High Hopes to Hard Landings
High Hopes to Hard Landings

Once hailed as a gateway to the Himalayas, the China-financed Pokhara International Airport now faces unexpected challenges as it struggles to find regular international flights. The same is true for the ADB-financed Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa.

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Balancing Act
BALANCING ACT

Roads are essential for development. But the haphazard construction of roads across Nepal is now a threat to its pristine landscapes and vital ecosystems.

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Shadow

PODS by PEI is a podcast initiative of Policy Entrepreneurs Inc., a policy research center based in Kathmandu, that examines the state of Nepali politics, economy, and development and seeks to inform and enrich Nepal’s policy discourse. Every week, PODS by PEI brings to you thoughtful and in-depth discussions that will take you deep into the most pertinent issues in Nepal.

Shuvangi and Akhilesh explore Nepal's borderland communities' unique challenges and contributions. They discuss how federalism has reshaped governance and service delivery in these regions and examine the effects of cross-border policies and pandemic-era restrictions on local livelihoods and trade. The conversation highlights how borderland communities are often excluded from national discussions despite their critical role in conflict management and cross-border relations, raising important questions about inclusion and visibility in decision-making processes.  Akhilesh Upadhyay (https://www.linkedin.com/in/akhilesh-upadhyay-6588a833/) is researching the Himalayan borderlands. He is working on a book discussing the history of the region's cross-border trade, migration, and family ties. He also looks at the geopolitics of the Eastern Himalayas, where Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh - smaller states - share a 'crowded corridor' with two big powers - China and India. He is a Senior Fellow with the Strategic Affairs Center at IIDS, a Kathmandu-based think tank.   If you liked the episode, hear more from us through our free newsletter services, PEI Substack: Of Policies and Politics ( ⁠https://policyentre.substack.com/welcome⁠ ), and click here ( ⁠https://patreon.com/podsbypei⁠ ) to support us on Patreon!! 
Akhilesh Upadhaya on From the Margins of Power: Exploring Nepali Borderland Communities

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