Food with ‘trans fat’ in abundance in the market, heart and brain are paying the penalty

 Food with ‘trans fat’ in abundance in the market, heart and brain are paying the penalty

Doctors say that the trans fat (very bad fat) hidden in bakery products, noodles, puffs and French fries, which are abundant in the market, is causing serious damage to the heart and nervous system at a young age.

Food with ‘trans fat’ in abundance in the market, heart and brain are paying the penalty

February 15, Kathmandu. ‘What is the worst fat found in?’ This is a question that senior cardiologist Dr. Ommurthy Anil often asks his patients who come to him for check-ups.

Most of those who come to check answer, ‘Red meat, ghee, milk, butter.’

Some add, ‘The fat in oil can be bad.’

He explains, ‘The worst fat in the world is found in foods containing trans fats.’

According to Dr. Anil, eating foods containing trans fats for a long time is fatal to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain. But we do not find it unusual to eat biscuits with tea in the morning, puffed noodles in the afternoon, and french fries with friends in the evening.

But hidden within this easy and tasty option is ‘trans fat’, i.e. very bad fat (unhealthy fat).

According to the doctor, foods containing trans fats are causing chronic diseases in the body. This is not a ‘normal fat’, but a silent poison that opens the door to chronic diseases.

A monitoring conducted by the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control last November showed this alarming situation. During the monitoring, the ‘croissant’ of Nanglo Bakery and the puff produced by Khajuri Nepal Pvt. Ltd. were found to be harmful to health. After ‘trans fat’ was found to be more than the limit set by the government, the Food Department completely banned the sale and distribution and destroyed them.

Trans fat is considered one of the most harmful fats from a health perspective. According to experts, the reason for the increase in trans fat is unhealthy diet and urban lifestyle. Due to trans fat, heart attacks are increasing at a young age.

‘The trend of heart attacks that we are seeing in patients is directly related to diet,’ says senior cardiologist Dr. Prakash Raj Regmi, ‘Trans fat is an important reason for that.’

What is trans fat?

Trans fat is found from two sources, natural and artificial. It is found in the fat in red meat of animals such as cows, buffaloes, goats, and in dishes made from milk and yogurt. According to doctors, trans fats obtained from natural sources when consumed in small amounts do not have much negative impact on health. However, consuming excessive amounts can have negative impacts.

Industrial trans fats produced in the food industry are extremely harmful to health. They are obtained from artificial sources.

Industrial trans fats are mainly produced by converting vegetable oils into ghee through hydrogenation. In this process, it is produced by heating vegetable oils at high temperatures and adding hydrogen molecules. In this process, the liquid oil is converted into a solid state, i.e. vegetable ghee.

The vegetable ghee produced from this process is used to make various processed foods including bakery products, biscuits, cookies, ready-made noodles, bhujiya, dal moth, potato chips, etc.

Trans fats, which are produced by heating cheap oils in the industry and adding hydrogen, increase the amount of fat. In addition, foods cooked in such very bad fats become tasty and can be stored for many days.

Foods cooked in such oil are mostly used for packaged foods. Foods that look attractive from the outside are very harmful to health. Even if vegetable oil is heated many times, the amount of trans fat increases. Pakodas, samosas, potatoes, and chicken cooked in such oil are delicious to eat.

Another senior cardiologist, Dr. Premraj Vaidya, says, “It is considered good to eat one teaspoon of ghee a day. However, trans fat-rich foods are very dangerous.”

Senior cardiologist, Dr. Ommurthy Anil, says that heart attacks are increasing in people in their 30s and 40s. The main reason for this is a bad lifestyle and eating trans fat-rich foods. He says, “Trans fat-rich foods cause blockage in the blood vessels of a healthy person and lead to heart attacks. It affects everyone from children to senior citizens, pregnant women.

Transfats that poison the blood vessels

Ultra-bad fats (transfats) increase the amount of bad cholesterol in the blood and reduce the amount of good cholesterol. Similarly, they negatively affect the inner part of the arteries and increase the narrowing of the arteries.

'Not only does it narrow the blood vessels, it also causes inflammation (a condition like a swollen wound) in the inner part,' says Dr. Regmi, 'When cholesterol accumulates, blood blockage occurs. Which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.' Not only this, transfats increase the risk of type-2 diabetes.

Due to processed foods prepared for commercial purposes, fat accumulation around the stomach, weight gain and metabolic syndrome are increasing. There is an increasing addiction to junk food among children these days. Obesity, high blood pressure and pre-diabetes are starting to appear at school age, says Dr. Vaidya.

Experts say that excessive trans fat intake by pregnant women can affect fetal development. “There is a possibility that the effects of trans fat can reach the newborn through breastfeeding,” says Dr. Vaidya, “and the risk can last for a generation.” It is not limited. It has a bad effect on the health of the unborn child.

The fried and packaged foods in the market are rich in trans fats. Doctors say that excessive consumption of which leads to fatal diseases at an early age and many people die.

Dr. Regmi claimed that a young woman died after eating Bhujia after watching an advertisement. Recalling an incident a few years ago, he said, "Amitabh Bachchan had promoted Bikaji Bhujia in a very attractive way on Sony TV. A young woman is an Amitabh fan. After consuming Bhujia for a long time, she had reached a state of heart failure."

According to Dr. Regmi, continuous consumption of Bhujia weakened the heart muscle, increased blood pressure and cholesterol. Due to which the heart could not pump properly.

Heart disease is becoming the leading cause of death in the world. The main risk factors are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco and alcohol consumption. A study by the World Health Organization has shown that high intake of trans fats increases the risk of death by 34 percent.

Effects of diet on the brain

Experts say that brain diseases have started increasing among Nepali youth due to changing diets along with modern lifestyle. According to neurologist Dr. Sushil Mohan Bhattarai, serious neurological diseases including stroke, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other diseases have started appearing even in young people in their 30s due to trans fat-rich foods and unhealthy lifestyle.

Dr. Bhattarai, who works at a civil hospital, says, 'Earlier, paralysis and brain stroke were considered diseases that occurred after reaching the age of 70. But now it is seen in young people in their 30s.'

According to Dr. Bhattarai, after trans fats enter the body, they go directly to the cell membrane. Cell membranes are very important for maintaining the structure of the body and for communicating from one cell to another.

In order for the brain to implement what the hand thinks, there must be continuous communication between the nerves. But when trans fats start to mix with cell membranes, communication is disrupted and brain functions gradually deteriorate.

According to Dr. Bhattarai, trans fats reduce the amount of serotonin, the ‘happy chemical’ produced in the brain. Due to this, people in the modern era have started to tend to be more sad, negative and depressed. Not only that, but the ability to learn new things and memory decline.

‘Many college-going students come to the clinic with problems with concentration,’ says Dr. Bhattarai.

Similarly, according to Dr. Rajiv Jha, senior neurosurgeon at Bir Hospital, when the amount of fat in the body increases, the blood vessels that carry blood begin to clot. When fat accumulates in the veins, the blood flow is blocked, due to which the amount of oxygen that should reach the brain decreases.

According to Dr. Jha, if blood circulation is blocked in any part of the brain, the risk of stroke is high. ‘When too much fat accumulates, the vessels become narrow or stiff. That leads to brain hemorrhage or stroke,’ says Dr. Jha says.

According to Dr. Bhattarai, smoking is the number one risk factor for stroke in young people. In second place is unhealthy diet and foods high in trans fats.

‘Brain-related diseases are more common in urban youth and they smoke and eat foods high in trans fats from a young age,’ said Dr. Bhattarai.

Regarding the direct link between trans fat intake and stroke, Dr. Jha says, ‘Obesity and high blood pressure are the main problems in many patients who come to the hospital. Patients who have strokes at a young age often have an unhealthy lifestyle, excessive consumption of junk food, and lack of physical activity.’

Trans fat-rich foods in abundance in the market

Data from the Food Department shows that some of the foods produced in the market are very harmful to health. The department had monitored 67 prepared food items and the raw materials used in them in the last one year.

Of these, 16 percent, or 11, were found to contain trans fats exceeding the standard. In which the total fat content of the food item was more than two percent.

Manita Vaidya, Director General of the department, says, ‘During the monitoring, up to 15.5 percent trans fat was found. Which is very harmful to health.’

Eight puffs were tested during the monitoring. Four puffs had trans fat levels exceeding the standard. Four of the six vegetable ghees tested had high trans fat levels. Vaidya claimed that the products found to have trans fat levels exceeding the standard were returned to the market.

Dr. Anil says, ‘Finding 15.5 percent trans fat in food in the market is a poison for health. Eating such foods directly blocks the blood vessels of the heart and causes heart attacks.’

In the race to increase profits, hotels, restaurants and roadside shops are repeatedly using oil to make fast food such as pakodas, samosas, puris, chicken fries, sausages, etc., which produces trans fat. Deep frying destroys all the nutrients in the food and adds harmful fats to it.

“Most of the sweet shops in the market are using vegetable ghee and oil containing trans fats to make sweets. These dishes, which look smooth, shiny and durable, are actually poisonous to the heart and blood vessels,” said Dr. Vaidya.

Dr. Regmi adds, “Repeatedly heating oil is harmful. It is used Not only is it linked to disease, but it is also linked to the risk of cancer. It is advisable to avoid using vegetable ghee as much as possible.

Main causes of death Heart and stroke

The mortality rate from non-communicable diseases is increasing in Nepal. According to statistics, a large part of the total deaths are due to respiratory diseases, heart diseases, and strokes.

According to experts, unhealthy diet and increased consumption of processed foods are one of the main reasons for this.

According to the 2023 data of 'Nepal Burden of Disease', respiratory diseases are the number one cause of death in Nepal, heart disease is the second, and stroke is the third.

Our diet, behavior, and lifestyle have emerged as the main root causes of the spread of non-communicable diseases. Experts say that non-communicable diseases are increasing as a 'dormant' epidemic in developing countries in recent times. The mortality rate is also increasing in proportion to that. According to the latest statistics, 71 percent of deaths in Nepal are due to non-communicable diseases.

Public health expert Dr. Rita Thapa says that the increase in the incidence of non-communicable diseases has become a matter of concern in recent years. According to Thapa, non-communicable diseases are increasing due to luxurious lifestyle and carelessness in eating, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

According to Dr. Thapa, the reasons are in our hands. There are things related to our lifestyle. Our behavior, junk food, lifestyle, use of tobacco products at a young age, and lack of exercise are the result.

‘Children at a young age consume tobacco products, junk food, and alcohol. Parents also give junk food to young children for lunch,’ Dr. Thapa clarified, saying, ‘The burden of non-communicable diseases is increasing due to lack of physical exertion and excessive stress.’

Is it right to call food ‘junk’? – Online Khabar

State silence, consumer health at risk

With the beginning of the 2000s, health agencies in various countries of the world began to implement regulations to control trans fats used in food. Denmark introduced stricter standards in 2003, while Switzerland banned trans fats in 2008.

Within the United States, New York banned trans fats in 2006 and California in 2008. Canada followed suit in 2008. These decisions led to very low trans fat levels in many foods and complete bans on many products.

Then, it was announced that heart attacks, high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes in young people had decreased. Denmark announced that it had reduced the incidence of diseases in young people by 50 percent. But at the time, many countries found it difficult to believe what Denmark had announced.

The World Health Organization investigated the issue and declared Denmark a “trans fat-free” country.

In the United States and Canada, the amount of trans fat must be stated on the label of packaged foods sold.

The World Health Organization had launched a campaign with the goal of eliminating industrial trans fats from all countries of the world by 2023.

On 24 Magh 2078, the government passed the Multi-Sectoral Action Plan (2021-2025) for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases. Under this plan, there is a policy to keep trans fats below 2 percent of the total fat content of food.

The Department of Food Technology and Quality Control has implemented the standards since 25 Shrawan 2081 after the standards were approved by the Food Standards Committee. However, it has not been adequately monitored.

Consumer rights activists say that the state machinery is still not serious about trans fat-containing foods being sold openly in the market. Consumer rights activist Madhav Timalsina says that the problem will worsen unless the state comes up with a clear and strict policy. According to him, the problem extends from production to regulation.

‘First of all, there should be stricter restrictions on the import of raw materials. Trans fat testing should be made mandatory at customs and quarantine checkpoints. But it does not seem to be happening effectively,' said Timalsina.

Stating that merely setting standards is not enough, he says that strictness is needed in implementation.

'The policy is limited to paper. There is no will to implement it. The terror of trans fats in the market will not stop until a comprehensive awareness campaign is launched among the government, industrialists, importers and consumers,' said Timalsina.

Department spokesperson Bal Kumari Sharma claims that food products have been monitored regularly lately.

'Last November, we recalled the puff produced by Khajuri from the market after it was found to be substandard,' says Sharma. 'We found that it was safe to eat in subsequent monitoring.'

Lax regulation

The Food Hygiene and Quality Act, 2081, clearly provides for mandatory labeling of food and beverages. It is the responsibility of producers and sellers to provide consumers with accurate and clear information about the nature, quality, quantity, expiration date and potential risks of the product.

Similarly, the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 BS, has ensured the right of consumers to be informed about price, quality, results and purity, and has provided a legal basis to protect them from the sale and distribution of products that are harmful to human health.

But the law seems to be limited to paper. Unlabeled food products are found being sold openly in the market. Some products do not even mention the details of ingredients, production and expiry date. Due to this, consumers are directly at risk due to weak state monitoring.

The Advertisement (Regulation) Act, 2076 BS and the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 BS clearly prohibit misleading and false advertisements related to health and nutrition. Who is it? These legal provisions could have been enough to stop the aggressive marketing of unhealthy foods, sugary drinks, and industrial trans-fat products targeting children. But implementation is weak. The Food Technology and Quality Control Department and provincial-level laboratories have cited a lack of manpower as the reason for their inability to conduct effective monitoring.

The argument of limited technical capacity and weak laboratory infrastructure at the food department, provincial laboratories, and local levels has been repeated. The growing market for highly processed foods, the tendency to not follow labeling, and a weak monitoring system have made the situation more complicated. The regulatory mechanism is in disarray, increasing the health risks to consumers.

Health experts say that mandatory mention of trans-fat content on food labels, clear visual warnings, and targeted implementation strategies are necessary to control industrial trans-fat. They suggest that inspection and laboratory capacity should be strengthened by implementing tax policies and strict labeling at the provincial level.

Consumer rights activists in Timalsina say that there should be no delay in making market monitoring effective and banning the sale and promotion of high-trans-fat products in schools and communities.

Preparations to bring a multi-sectoral action plan

The government has said that preparations are underway to bring a new multi-sectoral action plan for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases. According to Health Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Bikas Devkota, the action plan implemented from 2021 to 2025 has expired. Now, the process of formulating a new strategy for 2026 to 2030 has been initiated.

Stating that the main causes of non-communicable diseases lie outside the health sector, Dr. Devkota says that multi-sectoral cooperation is indispensable.

‘About 80 percent of the causes of non-communicable diseases are related to factors outside the health sector,’ says Dr. Devkota. ‘They are linked to other ministries and agencies on issues such as environmental pollution, chemical substances, waste management, and pesticides.’

According to him, although the previous action plan tried to include a multi-sectoral concept, sufficient success was not achieved in practical implementation.

‘The health sector alone cannot be held responsible; other sectors should also reduce the causes that negatively affect health through their policies, investments, and practices,’ he emphasized. He also said that a strategy will be prepared so that various ministries and stakeholders can clearly contribute through policies, resources and programs.

‘A plan is being prepared to incorporate the lessons learned from the previous period into a new strategy and address the weaknesses and challenges seen in implementation,’ says Dr. Devkota, adding, ‘A more effective and clear multi-sectoral approach is now needed to control non-communicable diseases.’

State, Market, and Development

  State, Market, and Development

### **Unit III: State, Market, and Development** (9 hours)

This unit explores the relationship between the *state* and the *market* in the context of development, highlighting the role of the state as a promoter of development and examining the concept of the *developmental state*. Additionally, the unit touches on the dynamics of *state predation* and the impact of *neoliberalism* on state-market relations.

### **Key Concepts:**

#### 1. **State as a Promoter of Development**

The state has historically played a central role in promoting development, particularly in developing countries where market mechanisms alone have been insufficient to drive economic growth and social progress. The state's involvement in development can be understood through its various functions:

   - **Economic Planning and Policy Making:**

     The state is responsible for creating and implementing policies that foster development, such as industrial policy, infrastructure investment, and social welfare programs. By intervening in areas where the market may fail, such as education, healthcare, and public goods, the state ensures that development is more inclusive and addresses the needs of the broader population.

   - **Provision of Public Goods:**

     Public goods, such as infrastructure, education, and health services, are essential for development. The state typically plays a key role in providing these goods, as they are often underprovided by the market due to their non-excludable and non-rivalrous nature.

   - **Regulation of Markets:**

     The state regulates markets to prevent market failures, such as monopolies, externalities, and information asymmetry. Effective regulation ensures that markets operate efficiently and that the benefits of economic growth are distributed more equitably.

   - **Redistribution and Social Welfare:**

     The state also plays a redistributive role, using taxation and welfare programs to reduce poverty and inequality. By redistributing resources, the state ensures that the fruits of development are shared more evenly across society.

   - **Economic Stability:**

     The state has the capacity to stabilize the economy by managing inflation, unemployment, and other macroeconomic variables. During times of crisis, such as financial downturns, the state can step in to stabilize the economy through fiscal and monetary policies.

   - **Promoting Industrialization and Modernization:**

     In many cases, states have actively promoted industrialization as a key pathway to development. By creating favorable conditions for industrial growth, such as investing in infrastructure and providing subsidies to key industries, the state can accelerate the modernization of the economy.

#### 2. **The Developmental State: Features**

The concept of the *developmental state* refers to a model of governance where the state takes an active and interventionist role in promoting economic development. This concept is particularly associated with the rapid industrialization and economic growth experienced by East Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan during the 20th century. The developmental state has several defining features:

   - **Strong State Institutions:**

     A developmental state requires strong, efficient, and autonomous state institutions that can design and implement long-term economic policies without being overly influenced by vested interests or short-term political pressures.

   - **Strategic Economic Planning:**

     The state engages in strategic planning to promote specific industries and sectors deemed crucial for national development. This often involves selecting certain industries for protection and investment while guiding the economy towards industrialization and modernization.

   - **Close Collaboration with the Private Sector:**

     Developmental states typically maintain close relationships with the private sector, often guiding and supporting private enterprises to achieve national development goals. This relationship is symbiotic, as the state provides incentives, subsidies, and infrastructure, while the private sector contributes to economic growth and job creation.

   - **Investment in Human Capital:**

     A hallmark of the developmental state is its investment in education, training, and healthcare to build a skilled and healthy workforce that can contribute to national development. Human capital development is seen as essential for sustained economic growth.

   - **Export-Oriented Industrialization:**

     Many developmental states have pursued an export-oriented industrialization strategy, focusing on developing industries that produce goods for export to global markets. This strategy allows countries to accumulate foreign exchange reserves, develop advanced industries, and achieve rapid economic growth.

   - **Authoritarianism or Strong Leadership:**

     In some cases, developmental states are characterized by authoritarian or semi-authoritarian political systems, where the state has significant control over society and the economy. This allows the state to implement long-term development plans without the constraints of democratic politics. However, not all developmental states are authoritarian; some may have strong leadership within democratic frameworks.

   - **Nationalism and State Identity:**

     Developmental states often promote a sense of national identity and purpose, aligning national development goals with broader social and cultural values. This helps mobilize popular support for state-led development initiatives.

   - **Examples of Developmental States:**

     - *Japan:* After World War II, Japan's state-led industrial policies helped transform it into a global economic power.

     - *South Korea:* Under authoritarian leadership in the 1960s-1980s, South Korea pursued rapid industrialization and became a major global exporter.

     - *Taiwan:* Similar to South Korea, Taiwan's government actively promoted industrialization and export growth.

#### 3. **State and Predation**

While the state can be a promoter of development, it can also become a predatory force, exploiting its own citizens and undermining development. A *predatory state* is one in which state actors use their power and authority to extract resources from the population for personal gain rather than for the public good. This concept is often associated with corruption, clientelism, and rent-seeking behavior.

   - **Features of Predatory States:**

     - **Corruption:** State officials use their positions to enrich themselves through bribes, embezzlement, and other corrupt practices.

     - **Rent-Seeking:** Political elites manipulate state resources and institutions to secure economic rents, such as monopolies or government contracts, without contributing to economic productivity.

     - **Exploitation of Public Resources:** In predatory states, public resources, such as land, natural resources, or government funds, are often expropriated for the benefit of a small elite, while the broader population suffers.

     - **Weak Institutions:** Predatory states often lack strong, independent institutions, allowing corruption and exploitation to flourish without accountability.

   - **Impact on Development:** Predatory states hinder development by misallocating resources, undermining trust in government, and perpetuating inequality. Citizens in predatory states are often subject to repression and lack access to basic services and opportunities for economic advancement.

   - **Examples of State Predation:**

     - *Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo):* Under the rule of Mobutu Sese Seko, state resources were diverted for personal gain, contributing to the country's economic collapse.

     - *Nigeria:* Corruption and rent-seeking by state elites have long undermined Nigeria's potential for development, despite its wealth in natural resources such as oil.

#### 4. **Market and State: The Politics of Neoliberalism**

*Neoliberalism* refers to a political and economic philosophy that emphasizes the importance of free markets, deregulation, and the reduction of state intervention in the economy. Neoliberal policies gained prominence in the late 20th century, particularly in Western countries, and have significantly influenced the relationship between the state and the market in developing countries.

   - **Key Features of Neoliberalism:**

     - **Privatization:** Neoliberalism advocates for the privatization of state-owned enterprises and services, with the belief that the private sector is more efficient at delivering goods and services than the public sector.

     - **Deregulation:** Neoliberal policies seek to reduce government regulation of the economy, allowing market forces to dictate outcomes.

     - **Free Trade:** Neoliberalism promotes free trade and the reduction of tariffs and trade barriers, encouraging countries to integrate into the global economy.

     - **Reduction of Public Spending:** Neoliberalism calls for reducing public spending on social services such as healthcare, education, and welfare, arguing that private enterprise and market competition can provide these services more efficiently.

     - **Market-Oriented Reforms:** Governments adopting neoliberal policies focus on market-oriented reforms such as labor market flexibility, tax cuts, and reducing the size of the state.

   - **Impact on Development:**

     - **Economic Growth:** Neoliberal policies are often associated with increased economic growth in the short term, as markets are liberalized and trade expands.

     - **Inequality:** However, neoliberalism has also been criticized for exacerbating income inequality and creating social divides, as the benefits of growth are not evenly distributed.

     - **Weakening of the State:** Neoliberal policies can weaken the state's ability to provide essential services and regulate the economy, leading to social discontent and political instability.

     - **Examples of Neoliberalism:** Countries such as Chile and the United Kingdom under Margaret Thatcher implemented neoliberal reforms that transformed their economies but also led to significant social inequality.

---

### **Summary of Key Points:**

- The state plays a crucial role in promoting development through economic planning, provision of public goods, regulation of markets, and redistribution of wealth.

- The *developmental state* model emphasizes state intervention in the economy, strong institutions, strategic planning, and close collaboration with the private sector to promote industrialization and development.

- A *predatory state* undermines development through corruption, exploitation, and rent-seeking, misallocating resources and preventing broad-based economic progress.

- *Neoliberalism* promotes free markets, privatization, deregulation, and reduced state intervention, but its impact on development is mixed, often leading to increased inequality and weakening of state institutions. 

This unit provides an in-depth understanding of how the state interacts with the market and development processes, offering students insight into different models of governance and their implications for economic and social progress.

### Unit III: State, Market, and Development

This unit explores the dynamic relationship between the **state**, **market**, and **development**. It emphasizes the role of the state as both a promoter of development and a potential predator on economic resources. Additionally, it delves into the politics of **neoliberalism** and how the interplay between the state and market shapes developmental outcomes.

### **1. Dietrich Rueschemeyer and Peter B. Evans (1985). "The State and Economic Transformation: Toward an Analysis of the Conditions Underlying Effective Intervention" Chapter 2. In Peter B. Evans, D. Rueschemeyer, et al. (1985). *Bringing the State Back In*, Cambridge University Press.**

Rueschemeyer and Evans' chapter emphasizes the state’s role in economic transformation, exploring how and under what conditions state intervention can foster or hinder development. The key points of the chapter include:

- **State as a Developmental Actor:** The state is conceptualized as a crucial player in economic development. However, its ability to promote growth is contingent upon various factors, including its **institutional capacity** and **autonomy from elite interests**.

  

- **Conditions for Effective State Intervention:**

  - **Institutional Strength:** Strong, coherent institutions are necessary for the state to carry out effective interventions in the economy. States with weak institutions tend to be less effective in promoting development.

  - **State Autonomy:** For the state to pursue development objectives, it must maintain autonomy from narrow elite groups who may seek to hijack public resources for their private gain. This autonomy allows the state to act in the broader public interest.

- **Case Studies and Comparative Analysis:** Rueschemeyer and Evans use historical and comparative analysis of different countries to show how states have successfully intervened in the economy to promote development. Countries with strong institutional frameworks and political autonomy tend to achieve better developmental outcomes.

This reading is critical for understanding the **developmental state** and the conditions necessary for effective state-led development.

---

### **2. Adrian Leftwich (1995). "Bringing Politics Back In: Towards a Model of the Developmental State." *Journal of Development Studies* 31(3): 400.**

In this article, Leftwich builds on the concept of the **developmental state**, arguing that successful development requires the **politicization of economic development**. Leftwich emphasizes that politics cannot be separated from economic policies when it comes to development.

- **Developmental State Model:**

  - **Political Leadership:** Leftwich asserts that political leadership plays a crucial role in the establishment and maintenance of developmental states. The **development-oriented political elite** is essential in driving policies that promote long-term economic growth.

  - **Interventionist Policies:** The developmental state actively intervenes in the economy to support industrialization, innovation, and infrastructure development. This contrasts with the laissez-faire approach of neoliberalism.

  

- **Characteristics of a Developmental State:**

  - **Bureaucratic Efficiency:** Developmental states are characterized by **competent, meritocratic bureaucracies** that are insulated from political pressures and capable of implementing policies efficiently.

  - **Strong Nationalism:** There is often a **strong sense of national purpose** in developmental states, where economic growth is seen as a project of national survival and prestige.

  - **Coordinated Market Economy:** The state collaborates with the private sector in a **coordinated** and **strategic manner** to promote key industries and drive economic growth.

- **The Role of Politics in Development:** Leftwich argues that the political will and structure of the state are critical to shaping the success or failure of development policies. Without proper political backing, economic reforms are unlikely to succeed.

This article is essential for understanding the **political underpinnings** of the developmental state and how political leadership can guide state intervention in markets to promote growth.

---

### **3. Adrian Leftwich (1993). "Governance, Democracy, and Development in the Third World." *Third World Quarterly* 14(3): 605-624.**

In this earlier work, Leftwich analyzes the complex relationships between **governance**, **democracy**, and **development** in the context of the developing world. He critiques the common assumption that democracy is always a prerequisite for development.

- **Governance and Development:**

  - Leftwich argues that **good governance**, rather than democracy per se, is more important for achieving development in Third World countries. Good governance involves the **efficient, transparent, and accountable management of public resources** and policy implementation.

  

- **Democracy and Economic Growth:** 

  - The article challenges the notion that **democratic governance** is inherently conducive to development. Leftwich notes that some non-democratic regimes (e.g., in East Asia) have successfully fostered rapid economic growth, suggesting that **authoritarian developmental states** may sometimes be more effective in achieving development.

  

- **Balancing Democracy and Development:** 

  - While Leftwich acknowledges the value of democracy in promoting political stability and inclusivity, he argues that developing countries must balance democratic processes with **effective state intervention** to ensure economic growth. He emphasizes the need for strong institutions and governance structures to drive development, regardless of the regime type.

This reading is crucial for understanding the **governance challenges** in developing countries and how political systems can be structured to promote development, whether democratic or authoritarian.

---

### **4. Fran Tonkiss. "Markets Against States: Neo-liberalism." Chapter 1 in Kate Nash and Alan Scott (eds.). *The Blackwell Companion to Political Sociology*. MA: Blackwell Publishers.**

Fran Tonkiss provides a critical analysis of **neoliberalism** and its impact on the relationship between the **state and the market**. Neoliberalism emphasizes reducing the role of the state in economic affairs and promoting free markets as the primary driver of development.

- **Neoliberal Ideology:**

  - **Minimal State Intervention:** Neoliberalism advocates for a **limited role for the state** in economic affairs, arguing that free markets are more efficient at allocating resources and driving growth.

  - **Privatization and Deregulation:** Key policies associated with neoliberalism include the **privatization of state-owned enterprises**, **deregulation of industries**, and the **reduction of government spending** on social services.

  

- **Critiques of Neoliberalism:**

  - **Inequality and Social Costs:** Tonkiss critiques neoliberalism for **increasing inequality** and **eroding social safety nets**, particularly in developing countries. She argues that unfettered markets tend to benefit the wealthy and leave marginalized groups without access to essential services like education and healthcare.

  - **Weakening of the State:** Neoliberalism weakens the state’s ability to intervene in the economy to promote **inclusive growth** and address market failures. In many cases, this has led to economic instability and the **erosion of public goods**.

- **Neoliberalism and Globalization:** 

  - Tonkiss highlights how neoliberalism became a dominant global economic policy in the late 20th century, driven by institutions like the **International Monetary Fund (IMF)** and **World Bank**. Developing countries were often encouraged (or forced) to adopt neoliberal reforms as part of structural adjustment programs.

This chapter is critical for understanding the **politics of neoliberalism** and its implications for state intervention, market regulation, and socio-economic development.

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### **Conclusion:**

Unit III’s readings on **State, Market, and Development** highlight the complex and evolving relationships between the state and the market, particularly in the context of development. Rueschemeyer and Evans emphasize the importance of state intervention in fostering economic transformation under certain conditions, while Leftwich explores the political foundations of the **developmental state**. His work also critiques the assumption that democracy is always necessary for development. Finally, Tonkiss provides a critical view of **neoliberalism**, pointing out its limitations and the social costs of market-driven development. Together, these readings offer a comprehensive view of how the **state**, **market**, and **political structures** interact in shaping developmental outcomes.

Is there a shortage of cetamol in the market with the increase in dengue infection?

Dengue infection is increasing rapidly in major urban areas including Kathmandu. Most of the hospitals in Kathmandu have started filling up with dengue patients. As there is no specific treatment or medicine against dengue, medicine is given according to the symptoms. Paracetamol is given to eat especially because of high fever in dengue infection.

Electric cars expanding the market

Increased tax on electric vehicles, thus increasing the price

The government has a policy to increase electricity consumption at a higher rate in the coming fiscal year. For that, the government has a plan to promote electric vehicles. However, the budget has undermined its own plan by raising taxes on electric vehicles.

In the budget for the coming fiscal year 2077/078 presented in the parliament on Thursday, the customs and excise rates for importing electric vehicles have been increased extensively. This will make jeeps and cars more expensive than buses with electric motors.

The government plans to impose up to 80 percent customs duty on all types of electric cars. In the case of three-wheeled electric vehicles, only 30 percent customs duty has been fixed. However, 50 percent discount has been provided in it, so 40 percent customs duty has to be paid while supplying.

The government has brought a budget bill to impose excise duty of 5 to 80 percent on electric vehicles depending on the capacity of the motor.

The government has decided to levy 80 percent customs duty on electric cars brought for private use.

Earlier, the government was levying 10 percent excise duty, 13 percent VAT and 4 percent road tax on the purchase price. As the government has given duty exemption on electric cars, the buyers of electric vehicles have been attracting more and more.

Earlier, the excise duty on electric cars imported from 10 percent has been increased to 80 percent. Jeeps and cars with 50 to 100 kW motors will be subject to 30 percent excise duty.

Vehicles with 100 to 150 kW motor will be charged 50 percent excise duty on vehicles with 40,150 to 200 kW motor and vehicles with 200 to 300 kW motor will be charged 60 percent excise duty. If the pick-up of the car is more than 300 watts, 70 percent excise duty will be levied.

The government will impose only 5 percent excise duty on vehicles with more than 25 seats. The excise duty on electric buses of smaller capacity is up to 55 percent. The government has also increased the road toll from 1 percent to 5 percent this time.

How does the price of an electric car increase?

Let's look at an example of how the price of an electric car currently being sold in Nepal for Rs 10 million is increasing. An electric car worth Rs 10 million in Nepal is now bought in foreign markets for  49,000. Based on today's exchange rate, its value in the company is Rs 7.252 million.

Now, according to the tax rate brought by the government, 80 percent customs duty is levied on it. In other words, it now costs Rs 58 lakh 1 thousand. However, as half of the exemption has been given, Rs 2.9 million will be added to the customs.

An additional 60 percent excise duty is also charged. That is, now the value of Rs 43.51 million is added to it. Accordingly, the value of this vehicle can reach Rs 14.5 million after paying customs excise duty. Adding 5 percent road toll to this price adds Rs 725,000. Besides, 13 percent VAT should also be added. Accordingly, 1.835 million VAT is added. By the time the price of this vehicle crosses the customs point, about 17 million 62 thousand importers can have spent it.

If 20 percent profit is kept in it, the value will be maintained only by adding 3.4 million 12 thousand. That is, an electric car bought abroad for Rs 7.2 million can be sold in Nepal for only Rs 20.5 million.

Electric cars expanding the market

President Vidyadevi Bhandari, Minister for Energy Barshaman Pun, Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority Kulman Ghising and others have been using electric vehicles.

It has been months since Minister Pun left Toyota's petrol car and started riding in the Chinese brand BYD E-Six model car. After him, President Bhandari has also started using the same model car worth Rs 6.6 million.

Not only these high-ranking officials but also the general public are showing interest in electric vehicles today. Sahil Shrestha, Chief Executive Officer of BYD Auto Industries, said that electric vehicles (EVs) have become the choice of many as they do not have to pay taxes annually, do not have petroleum problems and are environmentally friendly.

"Adding maintenance, taxes and fuel costs saves millions of rupees," he said. "It only costs a rupee to run a kilometer on an EV." According to him, electric vehicles have not been able to produce with great results.

He said that due to limited battery production, such vehicles could not be distributed in the world as per the demand. Hyundai sells two models of electric cars in Nepal, Kona and Ionic. Bhatta informed that 44 vehicles have been sold so far.

"Hyundai is all set to launch a new model of e-vehicle," he said, adding that "there is a growing demand for such vehicles as people become more environmentally conscious." We launched Kona last January with 40 units booked in a single week. We have sold it all. 'Hyundai's Kona costs Rs 5.59 million and Ionic costs Rs 5.196 million. BYD is unveiling a new E3 model car in a few months. Shrestha also informed that e-bus is also being brought.

Mahindra, Tata, Kia brand electric cars can be bought in Nepal. Apart from this, cars of brands like Haoyu, Dehi, J Star are also available. They range in price from Rs 1.6 million to Rs 6.6 million. Among them, Mahindra's models like Reva and Verito are the most sold. Mahindra has so far sold about 600 electric cars, while Dehi has sold 10, Hao 4 and J Star 4. Banks provide up to 80 percent auto loans to those who buy electric vehicles.

The number of electric cars in Nepal is now around one thousand, said Umesh Raj Shrestha, president of the Electric Vehicles Association. According to him, there are 3500 to 4000 e-scooters, 4000 tricycles and 750 clean tempos in the country.

"Ten years ago today, the Navy Company introduced electric brand electric cars," he said. There are not enough choices to make.

He said that he was getting the car of his choice as there was no variety of vehicles. "Is it cheap, expensive or mid-range vehicles?" He said. "There is not enough diversity."

Charging station not reached

The electric vehicle has to be charged just as the internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle needs fuel. Now electric car companies have set up their own charging stations in various locations. BYD has 12 fast charging stations inside Kathmandu and 3 outside the Kathmandu Valley. Nepal Electricity Authority has also set up charging stations at Ratna Park and Singha Durbar.

"It would have been easier to have a charging station every 30-40 kilometers," said Sitaram Dahal of Budhanilkantha, who runs Mahindra's Verito. Hesitant sellers have experience.

Shrestha of the Electric Vehicles Association does not consider charging stations to be a big problem. According to him, if the government provides land and electricity in some major places like Muglin, Bardibas and Narayanghat, companies can easily build stations by placing charging piles. "The government's environment-friendly transport policy plans to make 20 percent of vehicles electric by 2020," he said. The government is bringing in big diesel-powered vehicles. '

Shrestha said that the government should be more serious for the promotion of electric vehicles. He said that not only cars but also e-scooters and public electric vehicles need to be promoted. "In order to reduce pollution by reducing the consumption of fossil fuels, the government should place special emphasis on the promotion of public electric vehicles," he said. "The promotion of private vehicles alone is not enough."