KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
NC President Deuba brushes off rumors of coalition instability
Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba has dismissed speculation about instability in the ruling coalition, asserting that the government is functioning smoothly. During a meeting of Nepali Congress office bearers held at his private residence in Budhanilkantha on Friday, Deuba addressed recent rumors suggesting internal discord within the ruling alliance. He assured party leaders that the coalition remains intact and there are no serious issues threatening its stability.
Governor appointment stalled due to technical hurdles: Deuba
Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that the delay in appointing a new Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank is due to technical issues, but assured that the matter will be resolved soon. Speaking at a meeting of Nepali Congress office bearers held at his residence in Budhanilkantha on Friday, Deuba informed party leaders that discussions have already taken place with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal regarding the appointment. “The delay is due to some technical complications, but an agreement has been reached between coalition partners,” a leader present at the meeting said, quoting Deuba.
“Inspire trust in republic, not intimidate dissent,” Lingden tells govt
Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Chairman Rajendra Lingden has said that the government’s policies and programs appear to be merely a formality, lacking both vision and enthusiasm. Speaking in Parliament, he remarked, “The government itself seems disheartened. There is no excitement, and it feels like these policies and programs were introduced just to fulfill procedural requirements.” Lingden noted that the only notable difference in this year’s document compared to the previous one is its length. “Last year, it was 81 pages. This year it’s 56. The previous one was better,” he said.
Indian Ambassador meets PM Oli, thanks for support in action against terrorism
Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava met with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to discuss the recent developments between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India, on April 22. During the meeting at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, Ambassador Srivastava briefed Prime Minister Oli on the tensions arising from the attack. According to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, Ambassador Srivastava also expressed gratitude to the Nepal government for its statement issued on Thursday, condemning the terrorist attack.
Policies and programs to be tabled for decision on Sunday
The government’s annual policies and programs is scheduled to be presented for decision in the House of Representatives (HoR) on Sunday. President Ram Chandra Paudel had presented the policy and program during a joint session of both houses of the federal parliament on May 2. Deliberations on the policies and programs concluded on Friday. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is expected to respond to lawmakers’ questions on Sunday before the document is put to a vote.
Speaker urges govt to address security of Nepali citizens amid India-Pakistan tensions
Speaker Devraj Ghimire has called on the government to take necessary measures in light of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, ensuring the security of Nepali citizens residing in both countries and addressing potential issues that may arise. He raised the matter during today’s House of Representatives meeting, urging the government to remain vigilant and prepare for any consequences that may affect Nepal due to the ongoing conflict.
Senior BJP leader Koshiyari meets Home Minister Lekhak
Senior BJP leader Bhagat Singh Koshiyari met Nepal’s Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak in Kathmandu on Friday morning. During the meeting, Minister Lekhak expressed condolences over the recent terrorist attacks in Kashmir, condemned the violence, and extended solidarity with the victims. He reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to not allowing its territory to be used against neighboring countries and emphasized the country’s dedication to regional peace and security. The two leaders also discussed enhancing bilateral relations between Nepal and India. Both shared optimism about strengthening cooperation based on mutual trust and respect.
HoR: MPs voice concerns over India-Pakistan tension
Lawmakers in the House of Representatives (HoR) have urged the government to remain alert to the growing tension between India and Pakistan and its potential impact on Nepal, particularly regarding the safety of Nepalis living and working in those countries. Speaking during Zero Hour of Friday’s HoR session, MPs Sher Bahadur Kunwar, Shishir Khanal, Bina Jaisawal, and Saraswoti Bajimaya called on the government to prioritize border security and the protection of Nepali nationals in India and Pakistan. They also stressed the urgent need to rescue Nepali students currently in Pakistan amidst the escalating regional tensions.
UML issues whip to support government’s policies and programs
The ruling CPN-UML has issued a party whip directing its members to attend and vote in favor of the government’s policies and programs. On Friday, Chief Whip of UML, Mahesh Kumar Bartaula, issued the directive, emphasizing that all members must be present and vote in support of the policies and programs, which are set to be submitted for decision on Sunday. The UML clarified in the whip, “President presented the annual policy and program for the Government of Nepal for the fiscal year 2082/83 during the joint meeting of both houses of the Federal Parliament. As the policies and programs are scheduled for decision in the House of Representatives on May 11, this whip is issued to ensure that all members of the CPN-UML parliamentary party attend and vote in favor.”
80 Nepali students in Pakistan request rescue, RSP MP urges govt action
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Shishir Khanal has urged the government to take immediate steps to rescue Nepali students currently studying in Pakistan who have requested evacuation. Speaking at the House of Representatives on Friday, Khanal stated, “Eighty students studying in Pakistan have requested rescue. Immediate action should be taken to ensure their safety and security.” Condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, Khanal also emphasized Nepal’s need to be concerned about the rising tensions between India and Pakistan, especially in its capacity as SAARC Chair.
President Paudel emphasizes easy access to justice for citizens
President Ram Chandra Paudel has called for easy access to justice for the common citizen and emphasized the need for speedy justice delivery. Speaking at a program organized by the Supreme Court on the occasion of Law Day on Friday, President Paudel stated, “In line with the spirit of the Constitution of Nepal and current needs, new laws should be formulated, and existing laws should be amended to make them more contemporary and accessible, utilizing modern methods and technology.” He further stressed the importance of expediting the management of cases to ensure speedy justice.
HURPES demonstrates outside Pakistan Embassy, urges India and Pakistan to end hostilities
The Human Rights and Peace Society (HURPES) staged a protest in front of the Pakistani Embassy in Kathmandu on Friday, condemning a recent terrorist attack in India and urging both India and Pakistan to abandon the path of war and embrace peace. Led by prominent human rights activist Krishna Pahadi, the demonstration called for immediate de-escalation of tensions between the two South Asian nations following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India, which claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepali national.
Gold price drops by Rs 1,400 per tola today
The decline in gold prices in the international market has impacted the local market. Today, the price of gold dropped by Rs 1,400 per tola compared to Thursday in the domestic market, while silver has increased by Rs 5 per tola. According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of gold was fixed at Rs 190,800 per tola today. Meanwhile, silver is being traded at Rs 1,960 per tola. On Thursday, gold was priced at Rs 192,200 per tola, and silver was at Rs 1,955 per tola.
NC entangled in power, leaders left idle
The organizational activities of the Nepali Congress (NC), the largest party in the House of Representatives, appear to be paralyzed as the party remains entangled in power politics. With key internal work stalled, Nepali Congress leaders—from the central level down to the grassroots—have been left with little to do. Since joining the government under the leadership of the second-largest party, the CPN-UML, the Nepali Congress has failed to hold regular meetings of its Central Working Committee (CWC). The party has not convened a single CWC meeting dedicated to organizational planning since August last year. In fact, over the past year, the CWC has met only once.
Technical flaws found in transmission line construction in Myagdi-Rahughat basin
Four hydropower projects nearing completion in the Myagdi-Rahughat basin have constructed transmission lines with technical faults, raising concerns about their ability to safely connect generated electricity to the national grid. A major issue has emerged in the way the 220 kV transmission line built by the hydropower projects crosses under the existing 132 kV Dandakhet-Rahughat line. According to standards, the higher-capacity (220 kV) line should be positioned above the lower-capacity (132 kV) line, maintaining a vertical clearance of at least 4.5 meters. However, this standard has not been met.
More jobs expected following dry port construction in Kanchanpur
Local residents in Kanchanpur district are hopeful that the completion of the dry port in Dodhara Chandani will create more job opportunities. Locals expect the project to pave the way for new industries, which in turn will generate employment. With more jobs available locally, many believe they will no longer need to migrate to Indian cities in search of work—a common trend among youth in the area.
776 cottage and small industries added in Jhapa
A total of 776 new cottage and small industries have been registered in Jhapa district in the first nine months of the current fiscal year, according to Janaki Bhattarai, Information Officer at the Cottage and Small Industries Office. Of these, 431 industries were registered in the industrial sector and 345 in the commercial sector. During the same period, 1,168 industrial sector businesses and 1,273 commercial sector businesses were renewed. Meanwhile, 522 industries—394 in the industrial sector and 128 in the commercial sector—were shut down. Additionally, 23 industries were relocated, and 130 expanded their operations.
Most shops in Lahan operating without registration
A joint market inspection conducted by the Commercial Supplies and Consumer Protection Office, Birgunj, and the Area Administration Office, Lahan, has revealed that the majority of shops in Lahan are operating without proper registration. The monitoring team found that many businesses had not renewed their registration, failed to maintain purchase and sales invoices, and did not display price lists.
Nepal at high risk of disasters: Agriculture Minister
Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ramnath Adhikari, has said that Nepal faces a high risk of various natural disasters. Speaking at a regional ministerial-level meeting on the Integrated Early Warning and Early Action System held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Minister Adhikari noted that Nepal’s geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to multiple types of disasters. He stated that the country experiences significant loss of infrastructure and economic damage every year due to floods, droughts, cold waves, lightning, and glacial lake outburst floods.
Law Day observed today
Law Day was observed across the country today through various programs, commemorating the establishment of the Pradhan Nyayalaya, now the Supreme Court, in Nepal. The Supreme Court was formally established on Baisakh 26, 2009 BS, following the enactment of the Nepal Supreme Court Act, 2008 BS. Every year, the Supreme Court marks the day with special significance, highlighting the importance of an independent judiciary, the rule of law, and the foundation of a modern justice system.
Jumla-Rara Ultra Marathon set to take place tomorrow
The sixth edition of the Jumla-Rara Ultra Marathon is set to kick off on Saturday, with 591 athletes expected to participate, the Karnali Sports Club announced at a press conference today. The 51-kilometre race will see participants from Nepal and abroad. According to Club President Saroj Shahi, 74 professional athletes from Nepal, along with two from India and one each from Poland, the United States, and France, will compete in the main ultra marathon event.
Former PM Nepal’s health improving
The health of former Prime Minister and Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Socialist) Chairperson, Madhav Kumar Nepal, has improved. He was admitted to the Manmohan Cardiothoracic Vascular and Transplant Center at local Maharajgunj on Thursday for angioplasty. After the angioplasty treatment, the doctors have advised him rest along with treatment for a few days.
Pro-monarchists hold motorcycle rally demanding restoration of monarchy
Pro-monarchists organized a motorcycle rally in Kathmandu on Friday, calling for the restoration of a constitutional monarchy, multi-party democracy, and Hindu state. The rally, held in the capital, saw participation from RPP-Nepal Chairman Kamal Thapa, RPP leader Dr. Prakash Chandra Lohani, and other prominent figures.
World Cup Asia Qualifier: Nepal vs Hong Kong match cancelled due to rain
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier match between Nepal and Hong Kong, scheduled for today in Thailand, has been cancelled due to a wet outfield caused by heavy rainfall on Thursday. As a result, both teams have been awarded one point each. Nepal will play its second match against Bahrain on May 12.
BCCI suspends IPL 2025 amid India-Pakistan tensions
The Board Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the suspension of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), sources said. The tournament had entered the decisive stage with the Final scheduled for May 25. The development comes on the heels of Thursday night’s unfortunate incident at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, where the highly anticipated match between PBKS and DC was called off.
Amnesty International Nepal’s 17th National Youth Mela begins in Chitwan
Amnesty International Nepal (AI Nepal) has launched the 17th edition of its National Youth Mela in Bharatpur, Chitwan. Running from May 9 to 11, the three-day event brings together over 100 young people from across the country, representing diverse youth networks, groups, and individual members affiliated with AI Nepal.This year’s Youth Mela is centered around the theme “Digital Inclusion: Ensuring Voice, Accessibility, and Privacy.”
Blooming jacarandas adorn Ring Road in Lalitpur
A stretch of the Ring Road along Lalitpur Metropolitan City-14 has transformed into a vibrant corridor of lavender hues, thanks to the blooming jacaranda trees that line the area. The mesmerizing blossoms have captivated pedestrians and motorists alike, turning the roadway into a visual treat. The picturesque scene has become a popular backdrop for selfies, photos, and videos—especially among the younger generation. The canopy of purple flowers not only enhances the beauty of the area but also offers a sense of calm and relief in the spring warmth.
Nature safari in CNP thrills visitors with close encounters of rhinos and tigers
Kabita Uprety, Deputy Mayor of Khairahani Municipality, was left amazed after a recent jungle safari in Chitwan National Park (CNP), where she observed wild animals such as royal Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinos from close range. Accompanied by 31 colleagues and CNP staff, Uprety described the experience as exhilarating and praised the Park’s well-maintained habitat for enabling such safe and systematic wildlife viewing. “We saw eight one-horned rhinos grazing together in a single grassland. We also spotted tigers, bears, a lion, and even a cobra,” she shared enthusiastically.
Seven Sherpas successfully summit Sagarmatha
Seven Sherpas successfully reached the summit of Sagarmatha (Mount Everest), the world’s highest peak, at 5:00 PM on Friday, according to Leeladhar Awasthi, Director at the Department of Tourism. The team, part of the 8K Expedition, had earlier completed the critical task of rope fixing, paving the way for other climbers to begin their ascent. The expedition was led by Ashok Lama and included Chhiring Pemba Sherpa, Pem Nurbu Sherpa, Tashi Sherpa, Karma Gyaljen Sherpa, Tashi Gyaljen Sherpa, and Pastenji Sherpa.
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