KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
NCP ministers resign from Madhes Province Govt
The Nepali Communist Party (NCP) has withdrawn its support from the Madhes Province government, further intensifying political negotiations over the formation of a new provincial government. Following a virtual meeting of its parliamentary party, the NCP decided to quit the government. Subsequently, all four NCP ministers serving in the provincial cabinet submitted their resignations to Province Chief Dr Surendra Labh. Those resigning include Finance Minister Yubaraj Bhattarai, Industry and Tourism Minister Kanish Patel, Home, Communications and Law Minister Fakira Mahato, and Energy, Irrigation and Drinking Water Minister Jawahar Kushwaha. The Madhes government had already become a minority following the withdrawal of the CPN-UML. With the deadline for the minority government to seek a vote of confidence approaching, the NCP ministers also decided to step down. Chief Minister Krishna Prasad Yadav is now required to secure a vote of confidence within eight days.
NPL: Chitwan Rhinos beat Pokhara Avengers by 30 runs
Chitwan Rhinos registered their second victory in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), defeating Pokhara Avengers by 30 runs in a match dominated by an impressive bowling performance at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Friday. Chasing a target of 152 runs, Pokhara were bowled out for 121 in 19 overs, suffering their fourth consecutive defeat in the tournament. With the victory, Chitwan climbed to third place in the points table with five points from four matches. Pokhara, meanwhile, remain at the bottom without a point after losing all four of their matches. Arjun Kumal was Pokhara’s top scorer with 45 runs off 44 balls, including three boundaries and a six. Yuvraj Samra contributed 19 runs, while Kiran Thagunna and Arjun Gharti scored 12 runs each. The remaining batters failed to reach double figures.
NPL: Sudurpaschim Royals beat Karnali Yaks by 39 runs
Sudurpaschim Royals climbed to second place in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) standings after securing a convincing 39-run victory over Karnali Yaks on Friday. The win lifted Sudurpaschim from sixth to second place, taking its tally to six points from five matches. The team has now recorded three victories and two defeats in the tournament. Karnali Yaks, meanwhile, slipped to fourth place with four points from four matches, having registered two wins and two losses. Chasing a target of 177 runs set by Sudurpaschim, Karnali struggled to maintain momentum and managed only 137 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Karnali’s batting lineup failed to build substantial partnerships against a disciplined Sudurpaschim bowling attack, eventually falling 39 runs short of the target.
Foreign Minister Khanal to lead Nepali delegation to COP31 in Türkiye
Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal is set to leave for Antalya, Türkiye, on November 7 to lead the Nepali delegation to the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).The global climate conference is scheduled to take place from November 9 to 20. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Khanal will address the opening plenary of COP31 on November 9. He will also participate in the Leaders’ Summit scheduled for November 11 and 12. During the conference, Khanal is scheduled to attend several high-level events, including Advancing the Mountain Agenda: Glaciers, Cryosphere and Resilience under Overshoot, Shared Responsibility and Sustainable Financing. The event is being jointly hosted by Nepal, Tajikistan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Bhutan and Pakistan.
OPMCM makes public its weekly activities and progress report
The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers (OPMCM) has made public a report detailing its activities and progress over the past week, highlighting government initiatives in security management, policy development, public service delivery and investment promotion. At a press conference organised on Friday, OPMCM Joint Secretary and Spokesperson Hemraj Aryal briefed the media on the week’s developments and major decisions. According to Aryal, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Balendra Shah last week. During the meeting, Prime Minister Shah thanked the Indian government for its assistance as a ‘first responder’ following the Bhotekoshi floods and appreciated its support in rescue operations.
Speaker Aryal briefs President Paudel on HoR activities
Speaker of the House of Representatives (HoR) Dol Prasad (DP) Aryal met with President Ram Chandra Poudel on Friday and briefed him on recent parliamentary activities and upcoming international engagements. During the meeting held at the President’s Office, Speaker Aryal informed President Paudel about the Asia-Pacific Regional Conference of the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s (IPU) Standing Committee on Sustainable Development, which is scheduled to be organised by Nepal’s Federal Parliament. Aryal also briefed the President on the emergency resolution on climate-related disasters presented by Nepal at the 153rd IPU Assembly in Arusha, Tanzania. The resolution was endorsed by more than two-thirds of the votes. The meeting also discussed the convening of the next session of Parliament and measures to ensure its regular and effective functioning. Aryal informed the President that he had received suggestions from political parties during consultations on making parliamentary proceedings more effective.
Govt approves new standards to prevent and treat altitude sickness
The government has approved new standards aimed at systematically preventing, identifying and treating altitude sickness in high-altitude and mountainous regions. The Ministry of Health and Food Hygiene has approved the Standards for the Management of Altitude Sickness in High-altitude and Himalayan Areas, 2083. The new standards aim to ensure the timely identification and treatment of altitude sickness among tourists, trekkers, mountaineers and local residents travelling to high-altitude areas. According to the standards, atmospheric pressure decreases at altitudes of 2,500 metres or above, reducing the availability of oxygen in the body. Altitude sickness occurs when the body fails to adapt to these conditions. If not treated promptly, it can lead to serious complications, including fluid accumulation in the lungs and swelling of the brain, which can even result in death.
Flood protection plan must be based on technical study: Rabi Lamichhane
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has stressed the need for both immediate and long-term measures, guided by technical assessments, to protect Narayangadh Bazaar and nearby settlements from erosion along the Narayani River. During an inspection of the Gaureshwor Pashupati Temple area along the riverbank, Lamichhane held discussions with members of the temple management committee and local stakeholders. He said that decisions on flood control and river protection should not be taken in haste without proper technical assessments. Lamichhane said a technical team had been mobilised in coordination with the Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport immediately after he was informed about the growing risk of river erosion. He said the team had been instructed to develop both immediate intervention measures and a long-term protection plan to safeguard Narayangadh Bazaar against the threat of potentially severe flooding in the future.
Three newly appointed Ambassadors present credentials to President Paudel
Newly appointed ambassadors of India, Laos and Panama to Nepal presented their letters of credence to President Ramchandra Paudel at a special ceremony held at the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas, on Friday. According to the Office of the President, the ambassadors presenting their credentials were Sudhakar Dalela of India, Vithaya Xayavong of Laos and Alonso Miguel of Panama. Dalela is a resident ambassador based in Nepal, while the ambassadors of Laos and Panama are non-resident envoys. Senior government officials were also present at the ceremony, according to a press statement issued by the Office of the President.
NOC depots to remain open during Tihar holidays
Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has decided to keep its depots and provincial offices operational during the Tihar holidays, including public holidays, to ensure an uninterrupted supply of petroleum products. The decision has been taken in view of consumer demand and to facilitate the smooth distribution of petroleum products during the festive period. According to NOC spokesperson Manoj Kumar Thakur, depots and provincial offices in Biratnagar, Amlekhgunj, Thankot, Pokhara, Bhairahawa, Surkhet, Dhangadhi, Nepalgunj, Dang, Janakpur, Charali, Birgunj and Dipayal will remain open as required based on local demand. The Corporation said the arrangement would help ensure the availability of petroleum products and minimise inconvenience to consumers during the festival holidays.
Live feed service launched at Tribhuvan International Airport
A ‘live feed’ service has been introduced at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) to make baggage handling more transparent, efficient and systematic. According to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, the service has been launched in the baggage collection area of the airport’s international arrivals hall. Through the new facility, passengers arriving on international flights can watch live footage of the baggage handling process, from the unloading of luggage from aircraft to its arrival at the baggage conveyor belt. The service is expected to help passengers track the progress of their baggage and estimate how long they may have to wait before collecting it. By allowing passengers to view activities in the baggage handling area from the arrivals hall, the initiative is also expected to make waiting more convenient and reduce uncertainty during baggage collection.
SC registers Dan Bahadur Karki’s petition challenging removal as IGP
A writ petition filed by Dan Bahadur Karki at the Supreme Court, challenging his removal from the post of Inspector General of Police (IGP), has been formally registered. Karki had filed the petition through his lawyers on Thursday. However, the Supreme Court administration registered it on Friday after completing the preliminary examination. The petition could not be registered on Thursday as the court administration was reviewing its contents, according to sources. As per the usual court procedure, a hearing date is generally scheduled for the day following the registration of a writ petition. The government has removed Karki from the post of IGP and assigned him the responsibility of security adviser to the Prime Minister.
South Korean Ambassador pays courtesy call on President Paudel
Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nepal Park Jae-kyung paid a courtesy call on President Ram Chandra Paudel on Friday. During the meeting held at the Office of the President, Sheetal Niwas, the two discussed bilateral relations between Nepal and the Republic of Korea, as well as matters of mutual interest and concern. According to the Office of the President, the meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on the friendly relations between the two countries and explore areas of common interest. The meeting comes shortly after Ambassador Park Jae-kyung formally assumed his diplomatic responsibilities in Nepal following the presentation of his credentials to President Poudel on September 30, 2026.
Air pollution worsens in Kathmandu Valley as dry conditions persist
Air pollution levels in the Kathmandu Valley have risen with the onset of the dry season, with several areas recording unhealthy air quality. According to IQAir, a Switzerland-based air quality monitoring platform, Kathmandu recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 114 on Friday, November 6, placing it in the ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ category. Meanwhile, data from Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s air quality monitoring dashboard showed elevated pollution levels across several locations on Thursday evening. AQI readings included 141 in Swayambhu, 141 in Balaju, 150 in Teku, 156 in Dallu, 146 in Thapathali, 131 in Asan, 157 in Kamaladi, 127 in Chabahil and 158 in Lainchaur. The readings indicate that air pollution levels vary considerably across the valley, with some locations recording unhealthy air quality and others reaching levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.
No lack of coordination between party and government: Lamichhane
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has dismissed speculation about differences between the party and the government, saying both are working in coordination while respecting their respective responsibilities. Speaking to journalists in Chitwan, Lamichhane said the party had adopted a policy of allowing the government to work independently and without unnecessary interference. He clarified that seeking discussions, offering suggestions and asking for explanations when necessary should not be interpreted as a sign of misunderstanding or conflict. “There is no lack of coordination. The party simply believes that the government should be allowed to work freely,” Lamichhane said. He also ruled out the practice of appointing another person alongside the prime minister to sustain the government or maintain unity within the party. He said the party and the government should function according to their respective responsibilities.
4.2-magnitude earthquake strikes Humla
An earthquake measuring 4.2 on the Richter scale struck Humla district on Friday morning. According to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre, the earthquake occurred at 7:10 am, with its epicentre near Thehe in Humla. Seismologist Rajesh Sharma said tremors may have been felt in surrounding areas. Details of any human casualties or property damage caused by the earthquake have not yet been received.
Gold and silver prices decline in domestic market
Gold and silver prices declined in the domestic market on Friday, with gold falling by Rs 5,900 per tola and silver by Rs 110 per tola. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of hallmark gold has been fixed at Rs 283,000 per tola, while silver is being traded at Rs 3,810 per tola. On Thursday, gold was priced at Rs 288,900 per tola and silver at Rs 3,920 per tola.
261 families in Krishnanagar receive long-awaited land ownership certificates
A total of 261 families in Krishnanagar Municipality of Kapilvastu district have received land ownership certificates (Lalpurja) for village block land after years of waiting. The certificates were distributed to landowners from Wards 1, 7 and 9 at a programme jointly organised by Krishnanagar Municipality and the Survey Office, Taulihawa, at Ward No. 9 of the municipality. According to the municipality, 73 residents of Ward No. 1, 49 of Ward No. 7 and 139 of Ward No. 9 received the certificates. The recipients, many of whom have occupied and used the land for generations without legal ownership documents, expressed happiness at finally securing official recognition of their property rights.
Himalayan pilgrimage site Parbatikunda awaits wider recognition
Parbatikunda, situated at an altitude of 2,550 metres above sea level in Rasuwa district, is a remarkable destination where religious faith, Tamang culture and natural beauty converge. Despite its significance to both Hindu and Buddhist communities and its breathtaking Himalayan landscape, the site remains relatively unexplored due to inadequate publicity and infrastructure. Located in Gatlang, Ward No. 3 of Amachodingmo Rural Municipality, Parbatikunda holds considerable religious, cultural and tourism significance. In the local Tamang language, Parbati is referred to as ‘Ama’ and the lake as ‘Chhodingmo’. The name Amachodingmo was therefore adopted to preserve and honour the area’s indigenous identity. The rural municipality was initially named Parbatikunda after the lake situated north of Gatlang, a settlement historically known as the ‘village of black roofs’. However, following a recommendation from the first elected village council, its name was changed to Amachodingmo to reflect the local language and cultural identity.
Tihar begins today, Dhanteras observed in Mithila region
Tihar, Nepal’s second-largest festival, begins today, with Dhanteras being observed in the ancient Mithila region of Madhesh Province, including Mahottari district. Traditionally, Dhanteras is celebrated on the first day of the five-day Tihar festival by lighting oil lamps in the evening and purchasing new metal utensils and jewellery. However, changes in the lunar calendar have extended the festival to six days this year. According to Mahesh Kumar Jha, an expert on Maithil rituals, although the Dwadashi tithi prevails at sunrise today, Dhanteras will be observed before noon. In the Mithila region, religious festivals, auspicious occasions and rituals are observed according to the Mithila Panchanga and Vidyapati Panchanga. The Maithili tradition calls for purchasing gold, silver and other metal utensils and jewellery on Dhanteras to welcome Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People also bring home items such as ‘khareto’ (traditional broom), coriander and other auspicious goods. The festival formally begins with the lighting of lamps in households.
Nepal Police rolls out special security plan for Tihar and other festivals
Nepal Police has introduced a nationwide special security plan targeting Tihar, Nepal Sambat and Chhath festivals to maintain peace and security and prevent criminal activities during the festive period. Under the plan, police have stepped up security deployment across the country to prevent theft, fraud, robbery, gambling, betting and other unlawful activities. Police have urged the public to conduct Deusi-Bhailo programmes in a dignified manner and within the time limits prescribed by local administrations. Fire brigades and disaster management teams have also been kept on 24-hour standby to respond to fires and accidents involving firecrackers and fireworks. Central Police Spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General of Police Abinarayan Kafle said special inspection and monitoring teams had been deployed at border points, customs offices, public transport hubs and major marketplaces. He said police were actively monitoring the illegal transportation, storage, sale and distribution of explosives, including firecrackers. Plainclothes personnel have also been deployed in areas considered vulnerable to gambling, betting and other criminal activities.
Janakpurdham-Ayodhyadham rail link preparations gather pace
Preparations to establish a railway connection between Janakpurdham in Nepal and Ayodhyadham in India have gathered pace, with Indian Railway officials conducting preliminary technical and safety inspections for the proposed cross-border service. A 17-coach train, accompanied by Indian Railway officials, arrived at Kurtha Railway Station in Dhanusha on Thursday for an inspection of the railway infrastructure and operational readiness ahead of the proposed service. The train, bearing identification number WDP-4D 40370, was brought from Ayodhya, India, to Janakpurdham. According to Nepal Railway, preliminary tests and inspections were carried out as part of preparations for launching the cross-border railway service. Nepal Railway Company Limited General Manager Paribhar Parajuli said the 17-coach train had been brought in the first phase of preparations to operate the proposed railway service between the two religious cities.
Preparations underway at Balgopaleshwor Temple for Bhai Tika
Preparations for Bhai Tika, the final day of Tihar, Nepal’s second-biggest festival, have begun at Balgopaleshwor Temple in Ranipokhari, Kathmandu, with painting, cleaning and maintenance work underway ahead of its annual opening to devotees. Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 28 has allocated a budget for the renovation and cleaning of the temple premises to ensure a clean and well-managed environment for devotees visiting the shrine on Bhai Tika. Balgopaleshwor Temple holds special religious and cultural significance during Tihar. Although it remains closed throughout the year, the temple is opened to the public for just one day on Bhai Tika. Traditionally, men who do not have sisters visit the temple to receive tika and blessings.
Lumbini Government rolls out province-wide campaign against child marriage
The Lumbini Province government is rolling out a province-wide campaign to combat child marriage, targeting students, out-of-school adolescent girls, parents and teachers through awareness, counselling and community-based prevention programmes. To ensure the effective implementation of conditional grants allocated to local governments for the fiscal year 2083/84, the provincial government has issued the Child Marriage Reduction Conditional Grant Programme Implementation Procedure, 2083. Under the procedure, all sub-metropolitan cities, municipalities and rural municipalities in the province will be required to conduct child marriage reduction activities through their respective designated departments or units.
Land ownership certificates distributed to 17 families in Chitwan
The District Land Problem Resolution Committee, Chitwan, has distributed land ownership certificates to 17 families in Ratnanagar Municipality-12. Of the 17 beneficiaries, one belongs to the landless Dalit community, four are landless squatters and 12 are from the category of unorganised settlers. According to the secretariat of Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives, Federal Affairs and General Administration Pratibha Rawal, the distribution of land ownership certificates has enabled families who had been living without legally registered land ownership for years to become recognised landowners The minister’s secretariat said the government has accorded high priority to resolving the land-related problems of landless Dalits, landless squatters and unorganised settlers.
Land ownership certificates distributed to 27 families in Udaypur
A total of 27 landless families in Triyuga Municipality, Udaypur, have received land ownership certificates, with the documents distributed to beneficiaries from Wards 3 and 5 on Thursday. At a programme organised at the Triyuga Municipality office, House of Representatives member Parasmani Gelal handed over the land ownership certificates to the beneficiaries. In the first phase, 13 landless Dalit families from Ward 3 and 14 from Ward 5 received the certificates. Triyuga Municipality Mayor Basanta Kumar Basnet said the District Land Commission, Udayapur, had distributed the certificates to landless Dalits, landless squatters and unorganised settlers who had completed the required legal procedures. The distribution has enabled families who had been deprived of formal land ownership for years to secure legal ownership of their land.
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