KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
RSP Convention: Hundreds eye central committee as Secretariat race takes shape
As the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) holds its maiden general convention in Chitwan from June 21, internal politics is heating up, with a large number of aspirants positioning themselves for the central committee and the future party Secretariat. Since the central committee itself elects the party Secretariat, leaders will be able to file their candidacies for the secretariat only after winning the central committee election. General Secretary Kabindra Bulakoti says that since only those who win the central committee election are eligible for the secretariat, all leaders must first compete in the central committee race. Bipin Acharya, who is working on drafting amendments to the RSP statute, also has not indicated any change to this rule.
NC President Thapa calls for politics as a means of service
Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Thapa has said that transforming politics into a symbol and means of serving citizens is the need of the hour. Speaking at a programme organised by Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 8 to honour individuals contributing to social service, Thapa expressed the view that social service helps strengthen democracy.On the occasion, former Vice President Paramananda Jha was honoured. Jha said that local government is the appropriate body to address the concerns of local people.
Finance Minister says leaders and state institutions were captured by vested interests, vows reform
Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has claimed that Nepal has remained under the influence of vested interest groups for the past 10 to 15 years and said the current government is working to dismantle that network. Speaking at an event in the capital on Sunday, Wagle said facts are gradually emerging showing that political leadership and various state institutions had been influenced by interest groups. He also stated that what he described as the largest financial scandal case in Nepal’s history, involving claims exceeding Rs 100 billion, is currently under judicial process. According to the finance minister, the government has launched efforts to address economic challenges and counter the growing narrative that young people must leave the country because Nepal cannot offer opportunities.
Dhawal Shamsher says new force formed as RPP failed to play nationalist role
Former leader of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), Dhawal Shamsher Rana, has said a new political force is being formed as the RPP failed to play an effective nationalist role in the country. Speaking at a press conference in Kathmandu on Sunday, held to provide information about preparations for forming a new party, Rana said Nepal needs a strong nationalist force, which the RPP has been unable to deliver. He said the country cannot find a political solution without establishing a monarchy and a Vedic Sanatan Hindu state, and called on all royalist, nationalist, and Hindu political forces to unite.
Foreign Minister Khanal interacts with Nepali community in Beijing
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal, who travelled to China carrying the message of the new government led by Prime Minister Balen Shah formed, held an interaction with the Nepali community in Beijing on Sunday. Khanal arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a four-day official visit to China and met members of the Nepali community during a reception program organised by the Embassy of Nepal in Beijing. According to officials, the foreign minister shared the priorities and message of the newly formed government during the interaction and exchanged views with members of the Nepali diaspora.
Krishna Sitaula urges Congress leaders to end convention dispute through dialogue
Former General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Krishna Prasad Sitaula, has called for an end to the internal debate over a special general convention and urged party leaders to maintain organisational unity. Addressing a gathering of the non-establishment faction of the Nepali Congress in Biratnagar on Sunday, Sitaula urged party President Gagan Kumar Thapa and Vice President Bishwo Prakash Sharma to resolve differences over holding a special convention versus the regular convention. “You hold both the chalk to write and the duster to erase. You must erase the fragmented condition of the Congress,” Sitaula said. “If the 15th general convention is held as planned, as happened with the 10th, 11th and 12th conventions, everything can be resolved. There is no need to continue with unnecessary drama.”
Gagan Thapa says Balen Shah has historic opportunity similar to BP Koirala in 2015 BS
Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa has said that Prime Minister Balen Shah has been given a historic opportunity similar to what BP Koirala received in 2015 BS to move the country forward significantly. Speaking at the first edition of the “Swarna Shamsher Economic Series–1” organized by the party’s Policy, Research and Training Academy, Thapa said the current government has a rare opportunity to transform the country. Commenting on the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84 budget, he urged the government, which he described as having a strong mandate, to make full use of the opportunity to implement effective policies.
KMC unveils Policy and Program for fiscal year 2026/27
Acting Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), Sunita Dangol, presented the Policy and Program for the fiscal year 2026/27 at the 19th Municipal Assembly on Sunday. This marks the first time Deputy Mayor Dangol has presented the policy and program since assuming the role of acting mayor. The Metropolitan City has stated that the policy and program prioritizes urban infrastructure, good governance, education, health, environmental protection, and improved service delivery. The KMC has announced plans to promote a healthy lifestyle through Ayurveda, alternative medicine, yoga, exercise, pranayama, and meditation. These initiatives have been included in the policy and program for the fiscal year 2026/27.
Foreign Minister Khanal in Beijing
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has arrived in Beijing on a four-day official visit to China at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. He left for China today. According to the Nepali Embassy in Beijing, Minister Khanal arrived in the Chinese capital this afternoon local time. He was received at the airport by Nepal’s Acting Ambassador to China, Roshan Khanal, and officials from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Nepali Embassy in Beijing is hosting a reception in honor of the Foreign Minister this evening. The embassy said Minister Khanal will also interact with members of the Nepali community during the event. During his visit, Minister Khanal is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Foreign Minister Wang on further strengthening Nepal-China relations and enhancing mutual cooperation. He is also expected to hold separate meetings with senior Chinese officials.
NC row: 7-point internal proposal by Gagan and Bishwaprakash made public
A seven-point proposal put forward by Nepali Congress (NC) leaders Gagan Thapa and Bishwaprakash Sharma to resolve internal party disputes and ensure a dignified 15th General Convention has been made public. The proposal, which was initially submitted internally to then party president Sher Bahadur Deuba and acting president Purna Bahadur Khadka on May 30, was released on June 14 after no response was received for 16 days. Titled “Let’s all grow together this way,” the proposal outlines a roadmap aimed at unifying the party in the aftermath of the special general convention. It states that disputed issues could be presented as political agendas in the closed session of the 15th General Convention, taking into account the provisions of Article 17(2) of the party statute, updates from the Election Commission, and a Supreme Court decision.
Tea industry faces shutdown as Indian restrictions hit Nepali exports, farmers at risk
Tea factories in the Suryodaya area of Ilam are on the verge of closure after India tightened restrictions on tea imports from Nepal, raising concerns over the livelihoods of thousands of tea farmers. The Suryodaya Orthodox Tea Producers Association Nepal, which represents tea processing industries in the region, has announced plans to halt operations from June 15, citing mounting stocks and disruptions in exports to India. According to the Association, more than 300,000 kilograms of Nepali tea awaiting quality clearance in India remain stranded, while over 700,000 kilograms of processed tea have accumulated in local factories. Industry operators say storage facilities have reached full capacity, leaving them unable to continue production.
HoR to hold ministry-wise budget discussions on June 15 and 16
The House of Representatives (HoR) is scheduled to hold discussions on the ministry-wise appropriation heads under the Appropriation Bill, 2083 BS, on June 15 and 16. The Federal Parliament Secretariat has stated that the concerned ministers will respond to questions raised during the discussions on June 17 and 18. On June 15, discussions will be held on the allocation headings of the Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment; Industry, Commerce and Supply; Agriculture, Forestry and Environment; Information and Communication; Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation; Education and Sports; Health and Food Hygiene; Land Management; Cooperatives; Federal Affairs and General Administration; and the Ministry of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities and Social Security.
Gold price rises by Rs 1,200 per tola
The price of gold increased by Rs 1,200 per tola in the domestic market today. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, hallmark gold, which was traded at Rs 292,000 per tola on Friday, has been fixed at Rs 293,200 per tola today. Similarly, the price of silver has risen by Rs 55 per tola. Silver, which was traded at Rs 4,840 per tola on Friday, is being bought and sold at Rs 4,895 per tola today. In the international market, gold is being traded at around US$4,210 per ounce today.
UML launches ‘Mission Awakening’ for local and provincial elections
The CPN-UML has launched its “Mission Awakening” campaign targeting the upcoming local and provincial elections, mobilizing central committee members across the country. Party’s Publicity and Publication Department Chief, Niraj Acharya, said the campaign aims to strengthen the UML’s connection with voters and garner public support ahead of the elections. To improve relations with the people, the UML has recently introduced a six-point policy focused on enhancing the party’s engagement with the public. The policy emphasizes: “Go to the people,” “Listen to the people,” “Be popular among the people,” “Mobilize people’s organizations,” “Internalize the essence of the party’s guiding principle—People’s Multiparty Democracy,” and “Prepare qualified and capable leadership capable of securing victory at every level.”
KMC to expand free health services for the poor and vulnerable
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has announced plans to promote a healthy lifestyle through Ayurveda, alternative medicine, yoga, exercise, pranayama, and meditation. These initiatives have been included in the policy and program for the fiscal year 2026/27. “While continuing the free ambulance service, a bike ambulance service will also be introduced, considering the narrow roads and increasing traffic pressure within the metropolitan area,” the policy and program states. The metropolis has also announced facilitation of dialysis services for the treatment of kidney diseases among its residents, along with special programs related to maternal and child health services.
Mohan Basnet blames Gagan Thapa for weakening Nepali Congress
Nepali Congress (NC) leader Mohan Bahadur Basnet has alleged that the party leadership that emerged from the special general convention has taken the organization to its weakest point in history. He made these remarks while addressing a gathering of Nepali Congress in Biratnagar on Sunday. Expressing dissatisfaction over internal disputes and the issue of active membership renewal, Basnet said the current leadership is deliberately sidelining long-standing and established leaders. He claimed that obstacles have been created in the renewal of active memberships of influential leaders such as BP Koirala’s sons, Shashank Koirala, as well as Prakash Man Singh and Bimalendra Nidhi.
2,408 motorists penalized for violating traffic rules
Traffic police took action against 2,408 motorists for violating traffic rules in the Kathmandu Valley over the past 24 hours, generating Rs 458,000 in revenue for the state. According to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, 140 motorists were penalized for driving under the influence of alcohol, 116 for unauthorized ride-sharing, 138 for violating traffic signals, and 284 for speeding. Similarly, 85 motorists faced action for failing to maintain lane discipline, 106 for unnecessary honking in restricted areas, 124 for roadside parking violations, and 116 for driving on one-way roads. The office also reported that 1,335 motorists were penalized for various other traffic-related offences.
KMC to manage solid waste through seven-cluster system
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has announced plans to manage solid waste by dividing the metropolis into seven clusters as part of its efforts to promote a circular economy and improve waste management through the use of technology. The initiative has been included in KMC’s policy and programme for the fiscal year 2026/27. According to the metropolitan city, the cluster-based system will encourage waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and resource recovery while ensuring more effective and sustainable solid waste management. The policy states that low-grade solid waste transported from transfer centres will be scientifically managed through the operation of a mechanized Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at the Banchare Danda landfill site.
Bagmati Cabinet approves humanitarian relief and rehabilitation procedure
The Bagmati Province Government has approved the Humanitarian Relief and Rehabilitation Management Procedure aimed at providing assistance to people affected by road-related disruptions. Minister for Drinking Water, Energy, and Irrigation Krishna Kumar Tamang stated that the procedure was endorsed during today’s cabinet meeting. The meeting also decided to appoint Umesh Kumar Dhakal as the Secretary of the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers of Bagmati Province.
Woman dies in elephant attack
A woman has died in an elephant attack in Mechinagar, Jhapa. According to Police Inspector Vijay Chauhan of the District Police Office, the deceased has been identified as 62-year-old Padma Poudel, a resident of Mechinagar Municipality-4. She was attacked by an elephant this morning while leaving her home and died on the spot after being trampled. Her body has been sent to Mechi Provincial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Public outrage grows after forest officials allegedly push tempo off cliff in Kailali
Public protests have erupted on social media following an incident in which a public transport tempo was reportedly pushed off a cliff by employees of the Division Forest Office, Dhangadhi, during an operation against alleged forest-area business activities. Locals said the vehicle belonged to Dhanadevi Dhami of Baspani, Godavari Municipality-4, who used it to transport goods for her livelihood. The incident occurred in Gaimaredanda. According to victim Dhami, forest office staff removed goods from her parked tempo by the roadside and later pushed the vehicle toward a cliff. She claimed she repeatedly requested officials to allow her to take the vehicle home.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City to establish City Hospital
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has announced plans to establish a municipal hospital to provide healthcare services for the city’s residents. Presenting the policy and program for the upcoming fiscal year at the municipal assembly on Sunday, Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol announced the initiative to set up the hospital. Dangol also stated that the city will strictly enforce its policy of providing 10 percent of treatment services free or at subsidized rates for poor and vulnerable groups. She further announced that a bike ambulance service will be introduced to improve emergency response. In addition, she said the city will develop strategies to reduce air pollution and minimize the use of plastic bags in Kathmandu.
One arrested with 21 kg of marijuana
A man has been arrested with 21 kilograms of marijuana from Sukhipur Bazaar in Sukhipur Municipality-8. According to Ramesh Bahadur Pal, Information Officer at the District Police Office, the arrested individual has been identified as Umesh Kumar Magar of Dhangadhimai Municipality-14. He was taken into custody on Saturday. A police team deployed from the Narcotics Control Bureau stopped and searched Magar, who was riding a motorcycle on suspicion, and recovered the contraband from him.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City to launch ‘Gen Z, Gen Alpha’ special program
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has announced plans to provide concessional loans to promote youth-focused self-employment, entrepreneurship development, and job creation. The metropolis has also unveiled a special “Gen Z, Gen Alpha” initiative in its policy and program for the fiscal year 2026/27. According to the policy and program presented by Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol during the first meeting of the 19th Municipal Assembly session, KMC will implement targeted empowerment programs for marginalized and vulnerable groups, including women, children, senior citizens, Indigenous peoples, nationalities, persons with disabilities, Dalits, unprotected individuals, gender and sexual minorities, single women, and the families of martyrs.
9,750 kilometers of roads blacktopped in Nepal over 12 years
A study by Nepal Rastra Bank shows that Nepal has achieved significant expansion in road infrastructure over the past 12 years, including large-scale blacktopping, gravelling, and new track construction under the Road Department. According to the study, a total of 9,750 kilometers of roads were blacktopped across the country during this period. In addition, 7,669 kilometers of roads were upgraded to gravel standard, while 6,180 kilometers of new road tracks were opened. Over the same period, 1,687 bridges were constructed nationwide to strengthen connectivity across the road network. The highest annual blacktopping was recorded in fiscal year 2081/82 BS, when 1,235 kilometers of roads were blacktopped. The second-highest was in 2076/77 BS, with 1,059 kilometers completed.
Police organization is the first government the people encounter: Chief Minister Karki
Koshi Province Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki has said that the police organization is the first government institution that ordinary citizens encounter and, therefore, must remain accountable and responsive to the public. Addressing the Koshi Province-level Crime Investigation Review Seminar organized jointly by the Nepal Police Headquarters, the Criminal Investigation Department, and the Koshi Province Police Office in Biratnagar today, Chief Minister Karki stressed the need for the police organization to respond responsibly to public concerns and questions. He warned that attempts to control or weaken the police organization could have serious consequences for crime investigation and law enforcement. Emphasizing the need to modernize the police force, he said the state should address gaps in resources, infrastructure, and management to strengthen the institution.
One hundred kilograms of marijuana seized in Parsa
A joint team of the District Police Office, Parsa, and the Armed Police Force Nepal’s No. 13 Battalion Headquarters seized 100 kilograms of marijuana today (Sunday). The contraband was found hidden in five rice sacks in a field at Muraiyachok, Jagarnathpur Rural Municipality-3, Parsa. Further investigation is underway to identify the owners of the marijuana and determine its intended purpose, said Parsa Police Spokesperson Hari Bahadur Basnet.
World Blood Donor Day: Inequality persists in safe and adequate blood supply
Today marked the World Blood Donor Day, which was observed in various countries around the world under the slogan, “A drop of blood for humanity, let’s donate blood, let’s save lives.” The day is observed every year on June 14 to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products, and to honor voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving contributions. According to the latest data released by the World Health Organization (WHO), despite significant progress in improving the global supply of safe blood, major inequalities in access still remain. Based on data collected from 132 countries, global blood collection increased by about 19 percent between 2013 and 2023. Of an estimated 120 million blood donations recorded in 2023, more than 85 percent came from voluntary, unpaid donors.
FIFA World Cup through the eyes of Nepali captains
The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off on Thursday midnight, bringing football fever to fans across the globe. For the first time, the tournament is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, and features an expanded format with 48 teams and 1,248 players. A total of 104 matches will be played across 16 stadiums in 16 cities during the month-long football spectacle. As the world’s biggest sporting event gets underway, Nepal is no exception to the excitement. Although Nepal failed to qualify for the tournament, many Nepali football enthusiasts have travelled to North America to witness the matches firsthand, while millions more are preparing to cheer for their favourite teams from home. For those who have dedicated their lives to the game, however, the World Cup holds a special significance. Former captains of the Nepali national football team, who once led the country’s footballing aspirations on the field, are following the tournament with keen interest and strong opinions about the title contenders.
Inclusive cluster has two-thirds representation in civil service: PSC Chair Regmi
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has been selecting competent human resources required for public service in Nepal. Qualification, impartiality, and competition are the key prerequisites for recruitment into government service, and the PSC is responsible for conducting examinations and recommending suitable candidates. The PSC is therefore regarded as a foundational pillar of good governance, inclusion, and a professional civil service. The constitutional body is set to celebrate its 76th anniversary on June 15 (Asar 1). On this occasion, PSC Chair Madhav Prasad Regmi shared the commission’s experiences and achievements, highlighting its transparent, credible, and modern approaches to making Nepal’s public administration more effective.
‘Nepal can be made a hub for eye care’
Experts have said that despite increased access to eye care services in Nepal, the risk of blindness still persists. At the 30th Central Assembly of the Nepal Netra Jyoti Sangh held here today, they noted that although the rate of blindness has decreased somewhat, it still remains a public health concern. They stated that the number of eye patients in Nepal has increased due to rising life expectancy, as well as the growing prevalence of hypertension and diabetes. They emphasized the need to expand access to eye care services, particularly in rural areas. Participants also highlighted that Nepal’s eye care services are among the best in the world and said the country has the potential to become a “hub” for eye care services. According to the association, 3,378,042 people were examined in 2025 through hospitals, treatment centers, and various outreach programs, while 266,401 surgeries were performed.
NC President Thapa calls for politics as a means of service
Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Thapa has said that transforming politics into a symbol and means of serving citizens is the need of the hour. Speaking at a programme organised by Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 8 to honour individuals contributing to social service, Thapa expressed the view that social service helps strengthen democracy. On the occasion, former Vice President Paramananda Jha was honoured. Jha said that local government is the appropriate body to address the concerns of local people.
Embassy of Pakistan and PNAN Organize free medical camp in Kathmandu
The Embassy of Pakistan, in collaboration with the Pakistan Nepal Alumni Network (PNAN), organized a free medical camp at Ward No. 4, Nagarjun Municipality, Kathmandu, Nepal, on Saturday. The event was attended by Dr. Deepak Mishra, President PNAN; Sushila Adhikari, Deputy Mayor of Nagarjun Municipality; Laxmi Ram Sharma, Chairperson of Ward No. 4; along with local dignitaries and volunteers. Doctors, most of whom are graduates of Pakistani medical institutions, provided healthcare services to local residents, including senior citizens, women, and children. More than 100 patients were examined during the camp. Several patients requiring specialized care were referred to tertiary-level hospitals. Free essential medicines were also distributed.
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