KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Nepal edge UAE in thrilling 6-run victory
Nepal secured a hard-fought six-run win over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) via the DLS method in the ICC World Cup League-2, powered by a century from Dipendra Singh Airee and a decisive bowling spell from Sandeep Lamichhane. In the third match of the series on Friday, Nepal posted a competitive total of 289/7 in 50 overs at the Tribhuvan University (TU) Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Dipendra Singh Airee anchored the innings with a brilliant 100 off 94 balls, hitting 13 fours and one six. It was his second ODI century, and he was eventually run out after reaching the milestone. Opener Binod Bhandari marked his return to ODI cricket after four years with a fluent 56 off 79 balls, striking seven fours. He shared valuable contributions with Gulshan Jha, who scored 44 runs, as the duo put together a 102-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Captain Rohit Paudel added 39 runs, while Arjun Kumal (11), Arif Sheikh (11), and Bhim Sharki (0) fell cheaply.
Displaced squatters to be moved to five temporary shelters
Squatters displaced from various riverbank settlements in the Kathmandu Valley today are being relocated to five temporary holding sites. Informal settlements in areas such as Balkhu, Banshighat, Balaju, and Shankhamul were cleared as part of the operation. Authorities have arranged temporary accommodation at five locations: the Tewa Office in Dhapakhel (Lalitpur), the Electricity Training Center in Kharipati (Bhaktapur), the Agricultural Development Bank Training Center in Bode, the Water Supply Training Center in Nagarkot, and the Red Cross building in Banepa (Kavre). Before relocation, displaced individuals were registered at Dasharath Stadium, which has been designated as the primary data collection and coordination center.
President issues Anti-Money Laundering ordinance
President Ram Chandra Paudel has authenticated the Anti-Money Laundering (Third Amendment) Ordinance, 2083 BS. According to the Office of the President’s Spokesperson Ritesh Kumar Shakya, the ordinance was issued on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers. The government has submitted eight different ordinances to the President’s Office. Earlier, ordinances related to cooperatives and public procurement had already been issued.
True revolution begins with knowledge: PM Shah
Prime Minister (PM) Balendra Shah has said that true revolution begins with knowledge. Extending his greetings via social media on the occasion of the 2570th Buddha Jayanti today, the Prime Minister stated that Nepal, blessed as the birthplace of Buddha, has always stood for non-violence and peace. In his message, Prime Minister Shah wished for world peace on the birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha, the proponent of peace. Quoting Buddha, he said: “There is suffering; there is a cause of suffering; there is a solution to suffering; and there is a path to eliminate suffering.” He further added, “The path shown by Buddha leads to the end of suffering. Just as darkness disappears when a ray of light appears, our journey should be one of seeking the light of knowledge and following the path of solving problems.”
Govt relocates vulnerable riverside settlements in Kathmandu Valley
The government has begun the second phase of relocating vulnerable settlements along the Bagmati River and other rivers in the Kathmandu Valley from today. According to Minister for Urban Development Sunil Lamsal, the move follows the completion of the first phase, during which settlements in Thapathali, Sinamangal–Gairigaun, Shantinagar, and Manohara were cleared. Residents from high-risk areas were transported by bus to Dasharath Stadium, which has been designated as the primary registration center. Three help desks have been set up at the venue: one for data collection, another for filling out self-declaration forms to identify squatters and gather social details, and a third for digital data entry managed by a team from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
50 displaced families register at Dasharath Stadium, relocation to holding centres underway
Around 50 families displaced from squatter settlements in Balkhu and Banshighat have registered their names at Dasharath Stadium as of Friday afternoon. The families, citing lack of land, housing, and stable income sources, have submitted their details to the authorities. A joint team comprising the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction, Kathmandu Valley Development Authority, High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization, and Kathmandu Metropolitan Police is collecting data from the displaced residents. Following registration, authorities are preparing to conduct health check-ups and psychosocial counseling before relocating them to designated holding centres.
Foreign Minister Khanal and US special envoy Gor hold talks
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal and visiting US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor held talks on Friday. Gor, who is on an official visit to Nepal, paid a courtesy call on Minister Khanal. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nepal, the two sides discussed ways to promote investment and trade, along with broader efforts to strengthen Nepal-US relations. Gor arrived in Kathmandu on Thursday leading a six-member delegation. During his three-day visit, he is also scheduled to meet Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel. Earlier, US Assistant Secretary of State Samir Paul Kapur had visited Nepal on April 20. He was among the senior-most American officials to visit the country following the formation of the government led by Balen Shah after the March 5 elections.
US special envoy Gor meets Finance Minister Wagle
US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor, currently on a visit to Nepal, paid a courtesy call on Finance Minister Dr. Dr. Swarnim Wagle at his office, Singha Durbar. During the meeting, the two discussed various aspects of Nepal–US economic cooperation and development assistance, according to the Ministry of Finance.
Monastery, temple demolished in Balkhu on Buddha Jayanti amid eviction drive
A monastery and a temple were demolished in Balkhu on the day of Buddha Jayanti as part of an ongoing drive to remove structures built on encroached public land. The Sange Choiling Gumba and the Pathibhara Devi temple, located within a squatter settlement, were torn down using excavators on Friday, coinciding with Baishakh Shukla Purnima. Locals said they had requested authorities to avoid demolition on Buddha Jayanti, highlighting the cultural and religious sensitivity of the day. The monastery, registered on October 30, 2021, was among the structures removed during the campaign targeting illegal settlements. Officials from Kathmandu Metropolitan City said the demolition was carried out as part of efforts to clear encroached public land. Authorities stated that Buddha statues and other important items were safely removed before the demolition took place.
NOC revises fuel prices, petrol and diesel cheaper
Fuel prices have been adjusted, with petrol, diesel, and kerosene becoming cheaper, while LPG and aviation fuel prices have increased. Effective Friday, Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has reduced the price of petrol by Rs 2 per litre and diesel and kerosene by Rs 12 per litre. The move comes amid public criticism over recent sharp hikes in fuel prices. However, the adjustment also includes increases in other categories. Domestic aviation fuel has been raised by Rs 7 per litre, while international aviation fuel for Kathmandu has increased by USD 46 per kilolitre. Prices for international aviation fuel in Pokhara and Bhairahawa have been set at breakeven levels. In addition, the price of LPG cooking gas has gone up by Rs 150 per cylinder. Following the revision, petrol is priced at Rs 217 per litre, while diesel and kerosene stand at Rs 225 per litre.
All 20 victims identified in Rolpa jeep accident
Authorities have completed the identification of all 20 people who died in a jeep accident in Rolpa district. According to DSP Birendra Kumar Biswa Karma of the District Police Office, Rolpa, the victims have been fully identified. The accident occurred on Thursday when a Bolero jeep (Lu 1 Ja 4167) carrying passengers returning from a fair held on the occasion of Baisakh Purnima in Jaljala, Rolpa, met with an accident. The victims were from Siske Rural Municipality–5, Takura village in Rolpa District, Ghhorahi Sub-Metropolitan City–15, Ratanpur in Dang District, and Bhumek Rural Municipality in East Rukum.
Govt provides multi-specialty health services to displaced squatters at Dasharath Stadium
The government has been providing multi-dimensional health services to squatters displaced from the banks of the Bagmati River and its tributaries through a health camp set up at Dasharath Stadium. Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Population Dr Bikash Devkota said efforts are being made to provide treatment services to as many affected people as possible. According to him, the camp is offering services including pediatrics, gynecology, dental care, and psychosocial counseling. Displaced individuals registering at the stadium are receiving treatment through dedicated health support and outpatient (OPD) services. “By Friday evening, 68 people have received services. We have treated as much as possible on-site and referred cases requiring further care to government hospitals,” Devkota said.
Buddha Jayanti observed today
The 2570th birth anniversary of Siddhartha Gautama, revered worldwide as a messenger of peace, was observed today with prayers, rituals, and teachings. In Hindu tradition, he is also regarded as the ninth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Buddha Jayanti is celebrated annually on the full moon day of Baishakh (Baishakh Shukla Purnima). The day holds special significance as it marks the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (passing) of Gautama Buddha. Devotees across Nepal and around the world commemorate the occasion with deep reverence, reflecting on his teachings of peace, compassion, and non-violence.
President Paudel urges global harmony through Buddha’s teachings
President Ram Chandra Poudel expressed hope that the occasion of Buddha Jayanti would inspire individuals, communities, and the global community to promote peace, coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect by internalizing the timeless teachings of Gautam Buddha. Extending his best wishes on the 2570th Buddha Jayanti, the President wished happiness, peace, and prosperity to Buddhists in Nepal and abroad, as well as to all Nepalis. “It is a matter of pride for all Nepalis that Nepal is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, who is revered worldwide as a symbol of peace,” he said, adding that national unity can be further strengthened by embracing Buddha’s teachings while maintaining harmony across religious, social, and cultural diversity.
Nepal Medical Council revokes licenses of 19 doctors
The Nepal Medical Council (NMC) has revoked the registration certificates (licenses) of 19 additional doctors after they renounced Nepali citizenship and acquired foreign passports. Council Registrar Dr. Satish Kumar Dev informed that the names of these doctors have been removed from the Council’s official registration book. Earlier, the council had already revoked the licenses of 17 doctors under similar circumstances. According to Dr. Dev, the latest decision was taken in line with the Nepal Medical Council Act 2020, Regulations 2024, and the Nepal Citizenship Act 2063. He said the doctors concerned had acquired citizenship of countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, New Zealand, Germany, Australia, and India.
NC to raise border customs issues in Parliament: Gagan Thapa
President of the Nepali Congress Gagan Thapa has said the party will raise in Parliament the problems faced by citizens living along the Nepal–India border due to stricter customs enforcement. Thapa said tighter customs checks have disrupted daily life for border residents and stressed that the issue will be brought to the government’s attention through parliamentary and other channels. He expressed concern over the behavior of security personnel at customs points, saying such actions have affected the dignity of local residents. “While enforcing customs rules, practical aspects must also be considered,” he said, urging the government not to create unnecessary hardships for citizens in the name of regulation.
Traffic enforcement collects Rs 1.99 million in a single day
Traffic police have taken action against 2,093 drivers in the past 24 hours for violating various traffic rules, generating revenue of Rs 1,999,502 for the state treasury. According to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, the enforcement drive included action against 65 individuals for driving under the influence of intoxicants, 225 for illegal ride-sharing, 137 for signal violations, and 153 for speeding. Similarly, 194 drivers were penalized for not maintaining lane discipline, 58 for honking in restricted areas, 109 for roadside parking, and 41 for violating designated passenger pick-up and drop-off rules. In addition, 1,121 drivers were booked for other traffic offences.
Three highways completely blocked by landslides
Several major highways across the country remain disrupted due to floods and landslides triggered by recent rainfall. According to Nepal Police, the Koshi Highway in Sankhuwasabha, the Araniko Highway in Sindhupalchowk, and the Mid-Hill Highway in Lamjung are completely blocked. Meanwhile, traffic is operating on a one-way basis in the Bhojpur section of the Mid-Hill Highway, the Beni–Jomsom Road in Myagdi, and the Shivanagar section of the East–West Highway in Kapilvastu.
Ubhauli festival observed today
The Ubhauli festival, celebrated annually by the Kirat Rai community on the day of Baishakh Shukla Purnima, was observed across the country today with traditional nature worship. The festival marks a time when communities perform nature worship before the planting season, praying for a good harvest and prosperity. The term ‘Ubhauli’ is associated with the seasonal movement of people from lower regions to higher altitudes as temperatures rise. According to Kirat beliefs, this period also signifies the upward migration of birds, wild animals, and even fish seeking cooler environments. Similarly, people who had moved to lower areas during winter begin returning to higher regions around this time.
137th International Workers’ Day observed today
The 137th International Workers’ Day was marked today in Nepal and around the world with various programs commemorating the historic labour movement that began in 1886 under the slogan, “Eight hours of work, eight hours of rest, and eight hours of leisure.” On the occasion, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security organized events across the country with the participation of employers, workers, and representatives of international organizations. International Workers’ Day has been observed every year on May 1 since 1890, following a decision by a global conference of labour organizations and leaders held in Paris in 1889. Workers mark the day as both a celebration and an opportunity to advocate for their rights and press governments and employers for fair treatment.
Govt publishes verified list of Gen-Z protest injured
The government has finalized and made public the verified details of those injured during the Gen-Z protest, with the Ministry of Health and Population updating the list by adding 22 newly verified cases. Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, Chief of the Health Emergency Operations Center, said that although around 250 names were initially received from various government bodies, only 22 have so far been officially verified and included in the final list under ministry standards. He stated that the total number of reported injuries linked to the Gen-Z movement has reached 2,660 based on available records. “After the formation of the new government, we received names from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and other sources,” he said, adding that verification is conducted strictly based on medical records.
President says constitutional arrangement will continue to take shape
President Ram Chandra Paudel has expressed confidence that the constitutional arrangement aimed at building a socialist-oriented economy in Nepal will continue to evolve and take shape. Issuing a message of best wishes on the occasion of International Workers’ Day (May Day 2026), he extended happiness, peace, and prosperity to Nepali working men and women at home and abroad, while also wishing for the protection and strengthening of labour rights. He stressed the need to expand domestic production through entrepreneurship and to build a self-reliant economy by promoting the use of domestic goods. He also underlined that both investors and workers contribute equally to the development of enterprises, calling for an environment that encourages decent work to boost productivity.
Buddha’s teachings can guide national unity: President Paudel
President Ram Chandra Paudel has said that the principles of Panchsheel and the Four Noble Truths propounded by Gautam Buddha remain highly relevant in strengthening national unity, tolerance, and inclusive development in today’s changing political context. Addressing a “Brihad Buddhasabha” organized on the occasion of the 2570th Buddha Jayanti, the President stressed that Buddha’s teachings are increasingly significant at a time when the world is facing challenges such as conflict, intolerance, climate crisis, and the erosion of human values. He said lasting peace and prosperity can only be achieved if the Buddha’s messages of non-violence, compassion, friendship, and wisdom are put into practice. He expressed confidence that these teachings can guide not only individuals and societies but also the global community toward a positive path.
Seven arrested on fraud charges
Seven individuals have been arrested on charges of defrauding 45 people of Rs 31.4 million by promising them lucrative employment opportunities in Japan, South Korea, and the United States. According to the Central Police Newsroom, the arrests were made on Thursday in connection with multiple cases of foreign employment fraud involving large sums of money. Those arrested have been identified as Suraj Limbu of Tehrathum; Kamal Bahadur Magar and Sagar Sherpa of Solukhumbu; and Binod Thapa, Surya Prasad Koirala, Saroj Gautam, and Pralhad Khatri of Kavrepalanchowk.
Four arrested with pistol and drugs
A team from the Narcotics Control Bureau, Koteshwor, has arrested four individuals in possession of a pistol, magazines, bullets, and controlled drugs. Those arrested have been identified as Kabir Deula, 23, of Budhanilkantha Municipality-5; Sabina Pode, 42; Sansar Sitaula, 26; and Subash Shahi, 26, both from Godavari Municipality-11, Lalitpur, according to Bureau spokesperson and Superintendent of Police Durgaraj Regmi. SP Regmi said the suspects were apprehended from different locations in Kathmandu with the illegal items, and further investigation is underway. Police recovered one pistol, three magazines, four rounds of ammunition for the pistol, two rounds of SLR ammunition, and 16,750 tablets of the controlled drug Tramadol from their possession. Authorities are continuing necessary legal and investigative procedures.
Nepal Medical Council cancels licences of 19 doctors holding foreign citizenship
The Nepal Medical Council has cancelled the registration of 19 doctors who renounced their Nepali citizenship and acquired foreign nationality. According to the Council, the names of Nepali-origin doctors holding passports from seven different countries, ranging from the United States to the United Kingdom, have been removed from its official register. Registrar Dr Satish Dev said the decision was taken in line with existing legal provisions. The Council stated that the action was based on the Nepal Medical Council Act 2020, Nepal Medical Council Regulations and the Nepali Citizenship Act, which do not allow individuals who have relinquished Nepali citizenship to retain medical licences in Nepal. As per the details, seven doctors holding citizenship of the United Kingdom, five of the United States, two each from Canada and New Zealand, and one each from Germany, India and Australia have had their registrations revoked.
Gold and silver prices rise in domestic market
The prices of gold and silver increased in the local market today. Gold rose by Rs 3,400 per tola, while silver went up by Rs 135 per tola. According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Federation, the price of gold in the local market today stood at Rs 296,100 per tola, while silver was priced at Rs 4,945 per tola. On Thursday, the price of gold was Rs 292,700 per tola, and silver was traded at Rs 4,810 per tola. Similarly, on Wednesday, gold was bought and sold at Rs 294,500 per tola, while silver was traded at Rs 4,915 per tola. In the international market, gold is currently being traded at around US$ 4,650 per ounce, while silver stands at approximately US$ 76 per ounce, according to international media reports.
Buddhanagar residents display land ownership certificates on walls amid demolition fears
Residents living along the Bagmati riverbank in Buddhhanagar, Kathmandu, have pasted their land ownership certificates and official maps on the walls of their homes, fearing possible demolition despite possessing legal documents. Locals say the move is a precautionary measure to avoid confusion during ongoing demolition drives targeting unauthorized structures in the area. Although their properties are legally registered, residents remain concerned that bulldozers may be used indiscriminately. “We have valid documents, but in such situations, there is always a risk of mistakes,” a local resident said, explaining why they chose to visibly display their land papers. Despite the looming threat, many residents have not yet moved their belongings, indicating uncertainty over whether their homes will be affected.
‘Homestay Mart’ in Bandipur to promote rural tourism
A two-day ‘Homestay Mart’ has begun in Bandipur with the aim of promoting rural tourism. The event is being jointly organized by the Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province, and Bandipur Rural Municipality, in collaboration with the Village Tourism Promotion Forum. According to Maniraj Lamichhane, head of the Nepal Tourism Board in Gandaki Province, the mart includes familiarization tours for tourism professionals and media personnel to key attractions such as Apas tourist sites, Rumsi Homestay, Ramkot Homestay, and Siddha Gufa (cave). Chairperson of Bandipur Rural Municipality, Surendra Babu Thapa, said the initiative is expected to boost rural tourism in the area. He noted that following the declaration of 2025 as Bandipur Tourism Year, which has now been extended as Bandipur Village Tourism Year, the mart will play a significant role in further tourism development.
Madhav Nepal accuses govt of curtailing citizens’ rights
Co-coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party Madhav Kumar Nepal has accused the current government of attempting to curtail citizens’ rights. Speaking at a programme organized in Kathmandu on the occasion of International Workers’ Day by trade union bodies, Nepal said that all citizens’ rights must be guaranteed in a republican system. He alleged that the government led by Balen Shah is undermining fundamental freedoms, particularly those of students and workers. “The constitutional guarantee to organize cannot be taken away by anyone,” he said, warning against moves that restrict union and organizational rights. Nepal also criticized actions targeting squatters, stating that eviction without proper identification of genuine landless people cannot be justified.
36 dead in 674 disaster incidents across Nepal in past 18 days
A total of 674 disaster-related incidents have been reported across Nepal between April 14 and 30, leaving 36 people dead and 165 injured. According to data released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, at least 436 families have been affected during the period. Forest fires and fire incidents accounted for the highest number of cases, with 199 and 170 incidents respectively. Fire-related incidents alone claimed nine lives, injured 56 people, and affected 103 families. Similarly, forest fires resulted in one death, two injuries, and impacted 22 families. Floods and landslides were reported in 59 incidents, causing five deaths, 14 injuries, and affecting 158 families. Wild animal attacks accounted for 25 incidents, resulting in three deaths and 19 injuries. High-altitude sickness led to five deaths in eight incidents, while lightning strikes also caused five deaths in eight separate cases. Other recorded incidents during the period include 11 landslides, 20 cases of heavy rainfall, 13 windstorms, one case of roof damage, and four livestock-related incidents.
Study highlights family planning’s role in reducing maternal deaths in Nepal
A new study has suggested that increased use of family planning methods could reduce maternal mortality in Nepal by up to 30 percent, as the country continues to remain among nations with relatively high maternal death rates. The study notes that at least 5 percent of maternal deaths in Nepal (based on 2021 data) are linked to unsafe abortion, indicating that improved access to contraception could significantly reduce preventable deaths. The report titled “Need for Family Planning: Greater Priority” has been jointly published by Forum for Women, Law and Development (FWLD), Health and Development Solutions, and the Reproductive Health Rights Working Group (RHRWG).
Minimum support price guidelines introduced
Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Geeta Chaudhary has unveiled the Guidelines on Determination of Minimum Support Price and Minimum Purchase Price, 2082. Under the new guidelines, farmers will be informed about the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of major crops even before the sowing season begins. The Ministry of Agriculture has made provisions to fix MSPs for key crops such as paddy, maize, wheat, and millet. In the case of sugarcane, the price will be determined after field surveys, data collection, and analysis. Similarly, wheat pricing will be based on surveys, technical recommendations, and final approval.
Teen dies in tipper accident in Kanchanpur
A teenager was killed and another person injured in a tipper accident in Dodhara Chandani Municipality-1, Kanchanpur, today. According to the District Police Office, Kanchanpur, 14-year-old Diwas Chunara died after a tipper (Su Pra 02-001 Kha 0598) collided with an Indian motorcycle (UK 06 AS 7930). Chunara, who was riding pillion, died on the spot, police said. The motorcycle rider, 22-year-old Naresh Luhar, sustained injuries in the accident and has been taken to Khatima, India, for treatment. He reportedly suffered injuries to his left leg and is in moderate condition.
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