermine decades of conservation gains and adversely affect biodiversity and local communities. The proposal has sparked a debate on balancing development with environmental protection, with various stakeholders expressing strong opposition.

The influx of migrants into Chitwan, Nepal, is raising concerns about increased human-tiger conflicts and environmental degradation. Rapid urbanization and population growth are putting pressure on Chitwan National Park, a biodiversity hotspot. Conservationists highlight the lack of traditional knowledge among migrants about living with tigers, which could lead to conflicts and illegal wildlife trade. The growing population also threatens local ecosystems through deforestation, pollution, and habitat loss for farmland birds. While local governments offer incentives to retain residents in the hills, migration continues due to better economic opportunities and healthcare access in Chitwan. Conservationists call for improved environmental protection measures and awareness programs for migrants.

Nepal’s Ministry of Forest and Environment is drafting regulations to permit the construction of ropeways and cable cars in protected areas, aiming to facilitate travel to religious and tourist sites while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The draft regulation, which is yet to be finalized, also proposes allowing hotels and resorts in national parks like Chitwan. This move follows a controversial directive permitting large-scale hydropower projects in protected areas. The private sector has shown significant interest in ropeway projects, raising ecological concerns. The regulation outlines specific conditions for ropeway construction, including location restrictions and annual fees based on the ropeway's length.

The influx of migrants into Chitwan, Nepal, is raising concerns about increased human-tiger conflicts and environmental degradation. Rapid urbanization and population growth in Chitwan are putting pressure on local forests and wildlife, including the Bengal tiger. Conservationists emphasize the need for awareness and proper environmental safeguards to mitigate these challenges. Despite local government incentives to retain residents in hill areas, migration to the plains continues due to better economic opportunities and healthcare access.

Nepal's internet cafes, once bustling hubs for tourists and locals, have significantly declined due to the widespread availability of smartphones, laptops, and affordable data. The K@mandu Cybermatha Tea House, one of the first internet cafes in Nepal, closed around 2005 as internet access became more affordable and widespread. RR Photo Studio and MSN Cyber Cafe are among the few remaining cafes, having adapted their services to include printing, scanning, and photography to stay afloat. Owners Rajkumar Bhandari and Ram Chandra Gaire reflect on the evolution of their businesses and the digital revolution's impact on their industry.

Nepal has committed to gifting two more greater one-horned rhinos to China, a decision made during Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s visit to Beijing. Conservationists urge caution in selecting the rhinos, suggesting orphaned calves accustomed to human interaction as ideal candidates. Nepal has previously gifted rhinos to various countries, and the selection process involves separating newborns from their mothers, a challenging task for conservationists. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation is yet to decide which rhinos to send.

The reemergence of Himalayan wolves in Nepal's Himalayas poses a new threat to the already vulnerable snow leopards. Researchers observed that the wolves' presence is impacting the behavior and population of naur, the primary prey for snow leopards. The increased vigilance required by naur to avoid wolves could lead to nutritional deficiencies, affecting their long-term health and reproduction. Conservationists suggest focusing on improving prey populations to support both predators. The return of wolves, potentially due to domesticated yaks from Tibet, may also heighten human-wildlife conflicts.

Nepal's Supreme Court has ordered the removal of human-made structures within 65 meters of Fewa Lake in Pokhara, a decision welcomed by conservationists. However, invasive species like water hyacinth and exotic fish are posing a significant threat to the lake's native biodiversity. Research led by Hari Sharma from Tribhuvan University indicates that water hyacinths are aiding the proliferation of invasive fish species at the expense of native ones. The study highlights the urgent need for conservation actions to control the spread of both water hyacinths and invasive fish to protect the native aquatic ecosystem.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in eastern Nepal is set to receive two greater one-horned rhinos, Pushpa and Anjali, from Chitwan National Park on World Tourism Day. This translocation aims to boost both biodiversity and tourism in the region. The rhinos, rescued as calves and cared for by the National Trust for Nature Conservation, will be the first of their species in Koshi Tappu. The move is part of Nepal's long-term plan to create multiple viable populations of the vulnerable species. The translocation is supported by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and is seen as a positive step in Nepal's successful conservation efforts.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in eastern Nepal is preparing to receive two greater one-horned rhinos, Pushpa and Anjali, from Chitwan National Park on World Tourism Day. The translocation aims to boost tourism and biodiversity in the eastern Terai Arc region. The rhinos, rescued as calves and habituated to humans, were previously released into the wild in Chitwan but are now being relocated for their safety and to reduce human conflict. Nepal has been successful in rhino conservation, with zero poaching and a growing population. The translocation is part of a long-term plan to create multiple viable rhino populations in Nepal.

Wildlife photographer Milan Tamang spotted a smooth-coated otter in Nepal's Chitwan National Park, the first sighting in over two decades. This discovery raises questions about the status of otters in the park and highlights ongoing environmental challenges such as habitat destruction from hydropower development, sand mining, and agricultural runoff. Conservationists call for more research and resources to be allocated to otter conservation, criticizing the focus on more charismatic species like tigers and rhinos. The sighting underscores the need for updated surveys and better regulation of environmental impacts on wildlife.

Fishing cats in Nepal face significant threats from habitat loss, human conflict, and competition from other predators. Despite being overshadowed by larger cats like tigers and snow leopards, conservationist Rama Mishra has dedicated her career to studying and protecting these elusive felines. Mishra's work, which began in 2012 with the founding of the Terai Fishing Cat Project, involves engaging local communities and raising awareness about the species. Her research has revealed that a significant portion of the fishing cat population lives outside protected areas, making community engagement crucial. Mishra's efforts have been supported by various organizations, including the University of Antwerp, the National Trust for Nature Conservation, and the Rufford Foundation. She emphasizes the need for more research and data to further conservation efforts.

A male gharial, critically endangered and crucial for species survival due to its role in mating with multiple females, was found dead in Nepal's Chitwan National Park, entangled in a fishing net. With only a few hundred gharials left in the wild, the death of a male, particularly in a population with a skewed sex ratio favoring females, poses a significant threat to conservation efforts. Park officials have been incubating eggs at specific temperatures to increase male hatchlings, but the effectiveness and sustainability of this method are debated. The article also discusses the impact of temperature-dependent sex determination and the challenges in identifying gharial sex before adulthood. Fishing has been banned in Chitwan during the monsoon, but illegal fishing still occurs, often harming the gharials.

Nepali researchers have captured images of a snow leopard and a common leopard in the same location in the Lapchi Valley of the eastern Himalayas, highlighting the impact of climate change on wildlife habitats. The images, taken by camera traps, show the two species coexisting at an altitude of 4,260 meters. Experts suggest that climate change is pushing both leopards and tigers northward, encroaching on snow leopard territory. The phenomenon has been observed in other regions, including China's Tibetan Plateau and Nepal's Mustang region. Long-term data is needed to understand the interactions between these species and the potential displacement of snow leopards by common leopards.

New guidelines in Nepal make it easier for those affected by human-wildlife conflict to receive compensation, addressing the needs of local communities and respecting the federal structure. The changes include compensation for damages caused by 16 types of animals and provisions for livestock and crop damage on private land. While the guidelines improve many aspects for farmers, issues such as land ownership requirements and compensation for damages inside buildings remain. The government acknowledges the need for insurance schemes to provide sustainable relief and compensation.

A study analyzing 258 dung samples from Nepal's Chitwan National Park found that 10.1% contained visible plastic, posing a threat to the health and survival of the one-horned rhinoceros. Plastic waste, including bottle caps and sachets, is prevalent in the park, especially after monsoon floods. The study, led by Balram Awasthi of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, did not examine long-term effects but suggests potential digestive, metabolic, and reproductive issues for the rhinos. Veterinarian Amir Sadaula emphasized the need for further research to assess the impact of plastic on the animals. The government and conservation partners are urged to conduct cleanup programs and adopt sustainable waste management to prevent pollution.

Nepal's environment minister, Birendra Mahato, has sparked outrage by suggesting that wealthy foreigners be allowed to hunt tigers for sport, arguing it could generate significant revenue for conservation. Critics, including conservationists and local communities, argue that such a move would jeopardize Nepal's successful tiger conservation efforts and pose serious ecological and cultural risks. Experts highlight that hunting could disrupt tiger social networks, increase human-wildlife conflict, and lead to unintended ecological consequences. The proposal also faces strong opposition from Indigenous communities who have made significant sacrifices for tiger conservation.

The critically endangered dark sitana lizard in Nepal faces significant threats due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by the construction of the BP Highway. Researchers, including Santosh Bhattarai and Bishal Prasad Neupane, are studying the lizard to gather ecological data and develop conservation strategies. The highway has spurred unplanned urban development, further endangering the lizard's habitat. Conservation efforts are challenged by local myths about lizards and a lack of government prioritization. Despite these challenges, researchers are hopeful that their work will lead to better conservation measures and increased awareness.

In June 2021, a rare swamp deer translocated to Nepal's Chitwan National Park went missing, highlighting challenges in conservation efforts. The deaths of six out of seven translocated deer halted the program aimed at moving 25 animals. A recent study suggests improving habitat connectivity between India and Nepal and expanding protected areas. The study also recommends policies to conserve water sources, manage wetlands, and control human encroachment. Despite the challenges, experts emphasize the need for translocation to ensure genetic diversity and long-term survival of the species.

Nepal's Chitwan National Park faces a growing threat as plastic waste, brought in by monsoon floods, is ingested by the vulnerable one-horned rhinoceros. A study found that 10.1% of rhino dung samples contained visible plastic, with higher contamination in the park's core zone. The plastic waste, including chewing tobacco sachets and bottle caps, poses potential health risks to the rhinos, though the long-term effects remain unclear. Researchers call for post-monsoon cleanup programs and sustainable waste management practices in upstream towns to mitigate this emerging conservation threat.

A critically endangered male gharial was found dead in Nepal's Chitwan National Park, entangled in a fishing net, highlighting the species' conservation crisis. With only a few hundred left in the wild, the death of a male, vital for breeding, poses a severe threat to the population. Conservation efforts include controlled incubation to increase male hatchlings, but the effectiveness and sustainability of such programs are debated. The gharial's survival is further threatened by fishing, habitat changes, and poaching, while climate change may skew sex ratios even more towards females.

The study highlights the challenges tigers face in moving within Nepal despite successful transboundary corridors with India. While the Terai Arc Landscape approach has facilitated cross-border movement, domestic corridors within Nepal remain underdeveloped, leading to habitat fragmentation and reduced genetic diversity. The study identifies nine potential tiger corridors and suggests involving community forest programs and implementing wildlife-friendly infrastructure guidelines to improve connectivity. The Siwalik hills are emphasized as crucial for both hydrogeological reasons and tiger conservation.

Environmental human rights defenders in Nepal continue to face significant threats and challenges, including violence and lack of government protection. A study by INSEC highlights the absence of policies to safeguard these defenders and the lack of coordination among them. Women defenders face additional challenges such as domestic violence and exclusion from decision-making. The murder of Dilip Mahato, an outspoken critic of illegal sand mining, underscores the dangers faced by these activists. Despite a recent court verdict delivering justice in Mahato's case, defenders remain skeptical about their safety and future.

Adarsh Man Sherchan, a conservation geneticist in Nepal, discusses the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) for aquatic biodiversity assessments in the country's rivers, particularly in the context of hydropower plant development. Sherchan, who graduated from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and worked with the Center for Molecular Dynamics Nepal, highlights the challenges of collecting eDNA samples from unpredictable Himalayan rivers and the importance of safety during fieldwork. The interview also touches on the process of eDNA extraction and the role of taxonomists in filtering data noise during sequencing.

In early February 2022, researchers in Nepal analyzing camera trap images for a tiger census in the Chitwan-Parsa Complex discovered a photo of a small cat resembling the Asiatic wildcat, a species whose presence in Nepal has been long debated. The country is known for its feline diversity, with 12 wildcat species identified. The Asiatic wildcat, a subspecies of the African wildcat, is common across Asia and Africa but faces threats such as habitat destruction and hybridization with domestic cats. Wildlife ecologist Yadav Ghimirey and his team have documented suspected Asiatic wildcats in Nepal, but DNA evidence is needed to confirm their presence. The IUCN lists the species as of least concern but calls for more studies. Funding challenges make it difficult to study the animal extensively.

In Nepal, power lines from hydropower projects are causing a significant number of bird deaths, including critically endangered species like the white-rumped vulture. Despite the country's heavy investment in hydropower to address power shortages, the environmental impact on birds has been largely overlooked. Studies have shown a rise in bird electrocutions and collisions with power lines, with flawed environmental impact assessments and lack of implementation of recommendations. Conservationists advocate for bird abundance studies, wildlife-friendly infrastructure design, and retrofitting existing power lines with simple measures to reduce fatalities. The Nepal Electricity Authority acknowledges a drastic increase in high-voltage transmission lines, while the Electricity Regulatory Commission defers the issue to the Ministry of Environment.

Nepal's Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling directing the government to enforce conservation laws and seize illegal private wildlife collections. The court also mandated awareness programs and the use of seized items for educational purposes. Conservationist Kumar Paudel, who filed the petition, highlighted the double standards in law enforcement, which often target the poor while ignoring the elite. The ruling aims to address these disparities and strengthen wildlife crime deterrence. However, there is skepticism about the government's commitment to implementing the court's order.

Nepal's startup industry, particularly the electric vehicle sector, is being hindered by bureaucratic red tape. A notable example is Yatri Motorcycles, which faced challenges with the registration of their locally made EV bike, the P1. Despite initial interim certificates allowing operation, the lack of a directive for local vehicle registration led to impounding of the bikes. The issue was eventually resolved after intervention from the Prime Minister. However, the broader problem persists, with innovators and entrepreneurs facing significant barriers due to outdated policies and bureaucratic inertia. The Global Innovation Index ranks Nepal low in innovation capabilities and government support. The World Bank's Doing Business project indicates a longer-than-average time to start a business in Nepal. Critics argue that political connections may influence the resolution of such issues, while others fear for the future of their businesses without clear policies. The government is working on an ICT bill to address legal gray areas for tech-enabled businesses, but industry insiders believe that without a change in bureaucratic attitude, legislation alone will not suffice.

Two female greater one-horned rhino calves, Pushpa and Anjali, rescued and raised by the National Trust for Nature Conservation, have been released back into Chitwan National Park by Nepali officials. The decision, made by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, followed expert recommendations and aimed to allow the rhinos to adapt to their natural environment. The release was low-key and cost-effective, with ongoing monitoring to ensure their safety. Previous rhino translocations in Nepal have had mixed success, but authorities hope this release will be more successful. Another rescued calf, Pooja, remains under care and may also be released in the future.

Nepal is considering exporting crop-raiding rhesus macaques to address agricultural damage, inspired by a similar but controversial proposal in Sri Lanka. While some politicians support the idea for economic benefits, experts and conservationists highlight legal, ethical, and ecological concerns. They advocate for more sustainable solutions like habitat management and local research. The debate reflects broader issues of human-wildlife conflict and environmental policy.

In central Nepal, the Chepang tribe is working to revive the chiuri tree, a species integral to their culture and livelihood. With the help of various agencies, young, educated Chepangs are regenerating chiuri forests to establish a sustainable source of income through the sale of chiuri fruits, butter, and honey. The Forest and Farm Facility project, now concluded, and the ongoing efforts of the Mount Everest Forest Botanicals Alliance, aim to connect the community with national industries and international markets. Despite challenges such as militarized conservation efforts and modern lifestyle changes, the Chepang are optimistic about the potential of chiuri trees to prevent soil erosion, uplift their community out of poverty, and preserve their cultural heritage.

Nepal's rapid expansion of hydropower projects and the associated power lines are causing significant bird fatalities, including critically endangered species. Despite environmental impact assessments, the implementation of recommendations is lacking, leading to numerous bird electrocutions and collisions. Conservationists and researchers call for better planning, retrofitting existing power lines, and more studies to find effective mitigation measures. The Nepal Electricity Authority and other governmental bodies are criticized for their inadequate response to the issue.

Farmers in Nepal are struggling with crop-raiding rhesus macaques, leading to calls for exporting the monkeys to address the issue and generate revenue. Inspired by a similar proposal in Sri Lanka, Nepali Congress member Dhanraj Gurung supports the idea despite potential legal and ethical challenges. Experts argue for a more comprehensive approach, including habitat management and local research. Conservationists emphasize addressing root causes like habitat loss and land-use changes, while some criticize the export proposal as a distraction from more pressing issues.

Residents of Geruwa in western Nepal have faced increased human-tiger conflicts due to a lack of large prey for tigers in Bardiya National Park. Conservationists highlight that tigers are preying on smaller animals, leading to more attacks on livestock and humans. The government and researchers are considering translocating larger prey species like wild buffalo and gaur to mitigate the issue, though past translocation efforts have had limited success. The situation underscores the need for strategic planning to sustain tiger populations and reduce conflicts.

In Nepal, farmers and officials are grappling with the issue of crop-raiding rhesus macaques, leading to discussions on exporting the monkeys to control their population and generate revenue. This debate follows a similar proposal in Sri Lanka, which faced public outcry and was halted. Proponents argue that exporting monkeys could address the pest problem and benefit the economy, while experts and conservationists highlight the legal, ethical, and ecological complexities involved. They advocate for comprehensive solutions, including habitat management and local research, to address the root causes of human-wildlife conflict.

Tulshi Laxmi Suwal, a Nepali conservationist, has been honored with the Whitley Award for her work in protecting pangolins, the world's most trafficked mammal. Suwal, founder of the Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation, will use the prize money to conduct an impact assessment on fires affecting Chinese pangolins and establish community conservation groups. Despite challenges, Suwal has made significant strides in pangolin research and conservation, emphasizing education and alternative livelihoods to reduce wildlife hunting. The Whitley Awards, often called the 'Green Oscars,' also recognized other conservationists, including Shivani Bhalla of Kenya.

Nepal has been without an environment minister since October 2022, which has led to concerns about the handling of environmental issues and forest management. The former minister, Pradeep Yadav, was dismissed by then Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, and the current Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has yet to appoint a successor. This has affected the ability of organizations like the Federation of Community Forestry Users, Nepal to advocate for changes in forest laws. The absence of a minister is also problematic as Nepal faces forest fires and air pollution, and it sends a negative message internationally as Nepal seeks climate adaptation finance. Despite the challenges, some see the delay in appointment as indicative of the position's importance. The new minister will need to address environmental and political issues, including controversial construction and wildlife farming legislation.

Nepal's high demand for buffalo meat, driven by the popularity of momos, poses a threat to the endangered wild water buffaloes in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Crossbreeding between domestic and wild buffaloes is leading to genetic erosion and disease transmission. Conservation efforts are hampered by limited resources, invasive species, and natural habitat changes. Experts suggest providing artificial insemination facilities to farmers as a potential solution to reduce the need for crossbreeding in protected areas.

Kanchhi Maiya Bhandari and her son Prakash run a YouTube channel called KanchhiKitchen, where they share videos of Kanchhi Maiya cooking traditional Nepali dishes in a village setting. The channel, which started during the Covid-19 pandemic, has gained popularity for its ASMR quality and the nostalgia it evokes among Nepalis worldwide. They plan to introduce new content, including a homestay experience, while maintaining their commitment to organic, green, and sustainable cooking. Despite some negative comments, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with viewers expressing a deep connection to their cultural roots.

In Nepal, controlled grassland burning practices aimed at tiger habitat management are posing a threat to the endangered hispid hare, particularly during its breeding season. Researchers suggest that the timing and method of burning should be adjusted to protect the species. The hispid hare, which was once thought to be extinct, is now found in fragmented habitats across Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of India. Conservationists recommend selective grassland burning and scientific management strategies to prevent grassland succession into woodlands and to protect the hispid hare's habitat.

Climate change and habitat loss are pushing tigers and leopards into the territory of snow leopards, leading to potential competition for prey and habitat. Conservationists note that while tigers and leopards are moving to higher altitudes, snow leopards are also shifting uphill, resulting in shrinking habitats. The interactions between these big cats are influenced by their relative strengths, with tigers likely to displace leopards and snow leopards. Human settlements are also moving north due to climate change, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

DNA testing has confirmed the presence of the elusive Manul cat in Nepal's eastern Himalayan region for the first time. Previously, Manuls were recorded in the western Himalayas in India during the late 80s and early 2000s.

The elusive manul, also known as Pallas's cat, has been found in the region around Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) through a study that analyzed scat samples. This discovery by Tracie Seimon's team, part of the 2019 National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Everest Expedition, marks the first confirmation of the species in Nepal's eastern Himalayas. Despite the International Union for Conservation of Nature classifying the manul as a species of least concern, conservationists emphasize the need for a conservation action plan, particularly due to threats like poisoning of the cat's prey, the pika, and overgrazing of grasslands.

Nepal's vulture population, recovering from a past crisis caused by the livestock painkiller diclofenac, faces a new threat from poisoning incidents. Conservationists Ankit Bilas Joshi and Krishna Bhusal highlight the dangers of poisoned carcasses, which can kill multiple vultures and affect their young. Despite bans on diclofenac in Nepal and India, other forms of poisoning are emerging as significant threats. Efforts to control feral dog populations through vaccination and neutering, and to compensate locals for livestock losses, have been insufficient. Conservationists call for increased awareness and control over poison use to protect the vulture population.

Climate change is causing tigers and leopards to move into the mountainous territories of snow leopards in Nepal, leading to potential competition for habitat and prey. Conservationists note that while tigers and leopards are moving north due to warming temperatures, snow leopards are being pushed further uphill, shrinking their habitat. The interactions between these big cats are influenced by their relative strengths, with tigers likely to displace leopards and snow leopards. Human settlements are also moving to higher altitudes, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Three juvenile greater one-horned rhinos, Pushpa, Anjali, and Pooja, rescued from Chitwan National Park in Nepal, face challenges in being reintroduced to the wild. The National Trust for Nature Conservation and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation are considering various options, including translocation to other national parks or Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, which lacks apex predators. The rhinos, habituated to human care, need to be trained to survive independently. Past translocation efforts have had mixed results, and the possibility of gifting the rhinos to foreign governments is also being considered.

The Nepali government has approved a controversial policy allowing large-scale hydropower projects within protected areas, a move criticized by conservationists as a significant setback. The new policy, published on January 4, permits hydropower development entirely within protected areas, reduces water release requirements during the dry season, and simplifies land acquisition for these projects. Conservationists and Indigenous communities argue that this policy undermines decades of conservation efforts and poses legal and environmental risks. Despite public feedback, the policy was implemented with minimal changes, raising concerns about its impact on Nepal's conservation areas and aquatic species.