KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Govt unveils Rs 1.96 trillion budget for FY 2025/26
The government has announced a total budget of Rs 1.96 trillion for the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26. Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel made the announcement during a joint session of the Federal Parliament on Thursday. According to Minister Poudel, the budget has been allocated across three major areas: Rs 1.18 trillion has been set aside for current expenditure, Rs 477.89 billion for capital expenditure, and Rs 375.24 billion for financial management.
Efforts being made to centralize power within a lineage: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that attempts are still underway to re-centralize the people’s decision-making rights within an aristocratic lineage. Speaking at a ceremony held at Tundikhel to mark Republic Day on Thursday, Prime Minister Oli remarked that the day commemorates the defeat of the authoritarian monarchy.
“Throughout history, there have been struggles and agreements between the autocratic monarchy and the people. The republic was established by the people after defeating an authoritarian monarchy that repeatedly breached those agreements,” said Oli.
Budget for the current fiscal year revised for the second time
The government has revised the budget estimates for the current fiscal year 2024/25 for the second time. This follows an earlier revision made during the mid-year budget review in February.
The latest update was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel while presenting the budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26 in the joint session of the Federal Parliament.
According to Minister Paudel, the total government expenditure for the current fiscal year has been adjusted to Rs 1.662 trillion, which is 89.4 percent of the original allocation of Rs 1.860 trillion.
Nepal’s economic growth projected at 4.61% this fiscal year
The government has projected the country’s economic growth rate to reach 4.61 percent for the current fiscal year. Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel stated that Nepal’s economic size is estimated to reach Rs. 6.17 trillion by the end of the fiscal year. He informed lawmakers that the agriculture sector would contribute approximately 25.16 percent to the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The Finance Minister also noted that Nepal’s per capita income has reached USD 1,517, reflecting a gradual recovery and moderate economic expansion after a period of sluggish growth in previous years.
Finance Minister outlines five objectives and seven priorities of upcoming budget
Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel has announced five key objectives and seven priority areas of the upcoming national budget for fiscal year 2025/26 during a joint session of the Federal Parliament. Presenting the annual budget statement on Tuesday, Minister Paudel said the budget aims to:
Achieve high, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth to reduce poverty; Foster entrepreneurship and expand public and private investment to create employment opportunities; Enhance economic capacity through the use of modern technology; Promote social justice through social protection and development programs; and Improve public service delivery and promote good governance.
Revenue projected to rise by 17%
The government has revised its spending estimate for the current fiscal year, projecting that only 89.4 percent of the total allocated budget will be utilized. According to Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel, the revised figure amounts to Rs 1.662 trillion. The breakdown includes 88.05 percent of the current expenditure, 83.04 percent of the capital expenditure, and 97.06 percent of the financial management budget. Revenue mobilization for fiscal year 2081/82 is estimated to increase by 17.01 percent, reaching Rs 1.267 trillion.
Govt’s dividend from public corporations drops by 35 percent
The government’s earnings from dividends paid by public corporations have dropped by 35 percent in a single fiscal year. According to the Economic Survey Report presented in Parliament by Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel on Thursday, the government received Rs 13.75 billion in dividends in fiscal year 2079/80, but only Rs 8.83 billion in 2080/81. Among the operating public corporations, 28 reported profits, 15 incurred losses, and 2 remained closed during the period.
Nepal’s per capita income reaches $1,517
Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel presented the Economic Survey for the fiscal year 2081/82 at the meeting of the House of Representatives on Thursday. According to the survey, Nepal’s economic growth rate for the current fiscal year is estimated at 4.61 percent. The size of the national economy is projected to reach $6.1 trillion. Additionally, the per capita gross national income has increased to $1,517.
339 MW electricity added this year: Finance Minister
Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel, while presenting the budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2082/83, said the country’s economy is moving in a positive direction. He highlighted that 339 megawatts of additional electricity have been generated this year, significantly enhancing the nation’s energy capacity. Similarly, the tourism sector has seen marked improvement, with tourist arrivals rising by 13 percent to over 900,000, helping to boost the service sector.
Economy moving in positive direction: Finance Minister Poudel
Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel has said that Nepal’s economy is on a positive trajectory. Delivering the budget speech for fiscal year 2025/26 on Thursday, Minister Poudel stated that the economic growth rate, which stood at 3.7 percent last year, is projected to rise to 4.6 percent in the current fiscal year. He noted that although sectors such as industry, construction, wholesale, and retail trade recorded negative growth last year, all sectors are expected to post positive growth this fiscal year.
Rs 10.14 billion allocated for Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies
The government has allocated Rs 10.14 billion to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies for the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26. The allocation was announced by Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel during the presentation of the national budget at a joint session of the Federal Parliament.
Govt allocates Rs 241.81 billion for provincial and local levels
The government has allocated Rs 241.81 billion for provincial and local governments in the upcoming fiscal year 2082/83. The announcement was made by Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel during his budget presentation at the joint session of the Federal Parliament. Based on the recommendation of the Natural Resources and Finance Commission, Rs 60.66 billion will be transferred to the provincial governments, and Rs 88.97 billion to the local levels as revenue sharing.
Facilities to be provided to airlines operating at Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports
Airline companies operating flights at Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports will be granted facilities and incentives. Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel stated that the new budget includes tax exemptions and other incentives to encourage Kathmandu-based airlines to operate at these international airports. Additionally, Rs 500 million has been allocated for the management of domestic airports.
Govt to freeze assets and passports of cooperative fraudsters
The government has planned to freeze the assets and passports of individuals involved in cooperative fraud. A cooperative debt recovery tribunal will be established to address outstanding debts, targeting directors and loan defaulters. Additionally, the state benefit identity card will be linked to the national identity card.
Republic Day observed today
The 18th Republic Day was observed across the country today with various celebratory programs. This day commemorates the establishment of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, officially declared on May 28, 2008 (Jestha 15, 2065 BS), when the first Constituent Assembly, elected by the people, formally abolished the monarchy.
To mark the occasion, the government had declared a public holiday, and a special ceremony was held at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu. Nepal’s transition to a republic began after King Gyanendra assumed direct control of the government on February 1, 2005.
Governance must transform to connect the republic with citizens’ lives: President
President Ram Chandra Poudel said that mere political achievements are not enough to connect the federal democratic republic meaningfully with the lives of citizens. Marking Republic Day 2082 BS, President Poudel stressed the need to reform the character of governance to ensure the relevance of the republic in everyday life.
In his Republic Day message, President Poudel remarked that the biggest threats to the republic today are procrastination, irregularities, and chaos. “Political change alone is insufficient. To make the republic impactful, our governance must undergo fundamental transformation,” he said.
No alternative to federal democratic republic chosen by the people: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said there is no alternative to the federal democratic republican system where people choose their own leaders. Addressing a ceremony at Tundikhel on the occasion of Republic Day 2025, Prime Minister Oli said a republican system, which upholds the dignity and rights of every citizen, is the only viable governance model for Nepal.
Highlighting the remarkable progress in sectors like education, health, enterprise, employment, and infrastructure under the republican setup, he called for unity to further strengthen and institutionalize the system.
President Paudel attends Republic Day ceremony at Tundikhel
President Ram Chandra Paudel participated in a special ceremony organized by the Republic Day Main Organizing Committee at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel on Thursday to mark Republic Day 2025. On the occasion, the Nepal Army presented a guard of honor to the President. The event included the national anthem, flag hoisting, and a tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for democracy. The ceremony also paid homage to senior leaders who struggled, sacrificed, and contributed to the establishment of republicanism in Nepal.
Home Minister trying to mislead the public: Maoist Center
Maoist Center Chief Whip Hitraj Pandey has said that the opposition’s protest in the Parliament over the visit visa scandal is ongoing, with a clear demand for the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. Speaking at today’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Pandey said there are serious suspicions regarding the Home Minister’s involvement in the visit visa issue, and that his resignation is essential to pave the way for an impartial investigation.
Nepalis to be allowed to invest abroad
The government is set to permit Nepali industries to invest abroad. In his budget speech on Thursday, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel announced that Nepali exporters will be allowed to invest up to 25 percent of their total export earnings overseas. “Permission will be granted to establish processing plants either abroad or in Nepal by exporting semi-processed goods. For this purpose, up to 25 percent of export income can be invested abroad,” he said.
International Everest Day observed today
Nepal celebrated the 72nd International Everest Day today, commemorating the historic first ascent of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. The day was marked with a series of events organized nationwide. On May 29, 1953, Nepali climber Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary made history by reaching the summit of Everest, showcasing extraordinary human courage and endurance. Since then, May 29 has been celebrated annually as International Everest Day to honor their achievement.
Change governance to connect republic with citizens’ lives: President
President Ram Chandra Paudel stated that the greatest threats to the republic are red tape, irregularity, and mismanagement. In his message of congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of Republic Day 2021, the President emphasized that political achievements alone are not sufficient to connect the essence of the republic with the daily lives of citizens. He stressed the need to transform the character of governance. “The character of our governance must change,” President Paudel stated.
Gold prices decrease for fourth straight day
Gold prices continued their downward trend for the fourth consecutive day. After declining on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the price of gold has fallen again today (Thursday). According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Federation, gold is being traded at Rs 1,87,800 per tola, a drop of Rs 1,500 compared to yesterday. Silver prices have also dipped today, falling by Rs 10 per tola to Rs 1,995, as per the Federation.
CAN appoints Nic Pothas as consultant coach for national cricket team
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has appointed South African coach Nic Pothas as the consultant coach of the Nepali national cricket team for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series in Scotland. In a press release issued today, CAN announced Pothas’ appointment, highlighting his extensive international coaching experience. He has previously worked with the national teams of Sri Lanka, West Indies, and Bangladesh.
NGO Federation calls for civil society-friendly laws and reforms
The NGO Federation of Nepal has stressed the need for laws, policies, and institutional frameworks that protect and promote the civic rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution—rather than merely regulating them.
Presenting a joint position paper, prepared in collaboration with over 40 civil society organizations (CSOs), the Federation called for a legal and policy environment that enables and strengthens the role of CSOs in fostering democracy, social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
Foreign Minister Rana attends mediation convention in Hong Kong
Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana arrived in Hong Kong today, leading a Nepali delegation to attend the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed).
Minister Rana departed for Hong Kong on Wednesday night to participate in the event as an observer, at the invitation of Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, according to her Press Advisor Yek Raj Pathak. The signing ceremony is scheduled to take place on May 30 in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
Tourism Minister highlights global significance of Everest on Everest Day
Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, has highlighted that Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, is a symbol of global pride and Nepal’s unique identity. Speaking at a ceremony held Thursday morning at Basantapur, Kathmandu, to mark International Everest Day, Minister Pandey called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to raise awareness on the conservation and promotion of Everest and to attract tourists from around the world.
Durga Prasai-led abstains from RPP’s movement
The ‘National, Nationalist, Religious, Cultural and Citizen Protection Maha Abhiyan’, led by Durga Prasai, abstained from taking part in the pro-monarchy rally organized by the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) on Thursday, coinciding with Republic Day.
The decision to this effect came from the group whose leader, Durga Prasai, who remains in police custody as the main accused in the March 28 Tinkune incident, which resulted in the deaths of journalist Suresh Rajak and transport worker Sabin Maharjan.
Govt announces plan to proceed with Nijgadh International Airport construction
The government has announced that construction of the Nijgadh International Airport will move forward. Presenting the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel stated that the long-delayed airport project will be pursued, and necessary resources will be managed through alternative development financing mechanisms.
Internet user density reaches 144.23 percent
The density of internet users in Nepal has reached 144.23 percent, according to the Economic Survey presented by Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel. As of the end of Falgun, 2081 (March 13, 2025), internet penetration surpassed the total population, indicating widespread access to digital services. “Information technology access has reached general areas, and the governance system is expanding across all three tiers of government,” Minister Paudel said.
Govt announces free visas for foreign students
The government has announced that foreign students coming to Nepal will be granted free visas as part of its effort to promote the country as an educational destination. Presenting the budget for the fiscal year 2082/83 in Parliament on Thursday, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel said visa fees for foreign students will be waived. In addition, multiple-entry visas will be issued to the parents of foreign students.
Rs 420 million allocated for stadiums under construction; Kirtipur cricket ground to be upgraded
The government has announced increased investment in sports infrastructure. Presenting the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel said that the private sector will also be encouraged to invest in the sports sector. He announced plans to construct a modern, international-standard stadium in Dakkam, Jhapa. Additionally, Rs 420 million has been allocated for the ongoing construction of stadiums in Mulpani (Kathmandu), Morang, Kailali, and Rupandehi districts.
Govt to allocate Rs 109 billion for social security allowances in FY 2025/26
The government has earmarked Rs 109 billion for social security allowances for the fiscal year 2025/26. Presenting the budget in Parliament on Thursday, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel stated that the allocation will cover all categories of social security schemes, aiming to provide continued support to eligible citizens nationwide.
Around 96.85 percent of the population has access to basic drinking water services
Approximately 96.85 percent of the country’s population has access to basic drinking water facilities, according to the Economic Survey presented by the government. Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel presented the survey in today’s session of the Federal Parliament. The survey states that access to basic drinking water reached this level by the end of Falgun, 2081 (mid-March 2025).
Govt allocates 8 billion for Sikta and Greater Dang irrigation projects
The government has allocated 8 billion rupees for the Sikta and Greater Dang Irrigation Projects. Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel announced this allocation in the budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
The headwork and powerhouse construction of the Bheri Babai Diversion Project is expected to be completed within two years, with a budget of 2.7 billion rupees allocated for the work. Additionally, 1.82 billion rupees has been set aside for the maintenance of irrigation systems.
Govt allocates 3.42 billion for corridor road construction in Kathmandu Valley
Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, while presenting the budget for fiscal year 2025/26, announced an allocation of 3.42 billion rupees for the construction of corridor roads in Kathmandu Valley. He also stated that 5.36 billion rupees have been set aside for the Intensive Urban Development Program.
Speaking before both houses of the Federal Parliament on Thursday, Minister Poudel revealed plans to build an international-standard exhibition center at Bhrikuti Mandap. He added that systematic urbanization will be promoted through partnerships with the private sector. A total of 118 billion rupees has been allocated to the Ministry of Urban Development, the minister said.
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