KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
PM Oli vows to complete development projects on time
Prime Minister (PM) KP Oli has reaffirmed his commitment to completing development projects within the stipulated timeframe, emphasizing that it remains a top priority for the government.
In a post on his Facebook page, the Prime Minister revealed that he held discussions with the chief ministers of all seven provinces to review the progress of ongoing development projects.
Speaker Ghimire writes to Arab Parliament Speaker for Bipin Joshi’s release
Speaker Devraj Ghimire has written a letter to the President of the Arab Parliament, Mohammad Ahmed Al-Yamahi, on Friday, requesting the early release of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who was kidnapped by Hamas.
In his letter, Speaker Ghimire urged Al-Yamahi to take special initiatives to ensure the safe release of Bipin Joshi.
“In light of the strong relations between Nepal and the Arab League, I kindly request you to take proactive measures and provide support for the early release of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who has been held captive by Hamas since October 7, 2023,” the letter read.
Foreign Minister Rana urges Iranian counterpart to assist in Bipin Joshi’s release
In a diplomatic effort to secure the release of Nepali youth Bipin Joshi, who is under Hamas control, Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana has reached out to the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Sayyed Abbas Araghchi, via phone.
Minister Rana spoke with Foreign Minister Araghchi last night, urging him to take action for the release of Bipin, who remains under the custody of Hamas.
During the conversation, Minister Araghchi assured that he would prioritize the issue of Bipin’s release in his upcoming discussions with Hamas officials.
Government will pay for revenge against Lamichhane: RSP
Acting Chair of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), DP Aryal, has called for the immediate lifting of the suspension of its party Chair Rabi Lamichhane from his position as Member of Parliament (MP).
In a speech delivered at the House of Representatives on Friday, Aryal voiced concerns that the parliament appears to be backing the government’s stance.
One killed, five injured in vehicle accident on BP Highway
One person died in a private vehicle accident while traveling from Jhapa to Kathmandu.
The accident occurred this morning in Golanjor Rural Municipality-5 along the BP Highway, injuring five people, with one in critical condition.
Remittance inflows rise by 4.1 percent in six months
The country has received Rs 763.08 billion in remittances during the first half of the current fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Finance.
In its mid-term review report, the Ministry noted that remittance inflows grew by 4.1 percent compared to the same period last year. However, remittance inflows had increased by 22.2 percent during the same period in the previous year.
Gold prices drop by Rs 400 today
Gold prices have fallen in the domestic market today following a rise of Rs 5,700 over the past three days.
According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers Federation, the price of gold has decreased by Rs 400 per tola, now trading at Rs 168,100 per tola, down from yesterday’s rate of Rs 168,500 per tola.
Construction of Asian Highway gaining momentum
The construction of the Asian Highway, aimed at connecting Asian countries through an extensive road network, is gaining momentum.
Twelve percent of the work has been completed within the first year, according to officials. The 120-km stretch from Kakarbhitta to Laukahi, part of Asian Highway No. 2, was originally scheduled for an upgrade.
However, the upgrading work is currently being carried out on only 95.76 kilometers of the road under contract.
National Pride Projects record 25.70% expenditure in six months
The progress of national pride projects, which were envisioned and initiated by the government to enhance public service delivery and promote economic growth, has been less than satisfactory due to several challenges.
One key issue is the low capital expenditure on these projects, despite the government’s efforts to provide all necessary resources and support.
Out of the total Rs 66 billion allocated for 19 of the 27 national pride projects in the current fiscal year (2024/25), only Rs 17 billion has been spent as of the end of the first six months, according to the Ministry of Finance.
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