KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Government releases draft of national commitment document
The government has made public a draft of the national commitment document, inviting feedback and suggestions from stakeholders. The 18-point draft was released on Tuesday as part of the government’s effort to incorporate public input before finalizing the document. The initiative follows the release of a 100-point governance reform agenda after the formation of the government under Prime Minister Balen Shah. According to the government, the draft national commitment document has been prepared in line with the third point of the reform agenda. It also claims that the document incorporates key pledges mentioned in the election manifestos of six nationally recognized political parties.
Govt drafts ‘national commitment’ incorporating manifestos of six parliamentary parties
The government led by Prime Minister Balen Shah has prepared a draft of a ‘national commitment’ document based on the manifestos, pledges, and commitment papers of six national parties represented in Parliament. The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has sought feedback and suggestions from the concerned political parties on the draft by April 23. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the draft has been prepared on the basis of the manifestos and commitment documents of six political parties that secured national recognition in the election held on March 5, 2026. The document forms the third point of the government’s 100-point governance reform agenda announced on March 26 following the formation of the new government. The government stated that the commitment will be linked with policies, programmes, budgets, and reform agendas for the fiscal year 2026/27 and the coming years. Implementation of the commitments will be incorporated into the annual programmes and budgets of all ministries and agencies, while monitoring will be carried out by the Development Management Division under the Prime Minister’s Office.
12-point framework outlines Balen Shah govt’s roadmap for national development
The government led by Prime Minister Balen Shah has unveiled a draft of a “national commitment” document that incorporates the manifestos and pledges of six national political parties represented in Parliament. The draft, made public on Tuesday by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, will be discussed with parliamentary parties to reach a common understanding. According to the government, this is the first time a national commitment document has been prepared by incorporating the policy priorities of both ruling and opposition parties. Although the Rastriya Swatantra Party holds a strong majority with 182 seats in Parliament, the government says it has included policy ideas from other parties in drafting the document. The draft combines the government’s 100-point governance reform agenda with the pledges made by political parties, outlining a broad roadmap aimed at transforming Nepal into a middle-income economy within the next five years.
Ambitious targets set to make Nepal a middle-income country: 1.5 million jobs and 7% growth in five years
The government led by Prime Minister Balen Shah has introduced a draft of the ‘national commitment’ document incorporating the manifestos and pledges of six national parties represented in Parliament. The draft, made public on Tuesday by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, will now be discussed with political parties represented in Parliament. The single-party government of the Rastriya Swatantra Party has combined its 100-point governance reform agenda with the election pledges of other parties to formulate the draft, which sets ambitious economic targets. According to the document, the government aims to upgrade Nepal to a respectable middle-income country within the next five years, with clear economic indicators outlined. The government has set a target of raising per capita income to 3,000 US dollars within five years. It also aims to expand the country’s gross domestic product to nearly 100 billion dollars.
Congress ‘Jara Abhiyan’ sparks internal rift amid organisational overhaul
The Nepali Congress has launched a month-long ‘Jara Abhiyan’ (root campaign) as part of its post-election organisational restructuring following its poor performance in the March 5 elections. The campaign, which requires party members to physically visit ward offices and update their membership digitally, was formally initiated on Tuesday by party leader Gagan Kumar Thapa, who also updated his membership at Ward No. 30 of Kathmandu Metropolitan City. Thapa urged party members not to create unnecessary confusion over the process, stating that responsible leaders are in place to address concerns at the central office. However, the initiative has triggered strong internal disagreement within the party, deepening existing divisions.
Parliamentary Committee moves to reinstate Personal Secretary facility for MPs
The Federal Parliament Secretariat Management and Operation Committee has initiated the process to reinstate the personal secretary facility for Members of Parliament (MPs). The committee decided to recommend that the government establish specific qualifications and systematic procedures for the appointment of personal secretaries for parliamentary officials and members. The meeting, chaired by Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, concluded with a decision to write to the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs to make the necessary legal arrangements. High-level participants included National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal, Deputy Speaker Ruby Kumari Thakur, National Assembly Vice-Chairperson Lila Kumari Bhandari, and the General Secretary and Secretaries of the Federal Parliament. The personal secretary positions were previously abolished by the interim government led by Sushila Karki as part of an austerity drive to cut unproductive spending. At that time, the government had amended the schedule of the Act Relating to Remuneration and Facilities of Officials and Members of the Federal Parliament, 2016, to remove the provision.
President calls for unity and resolve to achieve national goals
President Ram Chandra Poudel has emphasized the need to set common national goals and renew collective commitment toward achieving them. Extending his best wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, and longevity on the occasion of New Year 2083 BS, the President emphasized that success does not come by chance but through determination, discipline, and consistent effort. He stressed the importance of upholding laws and maintaining civilized conduct to achieve national aspirations. Highlighting the significance of traditional calendars, he noted that they reflect Nepal’s history, civilization, and social values, while also inspiring citizens to move toward a prosperous future. He added that the New Year has long been regarded as a time to reflect on the past and make meaningful resolutions for the days ahead.
PM Balen Shah extends New Year wishes for peace, prosperity and wellbeing
Prime Minister (PM) Balendra Shah (Balen) has extended heartfelt wishes for happiness, peace and prosperity to all citizens on the occasion of New Year 2083. Issuing a message via social media on Tuesday morning, he recalled a well-known Sanskrit verse and wished for the health and wellbeing of everyone. Prime Minister Shah wrote: “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah, Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu, Ma Kashchit Duhkha Bhag Bhavet.” Explaining the verse, he expressed hope that happiness, good health and wellbeing would prevail in everyone’s life. “May there always be auspiciousness, may there be freedom from suffering,” Shah said, extending his best wishes. “On this auspicious occasion of the beginning of New Year 2083 BS, I extend my heartfelt wishes for happiness, peace and prosperity to all.”
Govt budget deficit reaches Rs 152 billion in first 9 months of fiscal year
According to the latest data from the Financial Comptroller General Office (FCGO), the Nepal government’s expenditure has exceeded its income by approximately Rs 152 billion as of the end of the third quarter of the current fiscal year. By the end of the month of Chaitra (mid-April), the government collected total revenue and receipts amounting to Rs 907.17 billion, while total spending reached Rs 1.059 trillion. The government had set an ambitious target to collect Rs 1.48 trillion in tax and non-tax revenue for the current fiscal year. However, in the first nine months, only Rs 886.28 billion has been collected, which is approximately 59.88% of the annual target. Similarly, progress on foreign grants remains sluggish; against a target of Rs 53.44 billion, the government has received only Rs 15.61 billion, or roughly 29.21%. The data reveals a significant disparity between administrative costs and development spending. Out of the Rs 407.88 billion allocated for capital expenditure (infrastructure and development), the government has managed to spend only Rs 96.19 billion, a mere 23.58%. This indicates a continued struggle to execute development projects effectively.
US analysis sees a ‘new chapter’ for Nepal as Balen and Rabi oust the old guard
A recent report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS), the non-partisan research arm of the United States Congress, has interpreted Nepal’s general elections held on March 5 a profound expression of dissatisfaction with established political powers and a deep-seated desire for change. The report details the dramatic shift in Nepali politics following the Gen-Z-led protests in September 2025, which forced the resignation of then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. In the subsequent parliamentary elections, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured an historic 182 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives. The CRS highlights that this is the first time since 1999 that a single party has achieved a clear majority in Nepal, noting that at age 35, Balendra Shah has become the youngest Prime Minister in the nation’s history. The report provides an analytical look at the relationship between Prime Minister Shah and RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane, describing Lamichhane as a former television journalist who rose to prominence through anti-corruption campaigns. The research service characterizes the collaboration between the two as a marriage of convenience.
Home Minister Gurung directs Chinese contractor to expedite Narayangadh–Butwal road expansion
Home Minister Sudan Gurung has drawn the attention of the Chinese contractor company to delays in the expansion of the Narayangadh–Butwal road section, urging it to accelerate construction work. During an on-site inspection of the road project, Minister Gurung expressed serious dissatisfaction over the slow progress, noting that prolonged delays have left the road in disrepair and caused significant hardship for the public. “Passengers have been suffering as the road remains unfinished. Daily transportation has been disrupted and the risk of accidents has increased,” he said. “This situation cannot continue for long. The contractor company must act responsibly and move the work forward at a faster pace.” He also warned the concerned authorities and the construction company to complete the work within the stipulated deadline while maintaining quality standards. Gurung stressed that delays in development projects are unacceptable to the government.
Gold prices surge by Rs 3,100 on New Year’s Day
Gold prices saw a spike on Tuesday, increasing by Rs 3,100 per tola. The Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association has fixed the price of fine gold at Rs 299,800 per tola for today. This marks a sharp climb from Monday, when gold was traded at Rs 296,700 per tola. The market has shown a consistent upward trend over the past week; exactly seven days ago, gold was valued at Rs 291,800 per tola. This rapid increase on the very first day of the new year suggests continued volatility and high demand in the precious metals market.
Over 18,000 citizens fall victim to cyber fraud in a single year
A staggering 18,326 individuals across Nepal have fallen victim to cyber fraud in the fiscal year 2081/82 BS. According to data released by the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau, digital platforms and social media have become primary tools for criminals to target citizens. The data shows that Madhesh Province recorded the highest number of cases with 936 victims. Other provinces reported varying levels of impact, including Koshi with 644 cases, Lumbini with 444, Bagmati with 254, Gandaki with 212, Karnali with 208, and Sudurpashchim with 61. A demographic analysis reveals that men and women are the most frequent targets, with 9,787 men and 7,921 women affected. Additionally, the victims included 421 girls, 315 boys, and 446 individuals from the gender and sexual minority community.
10 arrested with drugs in Kathmandu Valley
Police have arrested 10 individuals from various locations across the Kathmandu Valley on charges of possessing and trafficking illegal drugs. According to the Narcotics Control Bureau, Koteshwor, the arrests were made on different dates, with police seizing a total of 224 grams of brown heroin and 52 grams of opium. In a separate case, police arrested an Indian national from the arrival tunnel gate of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with approximately 2 kilograms and 960 grams of a substance resembling marijuana. The suspect had arrived in Kathmandu from Colombo on a Sri Lankan Airlines flight. He was arrested by personnel deployed from the Tribhuvan International Airport Security Office and the Narcotics Control Bureau, Koteshwor, with the illegal substance.
Wheat cultivation area declines, but production rises in Banke
Wheat cultivation area in Banke district has been declining year by year, but production has increased compared to the previous year, according to agricultural officials. Santosh Pathak, Senior Horticulture Development Officer and Information Officer at the Agriculture Knowledge Center, Banke, said improved seed varieties, better irrigation, favorable weather conditions, and higher seed replacement rates have contributed to increased output. He added that the growing use of hybrid seeds by farmers has also supported productivity gains. According to the office, Banke produced 77,708 metric tons of wheat last year from 20,895 hectares of land. Despite a further decline in cultivated area this year, production is expected to rise due to timely rainfall and the absence of major pest and disease outbreaks.
Put national interest above party lines, work together for people’s welfare: Thapa
Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Thapa has stressed the need to rise above party interests and work in cooperation for the greater good of the nation and its people. Extending his best wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, and continued progress on the occasion of New Year 2083 bs, Thapa urged all political parties and responsible institutions to collaborate in building a peaceful, civilized, and economically prosperous country. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding and strengthening the historic achievements earned through the sacrifices and struggles of the Nepali people, while collectively addressing emerging national challenges with unity and determination. He noted that the time has come to seize new opportunities, reinforce good governance, and move decisively toward economic development and prosperity.
Department inspects 54 firms in a single day
The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has intensified its market monitoring efforts, inspecting 54 business establishments in a single day. As part of its initiative to curb black marketing, regulate the sale of non-food items, and safeguard consumer rights, the department carried out inspections in the Khasibazar area of Kathmandu Metropolitan City-14. It stated that necessary instructions and actions were taken in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 BS, and the Consumer Protection Regulations, 2076 BS. All monitored firms were issued corrective directives. The Department added that such inspections are being conducted regularly in coordination with consumer rights activists and relevant stakeholders.
Ministry of Energy discusses strategy to boost electricity consumption
The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation held discussions with the Confederation of Nepalese Industries to formulate and strengthen strategies for the development of the country’s energy sector. During the meeting, Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working in close coordination with the private sector to advance overall energy development. Minister Shrestha said the government is actively exploring ways to increase domestic electricity consumption alongside expanding exports. Emphasizing priorities such as reservoir-based projects, renewable energy, and higher electricity usage, he called for concrete suggestions from the private sector on enhancing the sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Pokhara hotels reach 90% occupancy as New Year tourists flock to Lakeside
The lakeside area of Pokhara has seen a massive surge in visitors, with hotel occupancy crossing 90 percent as domestic tourists arrive to celebrate the Nepali New Year. According to Laxman Subedi, President of the Hotel Association Pokhara Nepal, hotels are nearly full due to the influx of travelers from various parts of the country. The 21st edition of the Phewa New Year Festival, organized annually by the association, has been a major draw for the increased footfall this year. Tourism entrepreneurs noted that the recent declaration of Pokhara as the “Tourism Capital of Nepal,” combined with its reputation for nature, culture, and adventure, has contributed significantly to the rising visitor numbers.
First-ever snow leopard census to be conducted in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
For the first time in its history, a formal census of snow leopards is set to be conducted in the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal’s only hunting reserve. While the reserve is globally renowned for the legal hunting of Blue Sheep and Himalayan Tahr, the population of snow leopards inhabiting its high-altitude regions has never been officially documented. According to Reserve Ranger Sagar Subedi, preparations are underway to train enumerators for the census. The team will consist of reserve staff, trained wildlife experts, and local residents. To capture data, 56 automated camera traps will be installed across various hunting blocks in the high-altitude terrain. The census will utilize “capture-recapture” technology, where automated cameras placed along probable paths, ridges, and rocky outcrops identify individual leopards based on the unique spot patterns on their bodies. Additionally, DNA testing of collected scat and footprint surveys will be used to verify the findings.
NA Chair Dahal leaves for Istanbul to attend IPU Assembly
Chairman of the National Assembly of Nepal, Narayan Prasad Dahal, left for Istanbul, Turkey today to participate in the 152nd General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). Dahal is leading a parliamentary delegation representing Nepal at the global parliamentary gathering scheduled from April 15 to 19, according to the Federal Parliament Secretariat of Nepal. During the assembly, Dahal is scheduled to present Nepal’s views on the theme “Guarantee of peace and justice to the next generation.” On the sidelines of the event, he is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with parliamentary leaders from several countries to discuss issues of mutual interest and parliamentary cooperation. The National Assembly chair will also address the fifth parliamentary network meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
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