KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
PM Oli leaving for China tomorrow
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister (PM) KP Sharma Oli is leaving for China tomorrow (Saturday) on a five-day official visit. Addressing Friday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Prime Minister Oli informed that his visit will take place from August 30 to September 3, 2025. During his visit, PM Oli is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin, where he will also address the SCO Summit on September 1. According to PM Oli, he is also scheduled to hold meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and other heads of state, including Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives; Dr. Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia; Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; Pham Minh Chinh, and Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
Nepal Citizenship (Second Amendment) Bill tabled in Parliament
The Nepal Citizenship (Second Amendment) Bill, 2081, along with the accompanying message from the National Assembly, was tabled in the House of Representatives (HoR) today. Secretary of the House, Sharkaraj Rai, presented the bill during the meeting. Likewise, MP Ramhari Khatiwada has been nominated to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee under the Joint Committee. The House also accepted the proposal for his appointment presented by Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar, who is currently acting as Speaker.
Court orders release of RSP leader Aranico Pandey on Rs 20,000 bail
The Kathmandu District Court has ordered the release of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) leader Aranico Pandey on bail of Rs 20,000. A single bench of District Judge Dhruba Raj Karki issued the order today following Pandey’s statement and the conclusion of arguments in a case related to electronic transactions (cybercrime). The case was filed by the government prosecutor earlier today, and the court conducted both the statement recording and final arguments on the same day—a rare occurrence, as such proceedings are typically held the day after a case is registered.
PM Oli remains silent on Lipulekh issue during House address
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday briefed the House of Representatives about his upcoming five-day visit to China, providing detailed information on the trip but refraining from commenting on the Lipulekh issue. Addressing the session, Oli said he would lead a Nepalese deleation to China on August 30 at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin.
Will promote national interest at SCO Summit: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday briefed the House of Representatives about his upcoming five-day visit to China, expressing confidence that the trip would benefit Nepal. Addressing the session, Oli said Nepal has been steadily increasing its engagement in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), now the world’s largest regional organization, and that the country could gain significant advantages through active participation. The Prime Minister emphasized that the delegation would work to enhance Nepal’s national interest and international standing. “Our delegation will act in a way that elevates Nepal’s image,” he said.
Speaker cautions against disruptive protests in HoR
Speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire has warned that the practice of expressing dissent and walking out immediately after parliamentary sessions begin could have long-term negative consequences for Nepal’s democratic system and parliamentary practice. He made the remarks during Friday’s House meeting, after lawmakers from the opposition Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) disrupted proceedings at the very start of the session. “This tendency of staging protests and walking out as soon as the meeting begins can prove harmful to institutional democracy and parliamentary practice in the long run,” Speaker Ghimire said.
Chandra Kuber Khapung appointed IGP
The government has appointed Additional Inspector General (AIG) Chandra Kuber Khapung as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP). A meeting of the Council of Ministers held on Friday afternoon decided to appoint Khapung, who was first in the line of seniority, as the 32nd chief of Nepal Police. Current IGP Deepak Thapa is set to retire on September 3 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. Khapung will assume office the following day, September 4. Thapa had lobbied to extend his tenure but failed to secure an extension. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is scheduled to leave for China on Saturday, and the government confirmed Khapung’s appointment ahead of his departure.
Two youths die after scooter crashes into parked bus in Jadibuti
Two youths lost their lives early this morning after the scooter they were riding crashed into a parked bus in Jadibuti, Kathmandu. According to SP Apilraj Bohora of the District Police Range, Kathmandu, the accident occurred around 2:45 AM when a scooter (Lu 43 Pa 4938) heading toward Jadibuti from Koteshwor struck the rear of an Araniko Yatayat bus (Ba 01 Kha 4243) that was parked on the roadside in Kathmandu Metropolitan City-32. The deceased have been identified as scooter rider Sirish Poudel, 22, a permanent resident of Sunwal Municipality-1 in Nawalparasi and currently residing in Lokanthali, Bhaktapur; and Nitesh Nepal, 23, a resident of Panchkhal Municipality-2, Kavre.
Gold hits record high of Rs 200,600 per tola
The price of gold climbed to an all-time high of Rs 200,600 per tola on Friday. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price rose by Rs 1,200 per tola in a single day. Silver prices also edged higher, increasing by Rs 5 to Rs 2,360 per tola.
Monsoon damage leaves over 200 roads blocked ahead of Dashain travel rush
With just 24 days remaining before Dashain, Nepal’s biggest festival, the country’s road network remains heavily disrupted by floods and landslides. Despite the festive season typically boosting mobility and the economy, major highways continue to face blockages, according to officials. The Department of Roads reports that 250 locations across the country are currently obstructed due to landslides triggered by ongoing monsoon rains. The figure could rise further if rains persist, warned Prabhat Kumar Jha, deputy director general at the department. Repair and maintenance works are underway on several major routes, including the Nagdhunga–Muglin, Muglin–Pokhara, and East–West highways, as well as projects under the National Pride program. Based on past experiences, priority has been given to the BP Highway, Prithvi Highway, Kanti Lokpath, and the Araniko Highway for immediate repairs such as pothole filling, Jha said.
Sankhuwasabha gets first female Chief District Officer
Joint Secretary Sirjana Thapaliya has taken charge as the Chief District Officer (CDO) of Sankhuwasabha, becoming the first woman in the district’s history to hold the post. Previously serving at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar, Thapaliya now becomes the 48th CDO of Sankhuwasabha.
Two dead, one injured after rockfall crushes Chhaupadi hut in Achham
Two people were killed and another injured early Friday morning after a rockfall crushed a chhaupadi hut in Achham district, according to police. The incident occurred in Churkhuli settlement of Panchdeval Binayak Municipality-8, where 35-year-old Nim Khanal of Selapani and seven-year-old Kavita Bhandari, daughter of Gauri Bhandari of Mangalsen-6, were sleeping inside the shed. Both died on the spot when a boulder fell from a nearby cliff, said District Police Office Chief Om Prakash Khanal. Kavita’s mother, who was also inside the hut, sustained injuries and has been taken to a local health post for treatment.
Cholera outbreak reaches epidemic level with 624 cases
At least 84 new cholera cases have been confirmed in the past 24 hours, raising the total number of infections to 624, according to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD). The outbreak has spread across several districts of Madhes Province, including Parsa, with health authorities describing it as epidemic-level transmission. Of the total cases, 437 patients have recovered and returned home, while 187 remain under treatment in various hospitals. Narayani Hospital is treating the highest number of active cases at 68, followed by Terai Hospital with 39 and Birgunj Healthcare Hospital with 19, according to EDCD.
Doctors and equipment from security agencies to be mobilized to control cholera in Birgunj: PM Oli
Prime Minister (PM) KP Sharma Oli has stated that doctors and medical equipment from all four security agencies, including the Nepal Army, will be mobilized in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Population to prevent and control the cholera outbreak in Birgunj, Parsa. Addressing a meeting of the House of Representatives today, Prime Minister Oli expressed confidence that the outbreak will soon be brought under control following decisions made during today’s Cabinet meeting.
Teachers’ Federation holds sit-in protest at Maoist Centre office
The Teachers’ Federation staged a sit-in at the Maoist Centre office in Parisdanda on Friday. As part of the first phase of their protest program, the federation sat in the dharna from 11 am to 1 pm, submitting a memorandum to draw attention to their demands. Earlier, the federation also held similar sit-ins at the offices of the Nepali Congress and the UML.
Muglin–Pokhara Khairenitar west section: Blacktopping begins in Jamune
Blacktopping work has begun in Jamune Bazaar under the Muglin–Pokhara Road Project (West Section). Of the total 39 kilometers in this section, 36.8 kilometers have already been blacktopped, while the remaining segments are being completed at an accelerated pace. According to Krishna Kunwar, head of the Muglin–Pokhara Road Project (West Section), a few stretches—including Mauriodar in Myagde, Dulegowda in Shuklagandaki, Vijaypul in Kaski, and the area near Pokhara University—are still awaiting blacktopping.
Tharu Joint Struggle Committee condemns remarks by Resham Lal Chaudhary
The Tharu Joint Struggle Committee has expressed strong objection to statements made by Resham Lal Chaudhary, patron of the Nagarik Unmukti Party, against leaders of the Tharu community. The remarks were made during an event organized by the Nepal Magar Association in Kathmandu to commemorate the late Gore Bahadur Khapangi Magar, former president of the association. During his speech, Chaudhary alleged that Tharu leaders were responsible for sending him to prison. The Struggle Committee described these claims as baseless and politically dishonest. “Chaudhary’s accusation that Tharu leaders sent him to jail has drawn serious attention from the Tharu Joint Struggle Committee,” said a statement issued by committee coordinator Premilal Chaudhary.
Kopre waterfall becoming popular summer escape in Myagdi
Kopre waterfall, located in Beni Municipality-2, has emerged as a popular destination for locals seeking relief from the summer heat. In recent years, the once little-known waterfall has grown in popularity, drawing residents of Beni who are looking to enjoy nature in a cool and tranquil setting. Situated about two kilometers west of Beni Bazaar, the waterfall lies along the banks of the Myagdi River, nestled at the base of a towering mountain. On public holidays, the area becomes lively with young people, teenagers, and adults visiting to relax and take in the natural beauty.
Ram Kumar Baraili, keeping the traditional iron craft alive
In the early hours of the morning at Goldhap Bazaar, Haldibari Rural Municipality in Jhapa, the marketplace slowly stirs to life. Amid the opening shutters and rising sun, the rhythmic clang of metal on metal echoes from a small corner shop. Inside, 70-year-old Ram Kumar Baraili is hard at work, hammering iron in his modest blacksmith workshop. Despite his aging frame, Baraili’s face still carries a youthful glow, and his eyes sparkle with purpose. That spark comes from a lifetime bonded to the aran (anvil), hammer, and iron—tools that have become more than instruments of labor; they are companions of his soul.
Monsoon activity intensifies with moisture influx from Bay of Bengal
The monsoon has gained slight momentum across parts of Nepal as moisture-laden air from the Bay of Bengal continues to flow into the region. According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the monsoon trough currently lies near its average position, contributing to increased rainfall activity in several provinces. Tonight, the weather will remain partly to generally cloudy across the country, with the possibility of heavy rain in one or two locations within Koshi and Sudurpaschim provinces.
Surkhet records 292.3 mm rainfall in 24 hours as monsoon intensifies
Nepal has witnessed intensified monsoon activity over the past few days, with Surkhet recording the heaviest rainfall in the last 24 hours. According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the Khani Khola rainfall station in Surkhet measured 292.3 millimeters of precipitation, classified as torrential rain. Senior meteorologist Pratibha Manandhar of the Meteorological Forecasting Division said the active low-pressure system has triggered heavy rainfall in certain areas, though precipitation remains scattered in parts of the western region.
MP Ramhari Khatiwada asks govt to reduce public holidays
Nepali Congress lawmaker Ramhari Khatiwada has suggested that the government reduce the number of public holidays in Nepal. Speaking during the zero-hour session of the House of Representatives on Friday, Khatiwada noted that Nepal ranks first in the world for the number of public holidays granted. “Nepal is number one globally in granting public holidays. We should consider reducing them slightly,” he said, urging the government to study the matter carefully before taking action.
KOICA dispatches volunteer to Shree Buddha Secondary School, Lalitpur
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has dispatched a new Korea Overseas Volunteer (KOV), Nanhi Kim, to Shree Buddha Secondary School in Badegaun, Lalitpur. She arrived in Kathmandu on July 25, 2025, and completed a one-month local adaptation training on August 28 before joining her host organization. A completion ceremony for the training was held at the KOICA Nepal Office on August 28, 2025, in the presence of representatives from KOICA and the school. Kim will serve for one year in the social welfare sector.
Koshi Province launches ‘Udaya’ project to create 3,000 jobs
The Koshi Province Government has launched the ‘Udaya’ project with the support of the Swiss government to promote small and medium enterprises and foster entrepreneurship in the province. The project is expected to open a new path to economic prosperity while creating 3,000 jobs during its first four years. Business development services will be delivered through approved service providers, and a credit guarantee fund of Rs. 600 million will secure loans worth Rs. 8 billion. A Challenge Fund of Rs. 280 million will also be mobilized to enhance promotional and competitive capacity.
863 metric tons of potatoes produced in Tanahu
A total of 863 metric tons of potatoes have been produced in Tanahun under the Potato Promotion Project Program. In the fiscal year 2024/25, as many as 13 farmer groups cultivated potatoes on 1,000 ropanis of land. Gopal Sharma Lamichhane, Chief of the Agriculture Knowledge Center, stated that potato farming was carried out in clusters through farmer groups and cooperatives, with each cluster covering at least 30 ropanis. A budget of Rs 9.33 million was allocated for the program, and each group was provided with 80 quintals of seed potatoes.
695 arrested for drug trafficking in Sunsari in one year
Police arrested 695 individuals in Sunsari district for drug trafficking in the last fiscal year 2024/25, according to the District Police Office. Among those arrested were 650 men and 45 women. During the same period, police registered 460 drug-related cases and seized 14,501 kg of marijuana, 738 grams and 428 milligrams of brown sugar, and 428,297 tablets and capsules of various types.
Nepal ‘A’ registers first win in T20 series against Assam
Nepal ‘A’ recorded their first victory in the ongoing T20 series against Assam, defeating the home side by 96 runs in their second match on Friday. Chasing a target of 174 set by Nepal, Assam were bowled out for just 77 runs in 15.2 overs. For Assam, Ruhinandan Pegule scored 17, Shivshankar Roy 16, and Akash Sengupta 10. Nepal’s bowling attack was led by Yuvraj Khatri, who took four wickets, with Basir Ahmed claiming three. Kamal Singh Airi, Akash Chand, and Vivek Kumar Yadav picked up one wicket each. Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bat, Nepal posted 173 for seven in their allotted 20 overs.
15-member team departs for first ascent of Api Himal in Darchula
A 15-member team set out on Friday to make the first recorded ascent of Api Himal, located in Dthe archula district of Sudurpaschim Province. The farewell ceremony was organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), where Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Pandey bid farewell to the climbers. He described the expedition as a historic and joyous moment for Sudurpaschim Province. The climb follows a recent government decision to waive climbing fees for 97 peaks in Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces for two years, as announced through the official gazette.
Lumpy skin infection detected in animals across six local levels in Banke
An outbreak of ‘Lumpy Skin Disease’ has been reported in animals across six local levels of Banke district. According to Bhoj Bahadur Rawal, Planning and Information Officer at the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Service Expert Center, treatment has already begun in the affected areas. The infection has been confirmed in Rapti Sonari, Janaki Rural Municipality, Kohalpur Municipality, Narainapur Rural Municipality, Khajura, Baijnath, and Duduwa. So far, Nepalgunj Sub-metropolitan City has not reported any cases.
Minister Gurung calls for public support for proportional inclusive elections
Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has stressed the need to build public opinion in favor of the proportional inclusive electoral system. Speaking at a book launch event organized by the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN) today, Minister Gurung emphasized that removing the proportional inclusive system would undermine the core spirit of the constitution. Gurung, who is also the government spokesperson, said recent attempts by some political leaders to weaken the inclusive and proportional system must be resisted. He argued that blaming the electoral system for the lack of political stability is misguided.
Awareness campaign launched after detection of Japanese encephalitis cases
Birgunj Metropolitan City has launched an awareness campaign following the detection of Japanese encephalitis in two individuals. One case each was confirmed in Birgunj Metropolitan City and Thori Rural Municipality. In response, the metropolis has carried out special monitoring and awareness campaigns at livestock farms across the city. During inspections at pig and buffalo farms in Wards 19 (Barwa) and 22 (Maniyari), locals were informed about the risks associated with the disease.
Light vehicles operating on Syafrubesi–Timure Highway
The Syafrubesi–Rasuwagadhi road section, which was damaged by floods in the Lhendekhola area on July 8 and July 30, has reopened to light vehicles from today. The road, part of an international highway, has been restored up to Timure. Khadgalal Shrestha, Project Chief of the Galchhi–Trishuli–Mailung–Rasuwagadhi Road Improvement Project, informed that a 14-kilometer stretch from Syafrubesi to Timure is now operational for small and light vehicles. Work is underway to open the remaining 2 kilometers from Timure to Rasuwagadhi.
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