Daily Khabar

 Kathmandu, August 19 Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal has said that public transport fares will remain unchanged during this year’s Dashain and Tihar festivals. Speaking at a meeting of the Infrastructure Development Committee in the House of Representatives on Sunday, he said that while fares are normally adjusted with fuel prices, the government has decided not to raise them during the festive season to avoid adding pressure on passengers. He urged transport operators not to overcharge travelers during the festival rush and assured that the government is in talks with transport entrepreneurs to address their concerns. The minister also shared that the government is preparing to hand over responsibility for road projects, including those involving daily wage workers, to provincial governments. “This year, there will be no increase in fares during Dashain and Tihar. We have already requested operators not to exploit the festive rush. If they have a...

  Kathmandu, August 18 Boys were seen enjoying a swim at Tudi Jharana, also known as the Nagarkot Waterfall, on Sunday. The waterfall, located near the popular hill station of Nagarkot, is considered a hidden gem and was only discovered relatively recently. Some locals even refer to it as a “secret waterfall.”

 Kathmandu, August 18 The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Parliamentarians’ Meet 2025 begins in Kathmandu today. The two-day event, supported by ICIMOD, aims to strengthen dialogue, understanding, and coordination among parliamentarians from countries in the Hindu Kush Himalayan region. Participants include lawmakers, committee chairs, and representatives from Nepal, India, China, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Pakistan, along with climate change and environmental experts. Around 30 delegates are expected, joined by representatives from partner organizations, Nepal’s Federal Parliament, and government officials. Organized in collaboration with Nepal’s Ministry of Forests and Environment and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting will focus on pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, disaster risks, and pollution in the HKH region. According to ICIMOD, the region is facing severe climate impacts and socio-economic changes that threaten ecosystems, resources, liveliho...

  Kathmandu, August 18 Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safe and early release of Nepali citizen Bipin Joshi, who remains a hostage of the Hamas group in Israel. In a Facebook post, PM Oli said it is Nepal’s responsibility to work for Joshi’s freedom and assured that his safety is a top priority. He mentioned that Joshi’s mother, Padma Joshi, and sister, Pushpa Joshi, with support from the Nepali Embassy in Tel Aviv, recently met Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana to appeal for help in securing his release. Oli also shared that he had raised the issue earlier during phone calls with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on March 20 and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on March 12, both involved in Middle East peace efforts. He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is continuing diplomatic efforts through Nepali embassies in the Gulf region. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Ne...

  Kathmandu, August 18 After several days of decline, gold prices in Nepal rose again today. The Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers' Association reported that the price of fine gold increased by Rs 800 per tola, reaching Rs 196,300, up from Rs 195,500 on Sunday. Silver prices also saw a slight rise, increasing by Rs 5 per tola to Rs 2,315, compared to Rs 2,310 the previous day. Gold had hit a record high of Rs 199,400 per tola on Shrawan 21 before starting to fall in the following weeks.

  Washington, August 18 As Russia held its Victory Day parade this year, Kremlin-backed hackers took control of a satellite providing television service to Ukraine. Instead of regular programming, Ukrainian viewers saw footage of Russia’s tanks and soldiers — a move meant to intimidate and highlight how modern warfare now extends into cyberspace and even outer space. Experts warn that disabling satellites can cause major disruption without firing a single bullet. Satellites are essential for communication, navigation (like GPS), military operations, and economic systems. Hackers often target vulnerabilities in a satellite’s software or communication systems rather than the satellite itself. During Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the U.S.-based satellite company Viasat was hacked, affecting tens of thousands of modems across Europe. National security officials say Russia is developing a nuclear, space-based weapon that could destroy many satellites in low-Earth orbit, potentia...

 Rautahat, August 18 A 65-year-old man from Gajara Municipality, Rautahat, has died from Japanese Encephalitis (JE), marking the district’s first fatal case of the season. The deceased, Shyam Kishor Kami of Gajara-1, passed away late Sunday night while receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Provincial Hospital Gaur. Kami was admitted to the ICU on August 14 after his condition worsened. Because of the severity of his illness, he could not be transferred to another facility and remained in the hospital until his death. “This was the first serious JE case we treated here, and despite all efforts, we could not save him,” said Armina Chaudhary, an ICU nurse. Health officials have raised concern over the increasing cases of Japanese Encephalitis in the Terai region and urged people to take precautions to protect themselves from infection.

Kathmandu, August 19 The Nepali Congress and CPN-UML are working together to remove Deputy Speaker Indira Rana from her position. To do so, they need the support of two-thirds of the House of Representatives. According to Rule 210 of the House regulations, a motion to remove the Speaker or Deputy Speaker can be filed if they are believed to have acted in a way that does not suit their role. Such a motion requires the backing of one-fourth of lawmakers (at least 69 out of 275). But for it to pass, two-thirds of the current 274 members must vote in favor — meaning at least 183 lawmakers. Right now, the Congress has 88 seats and UML has 79, giving them 167 together. They still need 16 more votes to reach the required number. Other parties in Parliament include: CPN (Maoist Centre) – 32 lawmakers Rastriya Swatantra Party – 21 Rastriya Prajatantra Party – 13 CPN (Unified Socialist) – 10 Janata Samajbadi Party – 7 Janamat Party – 6 Loktantrik Samajbadi Party – 4 N...

  New York, August 18 U.S. President Donald Trump will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and several European leaders at the White House on Monday to discuss ways to end Russia’s three-year war in Ukraine. The meeting comes just days after Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where Trump shifted his position — dropping the demand for a ceasefire before further talks and instead backing Putin’s view that negotiations should focus on a long-term settlement. European leaders’ presence in Washington highlights how the outcome of the conflict affects not just Ukraine but the security of the entire continent. They also want to show support for Zelenskyy, especially after his last tense visit to the White House. Trump and Zelenskyy are expected to meet privately before the wider talks. Trump suggested on social media that Zelenskyy could “end the war almost immediately if he wants to,” raising questions about whether the U.S. is pressuring Ukraine to make c...

 Kathmandu, August 18 Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has said the government is actively working through diplomatic channels to secure the release of Bipin Joshi, who is still being held by Hamas. In a social media post today, she explained that since taking office, she has made this issue a top priority. “From the UN General Assembly to international forums, and in bilateral and multilateral meetings, I have consistently called for Bipin’s release. These efforts are ongoing,” she said. She highlighted her recent meeting with Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, the lead mediator in peace talks, where she urged that Bipin’s case be included in the first phase of hostage negotiations. Minister Rana assured that the government is leaving no stone unturned in pursuing the matter and thanked the Israeli government, Israeli citizens, the Nepali community in Israel, and the international community for their support. She al...

  Kathmandu, August 18 Minister for Forests and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, has stressed the importance of regional cooperation to tackle common problems like climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution. Speaking at the opening of the Hindu Kush Himalaya Parliamentarians' Meet 2025 in Kathmandu, he said the conference was an important chance to discuss the future of the Hindu Kush Himalayan region, which supports nearly two billion people. He hoped that the involvement of parliamentarians and experts would help shape strong policies and ensure their effective implementation. Representing Mugu district in Karnali Province, Minister Shahi highlighted the impacts of climate change in the Himalayan region, such as shrinking water sources, the loss of medicinal herbs and pasturelands, and damage to Rara Lake, one of the area’s major landmarks. “We are facing serious consequences of climate change despite contributing very little to global carbon emissions,” he sa...

  Kathmandu, August 18 President Ramchandra Paudel has urged all countries to fulfill their promises under the Paris Agreement, stressing that both rich and developing nations must act together to keep global warming below 1.5°C. Speaking at the opening of the Hindu Kush Himalaya Parliamentarians' Conference in Kathmandu, he expressed concern over the fast-rising temperatures in the region, which are worsening snowmelt, floods, and erosion. “Climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution are no longer theories but harsh realities,” he said, calling for a united plan to build a sustainable future. The President pointed out that water from the Hindu Kush Himalaya supports the lives of more than 2 billion people, and protecting the region’s biodiversity is crucial for food, culture, and the economy. He shared Nepal’s efforts so far, such as setting up early warning systems for climate disasters, expanding hydropower and solar energy, conserving community forests, monitoring w...

 KATHMANDU, AUGUST 17 Nepal joined global commemorations of the 80th Anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on Friday with ceremonies at the British Embassy in Kathmandu and British Gurkhas Nepal camps. VJ Day, observed on August 15, 1945, marks Japan’s surrender to the Allied forces, ending World War II. The day holds special importance for the British Gurkhas, who played a decisive role in the Burma Campaign, one of the toughest battles of the war. Gurkha regiments earned nine Victoria Crosses for bravery, seven of them awarded to Nepali soldiers. In Kathmandu, wreaths were laid at the Gurkha monument by UK Ambassador Rob Fenn, Nepali Army Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Nirmal Kumar Thapa, Commander of British Gurkhas Nepal Colonel Dan Rex MVO, Gurkha Welfare Trust (Nepal) Director, and Major (Retd) Balkrishna Rana, Chairman of the Regimental Association Nepal. A two-minute silence was observed in solidarity with ceremonies in the UK. In Pokhara, British Gurkhas organ...

  Kathmandu, August 18 The death toll of Nepalis in Kuwait from consuming toxic liquor has risen to 12 , the Embassy of Nepal in Kuwait reported. Around 30 others are still receiving treatment in hospitals. The incident occurred last week after people drank illegally produced alcohol contaminated with methanol , affecting over 160 people . Kuwait’s Ministry of Health confirmed that 23 migrant workers from different countries have died so far. In response, Kuwait’s Ministry of Internal Affairs launched a nationwide crackdown , arresting 67 people involved in making and selling illegal alcohol, including several Nepalis, Indians, and a Bangladeshi. Authorities also shut down six illegal liquor factories in residential and industrial areas. Kuwaiti media reported that the main suspects could face murder charges . Police also arrested 258 people for violating residency and labour laws. Officials said all migrant workers hospitalized after drinking the toxic alcohol will be d...

 Kathmandu, August 18 The Department of Foreign Employment has received over 36,000 complaints from workers who were cheated, stranded abroad, or denied their promised salary and work, but many of these complaints remain unresolved. Director General Kamal Prasad Bhattarai said some complaints date back to 2007, and about 200 new complaints are being added daily. Last fiscal year alone, 1,822 complaints were filed under relief and rescue, 5,632 in the legal division, and 5,337 in the police division. Of these, 979 were resolved under relief and rescue, 528 in the legal division, and 4,876 in the police division, with the police division handling cases faster. Bhattarai explained that the department has limited staff, which causes delays. To tackle the backlog, a new phased plan has been introduced. Complaints from 2007 to 2013 will be resolved first, followed by cases from 2015, 2018, and up to the present. The department is also working to amend foreign employment laws to make them...

Kathmandu, August 18 The Nepal Citizenship (Second Amendment) Bill, which gives mothers equal right to pass citizenship to their children, has been approved by the Legislation Management Committee of the National Assembly. Once the bill becomes law, citizenship can be granted in the name of either the mother or the father, ending the father’s exclusive right to confer citizenship. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak told lawmakers that under the amendment, citizenship will list only one parent’s name—either the mother or father. “Our principle is the right to descent. Until now, descent was recognized only through the father. This law acknowledges that descent can also be through the mother,” he said. Lekhak clarified that at least one parent’s name must be included on the citizenship certificate. “If someone does not want to mention the father, the mother’s name can be used, and vice versa. But both cannot be left blank. Address details will also be mandatory to distinguish individuals with s...

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 17 Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals highlighted the latest developments in gastroenterology and neurology at a press conference held on August 16 at Hilton Hotel, Naxal Hall. Two senior specialists from the hospital, Dr. Sanjay Sikka and Dr. P.N. Renjen, explained how advanced technologies are improving diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. Dr. Sanjay Sikka, Senior Consultant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, shared Apollo’s approach to treating gastrointestinal, liver, and pancreatic diseases. “Our focus is on precise diagnosis, advanced therapeutic endoscopy, and personalized care to improve patient outcomes,” he said. The hospital offers services including high-definition diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, and manometry. For complex cases, it provides advanced procedures like ERCP, EUS, EMR, ESD, EHL, and specialized techniques such as spyglass cholangioscopy, pancreatoscopy, POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy), and li...

 Kathmandu, August 18 The Himalayan Queen’s Gambit, organized by the Himalayan Chess Academy at St. Xavier’s College, Kathmandu, concluded on Sunday with Precious Adhikari crowned as the champion. She scored 7 points to beat 141 competitors and claim the title. In the one-day tournament, Nihana Shrestha remained unbeaten in the open section but a second-round draw pushed her to second place with 6.5 points. Reshika Shrestha of Mahendra Secondary School finished third with 6 points. Other top-eight finishers included Swastika Chaudhary, Dhanmantri Thapa, Meghna Adhikari, Sanskriti Gajurel, and Suhani Singh. As part of the International Chess Federation’s (FIDE) Social Year 2025, eight tournaments are being held worldwide this August. The Himalayan Queen’s Gambit was the only event from Asia. The competition, using the Swiss system, featured four rapid rounds and three blitz rounds. With 142 participants, it saw the highest-ever female participation in Nepali chess, surpassing last y...

  Kathmandu, August 18 The mother and sister of Bipin Joshi from Kanchanpur, who was kidnapped by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, met with Israel’s President and the Speaker of Parliament. Padma Joshi and her daughter Pushpa, who traveled to Israel in search of Bipin, held talks with President Isaac Herzog and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana. The meeting was organized by the Nepali Embassy in Israel and attended by Ambassador Dhan Prasad Pandit. During the meeting, Bipin’s mother asked President Herzog to take immediate action to secure her son’s release. Pushpa also requested special efforts to ensure her brother returns safely to Nepal. The embassy said President Herzog assured them that he and his government were closely monitoring Bipin’s case. “Nepali student Bipin Joshi feels like one of our own citizens. Our government is working day and night for his release,” Herzog was quoted as saying. He added that progress might be possible if the Nepali government works further w...

 Kathmandu, August 17 – The Office of the Honorary Consul of Indonesia in Nepal celebrated the 80th Indonesian Independence Day with a flag hoisting ceremony at the IME Complex in Panipokhari on Sunday. Honorary Consul Chandra Prasad Dhakal, who is also the Chairperson of IME Group, raised Indonesia’s red and white national flag to mark the occasion. In his address, Dhakal highlighted the growing diplomatic ties between Nepal and Indonesia since relations were formally established in 1960. Dhakal, who also leads the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), noted that bilateral relations have strengthened in recent years, particularly in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. He emphasized Indonesia’s role as an important trade partner for Nepal and its rising appeal as a tourism destination in the ASEAN region. “Both countries are working on initiatives that benefit each other, including cultural exchanges and tourism collaboration,” Dhakal said, adding ...

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 17 – Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has received an official invitation to visit India. The invitation was delivered on Sunday by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, representing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Kathmandu. Misri met PM Oli at Singha Durbar and handed over the invitation letter, according to PM’s Chief Advisor Bishnu Rimal. During the meeting, they discussed various issues, including high-level exchanges, bilateral relations, and matters of mutual interest. The date of the visit has not been announced yet and will be finalized through diplomatic channels between the two countries.

 In Mugu’s Gamgadhi, a shopkeeper sets his phone against a jar of biscuits, streaming the village dance festival live to family in Kathmandu. Ten years ago, such a connection would have been impossible. Today, it’s a part of everyday life for many Nepalis, showing how digital technology is reaching even the most remote areas. For a country rich in culture like Nepal, this raises an important question: how do we study culture when so much of it now happens online—in chat groups, on social media, and across virtual platforms? The answer lies in digital anthropology, which explores how technology, from smartphones to AI, is reshaping human life. Beyond Traditional Anthropology Anthropology has long focused on understanding human societies, cultures, and development, often documenting rituals, kinship systems, oral histories, and archaeology. These remain important, but today’s culture also exists online. Facebook organizes religious events, TikTok showcases folk dances, and mobile ...

 Kathmandu, Aug 17, 2025 — Global IME Bank has been named the ‘Best Bank in Nepal’ at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, winning the title for the third time after 2022 and 2024. The Euromoney Awards, established in 1992 by Euromoney Magazine, are among the most prestigious honors in the global banking and finance industry. The award highlights Global IME Bank’s strong financial results, innovation, quality services, commitment to ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices, and contributions to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The bank operates across all 77 districts of Nepal with more than 1,000 service points and also provides remittance services from key international markets. This latest recognition further strengthens its reputation as Nepal’s leading financial institution.

Kathmandu, Aug 17: India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met President Ramchandra Paudel today at Shital Niwas during his official visit to Nepal. President Paudel said Nepal has benefited from India’s progress and hopes to gain even more in the future. He praised India’s growth in socio-economic and technological fields, calling it an emerging global power. He highlighted the deep social, cultural, religious, economic, and people-to-people ties between the two countries, built on equality, cooperation, respect, and trust. The President also reaffirmed that Nepal gives top priority to its relations with India and welcomed India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy. In response, Misri said Nepal is among India’s top priorities under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He added that during his two-day visit, he will hold talks with Nepali officials on strengthening connectivity and development cooperation to meet modern needs and shared interests. Misri arrived in Kathmandu this morning...

 Kathmandu, Aug 17: From April 19 to August 17, Nepal recorded 2,853 disaster incidents, leaving 126 people dead and 585 injured, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). During this period, 5,041 families were affected and 23 people went missing. Major incidents included 216 floods, 317 landslides, 221 heavy rains, 245 lightning strikes, and 77 snakebites. Other disasters reported were 1,114 fires, 158 wildfires, 277 storms, 172 wild animal attacks, 46 landslides, five earthquakes, two boat accidents, one hailstorm, and several others. On August 16 alone, Nepal saw seven fires, one flood, eight landslides, four incidents of continuous rain, and three wild animal attacks, resulting in one death. The total estimated loss from disasters during this period is around Rs 3.84 million.

Kathmandu, Aug 17: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has received an official invitation to visit India. The invitation was delivered on Sunday by India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, on behalf of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Misri, who is in Kathmandu for a two-day visit, met PM Oli at his office in Singha Durbar and handed over the invitation letter, according to PM’s Chief Advisor Bishnu Rimal. During the meeting, both sides discussed high-level visits, bilateral relations, and matters of mutual interest. The exact date of the visit has not been finalized yet and will be announced later through diplomatic coordination between the two countries.

  Rajbiraj (Saptari), August 17 – A couple died from electrocution in Pipara, Kanchanrup Municipality-5, Saptari, early Sunday morning. The victims have been identified as 50-year-old Badri Sardar and his 45-year-old wife, Bimala Devi, said DSP Madhav Prasad Kafle. The couple came into contact with a live electric wire that had been set up by Mahendra Sardar of Pipara to protect paddy fields from elephants. They were walking to their farmland, about 150 meters from their home, when the accident occurred.

 Kathmandu, August 17 – The second edition of the Vatsalya Everest Women’s Volleyball League will be broadcast live on Himalayan TV Premium. The league will run from September 5 to 13, featuring six teams with 18 international players alongside Nepal’s top women volleyball athletes. Popular artists will also join to support the teams and add to the entertainment. The broadcasting deal was finalized between Himalayan TV Premium and the organizer, Infinity Dreams Pvt. Ltd., through Sushree Media Pvt. Ltd. Suman Adhikari, Managing Director of Sushree Media, said, “We are grateful for this successful partnership with Himalayan TV Premium Dubai. With the growing popularity of women’s sports, we are proud to support this league.” Govinda Dhakal, General Manager of Himalayan TV, added, “We are excited to broadcast the first women’s volleyball league of its kind in Asia live on our HD channel. Supporting women’s sports is our responsibility, and we believe the participation of players from...

  KATHMANDU, AUGUST 17 – Gold prices fell again in the domestic market on Sunday, dropping by Rs 700 per tola. The Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association reported that fine gold is now trading at Rs 195,500 per tola, down from Rs 196,200 per tola last Friday. Silver prices also declined slightly, falling Rs 5 per tola. Silver is currently being sold at Rs 2,310 per tola, down from Rs 2,315 per tola on Friday.

BUNER, AUGUST 17 – Rescue teams in northwestern Pakistan stepped up relief efforts Sunday after flash floods killed more than 220 people in Buner district. The mountainous district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was hit by heavy monsoon rains and sudden cloudbursts on Friday, causing flash floods and landslides. Mohammad Sohail, a spokesman for emergency services in Buner, said that more than half of the damaged roads have been reopened, allowing vehicles and heavy machinery to reach remote villages. Crews are clearing rocks, mud, and debris from collapsed homes, as families search for missing relatives. In one of the deadliest incidents, 24 members of a single family died in Qadar Nagar when floodwaters swept through their home just before a wedding. Umar Khan, the head of the family, survived because he was out at the time, but four relatives are still missing. Provincial Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur visited Buner on Saturday and announced that families of the victims will receiv...

  Kathmandu, August 17 Passengers traveling abroad from Tribhuvan International Airport now need to arrive at least one hour earlier for immigration checks. Ram Chandra Tiwari, Director General of the Immigration Department, said this new rule was introduced because last-minute crowding often leaves too little time to check travel documents properly. “Nighttime flights to Gulf countries have especially faced this problem,” he told Onlinekhabar. “It becomes difficult for immigration officers to complete all checks at the last moment, so we’ve made the rule stricter.” On Friday, the Immigration Department discussed the matter with all airlines and other relevant authorities before finalizing the decision. Since the airport experiences heavy traffic at night, the Civil Aviation Authority has been asked to adjust flight schedules or consider delaying them to reduce congestion. Meanwhile, the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) is investigating cases whe...

  Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa has not seen a single international flight for the past five months, leaving hoteliers, tourism entrepreneurs, and locals deeply frustrated. Billions were invested to make this airport a hub for international travel, but it has failed to live up to expectations. The airport last had international flights in March 2025, when Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu was under maintenance. During that time, airlines like Nepal Airlines, Jazeera Airways, FlyDubai, Thai Air, and Air Asia operated 299 international flights, serving over 15,000 passengers. However, once TIA’s maintenance was completed on March 29, flights stopped in Bhairahawa. Entrepreneurs accuse the government of ignoring the airport due to pressure from big business groups in Kathmandu. They claim that large Kathmandu-based travel agencies monopolize international ticketing, and airlines have not set up proper offices in Bhairahawa. Tourism operator Chan...

 Kathmandu, August 15 – The Rotary Club of Kathmandu Mid-Town, in partnership with Edulift, organized a Career Connection Partner and Beneficiary Meet-Up at Xavier’s Academy, Lazimpat. The event brought together around 100 people, including programme partners, beneficiaries, educators, corporate leaders, and development professionals, all focused on empowering Nepal’s youth with skills and opportunities. The programme began with a welcome speech by Neve M. Pradhan, President of RC Kathmandu Mid-Town and Point of Contact for the Global Grant Career Connection Project. She explained that Career Connection is aimed at helping young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, by providing training and job opportunities to close the skills gap in Nepal. Tenzin Sonam, founder of Edulift, then gave a presentation on the project’s mission and progress. He shared success stories from the first year, highlighting how vocational training and job placements have helped graduates bu...

 Kathmandu, Aug 16 — Rabi Lamichhane, President of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has been transferred from Rupandehi Prison to Nakkhu Prison in Lalitpur. He is currently in custody on charges of embezzling cooperative funds. According to the Department of Prison Management, Lamichhane was flown to Kathmandu from Bhairahawa Airport on Friday evening and then taken to Nakkhu Prison by police van under tight security. The transfer was made following Lamichhane’s own request, with the decision issued to Rupandehi Prison on Friday night. As he was brought to the capital, large numbers of RSP supporters gathered outside Tribhuvan International Airport and near Nakkhu Prison to show their support.

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 — Holiday Inn Express Kathmandu Naxal has appointed Vara Prasad as its new General Manager. With more than 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Vara is known for his expertise in hotel operations, guest experience, and revenue growth. Before joining Holiday Inn Express, he worked as Director of Operations at Fairfield by Marriott in Ahmedabad, where he helped improve revenue, guest satisfaction, and overall profitability. In his new role, Vara will manage all aspects of the hotel, including guest services, safety, financial performance, and market positioning. The hotel expressed confidence that his leadership will further strengthen its standing in Kathmandu’s competitive hospitality sector.

  SRINAGAR, AUGUST 15 — Torrential rains have caused devastating flash floods in the remote village of Chositi in Kashmir, killing at least 56 people and leaving many others missing, authorities said Thursday. Rescue teams have managed to save around 300 people from the disaster-struck Himalayan village. The floods and landslides were triggered by a sudden cloudburst in the area. Disaster management official Mohammed Irshad said that at least 80 people were still missing as of Thursday evening, and the number could rise as authorities continue counting. Rescue operations were paused for the night due to ongoing heavy rains, which are expected to continue. India’s Deputy Minister for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, warned that the disaster could cause significant loss of life. Local official Susheel Kumar Sharma said at least 50 seriously injured people are being treated in nearby hospitals. Many were rescued from streams filled with mud and debris. Chositi is a remote H...

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has described Nepal–India relations as historic, close, and based on strong cooperation, while emphasizing the need to further strengthen these ties. She made the remarks at a program organized by the Indian Embassy in Nepal to mark India’s 79th Independence Day. “India is a good friend of Nepal,” she said, highlighting the long-standing and multidimensional relationship between the two countries. The Minister praised India’s remarkable economic progress and expressed confidence that both nations would continue to collaborate in trade, technology, infrastructure, and in addressing public needs. “Nepal–India relations are not only shaped by geographical proximity, but also by shared culture, ancient wisdom, and enduring people-to-people connections,” she added. She also stressed that cooperation is crucial for tackling shared challenges like climate change and achieving sustainable development. Earlier in the day, Dr. Rana ...

  KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – Nepal lost their opening match of the Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia, as the Northern Territory (NT) defeated them by 42 runs on Friday. Chasing NT’s target of 178, Nepal managed 135 for 8 in their 20 overs. For Nepal, Kushal Malla top-scored with 34 runs off 26 balls, Gulshan Jha scored 26 off 10 balls, and captain Rohit Kumar Paudel made 23 off 21 balls, while the rest of the batting lineup struggled. NT’s Matt Hammond took 3 wickets. After winning the toss, Nepal chose to field first. NT scored 177 for 8, with D’Arcy Short hitting 51 off 34 balls and Tom Andrews finishing unbeaten on 32 off 26. Nepal’s Sandeep Lamichhane took 3 wickets for 38 runs in 4 overs, Sahab Alam took 2 wickets, and Rupesh Singh, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Gulshan Jha took one each. The series features Australia’s Big Bash Academy team, along with Pakistan and Bangladesh ‘A’ teams. Nepal’s upcoming matches include Bangladesh ‘A’ on Saturday, Melbourne Stars Academy on ...

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) and Nepal Telecommunications Company Ltd (NTC) have signed an agreement to expand optical fiber connectivity in Gandaki and Lumbini provinces. The project will be implemented under the Rural Telecommunications Development Fund (RTDF). The agreement was signed on Friday in a ceremony attended by Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung and Ministry Secretary Radhika Aryal. NTA Chair Bhupendra Bhandari and NTC Acting Managing Director Sabina Maskey signed the documents on behalf of their organizations. Secretary Aryal stressed the importance of completing the project on schedule, saying that timely execution would make it a model initiative. NTA Chair Bhandari noted that previous RTDF optical fiber projects assigned to UTL and Smart Telecom had failed to meet obligations. The new project will last three years with an estimated cost of around Rs 2 billion. Bhandari promised timely implem...

 KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – The Department of Prison Management has decided to move Rabi Lamichhane, chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, from Rupandehi Prison to Nakkhu Prison in Lalitpur. Lamichhane, who is involved in a legal case over cooperative fraud, had requested the transfer earlier. The department made the decision on Friday and sent an official letter to Rupandehi Prison the same day. According to Sandesh Prasad Joshi, the department’s information officer, Lamichhane will be transferred to Nakkhu Prison as soon as possible with proper security arrangements.

  KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – Minister for Drinking Water Pradip Yadav met with a visiting Indian delegation on Friday to discuss long-term solutions for the drinking water crisis in Nepal’s Tarai region. The Indian team had recently visited Madhes Province to inspect drought-affected areas and assess the severity of the problem. According to Ministry spokesperson Mina Shrestha, the delegation briefed Minister Yadav on the current situation, the challenges faced, and ongoing efforts to tackle both immediate and long-term water shortages. The team visited several districts from August 12 before returning to Kathmandu. A detailed action plan will be prepared once their inspection report is finalized. Minister Yadav said the discussions were thorough and that the government would act based on the delegation’s recommendations. He also highlighted the MoU signed a few months ago with India’s Ministry of Jal Shakti and expressed confidence that the cooperation would strengthen Nepal–India ...

  KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – Nepal lost their opening match of the Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia. On Friday, the home team Northern Territory (NT) beat Nepal by 42 runs. Chasing NT’s target of 178, Nepal managed only 135 runs for 8 wickets in their 20 overs. For Nepal, Kushal Malla scored 34 off 26 balls, Gulshan Jha hit 26 off 10 balls, and captain Rohit Kumar Paudel made 23 off 21 balls, while the other batsmen struggled to score. In bowling, NT’s Matt Hammond took 3 wickets. After winning the toss, Nepal chose to field first. NT posted 177 runs for 8 wickets, with D’Arcy Short scoring 51 off 34 balls and Tom Andrews unbeaten on 32 off 26. Nepal’s Sandeep Lamichhane took 3 wickets for 38 runs in 4 overs, while Sahab Alam took 2 wickets, and Rupesh Singh, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Gulshan Jha claimed one each. The series also features Australia’s Big Bash Academy team, along with Pakistan and Bangladesh ‘A’ teams. Nepal will next play Bangladesh ‘A’ on Saturday, Melbourn...

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15 – Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that all social media platforms operating in Nepal must follow the country’s laws. Speaking at the opening session of the 'Digital Nepal Conclave 2025' organized by the ICT Foundation today, he said that social media platforms should be registered in Nepal, pay taxes, and meet other legal obligations. “The government needs to be aware of all IT-related transactions in Nepal. Therefore, every social media platform must follow the law, including paying taxes,” Prime Minister Oli said. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to promote information technology, which can help people earn income both domestically and internationally. Noting the rapid growth of IT, he shared that during his visit to the Pushpalal Mid-Hill Highway, he saw even elderly women in remote Rukum villages using Facebook. The Prime Minister said Nepal has great potential for digital technology and green energy and stressed the importance of ...

 Kathmandu, August 15 Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will soon visit India after attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Beijing on August 31 and September 1. Oli’s India visit is planned for August 31. Preparations will be discussed when Indian Foreign Secretary Bikram Misri visits Kathmandu this Sunday. This will be Oli’s first trip to India since becoming prime minister 14 months ago and is expected to differ from previous visits in several ways. Unlike past trips, Oli’s visit is likely to be very short—just two days—making it possibly the briefest official visit by a Nepali prime minister to India. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Oli and his delegation will leave on August 31 and return on September 1. The meeting location with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to break tradition. Instead of the usual Hyderabad House in New Delhi, the leaders may meet in Bodh Gaya, the holy site where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. Further de...

  Kathmandu, August 15 Jamboree Education Nepal, in partnership with ETS TOEFL, will host the US Education Fair 2025 on August 29 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at its Putalisadak center on New Plaza Road. The fair will feature representatives from over 30 US universities and colleges, making it the largest US education fair ever held in Nepal. Students can get on-the-spot profile evaluations to assess their academic profiles and admission chances. Special sessions will focus on STEM programs —Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—to cater to the growing interest among Nepali students. Attendees will also receive detailed information on scholarships, financial aid, and test preparation support, including discount vouchers for exams like TOEFL. “This fair gives Nepali students a unique chance to meet US university representatives directly,” said a Jamboree spokesperson. “The profile evaluations and STEM sessions are designed to match students’ interests.” The event is s...

Kathmandu, August 15 The Royal Thai Embassy in Kathmandu, together with the Thai Trade Centre in New Delhi, is organizing an event called “Journey to Thailand & Top Thai Brands 2025” from August 29 to 31 at The Plaza, Pulchowk, Lalitpur. The event will officially open on August 29 at 2:00 pm. The exhibition will be free for the public to attend—open on August 29 from 2:00 to 6:00 pm, and on August 30–31 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Visitors can experience Thai cultural shows, taste authentic Thai food, explore Thai products, enjoy traditional Thai massage, and join free handicraft workshops. Guests will also get the chance to interact with representatives from top Thai companies, hospitals, and universities. Raffle prizes, including a round-trip air ticket to Thailand and other gifts, will also be on offer. The embassy said the event aims to promote cultural exchange, highlight Thailand’s best brands, and strengthen ties between the people of Thailand and Nepal.

  Hetauda, August 15 Five new ministers joined the Bagmati Province government on Friday after taking the oath of office and secrecy. Province Chief Dipak Prasad Devkota administered the oath to Prabhat Tamang, Kanchan Chandra Bade, Suresh Shrestha, Armila KC Nepal, and Binu Rayamajhi. They were appointed earlier the same day by Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya. According to their portfolios: Kanchan Chandra Bade (Kavre) – Ministry of Social Development Prabhat Tamang (Rasuwa) – Ministry of Economic Affairs and Planning Armila KC Nepal (Lalitpur) – Ministry of Youth and Sports Suresh Shrestha (Bhaktapur) – Ministry of Culture and Tourism Binu Rayamajhi (Chitwan) – Ministry of Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation With this, Chief Minister Baniya has completed his 14-member Cabinet. On August 5, he had already appointed eight ministers, including himself, and has now added five more, all from his party, the Nepali Congress. Earlier appointments from the N...

  Kathmandu, August 14 If you walk through the streets of Kathmandu on the morning of Krishna Janmashtami, you’ll notice many people—especially young boys and girls—carrying or wearing peacock feathers on their heads. But why is this tradition so popular? Peacock feathers are closely linked with Lord Krishna. As a child, Krishna used to wear a peacock feather in his hair, and over time it became one of his main symbols. On Krishna Janmashtami—the festival that celebrates his birth—devotees often offer peacock feathers as a way of honouring him. The festival falls on the eighth day of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra, according to the lunar calendar. It is believed that Lord Krishna, considered the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born at midnight on this day in Dwarka during the Dwapara Yuga. There are several stories explaining why Krishna wore the peacock feather. Some say it represents the seven colours of the world’s elements. Others believe it symbolizes love, ...

  Just like physical health, mental health is a vital part of overall well-being. In today’s busy lifestyle, not only adults but also children are struggling with mental health problems. Issues like stress, depression, and anxiety have become very common. Since mental health directly affects overall health, it’s important to take care of it. Adopting a few small but positive habits in daily life can make a big difference. 1. Keep track of stress Check in with yourself daily to see how stressed you feel. You can use online tools or simply note it in a diary. Regular tracking helps prevent serious issues like burnout, depression, or anxiety disorders. 2. Take short breaks Working or studying for long hours lowers focus and drains energy. Taking 5–10 minute breaks every 1–2 hours—by stretching, walking, or closing your eyes—can refresh your mind and reduce stress. 3. Practice deep breathing Try inhaling for four seconds, holding for four seconds, and exhaling for four seconds. ...

 v Kathmandu, August 15 Nine Nepalis have died in Kuwait in the last three days after drinking toxic alcohol, the Nepali Embassy in Kuwait confirmed. Several others are still in hospital, while some have already been discharged. Giriprasad Acharya, the Labour Counsellor at the embassy, said the exact cause of death will only be clear once medical reports are received. “So far, nine Nepalis have died in three days. We cannot say for sure if it was toxic alcohol until the reports arrive,” he explained. Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has reported a sharp rise in hospital cases caused by methanol-mixed alcohol. Official figures show 23 people, including nine Nepalis, have died, and over 160 others are receiving treatment in Adan, Farwaniya, and Mubarak Al-Kabeer hospitals. Although alcohol is banned in Kuwait, it is still produced and sold illegally. Authorities are now investigating where the toxic alcohol came from. Some patients are undergoing dialysis for kidney failure, while oth...

LONDON, AUGUST 14 — Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised U.S. President Donald Trump for trying to end the war in Ukraine, more than three years after Russia’s invasion. The comments came as the two leaders prepared for an important U.S.–Russia summit in Alaska on Friday. After meeting with top Russian officials on Thursday, Putin said in a short video released by the Kremlin that Trump’s administration was making “energetic and sincere efforts” to stop the fighting and reach agreements that benefit all sides. Putin also suggested that an agreement on nuclear arms control with the U.S. could help create long-term peace between Russia, the U.S., Europe, and the world. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders were working to make sure their interests are considered in the talks. European leaders express concerns On Thursday, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed Zelenskyy to London in a show of support for Ukraine, ahead of the Trump-Putin meeti...

 KATHMANDU, AUGUST 14 – The Himalayan Art Council (HAC) has launched a digital certification system to safeguard Nepal’s rich Himalayan art traditions, especially sacred Thangka and Paubha paintings. The program aims to preserve artistic heritage, verify authenticity, and increase the international value of Nepali artworks. HAC combines physical and digital certification with careful provenance checks and detailed archiving of artists’ stories and works. Artists or collectors submit detailed information about each artwork, which is cross-verified and reviewed by a third party. Once certified, the artwork receives a permanent digital record along with a physical copy for archives. For works by deceased artists, HAC provides timestamped documentation to recognize their historical importance, helping prevent the loss of provenance information. Each certified artwork also receives a unique digital footprint to discourage forgery and clarify ownership. Artist identities, including linea...

  KATHMANDU, AUGUST 14 – Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has highlighted that using digital platforms responsibly and effectively is key to building a progressive digital future. Speaking at the inauguration of the programme “Use, Impact and Effects of Digital Platforms” organized by the NC Information, Communications, and Publicity Department at the party’s central office in Sanepa, Deuba said everyone can contribute to society and the nation through proper use of digital technology. “Digital platforms have made services and facilities faster and more transparent. By using them positively, we can support individual, societal, and national development,” he said. Deuba noted that millions of people access digital platforms daily via mobile phones, the internet, computers, and social media, and that these platforms are increasingly used in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, banking, aviation, and public services. He praised tec...

  LONDON, AUGUST 14 – Rising sea levels could reach Easter Island’s famous moai statues by the end of the century, a new study warns. The research, published in the Journal of Cultural Heritage , also highlights that about 50 other cultural sites on the island are at risk from flooding. “Sea level rise is real,” said Noah Paoa, the study’s lead author and a doctoral student at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. “It’s not a distant threat.” Paoa, who is from Easter Island (known locally as Rapa Nui), and his team created a detailed digital model of the island’s eastern coastline. They ran simulations to predict how waves could impact the shore under various sea level scenarios and mapped the results against key cultural sites. The findings suggest that by 2080, waves could reach Ahu Tongariki , the island’s largest ceremonial platform, home to 15 iconic moai statues. The site attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year and is a vital part of the island’s tourism economy. Bey...

MOSCOW, AUGUST 14 – The U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska is happening at a site historically tied to Cold War tensions, with missile defenses, radar stations, and intelligence operations once dominating the area. The key question is whether this meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump can help bring peace to Ukraine, more than three and a half years after Russia’s invasion. When and Where: The summit is on Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson near Anchorage, starting around 11:30 a.m. local time (3:30 p.m. EDT). It includes talks between Putin and Trump, as well as their delegations. This is Putin’s first U.S. visit since 2015. Because the U.S. is not part of the International Criminal Court, which issued a 2023 warrant for Putin over war crimes allegations, there’s no requirement to arrest him. Is Zelenskyy Attending? Only Putin and Trump will meet. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will not be present, despite earlier speculation. ...