KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
President Paudel directs security agencies to ensure peaceful, fear-free elections
President Ram Chandra Paudel has directed the concerned authorities to strengthen and make effective the necessary peace and security arrangements to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a clean, fair and fear-free environment. During a meeting held at the President’s residence, Sheetal Niwas, on Friday with the Home Minister and the heads of all four security agencies, President Paudel stressed the importance of robust security preparedness. He also expressed confidence that the government would give special priority to mobilizing the required resources, logistics and human resources to facilitate smooth elections. “In a democracy, elections are the only appropriate means to ascertain the people’s will and address the current situation of the country. Therefore, the government and security agencies must leave no stone unturned to conduct the elections in a fear-free environment,” President Paudel said.
HoR polls: Ballot papers dispatched to 12 constituencies in Karnali
With just 20 days remaining for the House of Representatives (HoR) election, the Election Commission (EC) has begun dispatching ballot papers to 12 constituencies across 10 districts in Karnali Province, where printing has already been completed. According to Assistant Spokesperson Prakash Neupane, ballot papers have been sent to Salyan, Rukum West, Dolpa, Mugu, Humla, Kalikot, Jumla, Jajarkot, Dailekh and Surkhet districts. The Commission said it has completed printing ballot papers for 124 constituencies in 58 districts so far, with a total of 15.778 million ballot papers printed.
Rabi Lamichhane says March 5 polls a test of new alternative
Rabi Lamichhane, chair of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has arrived in Syangja to gauge the electoral mood ahead of the March 5 polls, describing the upcoming election as a test of a new alternative. Addressing a public gathering in the district, Lamichhane said he came to assess whether Syangja was ready to vote. “I have come to see whether Syangja is prepared for voting,” he said. “This time, test us for five years.” As part of his election campaign and public outreach, Lamichhane visited 19 locations from Kubhinde to Chapakot on Thursday, interacting with voters and party supporters. He also addressed a mass gathering at the district headquarters. During his speech, he said the March 5 election was not merely a traditional contest among established forces, but a decisive moment to evaluate a new alternative in national politics.
JSP-N unveils 28-page manifesto pledging free health, education and strong federalism
The Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal, led by Chairperson Upendra Yadav, has unveiled its election manifesto for the upcoming House of Representatives and Provincial Assembly polls scheduled for March 5. At a program held in Kathmandu on Friday, Yadav made public the 28-page manifesto under the slogan “Strong Federalism, Prosperity and Inclusive Development.” The manifesto prioritizes free health services, free education, a corruption-free state, scientific agricultural modernization, infrastructure development and social justice. The party has pledged to amend the Constitution to implement federalism based on identity and capability, form a “Jan Lokpal” anti-corruption body, and introduce a cashless economy. The JSP-N has presented what it describes as a game changer commitment in health and education. The party has promised to establish one super-specialty hospital and health sciences academy in each province, and well-equipped hospitals in every local level. It has also pledged to ensure free healthcare services for all citizens and provide free and quality education from early childhood to university level.
Nepali Congress to unveil election ‘pledge’ on Sunday
The Nepali Congress (NC) is set to unveil its manifesto for the House of Representatives (HoR) member election 2026 on Sunday, outlining its policy priorities and electoral commitments ahead of the polls. Party spokesperson and Central Publicity Committee Coordinator Devraj Chalise said the manifesto, termed a “pledge” by the party, will be made public at a press conference at the party’s central office in Sanepa at 2 pm. According to party sources, the pledge is expected to focus on key national issues including economic recovery, employment generation, good governance, social justice, and strengthening democratic institutions. The document is also likely to highlight the party’s plans for federal implementation, infrastructure development, and youth engagement.
Voters voice dissatisfaction during Oli’s week-long Jhapa outreach
KP Sharma Oli, Chairperson of Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), returned to Kathmandu on Thursday after completing a week-long voter outreach campaign in Jhapa ahead of the March 5 election. Oli arrived in Jhapa-5 on February 5 and held direct interactions with voters in around 80 localities across three municipalities, Gauradaha, Kamal and Gauriganj, according to Devendra Dahal, commander of the party’s election mobilization committee. Dahal said Oli listened to voters’ appreciation, grievances and local concerns during door-to-door interactions. “The chairperson held direct dialogue with voters in nearly 80 settlements. He returned encouraged after meeting them,” Dahal said. “Voters asked questions openly, expressed complaints and shared their problems. They also thanked him for his stance on national interests and sovereignty.”
Gold drops to Rs 303,500 per tola
The price of gold in the domestic market has declined to Rs 303,500 per tola on Friday, while silver was traded at Rs 5,000 per tola. On Thursday, hallmark gold was traded at Rs 306,500 per tola and silver at Rs 5,340 per tola. Similarly, on Wednesday, the price of hallmark gold stood at Rs 306,600 per tola, while silver was priced at Rs 5,290 per tola. Earlier this week, on Tuesday, gold was traded at Rs 305,500 per tola and silver at Rs 5,240 per tola. On Monday, gold was bought and sold at Rs 304,600 per tola, while silver was traded at Rs 5,250 per tola. According to international media reports, gold is currently being traded at USD 5,065 per ounce in the international market, while silver is priced at USD 84 per ounce.
NC calls on professionals to join mission for democratic strengthening
The Nepali Congress, under the leadership of President Gagan Kumar Thapa, has put emphasis on organizational strengthening, clear policy direction, and the restoration of public trust as its top priorities. Party spokesperson Devaraj Chalise said in a statement today that with changing times, transformed political consciousness, and the vision of the new leadership, the Congress is committed to advancing the country toward good governance, inclusivity, and prosperity. He urged citizens to participate in nation-building and support the party’s efforts to strengthen democratic values and ideals. The party also called on professionals and activists from various fields—including medicine, education, law, industry, information technology, agriculture, labor, and civil society—who believe in building alternative political strength and contributing to societal transformation, to join and support the Congress’s mission.
New Chinese Ambassador Zhang Maoming arrives in Kathmandu
Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, arrived in Kathmandu on Friday morning to assume his official duties. He landed at Tribhuvan International Airport at around 11:30 am. Prior to his appointment, Maoming was serving as Deputy Director-General of the Asian Affairs Department at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was appointed as China’s ambassador to Nepal on February 6. Following his arrival, Ambassador Maoming is scheduled to present his letter of credence to President Ram Chandra Paudel. Regarded as well acquainted with Nepal’s political and diplomatic landscape, Maoming succeeds Chen Song, who returned to China after completing his three-year tenure and receiving a promotion. Maoming had previously participated in several meetings with Nepali officials and political leaders prior to assuming the ambassadorial role.
Supporters welcome former King Gyanendra at TIA upon return from Jhapa
Former King Gyanendra Shah was welcomed by supporters at Tribhuvan International Airport on Friday after returning to Kathmandu following a prolonged stay in Jhapa. A large number of supporters gathered outside the airport’s main gate to greet the former monarch upon his arrival. Despite the local administration imposing a prohibitory order in the airport area, a significant number of pro-monarchy supporters turned up, chanting slogans in favor of the monarchy. Former King Gyanendra arrived in Kathmandu from Jhapa by helicopter on Friday.
Remote Himalayan polling stations in Taplejung may need helicopter support amid possible snowfall
Election officials in Taplejung have highlighted logistical challenges at four polling stations located in remote and mountainous areas ahead of the March 5 House of Representatives and Provincial Assembly elections. Chief District Officer Shivaraj Sedhain told PM Sushila Karki that while the weather has remained normal so far, potential snowfall around election day could make it difficult for election staff to reach these high-altitude polling centers. “Given the terrain and weather risks, transporting ballot boxes by road may not be possible if snow falls. We have requested the Prime Minister to arrange for helicopter transport if required,” Sedhain said. Authorities have emphasized that preparedness for these polling stations is crucial to ensure that all eligible voters in the region can cast their ballots without disruption. The district has 90,327 registered voters and a total of 82 polling stations, including two temporary sites, with the four high-altitude stations identified as particularly vulnerable to adverse weather.
Elections only way to restore order: Acting CEC Bhandari
Acting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Ram Prasad Bhandari has said that elections are the only constitutional means to restore order in the country. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu today, Bhandari said the Election Commission is committed to conducting free, fair and credible elections to help restore stability and discipline in the aftermath of the Gen-Z protests of September 8 and 9, 2025. He emphasized the important role of mass media, particularly community radio stations, in ensuring a smooth electoral process. Bhandari called on media professionals to cooperate with the Commission by disseminating accurate information and countering misinformation. Stressing the growing challenge of false, misleading and harmful content on social media, he said efforts are underway to curb such activities.
NA members stress significance of HoR polls
Members of the National Assembly (NA) have urged the government to ensure that voting in the upcoming House of Representatives (HoR) elections on March 5 is conducted in a free, fair, and impartial environment. Speaking during the zero hour of today’s upper house session, Sharada Devi Bhatta drew the government’s attention to the need to guarantee an atmosphere where voting can take place calmly and fairly, with less than three weeks remaining until the polls. Ganga Kumari Belbase, Gopal Bhattarai, and Sumitra BC were among the lawmakers who raised contemporary issues during the session.
Home Minister vows to streamline immigration services, pledges new bill
Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving immigration administration and making services more citizen-friendly. During today’s session of the National Assembly of Nepal, while responding to questions on a proposal to discuss the Immigration Act, 1992 and related delegated legislation study report, 2026, Minister Aryal said various trainings have been provided to immigration staff to enhance service delivery. He added that the draft of a new immigration bill is under preparation and that suggestions received from the committee will be incorporated. “These recommendations are invaluable. By including them in the bill, we aim to make immigration reforms more effective,” he said.
Prachanda visits wartime shelter in Rukum East, recalls ‘People’s War’ days
Pushpa Kamal Dahal, coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party, is currently busy in Rukum and Rolpa as part of his election engagements. Having contested elections from six different constituencies across the country since the end of the decade-long armed conflict, Dahal has this time focused his political activities in Rukum East. While leaders of other parties are intensifying efforts to tilt electoral outcomes in their favor, Prachanda has been touring the hills of Rolpa and Rukum with visible confidence. On Thursday, he visited his wartime shelter located at Bhumme Rural Municipality–7, Lawang, in Rukum East, where he had once stayed during the “People’s War.” He observed the house, the room he occupied, and even the bed he used at the time. Becoming emotional, Dahal recalled memories from the insurgency period and attempted to convey a message to local residents. Before entering the wartime shelter, he reached Mahat village, where he danced with local women to traditional folk tunes, reminiscing about the past.
Budget spending reaches 40 percent, capital expenditure at 15 percent in seven months
Government revenue collection and expenditure have remained sluggish in the first seven months of the current fiscal year 2025/26, according to data released by the Financial Comptroller General Office (FCGO). As of mid-February, the government has achieved 44 percent of its annual revenue target, while overall expenditure stands at around 40 percent. Out of the total budget allocation of Rs 1,964 billion for the current fiscal year, Rs 801.37 billion has been spent so far, which accounts for 40.8 percent of the annual budget. Under the recurrent expenditure heading, Rs 562.37 billion—equivalent to 47.62 percent of the allocated Rs 1,180.98 billion—has been spent. However, capital expenditure remains particularly weak. Of the allocated Rs 407.88 billion for development spending, only Rs 63.73 billion, or 15.62 percent, has been utilized.
IGP Karki directs police to prioritize intelligence and security sensitivity ahead of polls
Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki has instructed police personnel to proactively collect intelligence and analyze security sensitivities to address potential challenges during the upcoming elections. Issuing directives through a virtual meeting today on election-related security concerns and contemporary issues, IGP Karki urged officers to treat the forthcoming polls as a national commitment and ensure they are conducted in a fear-free and impartial environment. “Prioritize intelligence gathering and mobilize a reliable security mechanism to bring those violating the election code of conduct or engaging in undesirable activities within the ambit of the law,” he said. He said police personnel must remain on high alert, giving priority to intelligence collection, analysis, and preparedness exercises to respond to any unforeseen incidents that may arise in any constituency.
Naga Babas arrive in Kathmandu ahead of Maha Shivaratri
As the festival of Maha Shivaratri approaches, Naga Babas from neighboring India and various parts of Nepal have begun arriving in the Capital. On Friday, a group of Naga Babas entered the premises of Pashupatinath Temple through Gate No. 1, accompanied by a ceremonial procession. Among the four sects of jogis — Sannyasi, Vaishnav, Nanak and Udasi — the Naga Babas belong to the Sannyasi order. It is a long-standing tradition for ascetics from all four sects to gather at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pashupatinath Temple during Maha Shivaratri.
With the festival drawing near, the number of devotees visiting the temple premises has steadily increased. The Pashupati Area Development Trust said it has intensified preparations and management efforts targeted at the festival to ensure smooth arrangements for devotees.
Online ticket booking to open soon for Patan Durbar Museum
Visitors to the Patan Durbar Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will soon be able to book tickets online from home. The museum, known for its historical and cultural significance, is finalizing preparations to launch an online ticketing system for both domestic and international tourists. Suresh Man Lakhey, head of the museum, said the online ticket system is currently in a trial phase. “Tickets are now being issued through two counters at the museum, and payment via QR code has already started. With the new online system, tourists will be able to book tickets from home, making visits more convenient. We are preparing for the official launch soon,” he added. The museum administration expects that online ticketing will reduce long queues, save time, and improve overall tourist management. In 2025, the Patan Durbar Museum welcomed 313,300 visitors, including 105,300 foreign tourists, of whom 43,053 came from SAARC countries.
World Radio Day observed today
Today marked World Radio Day, celebrated across the globe with various programs involving radio broadcasters, communication experts, and other stakeholders. Since 2012, the day has been observed under the leadership of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), commemorating the establishment of the United Nations Radio Service in 1946. UNESCO has announced plans to present educational content to audiences worldwide through digital broadcasting across all five continents. According to UNESCO, the day aims to raise public awareness about the importance of radio as a communication medium, ensure access to information for decision-makers, encourage its use, and strengthen international cooperation among broadcasters.
Man arrested with pistol
A man was arrested today in Chandragiri Municipality-2, Nagdhunga, in possession of a pistol and four rounds of ammunition. According to the Central Police News Room, 30-year-old Keyur Puri, a resident of Kirtipur Municipality-2, was apprehended during a vehicle inspection. Police recovered the weapon while searching his car (registration number Ba 19 Cha 690), which was traveling from Chitwan to Kathmandu.
Dhap Dam releases water to boost Bagmati River flow ahead of Maha Shivaratri
Ahead of this year’s Maha Shivaratri festival, authorities have started releasing water from Dhap Dam to increase the flow of the Bagmati River. The move aims to facilitate ritual bathing for devotees and enhance the river’s scenic beauty during the festival. The Bagmati River Integrated Civilization Development Committee has coordinated the water release, noting that large crowds are expected at Pashupatinath Temple during the festival. The release started gradually from the dam in the afternoon to ensure steady flow throughout the celebration. Uddhav Nepal, Deputy Director and Information Officer of the project, said the water takes around 14 hours to reach the Pashupati area after being released from Dhap Dam. “On special days, we have traditionally released water from the dam into the Bagmati River,” he added.
Comment