KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Chairpersons of 12 parliamentary committees sworn in
The newly elected chairpersons of 12 committees under the House of Representatives took the oath of office and secrecy. The oath was administered by Speaker Dol Prasad (DP) Aryal at a ceremony held at the Federal Parliament Secretariat in Singha Durbar. The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Rubi Kumari Thakur, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sobita Gautam, Vice Chair of the National Assembly Leela Kumari Bhandari, and leaders of various political parties.
Balen allowed to appoint legal heir in contempt of court case
The Supreme Court (SC) has granted permission to Balendra Shah to appoint a legal heir in an ongoing contempt of court case. A joint bench of Justices Hari Prasad Phuyal and Shantisingh Thapa issued the order on Friday, allowing Shah to designate a representative in the case. The controversy stems from the screening of the Indian film ‘Adipurush’. Kathmandu Metropolitan City had deployed municipal police to halt its screening unless the phrase “Bharatki Beti” was removed from the film. Challenging the move, the Film Association filed a writ petition at the Patan High Court, which subsequently issued an interim order directing authorities not to enforce the ban immediately. Following the court’s order, Shah publicly stated that he would not comply, citing concerns over national sovereignty. Advocate Barsha Kumari Jha then filed a petition at the Supreme Court, arguing that his remarks amounted to contempt of court.
Postal service begins nationwide delivery of driving licenses
The Department of Postal Services has begun distributing driving licenses to transport offices across the country, marking a step toward improving public service delivery. The service, launched on April 9, follows an earlier agreement with the government to deliver embossed number plates, according to Director General Manmaya Bhattarai Pangeni. Pangeni said licenses received on April 9 were dispatched to Jhapa the following day and handed over once offices reopened on Sunday. Subsequent batches have already been sent to districts including Sunsari, Dadeldhura, and Doti. Although a separate agreement for license delivery has not yet been signed, the department is currently operating under the existing arrangement. The department is also exploring a system that would allow applicants to specify delivery addresses while filling out license forms.
Police compile profiles of 1,097 individuals linked to hooliganism and crime
Police have prepared detailed profiles of 1,097 individuals associated with hooliganism and other criminal activities as part of an intensified crackdown in the capital. According to the District Police Range Kathmandu, the profiling process is ongoing. Superintendent of Police and spokesperson Pawan Kumar Bhattarai said that the list includes individuals involved in hooliganism as well as those with broader criminal backgrounds. Police said the profiles cover individuals who have previously engaged in illegal activities under the guise of business, have been repeatedly arrested and prosecuted, and have expanded their networks through social media. The compiled data includes photographs, personal details, addresses, professions, records from the Criminal Record System (CRS), known associates and networks, family background, travel history, and other relevant information.
SEBON Chairman Shrestha resigns
Nepal Securities Board (SEBON) Chairman Santosh Narayan Shrestha has resigned from his post. He announced his resignation during a Board of Directors meeting on Friday. As per the Securities Act, the board chairperson must submit the resignation to the Government of Nepal. Accordingly, Shrestha has informed the Finance Minister of his decision to step down, a board director said. Following the meeting, Shrestha briefed board members that he was resigning to facilitate the government’s work. He was appointed Executive Chairman of the Securities Board on November 25, 2024.
PAC Chair Khadka vows strict financial discipline and governance reforms
Newly elected Chair of the Public Accounts Committee Bharat Bahadur Khadka has pledged to move forward with strict measures to ensure financial discipline and economic good governance. Speaking to journalists after assuming office, Khadka said past irregularities would not be allowed to repeat and that financial discipline would be enforced from the federal level down to local governments. Khadka acknowledged that there had been anomalies in the past but stressed that such practices would no longer be tolerated. “The country’s current need is financial discipline and economic good governance. Without this, the nation cannot move forward, nor can people feel the presence of good governance,” he said. He also warned that delays in project implementation under various institutions would no longer be acceptable.
RSP’s Ojashwi Sherchan elected chair of Education, Health and IT Committee
Ojashwi Sherchan of the Rastriya Swatantra Party has been elected chairperson of the Education, Health and Information Technology Committee under the House of Representatives. Sherchan secured victory in the election held today, defeating Gurup Prasad Baral of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist). Despite receiving support from the Nepali Congress and the Nepali Communist Party, Baral failed to garner the required votes, leading to his defeat. The committee meeting was chaired by senior-most member Mahabir Pun.
Oli and Prachanda hold talks
CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, who is currently undergoing treatment in hospital, held talks with Nepali Communist Party (NCP) Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’. Prachanda visited Oli at the hospital, where the UML leader is recovering after a gallbladder operation. Oli was shifted from the ICU to the general ward on Thursday. Following the transfer, Prachanda met him, according to a CPN-UML leader. According to party leaders, the two held discussions for around 40 minutes. The meeting between the top leaders is being seen as significant amid ongoing discussions about possible UML–NCP unification.
PM Balen Shah reshapes Baluwatar, Singha Durbar culture, curbs lobbying and ‘setting’ practices
Since assuming office on March 28, Prime Minister Balendra Shah has significantly altered the working culture at both Singha Durbar and Baluwatar, reducing the long-standing practices of lobbying, backdoor influence, and informal “setting,” according to official sources. Officials say the number of individuals visiting the Prime Minister for favors, recommendations, or informal dealings has sharply declined. Since taking office, Shah has not formally accepted ceremonial offerings such as garlands or khadas at Singha Durbar or Baluwatar. His secretariat also confirmed that he has publicly urged visitors—including friends—not to bring such items or approach him for personal favors. Employees at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers say intermediaries and lobbyists no longer have access to the Prime Minister. “Even earlier, during the tenure of Sushila Karki, such practices had been discouraged. But after Balen Shah became Prime Minister, the trend has declined even further,” an official said, adding that even leaders from ruling parties now visit less frequently.
Government hospitals to close OPD services on weekends
Outpatient Department (OPD) services at government hospitals will now remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays. The decision comes after the Ministry of Health and Population withdrew its earlier request to keep OPD services open on Sundays, citing concerns over patient inconvenience. The move follows objections from the Nepal Medical Association, which expressed its inability to comply. In a statement issued on Friday, the ministry clarified that the implementation of a two-day public holiday would not disrupt essential healthcare services. Emergency and inpatient services will continue to operate 24 hours, as usual. The ministry stated that, in line with the Cabinet decision, necessary measures will be taken to ensure continuity of patient care despite the weekend closure.
NEPSE edges up 0.18 percent to close at 2,838.40
The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) posted a modest gain, rising by 5.36 points (0.18 percent) to close at 2,838.40, following a decline of 33.83 points in the previous session. The benchmark index opened at 2,835.22 and moved between an intraday high of 2,843.57 and a low of 2,808.02. Total turnover reached Rs 7,460 million, with 20,743,884 shares of 342 companies traded through 111,607 transactions. Total market capitalization stood at Rs 4,831,000 million, while the float market capitalization was Rs 1,611,000 million. National Hydro Power Company Limited led the turnover chart, recording transactions worth Rs 668.6 million. The company’s share price closed at Rs 318.50.
Nepal announce squad for T20I series against UAE
The Cricket Association of Nepal has announced the Nepali squad for the upcoming T20 International series against the United Arab Emirates. The two-match T20I series will be played on Monday and Tuesday at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground. The team will be led by Dipendra Singh Airee, while regular ODI captain Rohit Paudel has not been included in the 15-member T20I squad. Meanwhile, Kushal Malla and Arjun Saud have made their return to the T20I squad. Malla last played during the T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier, while Saud last featured for Nepal in 2022 against Kenya. Similarly, Santosh Yadav and Hemant Dhami have also been included in the T20I squad and are yet to make their international debut. The cricket governing body also stated that Airee will captain the T20I team, while Paudel will continue to lead Nepal’s ODI side. The squad includes Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Sundeep Jora, Aarif Sheikh, Bashir Ahmad, Gulsan Jha, Lokesh Bam, Nandan Yadav, Santosh Yadav, Arjun Saud, Hemant Dhami, Shahab Alam and Sher Malla. Similarly, Pratish GC, Narayan Joshi and Rashid Khan have been named as reserve players.
Mother’s Day being observed in Nepal today
Mother’s Day, also known as Matatirtha Aunsi, was observed across Nepal today with devotion, as people honor and express gratitude to their mothers. On this occasion, individuals wake up early, take ritual baths, and worship their mothers by offering gifts, sweets, and special meals. The day carries deep cultural and religious significance, emphasizing respect, care, and lifelong appreciation for mothers. The festival coincides with Matatirtha Aunsi, a day dedicated to both living and deceased mothers. Those whose mothers have passed away visit Mata Tirtha in Kathmandu to pay tribute. Devotees gather at the sacred pond, take a holy dip, and perform rituals such as ‘tarpan’ and other offerings, along with distributing alms to the poor.
“I want to see Nepal’s mothers smiling,” says PM Balen Shah
Prime Minister (PM) Balendra Shah extended greetings to all mothers on the occasion of Matatirtha Aunsi, describing the bond between mother and motherland as greater than heaven. In a message issued on Friday, he said, “I want to see Nepal’s mothers smiling.” Recalling the Sanskrit saying “Janani Janmabhoomischa Swargadapi Gariyasi,” he emphasized that the importance of both mother and motherland is incomparable. He added that his wish reflects his affection and concern for the nation as a whole. Shah noted that a mother’s embrace represents warmth and compassion, and described her feet as sacred like a place of pilgrimage. He said mothers are a unique source of love, sacrifice, and creation. Extending respect and gratitude to all mothers, he wished them good health and longevity. He also said Mother’s Day serves as a reminder for children to remain grateful and to always strive to keep their mothers happy and proud through their actions.
Ministry discusses safety and security of Nepalis in West Asia and Africa
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday held a virtual interaction with Nepali diplomatic missions based in West Asia and Africa. During the meeting, ambassadors, consuls general, and chargés d’affaires provided updates on the current situation in their respective host countries, focusing on the safety and security of Nepali nationals, service delivery status, innovative practices, and mission priorities, the ministry said. Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal highlighted the government’s key priorities, including promoting good governance and achieving economic prosperity through strengthened economic diplomacy. He directed diplomatic missions to align their work with these goals and to improve public service delivery through innovation and digitalization.
Speaker DP Aryal calls for modern, effective parliamentary practices
Speaker of the House of Representatives Dol Prasad Aryal has stressed the need to establish new practices to make Parliament more time-relevant, dynamic, and effective. Speaking at an interaction with journalists covering parliamentary affairs at Singha Durbar on Friday, Aryal said outdated and impractical traditions must be abandoned in favor of reforms aligned with the expectations of a new generation and advancements in technology. The Speaker emphasized that Parliament should evolve in line with the country’s changing social and political needs. He underlined the importance of prioritizing consultations with stakeholders during the bill-drafting process to ensure more inclusive and well-informed legislation.
Minister Timilsina inspects security printing center, says license to be issued within 24 hours
Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr Bikram Timilsina visited the Security Printing Center in Panauti Municipality on Thursday to review the latest status of driving license printing. During the inspection, the minister said the government has prioritized improving public service delivery and aims to end the long-standing problem of citizens waiting months to receive their driving licenses after passing the trial test. He said a new provision has come into effect from Thursday under which driving licenses will be printed and handed over within 24 hours after applicants pass the trial and pay the required revenue. “Practices that unnecessarily delay possible work will now end. The problem of waiting months for a license after passing the trial will be resolved, and the printing process will be completed within 24 hours of revenue payment,” Timilsina said. The minister also said the government has set a target to expedite the printing process and complete all pending licenses by the end of mid-July.
Gold, silver prices drop slightly
Prices of gold and silver witnessed a slight decline in Nepali market on Friday. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of gold decreased by Rs 3,000 per tola, while silver dropped by Rs 120 per tola. With the decline, gold is being traded at Rs 299,800 per tola, while silver is priced at Rs 5,130 per tola in the local market. On Thursday, gold was traded at Rs 302,800 per tola, while silver was priced at Rs 5,250 per tola. Similarly, on Wednesday, the price of gold stood at Rs 302,700 per tola and silver was traded at Rs 5,220 per tola. According to international media reports, gold is currently being traded at around 4,820 US dollars per ounce in the international market, while silver is priced at 75 US dollars per ounce.
Four arrested with rhino horn
Four individuals were arrested in possession of rhinoceros horn from Barju Rural Municipality–6 last night. Acting on a tip-off, a team from Armed Police Force, seized the horn, according to Superintendent Shyam Karki of the Armed Police Force No. 4 Battalion, Sunsari. Police said the suspects were intercepted near a local lake in Barju–6 while allegedly transporting the horn from Jhapa. One rhinoceros horn and two motorcycles were recovered from them. Authorities have withheld the identities of the arrested individuals, citing the ongoing investigation and the possibility of a wider network involved in the illegal wildlife trade.
Authorities monitor 53 firms in a single day
The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection carried out inspections of 53 firms in a single day as part of its intensified market monitoring drive. The Department has been conducting regular inspections of business establishments to ensure compliance with billing practices, proper disclosure of information to consumers, and adherence to the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 BS. As part of this effort, 53 firms in the Khichapokhari area were inspected on Thursday alone. Officials reviewed whether businesses were issuing bills, maintaining transparency, and following legal provisions. The Department issued corrective instructions to all inspected firms and stated that such monitoring activities are being conducted regularly in coordination with local representatives, consumer rights activists, and other stakeholders to strengthen market discipline and protect consumer interests.
One killed in truck accident
One person died in a truck accident at Bimalnagar in Bandipur Rural Municipality along the Prithvi Highway in Tanahun last evening. The deceased has been identified as 61-year-old Khud Bahadur Thapa of Gorkha, according to the District Police Office, Tanahun. The accident occurred when a truck carrying gas cylinders, en route to Aanbukhaireni from Damauli, struck him while he was crossing the road. He sustained serious injuries and was rushed to the Provincial Hospital in Damauli, where he was declared dead, said Deputy Superintendent of Police Shrawan Kumar BK. Police have taken the truck and its driver into custody for further investigation.
Tourism entrepreneurs upbeat about two-day holiday
Tourism entrepreneurs have expressed optimism following the government’s decision to add a public holiday on Sunday, creating a two-day weekend. They believe the move will encourage domestic travel and help revive the tourism sector. Entrepreneurs in Pokhara, widely regarded as the country’s tourism capital, say the decision has generated fresh enthusiasm. The government introduced the additional holiday with the aim of reducing the growing trade deficit and fuel consumption. Previously, Saturday was the only weekly public holiday. Tourism stakeholders say that consecutive days off tend to increase the number of overnight visitors, benefiting businesses ranging from homestays to large hotels. They expect the measure to have a positive ripple effect across the broader economy. Pokhara’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on domestic visitors, views the two-day weekend as a strong opportunity for business recovery. Although a similar policy was introduced earlier on a trial basis, it was not fully implemented. Entrepreneurs say effective implementation this time could bring meaningful and lasting improvements to the sector.
KOICA to provide $2.5 million support for reintegration of Nepali migrant workers
The Korea International Cooperation Agency has announced financial assistance worth $2.5 million to support the reintegration of Nepali migrant workers returning from South Korea. According to a statement issued by KOICA on Thursday, the amount will be used to implement a project aimed at strengthening a phased support system for the reintegration of returnee migrants from South Korea. The project aims to help returnees avoid financial difficulties and engage them in entrepreneurial activities by utilizing the skills and experience they gained while working in Korea. It also seeks to contribute to local economic development by enabling returnee migrants to apply their knowledge and expertise in productive sectors in Nepal.
KMC launches ‘Vibrant and Prosperous Asan’ program to preserve heritage and boost trade
Kathmandu Metropolitan City is set to launch a weekly program titled “Vibrant and Prosperous Asan” from April 18, aiming to preserve the originality of the historic Asan area and promote traditional trade. The announcement was made during a press conference on Friday, where metropolitan officials said the initiative seeks to develop Asan into a hub of social, cultural, and traditional activities. According to KMC spokesperson Nabin Manandhar, the program aims to preserve and promote Kathmandu’s cultural identity, traditional lifestyle, festivals, rituals, and skills passed down through generations. Under the program, various cultural and commercial activities will be organised along a designated route stretching from Kamalachi Chowk through Bhotahiti and Mahabouddha to Asan To facilitate the initiative, the metropolitan city has decided to prohibit vehicular movement in the area every Saturday, making it more accessible for pedestrians and cultural events.
Bagmati Province Assembly meeting scheduled for April 19
A meeting of the ongoing session of the Bagmati Province Assembly has been scheduled for 11:00 am on April 19. According to Assembly Secretary Ram Kumar Poudel, discussions will be held on the principles of various bills presented during the meetings on April 8 and 9. The bills will then be forwarded to respective committees for clause-by-clause deliberation. Poudel added that separate reports incorporating suggestions from committee-level discussions will be prepared before the next stage of the legislative process.
Two killed, five injured in separate road accidents in Makwanpur
Two people lost their lives and five others were injured in separate road accidents in Makwanpur on Friday evening, police said. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Pushkar Bogati, spokesperson for the District Police Office, one person died after two motorcycles collided at Bhakti Chowk in Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City-18 along the Dharan–Chatra road section. The victim, a 36-year-old man whose identity is yet to be confirmed, succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at Hetauda Hospital. Four others were injured in the same incident. The injured include 40-year-old Anta Bahadur BC of Bagmati Rural Municipality-6, 35-year-old Raju Thing of Hetauda-18, motorcycle rider 38-year-old Suryamani Khatiwada, and 12-year-old Prashant Waiba. All are receiving treatment at Hetauda Hospital. In a separate incident, a woman died after a car struck an auto-rickshaw from behind at Pathibhara in Bagmati Rural Municipality-7 along the Madan Bhandari Highway.
One killed in motorcycle collision in Baitadi
One person died and four others were injured in a motorcycle accident in Surnaya Rural Municipality-8 of Baitadi. According to Suraj Singh, spokesperson at the District Police Office Baitadi, the accident occurred at around 1:30 pm on the Dholyamod–Purchaudi road section. The deceased has been identified as 34-year-old Janak Luhar of Surnaya-8, who was riding one of the motorcycles involved in the collision.Police said a motorcycle heading towards Purchaudi from Shribhavar, driven by 24-year-old Amir Kathayat of Purchaudi-5, collided head-on with another motorcycle coming from the opposite direction.
Two arrested with 563 grams of brown heroin in Kankai
Police have arrested two individuals with 563 grams of brown heroin from Lower Chapramari in Kankai Municipality-5, Jhapa. A joint team from the Narcotics Control Bureau, Biratnagar, and the Area Police Office, Surunga, detained them during a security check on a motorcycle en route from Jhapa Rural Municipality to Surunga at around 11:30 am, based on confidential information. According to Khagendra Bahadur Khadka, Deputy Superintendent of Police at the District Police Office Jhapa, a total of 563.620 grams of brown heroin was recovered from the suspects. Police also seized three mobile phones and the motorcycle used in the incident.
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