KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
President urges parties to head to polls to protect Constitution
President Ram Chandra Paudel has urged political parties to focus on the upcoming House of Representatives election, scheduled for March 5, 2026, emphasizing that going to the polls is the only way to safeguard the country, the people, democracy, and the Constitution. President Paudel made the remarks during an all-party meeting of the interim government held at Sheetal Niwas on Friday. According to sources, President Paudel called on the government to ensure peace and security and build public confidence that the elections would be held in a free, fair, and fear-free environment. He stressed the need for unity in protecting democracy and asked parties to resolve any confusion or disagreements through dialogue. He also cautioned against seeking alternatives to elections, saying such a move could lead the country down an uncertain path.
BP Highway reopens after five days
The BP Highway has reopened in one direction following the construction of a four-kilometer diversion along the Kathmandu–Chauki Danda–Barkhekhola–Nepalthok section. According to Information Officer Sumanraj Basnet of the Road Division Office, all stranded vehicles, including those from Sindhuli, Mahabharat Rural Municipality, and surrounding settlements, have passed through the newly opened track. “Small and large vehicles of all kinds have now moved through,” Basnet said.
Prachanda slams Oli’s arrogance, calls it unfortunate
Coordinator of Maoist Centre Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has remarked that the arrogance displayed by those previously in power remains unchanged, even after the Gen-Z movement, calling it deeply unfortunate for the country. Speaking during an interaction with editors in Kathmandu on Friday, Prachanda took a veiled jab at CPN-UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli, accusing him of behaving as if he were still in government. “The arrogance of our former coalition partners, who led the government until recently, remains intact. It is no less unfortunate for the country that some leaders continue to prioritize their own egos over the needs and sentiments of the people,” Prachanda said.
Govt withdraws excess security personnel from Oli and Prachanda
The government has begun a rapid withdrawal of excess security personnel assigned to former Prime Ministers KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, among others. According to a source at the Ministry of Home Affairs, around 150 Nepal Police personnel have already been withdrawn, with additional reports from provincial units still pending. So far, about 150 Nepal Police personnel have been recalled. Withdrawals are also underway in the provinces, and we’re waiting for full reports.
Nepal advances to Super Six in T20 World Cup qualifiers
Nepal has advanced to the Super Six stage of the ICC T20 World Cup Asia East Pacific Qualifiers after securing its second consecutive win. On Friday, Nepal defeated Japan by 5 wickets in the final Group B match and topped the group. With this victory, Nepal carries 2 points into the Super Six, while Japan, having lost to Nepal, will enter the next stage without any points. Both Nepal and Japan had previously defeated Kuwait, but as Kuwait was eliminated in the group stage, those points do not carry forward. From Group B, Nepal qualifies as the group winner and Japan as the runner-up. Earlier, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar had secured their places in the Super Six from Group A. The qualifying teams from Group C are yet to be determined.
Former Home Minister Lekhak denies ordering use of force during Gen-Z protest
Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has denied allegations that he ordered the use of force during the September 8 Gen-Z protest. The Gen-Z movement had taken to the streets on September 8 in protest against corruption and the government’s social media shutdown. In Kathmandu alone, 17 people were reportedly killed during the crackdown. Speaking to reporters at the Nepali Congress central office on Friday, Lekhak clarified that no directive to use force was issued by either him or the Prime Minister at the time.
Not listening to Gen-Z’s voice was a mistake: PM Karki
Prime Minister (PM) Sushila Karki has acknowledged that past governments failed to heed the voices and concerns of the Gen-Z, calling it a significant oversight that must be humbly accepted. In a video message to mark one month since the start of the Gen-Z movement, Prime Minister Karki expressed her government’s full commitment to the changes demanded by Nepal’s youth. She emphasized the need for national unity, restraint, and constructive engagement. “We must all accept the revolution led by the young generation,” said Prime Minister Karki.
“Nepali Army acting swiftly to maintain internal stability”
The Nepali Army (NA) has stated that it has taken necessary initiatives to maintain peace and security in the country amid the current sensitive situation. In a statement issued by the Directorate of Public Relations and Information, the Nepali Army said it is working proactively to assess and address potential impacts on internal security. “We would like to inform the public that the Nepali Army has taken appropriate measures with the aim of maintaining peace and security as soon as possible by objectively evaluating the evolving situation,” the statement reads.
Up to 20 hostages may be freed from Gaza by Monday; fate of Bipin Joshi still unclear
A new ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas could see the release of up to 20 living hostages from Gaza by Monday, according to U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan is part of the first phase of a negotiated truce aimed at ending over two years of captivity for those abducted during the October 2023 attacks. Hamas and its allies had kidnapped 251 people from Israel and taken them into Gaza. Of these, 47 are still believed to be held, with at least 20 thought to be alive. Israel has already declared 26 of the remaining 48 hostages dead. Among those whose status remains unknown are Israeli soldier Tamir Nimrodi and Nepali student Bipin Joshi.
Home Minister introduces new social security distribution procedure
Less than a month after assuming office, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has introduced a new set of regulations governing the distribution of social security allowances. The Social Security Distribution Procedure, 2025 replaces the previous 2020 directive, bringing major changes aimed at improving transparency and digital access in benefit distribution. Under the new system, beneficiaries can now apply for and renew their social security allowances online through their respective local governments. The procedure also includes a detailed mechanism for biometric verification to ensure the accuracy of beneficiary data.
Kathmandu DAO prohibits UML youth wing from staging motorcycle rally on Saturday
The Kathmandu District Administration Office (DAO) has prohibited the National Youth Federation Nepal, the youth wing of the CPN-UML, from holding a motorcycle rally scheduled for Saturday in the capital. In a notice issued Friday, the DAO said the decision was made due to potential security risks that such rallies and demonstrations could pose. “The administration will not grant permission to any individual or group to organize rallies, processions, sit-ins, assemblies, or demonstrations that could increase security challenges and complicate efforts to ensure public safety,” the statement said. The youth wing had planned to assemble at Tinkune at 1 p.m. on Saturday to launch a motorcycle rally.
NRB raises daily remittance limit to Rs 2.5 million
Nepali migrant workers abroad can now remit up to Rs 2.5 million per day, following a new provision introduced by the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB). The central bank amended its Integrated Directive 2081, increasing the previous daily remittance cap from Rs 2 million to Rs 2.5 million. According to the revised directive, “Nepali or foreign citizens, as well as firms, companies, or branch offices registered in Nepal, can receive up to Rs 2.5 million (either once or in installments) through licensed remittance companies into the beneficiary’s account for purposes such as sales, commissions, fees, or remuneration, provided the amount is non-repatriable.”
IGP Khapung denies resignation warning over Oli, Lekhak arrest rumors
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chandrakuber Khapung has refuted media reports claiming that he threatened to resign if former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were arrested. In a statement issued by the IGP’s secretariat, Khapung denied the allegations and clarified that his meetings with the Prime Minister and the Home Minister were held in a “cordial and professional manner.”
UML Central Committee meeting postponed to October 15–17
The Central Committee meeting of the CPN-UML has been postponed due to incomplete preparations, according to the party’s central office secretary Dr. Bhishma Adhikari. The meeting, which was originally scheduled for October 13–15, will now be held from October 15–17 in Kathmandu. Adhikari said the delay was necessary to allow time for final preparations, including setting the meeting agenda and logistical arrangements. The party’s central office in Chyasal, Lalitpur, suffered arson and vandalism during the recent Gen-Z protest, which disrupted regular operations and preparations for the key gathering.
Gold price falls by Rs 4,200 per tola after reaching record high
The price of gold in Nepal dropped by Rs 4,200 per tola on Friday, settling at Rs 235,000, according to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association. On Thursday, gold had reached an all-time high of Rs 239,200 per tola, but prices declined following a fall in the international market. Global gold prices, which had climbed to around USD 4,040 per ounce, slipped below USD 4,000 today. The decline in the international rate has directly impacted domestic prices, traders said. Meanwhile, the price of silver increased by Rs 60 per tola, rising from Rs 3,025 to Rs 3,085.
Three killed in Humla jeep accident
Three people were killed in a jeep accident at Desikhola, Chankheli Rural Municipality–4, while the injured were airlifted to the Provincial Hospital in Surkhet for further treatment. The accident occurred at around 11:00 a.m. on Friday. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Shankar Pokharel of the District Police Office, the deceased have been identified as Manbir Budha of Chhankheli Rural Municipality–6, his son, and Basanti Budha of Simkot Rural Municipality–8. All three died at the scene.
ATM withdrawal limit reduced
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has reduced the transaction limits for debit card users, lowering withdrawal ceilings by 20 to 50 percent. Under the new directive issued Friday, the maximum Automated Teller Machine (ATM) withdrawal limit per transaction using a debit card has been reduced from Rs 25,000 to Rs 20,000. The daily withdrawal limit is now set at Rs 50,000, down from Rs 100,000, while the monthly limit has been lowered to Rs 300,000 from the previous Rs 400,000.
Govt revokes blue number plates for Honorary Consuls
The Government of Nepal has revoked the use of blue number plates for vehicles used by Honorary Consuls General and Consuls appointed by foreign countries. The decision was made by the Cabinet and announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to Ministry Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri, the move was taken in line with international laws governing honorary consuls, the principle of reciprocity, and the Regulations on Honorary Consuls, 2039. The blue number plates, which previously identified vehicles used by Honorary Consuls, were reportedly being misused, prompting the government to act.
Traffic on BP Highway likely to resume Saturday morning
Authorities are preparing to resume vehicular movement along the BP Highway from Saturday morning after constructing temporary diversions across several flood-damaged sections. According to Senior Divisional Engineer Suman Yogesh of the Bhaktapur Division Road Office, crews have completed opening the track from Chaukidanda in Namobuddha Municipality-6 to Chiuribas in Roshi Rural Municipality, where floodwaters had washed away parts of the road. “Once all sections are cleared, we will test the route with limited vehicles and fully reopen the highway by Saturday morning,” Yogesh said.
Young and old flock to election offices for voter registration
Large crowds gathered at election offices across the country to register their names on the voter list for the upcoming election scheduled for March 5, 2026. The Election Commission recently announced that citizens can register their voter details from any election office nationwide, which has led to a sharp rise in the number of applicants. According to the Commission, after filling out the online voter registration form, individuals can visit their nearest election office to submit biometric details and photographs. Voter registration will remain open until the end of October, the Commission said. In the Kathmandu Valley, registration services are available at the District Election Offices in Minbhawan, Jawalakhel (Lalitpur), and Srijananagar, Sallaghari (Bhaktapur).
Manaslu climbers generate Rs 150 million in revenue
Mountaineers climbing Mt. Manaslu have generated over Rs 150 million in revenue this year, according to the Department of Tourism. A total of 374 climbers from 31 expedition groups obtained permits to scale the 8,163-meter-high Manaslu, the world’s eighth highest peak, located in Chumanubri Rural Municipality-1, Samagaun. Among the climbers, 95 are women and 279 are men. Himal Gautam, Director at the Department of Tourism, said that a total of Rs 157,640,195 (approximately Rs 150 million) was collected in fees from climbers of Manaslu alone.
Tourists unable to reach Jaljala due to road closures
Tourists hoping to visit Jaljala in Baglungs district during this year’s Dashain festival have been forced to turn back due to continued rainfall and road closures. While domestic and foreign visitors had reached Jaljala during Dashain last year, this season’s prolonged rains have left roads impassable, with tourists now returning from Dhorpatan Valley and Bukipatan instead. Jaljala, situated within Dhorpatan—the only wildlife reserve in Nepal—is accessible from both Baglung and Myagdi districts. The destination has grown increasingly popular due to its panoramic views of sunrise and dozens of Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre.
Women earning well through collective farming in Dang
Women in Dang have begun earning a sustainable income through collective farming. The Janachetana Women Farmers Group, based in Katuki Sewar, Ghorahi Sub-Metropolitan City-8, has reported encouraging earnings from their joint agricultural efforts. Basanti Chaudhary, the group’s treasurer and a member for the past two years, said 20 women are actively involved in collective farming.
Monsoon and local wind influence gradually weakening
Weather patterns across Nepal are shifting as the monsoon system continues to weaken, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. While most parts of the country are experiencing reduced monsoon and local wind activity, westerly winds are still active in many parts of Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces, as well as in some areas of western Gandaki.
Youth dies of high altitude sickness on Manaslu Trek
A youth has died of high altitude sickness while trekking toward Larke Pass along the Manaslu trekking route in northern Gorkha. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rajkumar Shrestha of the District Police Office, Gorkha, the deceased has been identified as 23-year-old Rohan Prajapati of Madhyapur Municipality, Bhaktapur. He died on Thursday afternoon due to complications caused by high altitude sickness.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City to sterilize dogs and cats
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) is set to carry out a sterilization campaign for community dogs and cats within the city during the fiscal year 2025/26. The city has invited applications from organizations interested in providing rabies vaccinations and sterilization services. The metropolis has called on interested organizations to contact the Department of Agriculture and Livestock within 15 days to submit their applications.
World Mental Health Day observed today
World Mental Health Day was observed today across various countries to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being. First launched in 1992, the day highlights the essential truth that without mental health, overall health is incomplete. This day underscores the urgent need to provide psychosocial counseling and immediate support during crises such as natural disasters, armed conflicts, and public health emergencies.
Two quintals of marijuana seized in Siraha
A significant quantity of marijuana has been seized from the banks of the Balan River in Bhagwan Rural Municipality-2, Siraha. According to Naresh Bhandari, Chief of the local Armed Police Force, a patrol team recovered 219 kilograms and 400 grams of marijuana early this morning. The contraband was found hidden in nine sacks at a concealed location along the riverbank. Authorities have launched an investigation to identify the individuals or group responsible for stashing the marijuana.
Poaching continues unabated in Shuklaphanta
Cases of wildlife poaching and forest product theft have increased at Baijanath Community Forest Users Group in Shuklaphanta Municipality–8. Fuleli. Chairperson of the community forest, Bahadur Singh Mahar, said some individuals and groups are using domestic arms, improvised firearms, and dogs to hunt wildlife and capture animal offspring, taking undue advantages of political instability. Additionally, they are repeatedly using the forest area for unauthorized grazing, damaging forest fences, and collecting grass, firewood, and fodder without permits.
Traffic on BP Highway likely to resume Saturday morning
Authorities are preparing to resume vehicular movement along the BP Highway from Saturday morning after constructing temporary diversions across several flood-damaged sections. According to Senior Divisional Engineer Suman Yogesh of the Bhaktapur Division Road Office, crews have completed opening the track from Chaukidanda in Namobuddha Municipality-6 to Chiuribas in Roshi Rural Municipality, where floodwaters had washed away parts of the road. “Once all sections are cleared, we will test the route with limited vehicles and fully reopen the highway by Saturday morning,” Yogesh said.
Nepali team departs for U.S. to compete in Startup World Cup 2025
Nepal’s champion startup team has departed for Silicon Valley, United States, to participate in the global finals of the Startup World Cup 2025. Arjun Ghimire, founder of DL Surf, is representing Nepal as the winner of the country’s most prestigious international startup competition, organized by Startup Hub Nepal and the World Trade Group. Dr. Shambhu Pokharel, Chairman and Head of South Asia for Startup Hub Nepal, said the team carries Nepal’s aspirations of winning the global title, which comes with a prize of Rs 144 million (USD 1 million). He added that the competition will help inspire Nepali startups to adopt a global mindset.
KMC bans imported flower garlands for Tihar to promote local production
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has banned the sale and distribution of imported flower garlands during the upcoming Tihar festival in a move to promote domestic flower production and support local farmers. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Senior Superintendent of Municipal Police Rajunath Pandey, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Force, said that the KMC has taken this step to discourage the use of foreign flowers and encourage the consumption of locally grown garlands. He stated that KMC will seize any flower garlands illegally imported into the city.
Finance Ministry replaces SEBON Board Member, appoints Uttar Khatri
The Ministry of Finance has appointed Senior Joint Secretary Uttar Khatri to the board of the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON), replacing Mahesh Baral. He has been transferred to lead the Public Financial Management Training Center under the ministry. As required by law, SEBON’s board includes a representative from the Finance Ministry. Although Khatri has been appointed, he has not yet participated in any board meetings. The reshuffle follows the appointment of Finance Minister Rameswor Khanal and is part of a broader restructuring within the ministry.
Lalitpur Metropolis provides Rs 500,000 to family of Gen-Z martyr Binod
The Lalitpur Metropolitan City has provided Rs 500,000 in financial assistance to the family of Binod Maharjan, who lost his life during the Gen-Z protest on September 8. At a program held today, Mayor Chiri Babu Maharjan handed over a bank voucher of the amount to Binod’s mother, Lata Maharjan. Mayor Maharjan said the assistance was provided in accordance with the decision made by the executive meeting of the metropolis on September 26.
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