Daily Khabar

  KATHMANDU, JUNE 30 — The Election Commission (EC) has announced that a by-election will be held in Rupandehi Constituency No. 3 on November 3. This election is to fill the seat left vacant after the death of Dipak Bohara, a member of the House of Representatives, who passed away on April 1. Bohara was elected from Rupandehi-3 in the 2022 general elections, beating his nearest competitor, Bal Krishna Khand from the Nepali Congress. The EC said the by-election is being held following the rules in the Constitution of Nepal, which say that if a parliamentary seat becomes vacant with more than six months left in the term, it must be filled through a by-election using the same voting system as the original election. The Election Commission also announced that voter registration will be paused starting July 1 until further notice, due to the upcoming by-election.

  Kathmandu, June 30 A by-election will be held in Rupandehi-3 on November 3 to fill the vacant parliamentary seat. Election Commission Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari confirmed the date, following the death of Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) lawmaker Deepak Bohora, who previously held the seat.

  LONDON, June 30 – Daniil Medvedev, the ninth seed, has crashed out of Wimbledon in the first round, losing to world No. 64 Benjamin Bonzi with scores of 7-6 (2), 3-6, 7-6 (3), 6-2. This marks another early Grand Slam exit for the 6-foot-6 Russian, who also lost in the first round of the French Open earlier this year and was beaten in the second round of the Australian Open by 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien. Despite the string of disappointing results, Medvedev says he’s not too concerned just yet. "If I end the year ranked around No. 15, then maybe I’ll start to worry. But for now, I’m not," he said. This is the first time since 2017 that Medvedev has lost in the first round of back-to-back Grand Slam tournaments. Earlier this year, he went out in five sets to Cameron Norrie at Roland-Garros. In 2023, while seeded No. 2 at the French Open, he was also upset in the first round by Thiago Seyboth Wild, a qualifier ranked 172nd at the time.

In remote villages of Bajhang and on the busy streets of Kathmandu, a quiet but deadly health crisis is spreading—one that doesn’t pass from person to person, but is claiming more lives than any infectious disease. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses are now the top cause of death in Nepal. A Rising Burden According to the WHO’s 2019 STEPS Survey, NCDs were responsible for 71.1% of all deaths in Nepal—up from 63.7% in 2015. Heart disease caused 24% of deaths, chronic lung diseases 16.3%, and cancer 11.1%. NCDs also account for 61.2% of total Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), which measure the years lost due to ill health or early death. The financial toll is just as alarming—NCDs made up nearly 40% of all health spending, and households spent over 40% of their out-of-pocket health expenses on them. Key reasons behind this growing problem include longer life spans, changes in population and disease patterns, rapi...

Kathmandu, June 30 – Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is currently in Spain for the United Nations' Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), took part in a special roundtable organized by the Gates Foundation on Monday. The event focused on launching an independent commission to shape the future of development aid. During the discussion, Prime Minister Oli said such commissions can help close the funding gap that developing and smaller countries face. He stressed the importance of united, coordinated global efforts to tackle this challenge and strengthen international cooperation. "I'm glad to see progress in setting up this commission," Oli said. "It can help balance funding priorities and improve support for both social and economic development." He also called for stronger global commitment to economic sustainability, urging countries to take into account climate change, disaster risks, and the broader global economy—aligned w...

  June 30, Kathmandu – The World Bank has named Johannes Zutt as its new Vice President for the South Asia Region, replacing Martin Raiser. He will officially take on the role starting July 1, 2025. In this position, Zutt will oversee the World Bank’s work in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He will manage a portfolio of projects, financial support, and technical assistance worth $39 billion. Under his leadership, the World Bank aims to continue its focus on key challenges in the region, such as job creation, climate resilience, disaster preparedness, improving human capital, and encouraging private investment. Originally from the Netherlands, Zutt joined the World Bank in 1999 and has held various senior roles over the years. Most recently, he served as the Country Director for Brazil. He has also held leadership positions overseeing the Bank’s operations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Türkiye, and several African countries. “I’m impressed by the ...

  KATHMANDU, JUNE 30 – Renovation work at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur is moving forward steadily. The project, led by the Ministry of Urban Development, is being carried out at a total cost of NPR 49.25 crore. Once finished, the upgraded stadium will greatly improve Nepal’s cricket facilities, offering better amenities for both players and fans. The goal is to bring the ground up to international standards and make Kirtipur a major venue for regional and global cricket matches.

 Kathmandu, June 30 – Continuous rain since last night has caused severe waterlogging in several areas of Dhangadhi, including the main market. Neighborhoods like Bishalnagar, Milanchowk, Shivanagar, Hasanpur, Campus Road, Malikatol, and Krishnanagar are among the worst affected. Many shops are submerged, and residents are finding it difficult to move around. Locals blame the yearly flooding on unplanned urban development and the encroachment of small rivers and streams. They also say that roads being blacktopped without proper drainage systems is a major reason for the repeated flooding. According to the District Police Office in Kailali, there have been no reports of injuries or deaths so far.

  Kathmandu, June 29 Flooding has completely blocked the Butwal–Narayangadh road section after a river overflowed in the Dumkibas area of Nawalpur (Bardaghat Susta East). According to Superintendent of Police Yadav Dhakal, both the diversion route used by cargo trucks and the alternative road for small and passenger vehicles near Binayi Khola in Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality–1 are currently unusable. "Traffic is halted on the diversion and the alternate route via Hongsi Gate and Jyamire. Vehicles have been moved to safe areas," SP Dhakal said. He added that the water level in the Kharange rivulet in Binayi Triveni–3 has risen sharply due to continuous rainfall, making the alternate route impassable. The Daunne–Dumkibas stretch of the East–West Highway is now completely closed to vehicles. The temporary diversion over the Binayi rivulet has been repeatedly washed away by strong water flow caused by ongoing rain, making travel in the area impossible for now.

  Kathmandu, June 30 The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has reported that monsoon winds are currently active across the entire country. The monsoon's low-pressure system has moved northward, coming closer to western Nepal. As a result, skies are expected to remain mostly cloudy nationwide. Light to moderate rain, along with thunder and lightning, is likely in many hilly areas, especially in the Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudur Pashchim provinces. Other regions may also see some rain. The DHM has also warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Sudur Pashchim Province and in some isolated spots across the rest of the country. Light to moderate snowfall is possible in higher hill and mountain areas. Tonight’s Forecast: The weather will likely stay mostly cloudy. Light to moderate rain, with thunder and lightning, may continue in hilly regions and in Koshi, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudur Pashchim provinces. Isolated heavy rain is also expected in Koshi, Bagm...

Dhangadhi, June 30 Authorities have issued a flood warning for areas along the Mohana River in Kailali district, urging residents to stay alert as water levels continue to rise. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has sent SMS alerts to people living in high-risk zones, advising them to take necessary precautions. As of 7:30 AM today, the river’s water level had reached 3.06 meters — crossing the warning mark of 3 meters. The danger level is 3.60 meters, and since the water is still rising, officials are calling for extra caution.

 Kathmandu, June 29 – Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister Ram Nath Adhikari has called for the use of scientific methods to boost paddy production in Nepal. Speaking at an event organized by the Department of Agriculture to mark the 22nd National Paddy Plantation Day on Sunday, he said improving agricultural productivity is essential for strengthening the national economy. Minister Adhikari added that modernizing agriculture is one of the government’s main priorities. He mentioned that several programs have been introduced to support farmers and uplift the status of the agricultural profession. Director General of the Department of Agriculture, Prakash Kumar Sanjel, also spoke at the event, saying that educating farmers about food security is a key part of ongoing agricultural reforms. He stressed the importance of rice in national food security and the need to promote rice varieties that can withstand climate change. Government agencies like the Department of Agricultur...

Kathmandu, June 29 Nepal's women's football team delivered a stunning 9–0 win over Laos in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers (Group F) on Sunday at the Bunyodkor Stadium in Uzbekistan. Captain Sabitra Bhandari, also known as 'Samba', led the team with four goals. Anita Basnet, Saru Limbu, Anita KC, and Rashmi Kumari Ghising each scored one goal, while an own goal by Laos defender Saysamone Inthaphone just before full time added to the tally, according to the AFC. Nepal led 2–0 at halftime and quickly extended the lead in the second half, with Saru Limbu scoring just two minutes after the break. The victory earned Nepal three points in Group F and also marked the team’s 100th international match in women’s football. Nepal is grouped with Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, and Laos.

 Kathmandu, June 30 Another earthquake shook Mugu district this morning, measuring 4.3 on the Richter scale. The epicenter was near Kotdanda, and the tremor was recorded at 8:39 am, according to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Center. This follows a 4.8 magnitude quake that hit the district on Sunday afternoon at 2:34 pm, with its epicenter near Jima. So far, there have been no reports of damage or injuries from either quake.

  Kathmandu, June 29 – Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has emphasized Nepal’s strong commitment to ensuring that every citizen has the right to food. Speaking at a special ministerial session of the 44th Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) conference in Rome, she said that Nepal's constitution recognizes food as a fundamental right, and the government is working to make that a reality. She highlighted key national efforts like the Food Systems Transformation Strategic Plan (2022–2030) , the Food Safety and Quality Act 2024 , and a new Food Safety and Quality Control Policy . These initiatives are meant to guarantee access to safe and nutritious food by enforcing standards, improving food inspections, and protecting consumers. A dedicated consumer court has also been set up to help safeguard people’s rights and build trust in the country’s food system. Dr. Rana shared Nepal’s progress in child health and nutrition. Over the last 20 years, stunting in children dropped fr...

SEATTLE, JUNE 26 — Inter Milan defeated River Plate 2-0 on Wednesday night to move into the second round of the Club World Cup. Francesco Pio Esposito broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute, and Alessandro Bastoni sealed the win with a powerful goal in stoppage time. The momentum shifted after River Plate’s Lucas Martínez Quarta was shown a red card in the 66th minute for tripping Henrikh Mkhitaryan during a promising breakaway. Just before that, River Plate nearly scored when Manuel Lanzini delivered a cross to Facundo Colidio, but Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer made a crucial save. Esposito, a 19-year-old striker, scored his first goal for Inter just days after assisting in their 2-1 win over Urawa Red Diamonds. Bastoni added the second goal in front of over 45,000 fans, firing a left-footed shot from outside the box in the 93rd minute. With this win, Inter Milan topped Group E with 7 points, ahead of Monterrey, who also advanced after a 4-0 win against Urawa. River Plate ended with ...

 Kathmandu, June 25 All paragliding companies in Nepal must now register their paragliders with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). Starting from the fiscal year 2082/83 BS (mid-July 2025), every solo and tandem paraglider owned by companies has to be officially registered. Companies will have three months at the start of the fiscal year to complete this registration. If they don’t register within this time, their paragliders will be considered illegal, and legal action will be taken against those who don’t comply. CAAN also said that all companies with operation permits from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation—including those with Recreational Aviation Operation Certificates (RAOC) and training licenses—must register all their paragliders.

KATHMANDU, JUNE 26 — The South Korean Embassy has launched a new mobile app called HaMi (Happy Migration) to support Nepali migrant workers throughout their journey — before leaving Nepal, while working abroad, and after returning home. Developed with KOICA, the app is easy to use and available in both Nepali and English. It offers helpful information on skill development, managing finances, and mental health. The app was introduced during a special Migration Conference organized by KOICA in Lalitpur. At the event, Minister for Labor, Employment and Social Security Sharat Singh Bhandari stressed the government’s focus on improving transparency and making labor policies more effective through digital tools. He said that safe and fair labor migration requires teamwork from everyone involved. Ambassador Park Tae Young highlighted the strong friendship between Korea and Nepal and praised the important contribution of Nepali migrant workers. He said the HaMi app will give workers and retu...

 In 2017, singer Muskan Ranabhat joined Ratna Rajya Laxmi Campus under Tribhuvan University to study for a Bachelor's degree in music. She had hoped to learn a wide range of subjects, such as music technology, music production, various instruments, and Western music. But those hopes were quickly dashed. Instead, the university’s curriculum focused only on Eastern classical music and vocals, leaving no room for the diverse training she wanted. “Music education wasn’t as rewarding as I expected,” Ranabhat says. “I wanted to explore different styles of music, but the course didn’t allow that.” Nepal formally began teaching music in schools after Padma Kanya High School was established in 1947. A decade later, Nepal Sangeet Maha Vidyalaya—set up in 1957 under the Nepal Sangeet Parishad—became the country’s first music college. Since then, progress in formal music education has been slow. Currently, Tribhuvan University and Kathmandu University are the main institutions offering mus...

 KATHMANDU, JUNE 25 — MetLife Nepal has started its annual Policy Reinstatement Campaign to help customers reactivate their expired life insurance policies and continue securing their financial future. As part of the campaign, the company is offering a 100% waiver on late fees for policies that expired within the last five years, and a 60% waiver for those that have been inactive for more than five years. The aim is to make it easier for policyholders to regain their coverage without paying full penalty charges. To make the process easier, MetLife has simplified the reinstatement steps. Customers can now fill out application forms online and make premium payments through eSewa, Connect IPS, or the One by MetLife app. “This campaign is part of our ongoing effort to help customers stay protected and plan confidently for the future,” said Nirmal Kajee Shrestha, General Manager of MetLife Nepal. He encouraged all eligible policyholders to take advantage of this offer. MetLife has been ...

 Group F matches of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers begin today in Uzbekistan, and Nepal is all set to kick off its campaign against Laos. This match is not just the start of Nepal’s journey in the qualifiers — it also marks a major milestone: Nepal’s 100th international women’s football match since the national team began competing internationally over 40 years ago. The historic game will be held at Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent , with kickoff scheduled for 6:15 PM Nepali time . It will also be the first match in charge for Nepal’s new head coach, Patrick De Wilde , who expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, both physically and mentally. Aiming for a Strong Start Nepal is hoping to get off to a winning start against Laos , a team they are playing against for the first time in women’s football. While the men’s teams of Nepal and Laos have met before, this will be a debut encounter for the women’s sides. Also today, host nation Uzbekistan will face Sri Lanka . Uzb...

  Kathmandu, June 26 – Everest Fiber Cement Board Industry, Nepal’s first-ever producer of international-standard fiber cement boards, has officially launched operations with a Rs 1.5 billion investment from the IME Group. The inauguration ceremony was held in Kathmandu on Wednesday, where Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari , officially opened the factory and introduced the new range of fiber cement board products. Minister Bhandari praised the launch as a significant step forward in Nepal’s industrial development, highlighting its focus on eco-friendly, high-quality, and technology-driven production. He said such industries not only help reduce imports but also promote sustainable practices in the construction sector. Chandra Prasad Dhakal , President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Chairman of IME Group, said the new factory was set up to support Nepal’s construction sector by using local raw materials a...

 As the world prepares for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) , there is growing urgency for bold financial reforms. With worsening climate change, rising geopolitical tensions, and deepening inequality—especially across the Global South—the need for transformative financial action has never been greater. FfD4 offers a critical platform for all UN member states and global financial institutions to reshape the global financial system in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . A Growing Financial Burden on the Vulnerable Many developing countries, especially the most vulnerable, are being forced to cut public spending on essential services like education and health just to keep up with debt payments. According to the UN, the financing gap to meet the SDGs has ballooned to over $4.2 trillion per year in developing countries since the COVID-19 pandemic. This puts immense pressure on these nations and threatens progress on developm...

Moscow, June 25 – Ukrainian forces recently discovered debris from a Russian drone that appeared more advanced than usual. The drone, which was part of Russia’s nightly strikes, included a high-tech camera, artificial intelligence (AI) systems, and a remote control link that could let it be piloted from Russia. According to Ukrainian drone expert Serhii Beskrestnov, it also featured new Iranian-made anti-jamming technology —suggesting deeper collaboration between Moscow and Tehran. Unlike the typical black Russian drones, this one was white and bore labeling consistent with Iranian standards , though not enough to be considered definitive proof. Still, experts believe it's likely Russia received this drone from Iran to test its performance in combat . Russia has been using Iranian-designed Shahed drones throughout the war, which is now in its fourth year. These drones, often compared to the sound of mopeds, are used to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses—some carry explosives, whi...

Kathmandu, June 29 Nepal celebrates National Paddy Day today, observed every year on Asar 15 . This special day marks the start of rice planting season during the monsoon and is traditionally celebrated by eating dahi chiura (yogurt and beaten rice). The dish symbolizes refreshment and strength, especially for farmers working long hours in the muddy fields. Though the festival is rooted in farming, people from all walks of life take part by sharing dahi chiura with loved ones. National Paddy Day was officially recognized in 2004 , and since then, it’s been a reflection of Nepal’s strong agricultural identity, where much of the population relies on farming for their livelihood. During Asar, farmers are busy preparing rice fields and planting seedlings. The day is celebrated with traditional songs, dancing, and splashing in the mud. Culturally, it’s believed that everyone should step into a rice field at least once this month. However, this year’s celebration is clouded by major ch...

 Sunil Khadka, a 25-year-old callisthenics athlete from Galchi, Dhading, has made history by breaking a Guinness World Record. He completed 32 clap pull-ups in one minute, surpassing the previous record of 30, which was held by American athlete Blake Austin since 2015. Khadka set the new record on June 21 during an official attempt at Bajra Nanita’s Fitness in Lalitpur. His achievement has been officially recognized and listed on the Guinness World Records website. The event was judged by Sukadev Karki, founder of Nepal Youth Fitness and Callisthenics and a certified international strength and conditioning specialist. After the record-breaking performance, Khadka said he felt proud to represent Nepal on the global stage. “Holding Nepal’s flag in front of the world made me prouder of my country than myself,” he said, adding that his next goal is to elevate Nepal’s presence in international callisthenics competitions. Khadka began his fitness journey in 2020. At the time, he stru...

  Kathmandu, June 27 Several Tarai-Madhes-based political parties that support the KP Sharma Oli-led government are starting to express frustration, especially as budget announcements roll out across the country. The Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP-N), led by Upendra Yadav, has officially pulled its support from the Lumbini provincial government. Ambika Kafle, the party's only representative in the 87-member provincial assembly, said they withdrew support because of poor governance and a lack of inclusiveness in the budget. Kafle informed the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly that she was ending her support for Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya's government, citing constitutional grounds. After a party split, other former JSP-N lawmakers had joined the Janata Samajwadi Party led by Ashok Rai. The Janamat Party, led by CK Raut, which currently heads the Madhes Province government, is also unhappy — even with its own provincial budget. Raut voiced his disappointment on social ...

Kathmandu, June 27 Gold prices in Nepal took a steep dive on Friday, falling by Rs 2,900 per tola after a slight rise of Rs 300 the day before. As of now, gold is being traded at Rs 189,400 per tola, down from Thursday’s Rs 192,300, according to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Associations. Silver prices also dropped by Rs 10 per tola, now selling at Rs 2,165 compared to Rs 2,175 on Thursday.

Kathmandu, June 27 Police in Parsa have arrested a man with 319 kilograms of hashish that was being smuggled in a truck from Kathmandu to Birgunj. The suspect, 36-year-old Buddhi Bahadur Syangtan from Thaha Municipality-12 in Makawanpur, was caught after a special tip-off led a joint team from Simara-based police and the District Police Office to track a suspicious truck (Province 2-03-003 Kha 6368). The truck was found parked at Parwanipur Chowk Inn, Birgunj Metropolitan City-14, around 7:30 PM on Wednesday. Upon inspection, police discovered 13 large bundles of hashish hidden in white plastic sacks in the back of the truck, weighing a total of 319 kilograms. They also recovered Rs 121,000 in cash and a mobile phone from the driver. Syangtan has been remanded in custody for five days by the Parsa District Court as investigations continue under drug trafficking laws.

Mustang, June 27 Private airlines have decided to stop flights between Pokhara and Jomsom for two months because fewer passengers are traveling during the rainy season. Sujan Lalchhan, the person in charge of Tara Airlines’ Jomsom office, said the company will suspend flights from June 16 and plans to restart them in the first week of September. He explained that the flights are paused due to bad weather and a drop in passenger numbers. Similarly, Summit Airlines will also pause flights on this route for two months starting July 4. Suman Thakali, Summit Airlines’ Jomsom station head, said the decision was made because of the low number of passengers.

v Kathmandu, June 27 Labour, Employment and Social Security Minister Sharat Singh Bhandari has emphasized the need to develop a skilled workforce capable of using modern technology to meet the demands of the changing global job market. He made these remarks during the signing of a three-party agreement between the Local Development Training Institute, the Foreign Employment Board, and Helvetas Nepal. Minister Bhandari said there is an urgent need to produce workers who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also technologically competent. He also announced that a new Diploma in Labour Studies program will soon be launched in partnership with universities. He added that employment service centers across the country are already providing integrated information on labor-related services. Bhandari thanked the Swiss government and Swiss Contact for their continued support in improving access to labor and migration services. He also shared that Nepal’s first National Migration Polic...

Kathmandu, June 27 A new drinking water treatment plant has been set up at Jana Aadarsha Secondary School in Shivasatakshi-6, Jhapa. The project was carried out by Work for Nepal with financial support from Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD). The school held a small event on Friday to mark the installation. The programme was chaired by Manoj Khulal Karki, the Ward Chair of Shivasatakshi Municipality-6. Speaking at the event, Karki thanked both organisations and highlighted the importance of the project. “Our school has seen a rise in the number of students, and ensuring access to safe drinking water has been one of our top priorities. This new plant will make a big difference for the entire school community,” he said. Jiba Prasad Pokhrel, Programme Manager at HHRD, said the organisation has been working on similar projects for five to six years. “We found that access to clean water is still a challenge in rural areas. That’s why we decided to install this system here,” ...

PESHAWAR, June 27 — Flash floods caused by heavy pre-monsoon rains swept away several tourists in northwest Pakistan on Friday, killing at least eight people. Across the country, 18 people have died in rain-related incidents in the past 24 hours, officials said. Rescue teams, made up of around 100 people, have saved 58 people so far and are still searching for others who were swept away while picnicking near the Swat River in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. According to Shah Fahad, a spokesperson for the emergency services, 16 people from the same family are among those dead or missing. Rescuers have recovered eight bodies after working for several hours, and the search continues for 10 more missing people. Videos shared on social media show about a dozen people stranded on a small raised area in the middle of the river, calling for help as the floodwaters rose quickly around them. Fahad urged everyone to follow earlier government warnings about possible flash floods in the Swat River. Th...