Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Muslim community observed Eid-ul-Fitr
The Muslim community observed Eid-ul-Fitr today. This occasion concludes the month-long Ramadan festival, during which Muslims engage in special prayers and reflection. Following the Arabic calendar, Eid-ul-Fitr is observed on the first day of the tenth month of the Hijri. Across the nation, Muslims commemorate this day with fervent prayers and seek blessings from their elders. Traditionally, during the first three days of the tenth month, individuals attend special prayers and then seek blessings from their elders. It’s customary to exchange sweets with relatives as tokens of goodwill. Eid-ul-Fitr holds significance beyond mere festivities; it emphasizes the importance of charity and generosity towards the less fortunate.
Pokhara sub-engineer Rokaya arrested with bribe
The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) arrested sub-engineer Usha Kiran Rokaya of Pokhara Metropolis and Suraj Kunwar of Godar Engineering Consultancy Service on charges of accepting a bribe of one and a half lakh. Rokaya was arrested at Pokhara Metropolitan Municipality Ward 5, while Kunwar was apprehended at Pokhara Metropolitan Municipality Ward 8, according to Narahari Ghimire, the spokesperson for the Authority.
Gold price down by Rs 200 per tola today
Gold price decreased by Rs 200 per tola in the domestic market on Thursday. According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of fine gold has now been fixed at Rs 136,600 per tola, while standard gold is being traded at Rs 135,950 per tola. The fine gold was traded at Rs 136,800 per tola, and standard gold was traded at Rs 136,150 per tola on Wednesday.
PM Dahal rejects committee demand, accuses NC of disrupting equilibrium
Prime Minister (PM) Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has asserted that ongoing political dialogues were aimed at resolving the deadlock in the House of Representatives. Addressing journalists in Biratnagar today, Prime Minister Dahal emphasized that a political solution is imperative to overcome the current impasse, and discussions at the political level have commenced towards this end. Expressing confidence in the efficacy of dialogue, Prime Minister Dahal underscored the need to address the issues concerning cooperatives and the Rastriya Swatantra Party Chairman and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane separately. Rejecting the demand for a committee centered around Lamichhane, the Prime Minister said it was unacceptable.
Gandaki CM adds ministries, plans to increase from 7 to 9
Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, Khagaraj Adhikari, has announced plans to bolster the province’s governance structure by expanding the number of ministries from 7 to 9. During a Council of Ministers meeting held on Thursday, it was decided to establish the Ministry of Health and Interior, marking an administrative shift. The decision involves the separation of the Ministry of Internal Affairs from the Ministry of Health and the Chief Minister, aiming to enhance focus and efficiency in both sectors.
Nagarik Unmukti Party to lead Sudurpaschim Province govt
The Nagarik Unmukti Party is set to assume leadership in the Sudurpaschim Province government, signaling a shift in power dynamics in the province. As per the recent agreement among the coalition parties, the Nagarik Unmukti Party will spearhead the administration in the Sudurpaschim Province. Sources revealed that Kailash Chaudhary, representing the Ranjita Shrestha faction of the party, is slated to assume the role of Chief Minister. Presently, Nagarik Unmukti Party commands six seats in the Sudurpaschim Province.
ADB forecasts 3.6% economic growth for Nepal in FY 2024
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has forecasted a 3.6% growth for Nepal’s economy in fiscal year 2024, a significant rise from the estimated 1.9% growth in fiscal year 2023. During a press conference held today to launch the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) April 2024, a flagship publication of the ADB, the organization shared insights into Nepal’s economic trajectory. The report forecasts a reduction in annual average inflation to 6.5% in fiscal year 2024 from 7.7% in fiscal year 2023, attributed to subdued oil prices and decreased inflation in India, Nepal’s primary import source.The contraction of the trade deficit and a substantial increase in workers’ remittances contributed to a surplus of $1.2 billion in the current account. However, with higher imports and stable remittance inflows expected in the latter part of the fiscal year, the 2024 current account deficit is projected at 0.7% of gross domestic product.
Severe weather disrupts flights at TIA: Diversions and delays reported
Severe weather conditions in the Kathmandu Valley have led to disruptions in flights at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall have caused delays and diversions for both domestic and international flights, according to TIA spokesperson Subhash Jha. Jha reported that several domestic flights have been diverted, while some international flights are currently circling in the air awaiting clearance.
Shekhar Koirala advocates unity between UML and Nepali Congress
Shekhar Koirala, a prominent leader of Nepali Congress (NC), has emphasized the importance of unity between CPN-UML and the Nepali Congress for the betterment of the nation. Advocating for collaboration between the two major political parties, Koirala stressed that a unified approach would serve the interests of the country effectively. “I have consistently pushed for unity between the two largest parties in parliament,” Koirala stated, underlining the need for prioritizing national welfare over individual or party interests.
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