KATHMANDU: Last week in Nepal unfolded with a spectrum of events spanning governance, infrastructure, politics, legal affairs, diplomatic relations, economic cooperation, social policies, environmental concerns, and tragic incidents.

These developments underscored Nepal’s dynamic socio-political landscape and its ongoing challenges and opportunities.

The events encapsulate a broad spectrum of socio-economic, political, environmental, and infrastructural developments.

From governance reforms and tragic incidents to significant infrastructure projects, diplomatic engagements, legal proceedings, and social policy reforms, Nepal navigates a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities.

These developments underscore Nepal’s resilience, commitment to development, and ongoing efforts to address pressing issues while harnessing opportunities for sustainable growth and regional cooperation.

Provinces unveil fiscal budget 2024/025

All seven provinces in Nepal unveiled their budgets for the fiscal year 2024/25, a significant annual event that outlines each province’s financial priorities and allocations.

Previously, the combined budget for these provinces amounted to Rs 300 billion for the current fiscal year, indicating substantial financial planning and distribution across regions.

The allocation included Rs 60 billion for fiscal equalization grants to provinces and Rs 88 billion for local governments, emphasizing decentralized governance and fiscal autonomy mandated by constitutional provisions.

Tragic incident in Taplejung

A heartbreaking tragedy struck Taplejung when a landslide in Phattanglung Rural Municipality-2 claimed the lives of four members of a single family: 70-year-old Ram Bahadur Limbu, his 50-year-old wife Jammaya, and their 12-year-old twin daughters, Ganga and Jamuna.

The incident highlights Nepal’s vulnerability to natural disasters, especially in mountainous regions prone to landslides and floods.

Vice-Chairman Rabin Samra Limbu confirmed the devastating impact on multiple families in the locality, underscoring the urgent need for disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies.

PM Dahal inaugurates Hetauda-Dhalkebar-Inaruwa 400 KV transmission line

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal inaugurated the Hetauda-Dhalkebar-Inaruwa 400 KV transmission line, a crucial milestone in Nepal’s infrastructure development. This project, managed by the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), includes a significant 400 KV substation and a 154-kilometer double-circuit power grid. The transmission line aims to enhance Nepal’s electricity transmission capacity, ensuring reliable power supply and facilitating uninterrupted energy trade with neighboring India. Such infrastructural investments are pivotal for Nepal’s economic growth and energy security.

MCA-Nepal signs contract with Techno Electric and Engineering Company Ltd.

Under the MCC Nepal Compact, MCA-Nepal signed a contract with Techno Electric and Engineering Company Ltd., India, to construct a 400 kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) substation at Ratmate in Nuwakot district.

Valued at US$ 51.6 million, this project underscores international collaboration in bolstering Nepal’s electricity infrastructure.

The Ratmate Substation, once completed, will significantly augment Nepal’s power transmission capabilities between key substations, contributing to a more robust national grid.

JSP Chair Yadav re-elected party Chairman

The political arena saw Upendra Yadav’s re-election as Chairman of Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) Nepal during the party’s convention. His unanimous re-election reflects internal stability within JSP Nepal amidst broader political realignments and restructuring efforts.

The convention’s focus on electing a new central committee and office bearers signals strategic planning and leadership consolidation within the party structure.

SC concludes hearing on Home Minister Lamichhane’s case

Legal proceedings involving Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane continued in the Supreme Court. The court’s deliberations on a writ petition seeking Lamichhane’s suspension highlight ongoing legal challenges and implications for political stability.

The judiciary’s role in addressing governance issues and ensuring accountability remains crucial in Nepal’s democratic framework.

PM Dahal visits India

Prime Minister Dahal’s official visit to India, including attendance at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony, underscored bilateral diplomatic engagements between Nepal and India.

Discussions with Indian leadership aimed at strengthening economic ties, regional cooperation, and addressing mutual concerns demonstrate Nepal’s diplomatic initiatives in fostering strategic partnerships.

Bangladesh decides to import 40 megawatts electricity from Nepal

Bangladesh’s decision to import 40 megawatts of electricity from Nepal, facilitated through India, signifies a significant milestone in regional energy cooperation.

This bilateral agreement aligns with Nepal’s efforts to enhance energy exports and regional connectivity, supported by India’s commitment to facilitating cross-border electricity transmission.

Govt mandates use of National Identity Card

Nepal’s government mandated the use of national identity cards for receiving social security allowances in 28 districts from July 16.

This policy aims to streamline welfare distribution, improve administrative efficiency, and ensure targeted delivery of social benefits to eligible recipients.

The initiative reflects Nepal’s efforts to modernize social welfare systems and enhance governance effectiveness.

Kathmandu records highest temperature of the year

Kathmandu recorded its highest temperature of the year at 35.3°C, highlighting ongoing climate challenges and their impact on urban environments.

The temperature rise underscores the urgency of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies in Nepal’s capital city, emphasizing the need for sustainable urban planning and environmental management practices.