The sudden suspension of grants from the US government has sent shockwaves through Nepal, which has been receiving support in various sectors for over seven decades. The immediate and long-term effects of this suspension will be felt most acutely in the country's health, education, and energy sectors. The halt in funding has already created crises in maternal and child health, immunization, secondary and higher secondary education, and energy projects. The suspension of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has also stalled a major transmission line project in Nepal. While the suspension is currently set for three months, the Nepalese government is hopeful for the return of grant support. U.S.-funded projects, including those providing lifesaving care for tens of thousand of Nepal has already affected.
By Keshab Poudel Mar 10, 2025
Despite making significant strides in transforming Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) into a profitable entity, expanding power infrastructure, and enhancing transmission, generation, and distribution systems, Kul Man Ghising, the Managing Director of NEA, has not received any recognition from Deepak Khadka, the Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation. In a recent evaluation of MD Ghising's performance, Minister Khadka, who also serves as the chairman of NEA, gave him a score of zero, disregarding the visible progress made in the energy sector. He also successfully finished the restoration of flood-affected projects, including the 456 MW Upper Tamakoshi plant, which is crucial for preventing power shortages. Despite the need for Nepal to maintain the current momentum and support MD Ghising's efforts, Minister Khadka has continuously hindered his initiatives.
By A Correspondent Mar 09, 2025