The overall perspective in which CT wants to project the findings of this research seems to be prejudiced in the sense that an explanation against some popular belief is being forcefully deduced from the aspect of quantitative participation in the national army. Well, there could be several historical reasons for Newars being considered as relatively less courageous, however, the figures that show participation of Newars in the national army need not necessarily contradict the popular belief. Participation of Newars in most of the state organs is above their population proportion because they have been the primary residents of the capital of the country. So it's natural to find a substantial participation of Newars in the national army. Moreover, the Newar community is a largely heterogeneous community and it's natural to find persons who would not refrain from entering the army for a career. The fact that remains,  however, is to find how smart their performances have been. I can't agree with the Austrian researcher on the particular conclusion drawn. The conclusion would be sound had there been too low Newar recruitments in the army citing their so called relative cowardice. 

Again, courageousness does  not necessarily imply smartness in fighting only or vice versa. Personally, I feel that there is some amount of truth in this particular popular belief, though the degree of the difference with other urban communities seems to be going down rapidly. This kind of lack of enthusiasm in getting involved in making risky moves is common among well-to-do urban people and Newars have been a major constituent of that. Coming from an old rich culture, with relatively better average stills and subsequent economic opportunities,  and a general tendency to remain 'in the middle' or reserved and safe, it must be natural for a major portion of the Newar population to be seen as less enthusiastic for am-bitious and risky competitions in which a major loss in terms of  personal fame or safety or economic prospects may not be ruled out.

That said, things are changing very fast. There have been major changes in the power centers and the way state authorities used to view various ethnic groups. The need is to rise above community lines and look for larger responsibilities of the state, manage well, and subsequently prove things to the contrary.

Lets take things lightly............