KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ Evening Briefing—your essential daily roundup of important in Nepal and beyond. From politics and the economy to society, sports, entertainment, and international affairs, we bring you the day’s biggest headlines. Here’s what shaped Nepal on Friday, February 28, 2025. Catch up on the major news of the day—all in one place, only on Nepal News.

Government to Table Six Ordinances in Parliament by March 06: The government will present six ordinances, including the controversial land ordinance, for parliamentary decision by March 06. Discussions with Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) begin Saturday, as JSP insists on withdrawing the land ordinance before approving others. Ruling coalition leaders finalized the plan in a high-level meeting at Baluwatar.

Sherpa Community Celebrates 2152nd Gyalpo Lhosar: The Sherpa community is celebrating the 2152nd Gyalpo Lhosar, their New Year festival, with various events across Nepal. Traditionally observed in 12 mountain districts, it is now celebrated in 22 due to migration.

Falling on Shukla Pratipada in Falgun, Gyalpo Lhosar is also observed by Mahayana Buddhists. The festival, based on the Tibetan calendar, follows a 12-year cycle: mouse, cow, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, bird, dog, and boar.

Celebrations include house cleaning, hoisting prayer flags, and preparing traditional delicacies like Guthuk and Khapse. The Gurung and Tamang communities mark their own New Year as Tamu Lhosar and Sonam Lhosar, respectively.

Prachanda Links Madhesh Movement to Maoist War, Calls for Unity: CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ stated that the Madhesh movement was backed by the Maoist people’s war. Speaking at the party’s “Maoists with People” campaign in Rajbiraj, he expressed concern over Madhesh-based parties’ decline and urged unity to safeguard the movement’s achievements, accusing them of blocking Ramraja Prasad Singh’s presidency.

Low Visibility Disrupts Flights at TIA: Flights at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) were disrupted due to low visibility caused by bad weather. A Qatar Airways flight from Doha was diverted to Kolkata, while Nepal Airlines from Malaysia and Air China’s flight were also rerouted. A Sichuan Airlines flight was canceled.

Many domestic flights were affected, with cancellations on Kathmandu-Pokhara, Kathmandu-Bharatpur, Kathmandu-Nepalgunj, Kathmandu-Rajbiraj, Kathmandu-Biratnagar, Kathmandu-Janakpur, Kathmandu-Bhadrapur, and Kathmandu-Bhairahawa routes. Most flights faced delays, but operations gradually resumed in the afternoon.

Landslide Blocks Mahakali Highway at Kimtadi: A landslide at Kimtadi, Mahakali Municipality-5, has blocked the Mahakali Highway, halting traffic since this morning. Chief District Officer Yagya Raj Joshi confirmed vehicles remain stranded. Lawaraj Awasthi noted a similar landslide occurred in January, with traffic resuming only after road repairs.

Snowfall Blocks Baglung Section of Mid-Hills Highway: Heavy snowfall and rain have blocked the Nishikhola-East Rukum section of the Mid-Hills Highway in Baglung. One and a half feet of snow has accumulated, halting vehicles to and from East Rukum, Jajarkot, and Dolpa. Authorities plan to clear the road once snowfall stops, disrupting travel and daily life.

Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah Warns PM Oli: ‘Don’t Sink the Country Over Rivalry’: Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah has urged PM KP Sharma Oli not to endanger the country while trying to undermine him. In a Facebook post, Shah accused Oli of attempting to defeat him by starving the people. Their relationship has soured despite Oli gifting Shah a tabla after his election victory.

Govt Announces 28 Public Holidays for 2082 BS, Including Six for Dashain: The government has released the public holiday schedule for 2082 BS, granting 28 holidays from mid-April 2025 to mid-April 2026. The list includes six holidays for Dashain and five for Tihar. Additionally, all Saturdays remain public holidays, with special holidays designated for specific religions, regions, and communities.

Earthquake in Sindhupalchok Affects Seven Districts, Injures Six: An earthquake centered near Bhairabkund, Sindhupalchok, early Friday affected seven districts, injuring six people and damaging multiple structures, Nepal Police reported. According to spokesperson DIG Dinesh Kumar Acharya, the quake caused injuries in Kathmandu and Sindhupalchok, while damaging homes in Sankhuwasabha, Dolakha, Myagdi, Bhojpur, and Dhading.

Madhav Nepal Accuses PM Oli of Violating Constitution: CPN (Unified Socialist) Chairperson Madhav Kumar Nepal accused PM KP Sharma Oli of being a “master” at violating constitutional procedures. Speaking at an interaction on the land ordinance, he claimed Oli disregards legal frameworks, citing past House dissolutions. He criticized the government for bypassing parliamentary procedures with ordinances.

Upendra Yadav Opposes Land Ordinance, Calls It Harmful: JSP Nepal Chairperson Upendra Yadav criticized the government’s land ordinance, claiming it benefits land mafias and real estate brokers under the guise of squatter management. He warned it could lead to deforestation, halt international forest conservation aid, and exploit state resources for private gains.

Foreign Minister Rana Seeks Global Backing for Nepal’s UN Candidacy: Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba termed her Geneva visit successful and result-oriented. She addressed the UN Human Rights Council, highlighting Nepal’s human rights efforts and urging support for its 2027-2029 membership bid. She also engaged in high-level meetings with UN officials and foreign ministers on bilateral cooperation.

Nepal’s First Female Judge Sharda Shrestha Passes Away at 84: Nepal’s first female judge, Sharda Shrestha, passed away at 84 on Friday morning. Her final rites were performed at Pashupati Aryaghat. Shrestha, who had been undergoing treatment at Maharajgunj Police Hospital.

Sudan Kirati Accuses Middlemen of Trying to Control Pashupati, Lumbini: Former Minister and CPN (Maoist Centre) leader Sudan Kirati has accused middlemen of attempting to influence the state to take control of Pashupati and Lumbini. Speaking at a Kirat Rai Bantawa Khim event, he alleged corruption in development projects and criticized state actions against Mukumlung.

Mahabir Pun Criticizes Political Leaders for Targeting Good Employees: Scientist and National Innovation Center founder Mahabir Pun has condemned political leaders for harassing efficient employees instead of rewarding them.

In a Facebook post, Pun urged the public to punish selfish leaders who repeatedly seek explanations from competent officials. His remarks hint at government pressure on NEA chief Kulman Ghising.

295 RSP Kathmandu Officials Sworn In: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) administered the oath to 295 newly elected officials from 41 wards in Kathmandu on Friday. The event, held at the party’s central office, was attended by senior leaders, including Acting Chair Dol Prasad Aryal. So far, 81 out of 138 wards have completed conventions.

Purnima Shrestha Named Goodwill Ambassador for Annapurna Anniversary: The French Embassy has appointed mountaineer and photojournalist Purnima Shrestha as the Goodwill Ambassador for the 75th anniversary of Annapurna’s first ascent. The historic climb, achieved on June 3, 1950, by French climbers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal, will be commemorated on June 3, 2025.

Suspect Arrested for Murder of Third-Gender Individual in Kathmandu: Police have arrested Birat Thakuri of Dolakha on charges of murdering a third-gender individual in Sukedhara. CCTV footage confirmed the crime occurred Tuesday night, though the body was found Thursday. Thakuri, arrested in Bhaktapur, admitted to the killing, citing a drug-related dispute, police said.

Nepal Electricity Authority Earns NPR 11.36 Billion Profit in First Half of FY 2081/82: The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) earned NPR 11.36 billion profit in the first half of FY 2081/82. With revenue of NPR 70.44 billion from electricity sales and other sources, and expenditures of NPR 59.08 billion, NEA achieved consistent profitability. Exporting power to India generated NPR 13.09 billion in revenue.

Insurance Companies Expanding Branches Amid Economic Slump: Despite the economic slowdown, insurance companies are increasing branch offices. Seven newly licensed small insurers have expanded their networks with new offices across specified provinces. The Nepal Insurance Authority reported a 4.67% increase in the number of branches, with life insurance adding 16 and non-life insurance adding 118.

Non-Life Insurance Business Sees 10% Growth: Non-life insurance business has seen nearly a 10% increase. In the past 7 months, companies earned NPR 24.77 billion in premiums, selling 18,21,927 policies, a 6.98% rise. The motor insurance sector contributes the most, with a 31.03% share, while property insurance premiums grew by 13.67%.

Janakpur Customs Office Achieves 43% of Annual Revenue Target: Janakpur Customs Office has collected NPR 24.73 million in revenue so far in the current fiscal year 2081/82. With an annual target of NPR 57.07 million, it has achieved 43% of the goal. The office faces challenges in meeting its target due to smuggling and economic slowdown.

‘Balidan’ Set for September 29 Release – A Gritty Tale of Struggle and Justice: The highly anticipated Nepali film Balidan is set to release on September 29, 2025 (Phulpati, 2082). Directed by Santosh Sen, the film revolves around the struggle against exploitation and injustice in Nepal. Lead actor Samir Bhatt’s posters depict intense action sequences. The film’s production involved extensive planning and high-end South Indian technology.

Trailer for ‘Anjila’ Unveiled: A Glimpse Into the Life of Nepal’s Football Captain: The trailer for Anjila, a film based on the life of Nepal women’s football captain and goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba, was released on Friday. Directed by Milan Chams, the film captures her struggles and success. Featuring Anjila herself, along with Dayahang Rai and others, it premieres on March 12 (Fagun 29).

Sushil Shrestha’s Comeback Film ‘Out-L: Dafa 219’ Unveils Action-Packed Trailer: After five years, actor Sushil Shrestha returns with Out-L: Dafa 219, whose trailer has been released. The gripping three-minute trailer follows a ‘most wanted’ criminal, played by Sushil, and the police’s relentless pursuit. With high-intensity action, powerful background music, and stylish cinematography, the film is set for a March 13 release.

FC Khumaltar Secures 3-0 Victory Over Tribhuvan Army in ANFA U-16 Youth League: Struggling FC Khumaltar defeated Tribhuvan Army 3-0 in the ANFA U-16 Youth League at Satdobato. Dinesh Shahi scored twice, and Seyon Rai added another. Despite the win, Khumaltar remains 10th with seven points from 15 matches, while Army is still winless in the tournament.

Kathmandu Thrashes Bhaktapur by 261 Runs in PM Cup Cricket: Kathmandu stormed to a commanding 261-run victory over Bhaktapur in the PM Cup Bagmati Cricket qualifiers at Mulpani. Ishan Pandey (173) and Rit Gautam (134) powered Kathmandu to 430/7 before Bhaktapur crumbled for 169. Meanwhile, Makwanpur clinched a thrilling eight-run win over Chitwan at Gautam.

World Cup Winner Gianluigi Buffon Set to Visit Nepal for KP Oli Cup: Italian football legend and World Cup-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is confirmed to visit Nepal as the chief guest for the KP Oli Cup. In a video shared by the event organizers, Buffon announced his arrival in early March. The tournament’s final will be held on March 2 at Dasharath Stadium.

Tribhuvan Army Club Enters KP Oli Cup Final: Tribhuvan Army Club defeated Sankata Club 2-1 to reach the KP Oli Cup final at Dasharath Stadium. Nawayug Shrestha and Dinesh Hemjan scored for Army, while Bishan Gurung’s injury-time goal was a consolation for Sankata. Army will now face the winner of the KP vs. Machhindra Football Club semifinal for the title.

Nepal Women’s Football Captain Anjila Tumbapo Subba Departs for Greece: National women’s football team captain Anjila Tumbapo Subba left for Greece to play in the A Division club Nees Atromitou. ANFA officials saw her off at Tribhuvan International Airport. Nepal recently lost 0-2 to Myanmar in the International Women’s Championship final, which also featured Lebanon and Kyrgyzstan.

Modi, EU Chief Hold Talks to Strengthen Strategic Ties: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are holding delegation-level talks in New Delhi. Accompanied by 22 EU Commissioners, this landmark visit aims to deepen bilateral relations in trade, investment, climate change, and technology. India-EU trade has surged by 90% in a decade.

Amit Shah Orders Strict Action Against Illegal Intruders: India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed strict action against networks aiding Bangladeshi and Rohingya intruders, emphasizing national security. Chairing a high-level Delhi meeting, he called for their identification and deportation. Shah also focused on eliminating gangs, narcotics networks, fast-tracking riot cases, and improving traffic management and security measures.

Heavy Snowfall, Landslides Disrupt Life in Himachal; Schools Shut in Four Districts: Heavy rain and snowfall continue for the third day in Himachal Pradesh, cutting off several regions, including Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur. Landslides have blocked highways and roads, while authorities are working to restore connectivity. Schools remain closed in four districts, and tourists are advised to avoid risky areas.

Keir Starmer, Trump Discuss Ukraine-Russia Peace Plan with European Peacekeepers: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed a potential Ukraine-Russia peace agreement involving Kyiv and backed by European peacekeeping forces. While Starmer emphasized a “tough and fair” deal that does not reward Russian aggression, Trump remained noncommittal on U.S. security guarantees, instead hinting at leveraging access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals as part of the agreement. Trump also defended direct negotiations with Russia, calling it “common sense.”

Trump Announces New Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China Over Drug Concerns: U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on imported goods from Canada and Mexico, citing their failure to curb drug flow into the U.S. He also imposed an additional 10% tariff on Chinese exports, accusing China of supplying fentanyl. China previously retaliated with tariffs on U.S. goods.

Chinese AI Startup DeepSeek Wraps Up Open Source Week with Fifth Code Release: Chinese AI firm DeepSeek concluded its Open Source Week by releasing its fifth code repository, reinforcing its push for open AI development. The Hangzhou-based startup made five AI tools available on GitHub and Hugging Face, earning global praise for enhancing machine learning efficiency. Experts likened DeepSeek’s initiative to a transformative movement, democratizing AI access worldwide.