The wrong policy that forced specialists to leave the country

 The wrong policy that forced specialists to leave the country

The Philippines has adopted a medical education and residency training system similar to the US. Nepal, on the other hand, has followed the Indian model, which is influenced by the British model.

In recent decades, there has been a steady exodus of specialists from Nepal to foreign countries. This issue is usually discussed in hushed tones. However, it is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately.

This exodus is not just about higher salaries or modern facilities. It has to do with the difficulties and structural obstacles that specialists face within Nepal’s institutional structure.

One of the biggest challenges in this regard is the issue of equivalence (certificate of equivalence). Tribhuvan University (TU) has the authority to recognize foreign medical degrees. Without this recognition, specialists returning from abroad cannot apply for government jobs or academic careers.

In this regard, TU does not recognize doctors who have completed residency training in the Philippines. Their residency program was not recognized as a real course, but as a general training without a thesis.

This decision is highly contradictory. Before going to the Philippines, each doctor had received an official letter from the relevant Nepali government agency. Due to the limited number of postgraduate seats in the country, many doctors were forced to go abroad for further studies in the last two decades.

Moreover, members of the Nepal Medical Council themselves used to go to the Philippines to understand and observe the medical education system there. This also indicated a tacit approval for Nepali doctors to study in that country. But the harsh and dismissive approach of TU has now sidelined hundreds of skilled specialists in their own country.

What is more painful is that until the beginning of 2073, TU was issuing equivalence certificates to doctors who had completed their residency in the Philippines. Many specialists had applied, submitted the necessary documents, and even paid the fees. Suddenly, TU changed its policy and stopped issuing certificates without any warning. The applications of many doctors were still in process.

If rules are to be made, they should always be for the future, not for the past. For example, Tribhuvan University could have said, ‘Starting this year, equality will not be given to those doing residency in the Philippines.’ But instead of doing so, the rule was implemented immediately. Which completely ruined the future of doctors who had completed their studies abroad and are studying.

Imagine, what must have happened to doctors who were in the middle of their residency in 2017? Long duty, sleepless nights, hungry stomachs, physical and mental fatigue. What must have happened to doctors who were struggling for a happy future despite facing all this with this sudden decision?

The arbitrary and discriminatory policy of the system has shattered the hopes of many doctors.

Some doctors have said that this sudden decision has even made them victims of depression.

No decision has been made yet about what will happen to those who had submitted all the necessary documents and the 5,000 rupee fee for the equivalence certificate in 2073 BS, shortly before the implementation of this rule. What kind of justice is this done to citizens?

The lack of recognition is not only undermining the hard work of these doctors, but also weakening Nepal’s health system. Nepal’s much-needed specialist surgeons, physicians, and pediatricians have returned with experience abroad. However, they are not allowed to teach in Nepal’s medical colleges or work as specialists in government hospitals. This is because TU refuses to issue the necessary certificates. Yet these same specialists are welcomed in other countries, their skills are respected, and they are employed.

In addition, there is widespread discrimination within the health system. Nepali doctors who return from high-level training abroad, especially those from the Philippines, are often the target of suspicion, professional jealousy, and administrative obstruction. They are treated like outsiders in their own homeland.

They are deprived of leadership roles, excluded from decision-making processes, and kept out of opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the nation’s health sector. They have now emerged as a group of highly skilled and talented doctors trained abroad. The message is clear—an attempt is being made to discredit expertise and create administrative obstacles in Nepal.

The Philippines has adopted a medical education and residency training system similar to the US. Nepal, on the other hand, has followed the Indian model, which is influenced by the British model.

The residency years in Nepal and the Philippines are similar, with some being longer in the Philippines.

For example:

-General Surgery – Nepal: 3 years, Philippines: 5 years

-Radiology – Nepal: 3 years, Philippines: 4 years

-Orthopedic – Nepal: 3 years, Philippines: 4 years

-Internal Medicine – Nepal: 3 years, Philippines: 3 years

-ENT – Nepal: 3 years, Philippines: 4 years

-Obstetrics and Gynecology – Nepal: 3 years, Philippines: 4 years

Based on this comparison, the claim that Philippine residency is ‘mere training’ is baseless. Rather, the programs are more structured and longer than those in Nepal, which raises serious questions about the biased policy of TU.

What is even more sad is that all responsible institutions are aware of this problem. Dean of the Institute of Medical Studies (IOM), Nepal May The Dical Council, the Nepal Medical Association, the Ministry of Health and Population, and the Ministry of Education are all aware of this problem.

But no one has taken responsibility for solving it. The main players are the current and former two deans and the officials of the Curriculum Development Board of Tribhuvan University.

Was this decision approved by the Ministry of Education or the Ministry of Health? The answer to this question has not come from anywhere. Under whose direction were these decisions made? Was there an influence of money or power? Why was a policy made to stop the specialists needed by the nation? Will these responsible people ever be investigated and held accountable?

Recently, about 200 specialist doctors have filed a petition in the court, where a permanent order has also been issued. However, no concrete solution has been reached yet.

Why is there so much silence about this policy that has become a factor in the exodus of specialist doctors?

Nepal is already suffering from a shortage of specialists in fields such as cancer, neurosurgery, cardiology, and pediatrics. But the doctors who can fill these vacancies are migrating abroad in large numbers. Most of the doctors who have gone abroad have left the country permanently.

They have gone to places where their training is recognized, respected and valued. Nepali patients are forced to travel abroad for expensive treatment or rely on substandard services.

If Nepal wants to save its medical talent, urgent reforms are needed. Tribhuvan University and the Nepal Medical Council must adopt a transparent and fair policy for recognizing foreign degrees.

Especially degrees from countries like the Philippines, where residency is internationally recognized. Instead of abolishing these programs, Nepal should focus on evaluation, breeding systems and collaborative partnerships. It is also essential to end discrimination and create a culture of respect for all specialists.

Ways to keep Dashain meat healthy and safe for a long time

Ways to keep Dashain meat healthy and safe for a long time

During the festival season, many homes have an abundance of meat. If it is not properly preserved, it can spoil.

Clean equipment should be used while slaughtering and cleaning meat, and storage should be done at a temperature below 4 degrees Celsius.

The minimum internal temperature should be maintained at 62.8 degrees Celsius when cooking meat.

Now is the festive moment of Dashain. Those who are away from home for work and study have started returning home and gathering. How many people are traveling? How many are preparing for the trip? Meat is the most consumed food during Dashain family gatherings. Except for vegetarians, most people eat meat like every meal during Dashain.

Most families slaughter animals at home and store plenty of meat. At this time, every house has an abundance of meat. In this situation, if the meat is not stored properly, there is a risk of spoiling. And the meat can become poisonous. Consuming such meat can cause various health problems.

Improper slaughterhouse practices and methods, poor hygiene, and improper and inadequate meat preservation methods for large quantities of meat can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, which can cause unpleasant and sometimes serious illnesses.

To avoid such problems, special care must be taken from the time of slaughtering the animal to its other processes, storage, and even cooking.

Food poisoning from contaminated meat is mainly caused by microorganisms such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. It can have mild to severe symptoms.

Symptoms

- Nausea, vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Abdominal pain

- Fever

In vulnerable people, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, food poisoning can have serious consequences.

How to slaughter safely?

For many, the Dashain tradition of slaughtering goats or other animals at home is a tradition. If this practice is not done hygienically, it can be a major source of infection in the meat.

-The designated place for slaughter should be clean and away from household waste and drains. There should be a place where the animal can be cleaned again after slaughtering.

-Make sure that the animal prepared for slaughter is healthy.

-Plenty of clean water should be provided for washing hands, tools and meat. Tools should be washed thoroughly with soap and hot water before and after using them.

-The person performing the slaughter should also pay attention to hygiene. Meat can be contaminated by a dirty person.

-People with contagious diseases (cold, fever, dysentery, etc.) should not participate in this activity.

-The intestines and internal organs should be removed carefully. When removing the internal organs, be very careful not to pierce the intestines, as this can spread feces and bacteria to the meat.

-After cooking, meat should be cooled to below 4°C as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth. This can be done by using a refrigerator or clean ice.

Kitchen Safety

Once meat is brought into the kitchen, special care should be taken to prevent contamination. Maintaining good hygiene is important to prevent such problems.

Keeping raw meat and other vegetables separate

Use separate chopping boards, knives and utensils for raw meat and other foods, such as vegetables and salads. This will prevent harmful bacteria from being transferred from raw meat to ready-to-eat items.

-Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw meat.

Cooking to the right temperature

Most harmful bacteria are killed when cooked thoroughly. When preparing dishes, meat should be cooked thoroughly, especially until the pink color is gone.

For large cuts of meat, the recommended minimum internal temperature is 62.8°C. The best way to measure the temperature is to use a food thermometer.

Storing for later: Modern and traditional preservation

When a large amount of meat is available, how to store it properly?

Meat storage methods

1. Freezing

Fresh meat can be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 degrees Celsius or lower and consumed within a few days. For long-term storage, the meat should be frozen. For this, it should be cut into the required pieces, filled with packaging plastic, sealed and placed in the freezer.

The refrigerator used for storing meat must be in good condition. Meat can be contaminated and spoiled in a dirty refrigerator. If the meat is kept in this way, it can be stored for a long time.

2. Preserving cooked meat in fat

This method is called confiting in English. In this method, the meat, especially goat, pig or duck meat, is well marinated and then immersed in its own fat. The fat acts as a protective seal. The meat can be taken out when needed and prepared in various dishes as desired. No refrigeration is required for this.

3. Salting

This method is used especially in Western countries. In this, raw meat is salted heavily and hung in a dry, cool place or stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 degrees Celsius. Before using such meat, it should be washed thoroughly in water to remove the salt.

4. Making Sukuti

This is a traditional Nepali method of preserving meat for a long time. Many Nepalis used to make long pieces of Dashain meat and hang it over the fire. Even today, meat can be seen being stored in this way in rural areas.Once the meat is well dried, it will not spoil even if kept for a long time.

To make suketi, the meat should be cut into thin and long pieces. This will allow it to dry evenly. It is best to dry it in a well-ventilated place, covered with a net to protect it from flies. The meat should be completely dry and hard before storing. Meat dried in a slightly smoky place will last longer.

5. Making Pakku

Pakku is a traditional Nepali meat dish. It is mainly made from goat or cow meat. The method of making it is special. The pieces of meat are marinated in spices such as ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander and placed in a pot. Then, without using water, the meat is cooked in its own fat and juices at a low temperature for a long time.

When cooked in this way, the meat melts completely, becomes very soft and tasty, and its color is dark brown or black. Since it is cooked in its own fat without adding water, it does not spoil for many days.

It can be made into a broth and gravy as per the requirement. It can also be eaten with rice and curries. The pakku prepared in this way can also be stored at normal room temperature. If kept in the refrigerator, it will not spoil for many more days.

Do not eat too much

Consuming too many fatty and spicy meat dishes can cause digestive problems. To facilitate the digestion process, plenty of fresh vegetables, salads, and fruits should be included in the diet.

Drink plenty of water

Drink plenty of clean water throughout the day.

How to mitigate the psychosocial impact of the current crisis?

 How to mitigate the psychosocial impact of the current crisis?

Nepal is currently in a period of political transition that has increased instability and uncertainty.

The deaths and injuries of adolescents and many others in the recent violent protests have raised deep concerns.

Immediate and long-term initiatives are needed, prioritizing mental health and psychosocial support.

Nepal is once again in a period of political transition. While change itself is an inevitable process, change accompanied by uncertainty creates more uncertainty than hope. At times, we are wondering whether Nepal is on the brink of instability.

The loss of lives of adolescents and young people in recent violent protests and movements, the injury of many people, is sending a message of sorts.

The massive damage to private and public property, from archaeological heritage to the prevailing sense of insecurity in the minds of ordinary citizens, have caused us deep pain. Not only the immediate damage, but also its long-term impact, its impact on mental health, is a matter of concern and discussion.

This crisis has affected all age groups in different ways. Children and adolescents have experienced fear, confusion, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating in school. Youth and adults have experienced increased frustration, anger, anxiety about unemployment, and strained social relationships. The elderly are experiencing feelings of insecurity. People with disabilities and marginalized communities have their own unique concerns.

If these conditions are not addressed immediately, there is a risk of increased trauma, anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies. There is also a risk of social breakdown, deepening distrust, decreased productivity, and a decrease in human resource capacity.

Psychosocial support is urgently needed for children, adolescents, youth, women, the elderly, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities affected by violence, death, and insecurity. Many people are in a state of confusion right now. Most people seem to believe the information they receive on social media as official information. Many seem to be unable to distinguish between right and wrong.

This type of information seems to have made people very anxious due to the pressure of uncertainty about the future.

What to do in this situation?

Both immediate and long-term initiatives are needed to address such a situation. Primarily, psychological support, helpline services operated through telephone and social media, and community-based basic psychosocial support programs need to be started immediately.

Self-care and stress management skills should be provided to security personnel, health workers, media workers, and other service providers working in the field immediately. In the long term, mental health in schools, communities, and workplaces should be linked to education, protection, and health systems through policy management.

It is essential to develop a psychosocial support system with follow-up and conduct activities. Similarly, only by ensuring quality counseling services related to trauma and grief can victims have the basis to restore their lives to balance.

In this context, the first responsibility is to address the suffering of people who died, were injured, and were disabled in the movement. Immediate treatment, rehabilitation, compensation and ensuring justice should be the first step of the state. Trust in the people can be restored only by impartial investigation and accountability in cases of human rights violations.

Similarly, it is necessary to pay attention to the control of corruption and transparency in power raised by the protesters.

Special attention should be paid to returning people's lives to their previous state, restoring employment and creating new jobs. It is necessary to immediately facilitate and restart production and business that have been stalled due to various reasons. It is necessary to create an investment-friendly environment and create an encouraging environment.

Similarly, mental health and psychosocial well-being must be a national priority. The World Health Organization and the International Labor Organization have recommended linking mental health with development and employment. Therefore, Nepal needs to take the initiative in this regard in collaboration with development partners.

In the long term, it is essential to introduce psychosocial and mental health education in schools, communities and workplaces, a structure of community-based workers (CBTs) and psychologists, and policies and systems that link mental health to the primary health system.

Good governance and transparency are also indispensable. Rebuilding trust is not possible without participation in the decision-making process, accountability through e-governance, social justice and the implementation of concrete programs to end discrimination. Nepal stands at a crossroads of crisis and opportunity today.

Only if the state can put these five foundations into practice: justice and rehabilitation for the victims of the movement, eradication of corruption, job creation and economic expansion, ensuring mental health and social cohesion, and reconstruction with good governance and transparency, will Nepal's future not be just a story of struggle, but a common home for beautiful, peaceful, healthy and happy Nepalis.

Some of our habits, which can be improved to improve health

 Some of our habits, which can be improved to improve health

Eating late at night increases the risk of diabetes, so you should finish your meal by 8/9 pm and eat light meals.

Eating too fast can cause gastritis, so you should chew your food slowly and thoroughly.

Excessive salt intake increases high blood pressure, so it is recommended to not eat more than 6 grams of salt per day and eat less processed food.

A balanced and healthy lifestyle is essential to prevent and control any disease. Sometimes some habits cause disease. While some promote diseases. If we identify these habits and change them in time, positive improvements in health are possible.

There are some habits, which can be changed to avoid diseases.

1. Diabetes

Eating late at night can cause imbalanced blood sugar levels, which reduces the effect of insulin in the body. This makes it difficult to control sugar. It is better to finish eating by 8/9 pm. Dinner should be light. After eating, you should walk for a while.

2. Migraine

Skipping meals can increase migraine symptoms. Not getting enough nutrition on time can lower blood sugar levels and increase headaches. A regular and balanced diet helps in controlling migraines.

3. Heart disease

Physical inactivity is a major cause of the disease. Not exercising regularly can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. You should do at least 30 minutes of light or moderate exercise daily. You can also walk.

4. Osteoporosis

Complete deprivation of sunlight weakens bones. Spend 15 minutes in the early morning sun and include calcium-rich foods in your diet.

5. Gastritis

Eating too quickly affects the protective layer of the stomach, which causes irritation and gas. You should chew your food slowly and thoroughly.

6. Acid reflux

If you sleep immediately after eating, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus. You should stay active for at least 2 hours after eating. Eat light and less spicy food at night.

7. Stomach problems

Not drinking enough water can cause problems like constipation and acidity. You should drink at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day. So that the digestion process remains smooth and excretion is easy.

8. Liver disease

Excessive oil-spices and processed foods put an extra burden on the liver. Such foods should be avoided. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be prioritized in your daily diet.

9. Dementia

Mental inactivity and watching television for a long time negatively affect brain function. Therefore, you should learn something new every day and exercise your brain.

10. Insomnia

Excessive use of screens, especially before going to bed, affects sleep. You should stop using mobile and television at least 1 hour before going to bed. You should set a regular sleep time.

11. Anxiety

Spending time on social media can increase mental stress. Limit your use of social media. Include meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques in your daily life.

12. High blood pressure

Excessive salt intake can increase blood pressure. Excess salt causes water retention in the body, which increases pressure on the heart. Therefore, you should avoid eating processed and fast foods that are high in salt and should not consume more than 6 grams of salt per day. You should also give up the habit of sprinkling salt on your food.

13. Anemia

Many people drink tea immediately after eating, but this hinders the absorption of iron in the body. Therefore, tea should be drunk at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after eating. Green vegetables, lentils, and iron-rich foods should be prioritized in the diet.

What to do to keep yourself and your family healthy during the current crisis? 8 ways

 What to do to keep yourself and your family healthy during the current crisis? 8 ways

In Nepal, the Gen-Z movement has burned down government structures and prisoners have escaped from prison.

Due to the shortage of medicine and limited hospital services, it has been suggested to treat common illnesses at home.

Contaminated water, pollution, and mental stress have increased health challenges due to the movement.

Nepal is currently at a very sensitive time. The Gen-Z movement has brought turmoil across the country. Government structures have been burned down, people's homes have been set on fire. Hospitals have become overcrowded. Prisoners have escaped from prison. The market system has become unstable, and the risk of medicine shortages and black marketing has increased. At such times, it is very important for individuals to be aware of public health.

The first thing to pay attention to during a crisis is the health security of themselves and their families. Problems such as lack of medicine, limited hospital services, polluted environment, contaminated water, and mental stress are current health challenges.

Amidst the challenges, it is important for the general public to take some precautions to avoid health complications.

1. Let's try to treat common diseases at home

In such a situation, there may be a shortage of medicines in the market. There may be a long wait for treatment at the hospital. In such a situation, if you experience symptoms such as a common cold, cough, or sore throat, do not go to the hospital unnecessarily. Let's adopt easy treatment measures at home.

- Gargling with salt water

- Drinking hot water, taking steam

- Resting, drinking plenty of water

- Home treatment using basil, ginger, and turmeric

Common fever and cough are self-healing in nature within two to three days, so let's be patient until it gets worse. However, if you experience severe symptoms, it is appropriate to seek advice from a health worker or go to a health facility.

2. Let's take special precautions to avoid contaminated water

Government structures, sewers, and water pipes have been damaged. These can lead to harmful chemicals, waste, or infectious elements mixing with water. There is a high possibility of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea spreading, and chemical substances can cause many problems, so let's be careful.

– Drink only water that has been boiled for at least 10 minutes

– Use filtered or bottled water as much as possible.

– Pay special attention to the quality of water while cooking.

3. Take precautions to avoid fire and pollution

When houses burn, gas tanks explode, and structures are destroyed, toxic gases and dust are released into the environment, causing air pollution to reach high levels.

– Make it a point to wear a mask when going out.

– Avoid places with excessive dust and smoke as much as possible.

– People with asthma, allergies, or lung problems should be extra careful.

– Take special care of our young children.

4. Provide first aid for burns and wounds

Incidents of burns or injuries due to fires are increasing. Minor wounds can become serious if not treated immediately.

– Apply cold water to the burned skin (but do not use ice).

– Use a cream called ‘Silver Sulfadiazine’ available at the nearest drugstore.

– Keep the wound clean, do not use dirty bandages.

5. Management of physical fatigue of those involved in the movement

Many young people involved in the movement may be in pain. In such a situation, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics or painkillers can be harmful.

– Take a hot bath, immerse your hands and feet in cold water

– Apply salt water compresses

– Get plenty of rest

– Eat fruits, soft foods, and protein-rich foods

– Do light exercise

6. Be sensitive to mental health

During the peak of the movement, people make impulsive decisions due to the effects of adrenaline. In some cases, it leads to regret and deep mental stress. Losing a relative, getting injured, and the collapse of the country's infrastructure can all weaken morale.

– Reading an inspirational book. Accepting the current situation and trying to get used to it.

– Trying to reduce mental stress through yoga and meditation.

– Talking openly with relatives.

– Seeking entertainment (music, books, quiet movies) as much as possible.

7. Avoid misinformation and uncontrolled use of medicines

There are many cheap treatments or suggestions on the Internet. Not all of them are true and safe. If you need information about any medicine you use, you can call the Drug Information Center and get free advice.

Toll-free number: 1660-01-21500, Landline: 01-591311

Email: [email protected] WhatsApp/Viber: 9801236161

You can get information about the medicine you are using by contacting the above-mentioned means. To get basic information about medicines, you can read the contents of the book Medicine Knowledge Healthy Life here for free.

Therefore, do not search for medicines on Google or use AI. Consult an experienced person (pharmacist, health worker). Because taking medicines indiscriminately can cause more problems.

8. Stay in touch with family

Parents in the village may be very worried when they do not receive news of their children who have joined the movement. Rumors and fear may spread.

– Let us reassure our relatives by calling or sending messages from time to time.

– Let us also convey messages to worried families.

We must all move forward as citizens, consciously, with consensus, and with restraint. The crisis will pass, times will change, but in the meantime, every life we ​​save will be invaluable.

The government's policy and intention to close social media

 The government's policy and intention to close social media

Many of our ruling parties feel that they came to power forever

Why did the government initially consider the option of banning while regulating? This must be reviewed within the ruling coalition, the Congress-UML. Social media companies should also take the initiative to protect the personal rights of ordinary users while addressing the interests of Nepal.

The government's decision to register social media, or else regulate or close it, has basically taken two legal bases. One, the Directive 2080 on Regulating the Use of Social Media. Two, the latest order of the Supreme Court.

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has already directed the Telecommunication Authority to close 26 social media networks, including Facebook, X, and Instagram, based on these two legal bases.

Internet service providers will probably implement the authority's letter by tomorrow, Friday evening. After that, most of the social media networks that are running like parts of our own bodies will no longer be active. Only a few networks, including Viber and TikTok, will be options.

While Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung, who is also the Deputy General Secretary of UML, was giving the directive, his own party MP and former Minister for Communications Gokul Baskota was heard to sarcastically say, ‘The government has started preparing to make North Korea.’

Communists often like to exaggerate. We do not think that the country will become North Korea if the above-mentioned networks are shut down. This is the interesting and strange aspect of Nepal’s politics, that rivals form the government together. And then an opposition is born from within the party.

If we analyze former Minister Baskota’s comments outside the power struggle within UML, there is certainly a fear that civil liberties will be compromised under the pretext of binding networks within the legal system.

A common question that can be raised about network operators, including Facebook, is that they do not have to register and be regulated according to the laws prevailing there in various other countries, let alone register in Nepal, let alone even give a proper answer? Isn't it necessary for multinational companies that operate smoothly in Nepal to be registered in accordance with the rules? Or do these companies consider themselves above the country itself?

Many in power, including him, are not happy that social media users who once praised Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli day and night are now being criticized.

Companies such as Meta should enter into effective dialogue to be included in Nepal's legal system and registered. They should also take the initiative to protect the personal rights of ordinary users by addressing Nepal's concerns.

This is necessary because the style of network operators who deprive themselves of financial benefits by deriving income from the content of Nepali network users and even content creators is not logical. Since such social media platforms are not tied to the formal tax system, money is being smuggled through illegal channels. They should consider this aspect themselves.

But when considering these aspects, our question is not only aimed at network operators. The government of our country, which is faced with the responsibility of implementing the Directive 2080 on the systematic use of social media and the latest mandate of the Supreme Court, is not the only one. The more important responsibility is to protect and implement the nation's constitution, which must fully respect the freedom and privacy of citizens. And even the interpretations of the court cannot deviate from the original spirit of the constitution.

If we listen to the views of Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung, he seems to be as tolerant of the different opinions of citizens as he seems to be towards Meta and other network operators. Otherwise, instead of repeatedly issuing information, he would have adopted digital diplomacy through another effective channel by now.

Let us remember that many in power, including him, do not like the fact that social media users who once praised Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli day and night are now criticizing him.

Many of our rulers feel that they have come to power forever. The momentary lust for power makes them addicted to the level of blindness. What needs to be kept in mind is that at the moment, the Maoist Center is in opposition and is opposing the government's move. Whereas earlier, when the government took a similar step to ban TikTok, Pushpa Kamal Dahal was the Prime Minister, and Rekha Sharma was the Minister of Communications.

Be it the press or social media - the voice of the citizen is dominant there. The mobile phones in the pockets are each person's mouthpiece. Not everyone's voice reaches the media. Some entrepreneurs here need Facebook, Twitter (X) not only to run the media, but also to promote the activities of the Prime Minister himself.

We press workers edit the content, and then publish it. On social media, sometimes it reaches a level of indiscriminateness. Some of the fake ID holders do not only express themselves freely, they also do character assassination. Even though organizations such as Meta have created community guidelines, it is not uncommon to worry about where the flood of unedited content will lead society. That concern is not only of the state, but also of the citizens.

But the content should be moderated within 24 hours of the letter being sent to the police showing this. Why promote the authoritarian trend of "take it or leave it"? Why make the government unnaturally stronger than the citizens by showing Meta or another company? What bravery is there in silencing the voices of the citizens who elect the government!

There is no reason for social media platforms to be forced to meet certain standards of the state. Their method of taking everything they can from the state and giving nothing to the state is not right.

Gurung's speech and behavior in the process of regulating social media, starting from the Media Council Bill, advocates for freedom of expression directed by the government. What Prime Minister Oli himself should consider is that the question here is not only about Meta and other big technology companies, but about those common people, some of whom cannot read or write.

They have not been able to connect with the government's goal of declaring a fully literate nation. They connect with their children and grandchildren abroad through video calls just by seeing pictures on Facebook or WhatsApp. They run small retail businesses.

We do not have our own social media. There are internationally established platforms, which are run by common people. Some of the government's mechanisms, their emails, etc. are connected. Why did the government initially consider the option of banning them while regulating? This must be reviewed within the ruling coalition, the Congress-UML.

There is no reason for social media platforms to be forced to meet certain standards set by the state. Their method of taking everything they can from the state and giving nothing to the state is not right. It is the government's responsibility to bring them into dialogue through technology diplomacy and regulate those who do not. This responsibility cannot be fulfilled by simply posting information on the wall. There are many technology enthusiasts in this country. It is better to ask elected representatives among them to communicate with the relevant companies!

Facebook is starting to shut down

 Facebook is starting to shut down

Ncell, World Link and Nepal Telecom shut down Facebook

World Link CEO Keshav Nepal informed that Facebook has been shut down as per the government's directive.

The social networking platform Facebook has started to shut down in Nepal. Internet service provider company World Link has shut down Facebook a while ago.

Now, Facebook has stopped working from World Link's IP address. World Link CEO Keshav Nepal informed that Facebook has been shut down as per the government's directive.

Internet Service Providers Association President Sudhir Parajuli said that the process has started and it will take some time for all internet providers to shut down.

'The process of shutting down social networks has moved forward as per the directive from the government. The extensions are being shut down,' he said.

In accordance with the same government directive, Nepal Telecom has also shut down social networking platforms that are operating without registration. Telecom issued a notice on Thursday, stating that it has closed the unregistered platforms as per the directives of the Nepal Telecommunications Authority.

‘The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has written to this company to deactivate the unlisted social media platforms operating in Nepal in accordance with the order of the Honorable Supreme Court, the decision of the Council of Ministers of the Government of Nepal, the decision of the ministerial meeting of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and the Directive to regulate the use of social media, 2080, through its letter dated 2082/05/19, Ch. No. 597, and accordingly, we request you to provide information on the details of the closure of such social media platforms for the time being,’ Telecom said.

The matter of re-opening the closed platforms will be as per the directives received from the authority in the coming days.

Similarly, Ncell had stated that it has closed the social media platforms including Facebook that were operating without registration.

Earlier, the Nepal Telecommunication Authority had directed the Internet Service Providers Association to close 26 social media platforms based on the Supreme Court order, the decision of the Cabinet of the Government of Nepal on Bhadra 5, the ministerial decision of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology held today (Thursday), and the Directive on Managing the Use of Social Media, 2080.

The government had also decided to close the social media platforms Facebook, Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, Snapchat, Reddit, Discord, Pinterest, Signal, Threads, WeChat, Quora, Tumblr, Clubhouse, Mastodon, Rumble, Meebee, VK, Line, Emo, Jalo, Soul and Hamro Patro.

The government led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda had brought social media regulatory guidelines on 23 Kartik 2080, including making arrangements for social media to be registered and have a contact point in Nepal.

Immediately on 27 Kartik, the Cabinet meeting decided to ban TikTok, saying that it was spreading social hatred and violating social dignity.

In which countries is Facebook registered?

The Supreme Court has mentioned in its decision that 105 laws have been formulated in 78 countries to regulate social media. Although the models for regulating social media are different, we find that many countries have implemented the system of legally registering and establishing an office or appointing a resident representative, as in Nepal.

Talking about South Asia, social media including Facebook are already registered and operating in India. Contact persons have been appointed to hear local complaints and address them. There is no mandatory provision for the contact person to be within India. He or she must hear the complaints of users within India, regardless of where he or she lives.

Pakistan's rules also require social media companies like Facebook and Twitter to set up local offices. Similarly, Facebook has opened its liaison office in Tel Aviv, Israel.

In India, Facebook has opened its liaison offices in Gurgaon and three other states.

Are there elderly people who take regular medicines at home? 5 things to pay attention to

 Are there elderly people who take regular medicines at home? 5 things to pay attention to

Diabetes, cataracts, high blood pressure, arthritis and mental problems can appear in old age and advice from a psychiatrist should be sought.

Keep medicines in a safe place, make a list of medicines, double check to avoid taking the wrong medicines and follow the doctor's instructions.

With increasing age, various diseases take hold in the body. The body becomes weak. Problems such as diabetes, cataracts, high blood pressure, hearing loss, heart disease, joint pain and arthritis can appear. Similarly, mental problems such as depression, dementia, sleep problems, etc. can appear.

Old age is a stage of life. There is a possibility of getting diseases in this state. Many things have been neglected due to urbanization. In such a situation, people do not respond properly to the elderly and try to stay away from them.

Due to this, the elderly also fall into depression. In old age, advice from a psychiatrist should be sought so that these diseases do not harm the body. Then the long list of medications begins. Sometimes some medications have to be taken for life. However, with advancing age, caution should be exercised when taking medications, otherwise they may cause harm instead of benefit. According to many studies, many people over the age of 65 are dependent on medications. Therefore, medication management is very important.

How to pay attention to the elderly's medications?

1. Keep all medications and vitamins in one place

If the medications are kept in different places, it is much easier for the elderly in the house to keep them in one place. Sometimes there may be no other members in the house, in which case the elderly can take the medication themselves. However, if the medications are kept in different places, the elderly may forget to take some medications.

For example, some people keep some pills in the kitchen, while others keep them by the bed or in other places. But many medications have to be taken at the same time. In such a situation, they may be missed due to the medications being kept in different places. Which may reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Therefore, it is important to understand well with the doctor which medicine to take and when. Negligence in time or dosage can put you at greater risk. If the elderly take their own medication, set a reminder on their mobile phone.

2. Keep the medication in a safe place

In general, medications should be stored in a cool and dry place. This means that they should be stored carefully. Otherwise, cold and sunlight can reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Medications should be stored out of reach of children or pets. Follow the doctor's or pharmacist's instructions for medications that need to be stored in a special place.

3. Create and maintain a medication list

To avoid negative drug interactions, it is important for the elderly to know what regular medications they are taking. Therefore, an up-to-date list of their medications, vitamins, and supplements should be kept.

The name of the medication should be kept, and the condition it is used for. It is helpful to note how many times a day they take the medication or use it. It is important to keep track of whether the elderly are taking each medication prescribed by the doctor correctly.

It is important to know whether the medication is for short-term or long-term use. You should also pay attention to the expiration date of the medication and to ensure that the elderly do not take any medication repeatedly.

4. Double-check to avoid taking the wrong medication

Some elderly people are taking multiple medications, vitamins, or supplements. In such cases, you should be careful not to take any other wrong medication. Use an online drug interaction checker to avoid any interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

5. Make sure the medication instructions are clear

It is important to follow the doctor's instructions with the medication. If this is not followed, the medication may not work properly. Therefore, it is important to follow what the doctor says. This reduces the risk of negative drug interactions and side effects.

Elderly people should understand which medications are safe to take at the same time. Some medications need to be taken with food before taking them, while others need to be taken on an empty stomach. If there is any uncertainty, you should seek clarification and detailed instructions from your doctor.

Journey from the history of maternity hospitals to modern services

 Journey from the history of maternity hospitals to modern services

Paropakar Maternity and Gynecology Hospital BS. 2016 is the only gynecological hospital in Nepal.

The hospital delivers 22,000 to 24,000 women annually.

Paropakar Maternity and Gynecology Hospital is the only gynecological hospital in Nepal. This hospital is known as the maternity hospital. Established as an important institution in the health sector of Nepal, Paropakar Maternity and Gynecology Hospital is making an invaluable contribution to the health and safety of women and mothers.

This hospital has played a historic role in Nepal's health service, focusing especially on obstetrics, gynecology and newborn health.

Establishment and early history

Paropakar Maternity and Gynecology Hospital was established in BS. 2016. This hospital was established in the name of Indrarajya Lakshmi Devi Shah, the wife of the then King Mahendra Shah. At the time of its establishment, the hospital was provided with the help of Paropakar Sanstha by Singh Shamsher.

Indrarajya Lakshmi Devi Shah died due to infertility. This is why history mentions that a hospital was established in her name with the aim of preventing others from dying from such problems.

Paropakar Maternity and Gynecological Hospital is a proud health institution of Nepal, which has provided maternity and gynecological services to lakhs of women in a period of 66 years.

Expansion and Development

The hospital has made remarkable progress in a period of 66 years. Initially started with 40 beds, this hospital is currently operating with a capacity of 515 beds, and a proposal to expand to 700 beds has been submitted to the government. Every year, 22,000 to 24,000 women deliver here.

Along with maternity services, the hospital has been providing various gynecological services, which include treatment of uterine prolapse, uterine tumors, cancer, hemorrhage, ovarian tumors and fertility problems.

Specialized Services

The hospital has expanded specialized services over time. Paropakar Maternity Home is the first government hospital in Nepal to start IVF service for infertility treatment. This service is being systematically run at the IVF center in Kupandol.

There are plans to make this center a center of excellence, and so far, 5 provincial doctors and nurses have been trained.

This service has been started through a tripartite agreement with the Government of Nepal, the Department of Health Services, and UNFPA for the treatment of urinary incontinence. This service is provided free of charge, especially for women affected by complicated deliveries and surgeries. There are plans to send two doctors to Pakistan for training for this service.

The maternity home has also started newborn screening. The ‘New Born Screening’ service was started last year to identify hereditary disabilities. Seven hereditary diseases including thyroid, phenylketonuria, and thalassemia can be identified.

Out of 2000 newborns, 20 have been diagnosed and treated. Which will help reduce the mortality rate of newborns.

Fetal and maternal echocardiography facilities are also available. From which 6,100 patients are availing the service in a year. This service has been run in collaboration with experts from Gangalal Hospital and Bir Hospital for the heart examination of pregnant women and newborns. This service has eliminated the obligation of patients to pay expensive fees in private hospitals. It has helped in timely identification and treatment of heart-related problems, especially in complex pregnancies.

The hospital also has a mental health OPD facility, through which 1,800 patients have already benefited. The mental health OPD service has been started for the treatment of postpartum mental health problems.

What did Dr. Shree Prasad Adhikari do after becoming the director?

The current director, Dr. Shree Prasad Adhikari, has made significant improvements in the hospital in the last two years. Since he took over, four new counters have been added, two OPDs, one billing, and one pharmacy. The online ticketing system has been made systematic and advanced, which has eliminated the obligation of patients to stand in line. Services have been expanded in Kupandol since Asad 15, 2081. IVF services, infertility treatment, safe abortion and a nursing college have been brought into operation.

Since the infertility treatment service began, 9,100 people have come for infertility treatment. Out of these, 300 have already taken IUI and 43 have taken IVF services, says Dr. Adhikari.

The hospital has brought a simulation lab into operation. According to the hospital director, Dr. Adhikari, it was established with the aim of producing skilled manpower for the treatment and care of mothers and newborns. He said that treatment practices will be conducted without affecting any patient.

Fistula surgery has also been started. This service is being run for the first time in a government hospital, which provides free treatment to women affected by complicated childbirth.

Former director Dr. Sheela Verma's statement

Former director Dr. Sheela Verma says that the maternity hospital feels like a family home to her. “I have always been impressed by the dedication and support of the staff and employees here,” she says. “I am proud to work here.”

Dr. Barma says that during her tenure, she implemented the Mater Suraksha program, which spread throughout Nepal. The program served many women, but there were also challenges due to lack of resources. The dedication of the team here and the excellent service the hospital provides She says that the desire to dance has brought this organization to this point.

She said that the Maternal Safety Program has contributed significantly to reducing maternal mortality in rural areas of Nepal. This is mentioned in the report of the Ministry of Health.

Challenges of the hospital

Although the hospital has made a lot of progress over time, some challenges remain. The hospital buildings are old, and there is a problem of water leakage during the rainy season. Director Dr. Adhikari says that a new building and cabins are needed.

The hospital is currently run by the committee's staff and contract employees. If the proposal for 700 beds is approved, staff and services can be added. The budget is also decreasing every year, which she complains is hindering the expansion of services. Patients are inconvenienced by the lack of parking and space.

A symbol of service and dedication

The maternity hospital, born from the tragic incident of the royal family, has today become a trusted friend of service recipients from all levels of Nepal. This hospital has been providing special services not only to women from low and middle income groups, but also to the upper middle class. The hospital currently provides OPD services to over 100,000 patients annually, which is significant compared to other government hospitals in Nepal.

6 Best Ways to Keep Your Liver Healthy

 6 Best Ways to Keep Your Liver Healthy

The liver is an important organ that helps remove toxins from the body and make life-saving proteins.

Changing lifestyles and irregular eating habits are increasing liver diseases, which can be prevented with a balanced diet and exercise.

The liver is an important organ of our body, which helps remove toxins from the body, convert food into energy, and make many life-saving proteins. However, in recent times, liver diseases are increasing rapidly due to changing lifestyles, irregular eating habits, and harmful habits. If we pay attention to some important things, our liver can be kept healthy.

1. Balanced diet is the most important

The most important thing to keep the liver healthy is a balanced diet. Our daily diet should include fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, whole grains such as barley, lentils, brown rice, and high-fiber foods. These foods improve liver cleansing and function.

On the other hand, processed foods, canned foods, fried foods in a lot of oil, and fast foods can damage the liver and increase the chances of fatty liver. These foods should be eaten in very small quantities or, if possible, completely avoided.

2. Avoid alcohol and smoking

Alcohol consumption in any amount is harmful to the liver. It damages liver cells and can lead to cirrhosis or liver failure over time. Therefore, if you are drinking alcohol, you should take steps to quit immediately.

Smoking also damages the liver. The harmful substances found in cigarettes put pressure on the liver after entering the body and increase the risk of liver cancer. Therefore, it is important to completely avoid smoking.

3. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise is very important in today's busy life. It not only keeps weight under control but also prevents the process of fat accumulation in the liver. At least 30 minutes of brisk walking, cycling, yoga or light jogging daily can improve liver function and prevent fatty liver.

4. Protect the liver from viruses

Diseases like hepatitis B and C are caused by viruses and directly affect the liver. There is a vaccine available for hepatitis B, which should be administered on time. If a person falls into the risk group, he should also get screened for hepatitis C. Vaccination and screening can prevent these serious liver diseases on time.

5. Do not take medicine without a doctor's advice

Nowadays, most people buy medicine directly from the pharmacy for minor ailments. Taking medicine indiscriminately can damage the liver. Especially painkillers, steroids can damage it. Ayurvedic powders, which sometimes contain heavy metals such as lead and mercury. These can also affect the liver. Also, various medicines are available in the market today that claim to reduce weight. Its excessive consumption also affects the liver. Therefore, it is mandatory to consult a doctor before starting any medicine.

6. Drink enough water, but avoid cold drinks

Drinking enough water is very important to keep the liver clean. Water helps to remove toxic elements from the body. Keeping the body hydrated is especially important during the summer season. But in this season, people are more attracted to cold drinks, which are also harmful to the liver. Therefore, it is better to consume water or healthy drinks made at home like lemon water, betel leaves.

Clothes should be worn according to your own taste, not for society or others

 Clothes should be worn according to your own taste, not for society or others

Nowadays, fashion changes every two days and there are many options for new and stylish clothes for women.

Society dictates the style of dressing according to the occasion, but preference should be given to wearing clothes that you like.

The decision to wear clothes affects mental health and one should give importance to one's choice.

Nowadays, fashion changes every two days, that is, the style of clothing is constantly changing. In such a situation, there are many options for girls and women. Every girl or woman wants to wear new and stylish clothes. However, they hesitate to wear clothes that they like because of what others will say or whether this dress suits their body.

Women with very fat bodies do not like wearing tight clothes. They think that sleeveless clothes will not suit them because they have a thin body, or they find it uncomfortable to wear black clothes because they are light-skinned. However, you should try on all types of clothes once. You should wear whatever your heart desires.

You should keep in mind that this is my body and it should be my choice. If you want to wear comfortable clothes that you can wear at home even when you go out, then you should wear those. You should dress according to your preferences and needs, not to show others.

Give priority to your choice

Society has prescribed a style of dressing according to an occasion or environment. Every society has a custom of wearing clothes of specific colors on occasions of mourning. The colors of clothes are different in festive atmospheres. At a wedding, the bride is expected to wear a heavy lehenga-choli and veil. But if you do not feel comfortable in such clothes, then you should be able to say no to them.

Even in the Christian and Muslim communities, there are prescribed styles of clothes, but why such restrictions?

If you want to wear a plain sari or lehenga instead of a colorful and heavy sari or lehenga at a wedding, then you should wear that. You should not think about what others will say. If the groom understands and has no objections, then this is a good thing. But if he insists that you have to wear this dress, then you should not hesitate to break up with such a person. Because if desires and preferences are not given importance, how can you be happy with such a spouse or family?

Similarly, if you feel comfortable getting married wearing a heavy lehenga and you like traditional clothes, then do that. The point here is only about desires and preferences, which should not be changed for others. When it comes to clothes, you should always give your own preferences first.

Impact on mental health

Have you ever decided to dress according to social standards? Have you ever worn a certain dress but changed it because it does not suit your body? Many people do this sometimes. But clothes have a huge impact on mental health. Knowingly or unknowingly, you start dressing according to the preferences of others, and you may not even be aware of it. But such habits can affect mental health.

Every time you stand in front of the mirror and are told that this dress does not suit you or that it looks bad in this dress, you should understand that your mental health is at risk. Trying to conform to social standards of beauty can affect not only mental health but also physical health.

How you look in front of others is very important. Everyone wants to be seen positively. This old beauty mindset makes you believe that there is something wrong with your body. People around you make fun of your weight or advise you to lose weight. These things make you believe that there is something wrong with your body. So you stop wearing the clothes you like.

Models, influencers, and celebrities are looked up to. They dress in a certain style and look a certain way. You try to be like them. When you look different from what is shown, you feel disappointed.

The impact of this mindset on mental health

If you check the standards of society every time before choosing clothes and dress accordingly, it can affect your self-esteem. Thinking about a bad body image can lead to negative thoughts.

If you don't wear the clothes you like because you don't fit your body or because you think people will look at you negatively, it also reduces your confidence. Therefore, dressing should be your choice, not society's.

Freedom means something different to everyone. Wearing the clothes you like is a right. Many girls like to wear all kinds of clothes, but only wear the clothes their family members tell them to wear. It is wrong to do this. You should wear clothes according to your own choice, not under the pressure of society and family.

How to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone?

 How to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone?

Starting to use an iPhone while using an Android phone can be confusing at first. Transferring phone numbers and other content from your old phone to your iPhone can be stressful. But, don't worry. Apple has provided a Move to iOS feature on the iPhone that makes it easy for phone users to switch from Android to iPhone.

This app allows users to transfer old data, including photos, phone numbers, messages, and more, from their old Android phone to their iPhone wirelessly. Here's how to transfer data from your old Android phone to your iPhone without losing any important data:

Things to do before transferring data

Make sure your Android phone is connected to Wi-Fi and has the latest Android version updated. Similarly, turn on your new iPhone and update it to the latest iOS version.

Charge both phones so that the battery does not charge during the data transfer.

Make sure your iPhone has enough storage to store the data being transferred from Android. If it is low, free it up.

Then do this…

Open your Android phone and go to the Google Play Store. Search for the Move to iOS app there and download and install it.

Open your new iPhone and start the setup. After going to the Apps and Data screen, select the Move Data from Android option.

Open the Move to iOS app on your Android phone and tap Continue. At that time, connect both the phones to the charger and keep them nearby.

Then, a six or 10-digit one-time use code will appear on your iPhone, enter that code on your Android phone.

Your iPhone will create a temporary Wi-Fi network. Connect to that network from your Android phone and wait until the transfer screen appears.

On your Android phone, you will see a list of data that you can transfer to your iPhone, including messages, photos, videos, phone numbers, etc. Select the items you want to transfer to your iPhone and tap Next to start the transfer process. Now, it will take some time for the data to be transferred from Android to iPhone. Wait until the process is complete.

Once the transfer process is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the iPhone settings. Also, check if all your phone numbers, messages, and other data have been transferred. If not, select the specific files and transfer them.

If you encounter any problems during the transfer process, restart both phones and start the data transfer process again. During this process, turn off any settings, including Smart Network Switch, if they are open. Also, turn off mobile data on your Android phone.

Google has purchased land in Finland worth 27 million euros to operate its data center.

 Google buys land in Finland worth 27 million euros to open data center

Google has purchased land in Finland worth 27 million euros to operate its data center.

According to a government press release, Google has been operating data centers in Finland since 2011.

Google built its first data center in Finland in 2009 in Hamina, a city 145 kilometers east of the country’s capital Helsinki. The data center currently employs about 400 full-time employees.

According to local media reports, in May this year, the American tech company announced a new investment of 1 billion euros to expand its Hamina campus, which is expected to create additional jobs over the next two years.

This is how to share your live location on Instagram

The popular social media app Instagram, owned by Meta, has released a new feature. With this new update, users can now share their current location with their friends.

This feature, which has been available on Meta's other messaging platform WhatsApp for a long time, has also been added to Instagram by the company. Instagram's live location sharing feature is integrated into Direct Messages, which are accompanied by sticker packs.

Live location can be shared on Instagram with stickers and nicknames. That is, you can share your location with your friends in messages with a nickname different from your name. According to the Instagram update, live location can be shared for a maximum of 1 hour.

This new feature of Instagram will be especially useful for users who often have gatherings and parties or want friends to gather at a specific place.

How to use the live location feature on Instagram?

First of all, update the Instagram app

Then go to Direct Message

There you will see various stickers, from there select the sticker with location

Then give access to the location and share it with any nickname you like.

Why and how is YouTube a threat to television channels?

 Why and how is YouTube a threat to television channels?

Last July was a good month for YouTube, as for the first time in the US, people spent more time on YouTube than watching TV or movies.

As a result, YouTube even surpassed OTT platforms such as Disney, Paramount, Fox Channel, Netflix and Amazon. However, a few months later, YouTube fell to second place, behind Disney and DC platforms.

In fact, YouTube’s popularity is growing worldwide. In the UK, 50 percent of people aged 16 to 24 prefer to watch YouTube instead of watching television programs.

Has YouTube completely overtaken TV channels?

According to Mark Bergen, a Bloomberg technology journalist and author of the book about YouTube, Like, Comment and Subscribe: YouTube’s Chaotic Rise to World Domination, about three billion people watch YouTube every month in the world. Most of them are between the ages of 25 and 35. That is, they are younger than the main TV audience. It is now available on apps, video game consoles and smart TVs.

He says YouTube has become the most popular online platform and the biggest way for advertising companies to reach people. It is the largest catalog of videos. People can search and watch different things on YouTube.

YouTube launched in 2005

The online video sharing and streaming platform YouTube was launched in 2005. The first video uploaded to it was just 19 seconds long, which its co-founder recorded while walking around the San Diego Zoo in California.

Google bought YouTube for $1.65 billion a year after its founding. YouTube is most viewed in India, where about 400 million people watch YouTube.

According to Mark Bergen, in many new emerging markets such as Brazil and Indonesia, YouTube has not only replaced TV channels, but has also become the main source of entertainment and news there.

YouTube Los Angeles Headquarters

According to Mark Bergen, YouTube has evolved in three phases.

“A former YouTube executive told me that the company’s mantra was ‘Challenge, Joke, or Truth?’” He says. At first, the entertainment industry and advertising companies didn’t take YouTube seriously.

Then came YouTube’s second phase, where it became a threat to Hollywood, the TV industry, Netflix, and Amazon. It started making its own original shows and charging subscribers like Netflix.

According to Bergen, YouTube started making original and expensive content in 2016. However, it couldn’t compete with the investment of companies like Netflix and closed this department in 2022. Now, in this new phase, YouTube has consolidated its position.

Mark Bergen says that people now use YouTube as a utility platform. For example, people use YouTube videos to watch cooking recipes or repair something.

People can easily find most of the videos they need on YouTube. YouTube has its own celebrities whose popularity is no less than that of Hollywood actors.

Mr. Beast, a 26-year-old content creator, whose YouTube channel surpassed Indian music channel T-Series in June. He has 320 million subscribers. So YouTube has proven that anyone can become a star.

YouTube and its famous content creators earn a lot of money from advertising. When an advertisement appears on a video uploaded to the channel, they earn money.

Mark Bergen says: Advertising companies pay YouTube to broadcast their ads, and YouTube keeps 45% of that amount and gives the rest to the respective YouTube channels or three content creators. When YouTube adopted this model in 2007, it was a very new and risky idea. But that same model has proven to be one of the main reasons for YouTube's success.

With the exception of a few services, most of YouTube's services are free. According to Mark Bergen, YouTube is experiencing so many videos that it has become a challenge to regulate them.

YouTube Content Monitoring

Content Creator Mr. Beast

Chris Stokel-Walker, a journalist and author of the book How YouTube Shook Up TV and Created a New Generation of Stars, explains that YouTube is excluded from the legal framework that many TV broadcasters have to operate under.

This means that the strict editorial rules that apply to TV networks do not apply to YouTube content.

To understand this, we need to go back in history. Many years before YouTube arrived, in 1996, the US Department of Information and Communications Technology amended the Communications Decency Act (CDA) to add Section 230, which was designed to give tech companies a boost.

The aim was to protect these companies from potential lawsuits because they did not have enough people or resources to monitor the content that was being broadcast on their platforms.

Chris Stokel-Walker says: This law meant that these companies only broadcast user-generated content, but they don't take responsibility for it. Nor do they have to pay for it.

There is a responsibility to review each piece of content.

But now, people who upload offensive content or make offensive comments on YouTube can be prosecuted. Today, technology companies are making billions of dollars, and they still maintain legal protections.

According to Chris Stokel-Walker, these companies have been taking advantage of this exception for twenty years, and only now are we starting to think about the consequences. Now, copyright and other legal provisions are being applied to determine the liability of companies like YouTube.

In 2019, Google and YouTube were sued for collecting data from children under the age of 13 without their parents' consent. In that case, the companies had to pay $170 million.

According to Chris Stokel-Walker, these companies are spread around the world and are not subject to the jurisdiction of any one country. However, in many places they are also under government surveillance.

For example, YouTube has been banned or criticized in many countries in the Middle East because it contains videos that involve sex, sexual violence, and drug use, which are not as controversial in Western countries. However, these contents are against the culture of Middle Eastern countries.

Recently, the European Union has implemented two new legal provisions to ensure online safety and control anti-competitive behavior of technology companies. However, the implementation of these legal provisions is problematic because of the large amount of content uploaded to YouTube.

According to one statistic, 500 hours of content are uploaded to YouTube every minute. This creates many difficulties in monitoring.

YouTube has its own rules and guidelines that clearly state what kind of content can and cannot be uploaded. For example, hate speech and offensive comments are prohibited, and users who do not follow these rules are warned or even banned.

YouTube also blocks ads on such content, which means that the creators of that content do not earn money.

Is TikTok a challenge for YouTube?

TikTok

Earlier, the TV industry could not consider YouTube as its competitor. But now, YouTube has become a powerful competitor not only for TV channels but also for Hollywood, Netflix and Disney.

YouTube's biggest advantage is that it has user-generated content, where users do not need to think about what will be trending or popular.

On the other hand, TV companies and OTT platforms have to think about this deeply, because they have to invest a lot of money in their content. This takes time, and sometimes the content may not be popular with the audience. But for YouTube, this is not a problem. On the other hand, YouTube also knows very well what content viewers are watching on its platform.

Netflix or other traditional television channels only create content. But YouTube knows what we have watched or liked in recent days and based on that, shows ads on YouTube or recommends similar videos to watch. That is why YouTube is more connected to the audience than other streaming platforms and traditional TV.

But one of YouTube's weaknesses is that it doesn't make big-budget videos like other channels and doesn't broadcast big sporting events. TV and streaming platforms also want to take advantage of YouTube's reach.

For example, when TV channels and streaming platforms launch new shows, they use YouTube to promote them.

YouTube doesn't see a threat from traditional TV, but it is also concerned about the growing popularity of TikTok, a video-sharing app that also features user-generated content. Because TikTok is competing with YouTube.

TikTok really knows how to entertain people. People spend hours watching videos on TikTok.

In fact, all platforms now want to attract user attention, and apps like TikTok can challenge YouTube. However, YouTube has so much variety and interesting content that no one can shake its leading position in the current market.

The mantra

YouTube

According to Dr. Marlene Komorowski, a professor of European media markets at the University of Brussels, YouTube is once again focusing more on advertising and content creators, which was its original mantra.

It has started placing more ads on YouTube channels. Last year, YouTube earned $31.5 billion from advertising, which is 10 percent more than its parent company Google.

According to Komorowski, YouTube has achieved great success and has established its dominance in various markets around the world. Just as the Disney Channel invests heavily in content production, YouTube is also investing heavily in content production. YouTube has spent $20 billion worldwide on content production, which is a huge amount.

YouTube's main goal is to The goal is to attract the attention of the audience and being part of Google helps it a lot in bringing new features to its platform.

According to Dr. Marlin Komorowski, with the help of Google, YouTube brings useful features to its content creators on its channels. It automatically translates the videos uploaded to it and adds subtitles to their videos. Google is developing this AI to help its creators.

Considering the competition with TikTok, YouTube has included the Shorts feature, which is a video shorter than a minute. Shorts is really giving TikTok a run for its money.

Such a short video format feature is also available on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

According to experts, Google keeps bringing new features and products by considering what other competing platforms are doing, which are becoming very popular and successful.

There was a time when Facebook seemed to be very powerful. But now TikTok has made a strong presence in the social media market, which has a lot of very young users. On the other hand, Facebook and YouTube users are a bit more mature than Tiktok.

Now let's get back to the main question: Has YouTube completely defeated TV channels? In fact, YouTube has closed its original content creation department. But this does not mean that TV channels are less threatened by it. In fact, YouTube has posed a big challenge to TV channels by focusing more on user-generated content. Watching YouTube every day has become a daily routine for millions of people. Advertisements have increased YouTube's income and it is increasing its investment in content creation. YouTube's content is always available on the Internet. Due to which people have started watching YouTube more than TV.