KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top stories.

All Seven Provincial Chiefs Pay Courtesy Call on President Paudel: All seven provincial chiefs paid a courtesy call on President Ram Chandra Paudel on Wednesday morning at the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas. During the meeting, the province heads briefed the President on the situation and developments within their respective provinces. Currently, Parshuram Khapung serves as the Province Chief of Koshi, Sumitra Subedi Bhandari leads Madhesh Province, and Deepak Prasad Devkota is the head of Bagmati Province. Dilli Raj Bhatt is the Province Chief of Gandaki, Krishna Bahadur Ghartimagar leads Lumbini, Yagya Raj Joshi represents Karnali, and Najir Miyan is the chief of Sudurpaschim Province.

Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari Returns Government Service Facilities: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has formally submitted a request to return all government service facilities provided to her. The return of these services has taken effect from today. A close source confirmed, “A request to return all the service facilities entitled to the former president has been sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the facilities are being returned effective today.” On June 28, during a program commemorating the birth anniversary of her late husband, the then-General Secretary of CPN-UML, Bhandari had announced her decision to return to active politics with the UML.

Ruling UML Demands Resignation of Committee Chair Ram Hari Khatiwada: The ruling party, CPN-UML, has joined calls for the resignation of Ram Hari Khatiwada, Chairperson of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives. In today’s committee meeting, UML MP Padam Giri demanded Khatiwada’s resignation, saying, “This is a shameful situation in Nepal’s parliamentary history. The report bears the signatures of the committee chair and secretary. They hold the ultimate responsibility. They have shirked their duties and acted irresponsibly. Morally, they should not remain in their positions.” Giri further stated that the secretary, Suraj Kumar Dura, should also step down alongside the chairperson.

Maoist Centre Holds Speaker Responsible for Manipulation in Civil Service Bill: The main opposition party, CPN (Maoist Centre), has accused Speaker Devraj Ghimire of bearing responsibility for the alleged manipulation of the “cooling-off period” provision in the Federal Civil Service Bill. The party said the Speaker must be held accountable for the discrepancy between what the parliamentary committee had unanimously recommended and what was eventually passed in the House. Speaking at a press conference at the party’s central office in Paris Danda on Wednesday, Maoist Centre spokesperson Agni Prasad Sapkota said, “From the bill’s inclusion in the agenda to its passage, this was not the work of a few individuals. It was a deliberate and premeditated offense. The parliamentary leadership must take moral responsibility for this.”

Congress MP Demand High-Level Probe into Tampering of Civil Service Bill: Nepali Congress lawmakers have called for the formation of a high-level parliamentary investigation committee to probe alleged tampering in the Civil Service Bill—specifically regarding the controversial “cooling-off period” clause. During a meeting of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives today, Congress MP Hridayaram Thani demanded an impartial inquiry. He argued that such a serious manipulation could not have been carried out by a single individual and likely involved a broader group. “A high-level parliamentary committee must be formed to investigate the tampering of the Civil Service Bill,” Thani said.

52, Including Six Chinese Nationals, Arrested Over Illegal Crypto Operations: Nepal Police has arrested 52 individuals, including six Chinese nationals, for their involvement in illegal cryptocurrency trading activities. Those arrested include Zhang Lun, Chen Jihao, Lin De, Su Zheng, Liu Zheyun, and Zhu Linghu—all from Guangdong Province, China. According to Superintendent of Police Yubaraj Khadka of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), the arrests were made after it was found that the suspects were illegally engaged in running a dating app and crypto transactions in Nepal.

Parliamentary Committee Urges National Assembly to Rectify Civil Service Bill Clause: The State Affairs and Good Governance Committee under the House of Representatives has decided to request the National Assembly to correct discrepancies related to the “cooling period” provision in the Civil Service Bill. The decision was made during the committee meeting held on Wednesday at the parliamentary committee room, according to Committee Chairperson Ramhari Khatiwada. He stated that the clause added during the final parliamentary passage of the bill contradicts the intent and structure of Sub-clause 4 of the bill. As a result, the committee has recommended that the National Assembly amend Point 43 of the committee’s report to align with the original spirit of the legislation.

Unified Socialist Demands Clarification from Ram Kumari Jhakri Over Remarks Against Party Chair Nepal: The CPN (Unified Socialist) has sought a formal clarification from leader Ram Kumari Jhakri following her public criticism of party chair Madhav Kumar Nepal, who has been implicated in the Patanjali land scandal. The party’s Central Disciplinary Commission issued a letter on Tuesday (July 1), giving Jhakri three days to respond. Deputy chief of the commission, Bal Chandra Mishra, confirmed that a clarification had been requested, citing her recent remarks. Jhakri made her statements on Asar 15 (June 29) during a training event organized by the party’s youth wing in Butwal. In her address, she raised questions about the leadership’s legitimacy, stating, “We cannot continue forward with a dead carcass on our shoulders.”

U.S. Greenlights Continuation of MCC Projects in Nepal: The United States government has decided to allow the continuation of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact in Nepal, granting a special exemption to ongoing development projects despite a broader freeze on American foreign aid programs. Millennium Challenge Account-Nepal (MCA-Nepal), the implementing agency of the compact, issued a statement on Wednesday confirming the U.S. decision and welcoming the move. The compact, which is worth $500 million in American grant assistance, focuses on upgrading Nepal’s electricity transmission infrastructure and improving key sections of the East-West Highway.

Mohan Basnet Warns Gagan Thapa, Accuses Him of Targeting in Parliament and Corruption Case: Nepali Congress central committee member and former minister Mohan Basnet has issued a warning to party General Secretary Gagan Thapa, claiming that Thapa is working against him. Basnet accused Thapa of speaking excessively against him in Parliament, particularly in relation to the Teramox case. He also suggested that Thapa had a hand in the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) taking action against him. “General Secretary Gagan ji, go ahead and try to get all leaders arrested,” Basnet remarked during a recent party meeting, in a pointed comment aimed at Thapa.

Gagan Thapa Dismisses Mohan Basnet’s Allegations As Politically Indecent: Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has dismissed the accusations made by party central committee member and former minister Mohan Bahadur Basnet as baseless, indecent, and politically inappropriate. Speaking at the party’s Central Working Committee meeting on Wednesday, Thapa said, “I won’t become dirty by spreading dirt,” in response to Basnet’s allegations. Basnet, recently released on bail in connection with the Terramox case, had indirectly accused Thapa of being behind the CIAA investigation against him. Thapa, however, rejected the claims, saying they crossed the boundaries of political and civil discourse.

School Education Bill Coming Soon, Says Education Minister Panta in National Assembly: In today’s meeting of the National Assembly, Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Raghuji Panta clarified that the government has not halted the School Education Bill and that it will be presented soon. Responding to lawmakers’ concerns during the discussion on the “Appropriation Bill 2082” under the Education Ministry, Pant explained that the bill had only been delayed for a few days to reach consensus on certain issues. According to an earlier agreement with the Teachers’ Federation, the bill was to be tabled by Asar 15 (June 29).

KMC Opens Online Scholarship Applications for Grades 11 and 12: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has opened online applications for scholarships for students studying in Grades 11 and 12. According to the Education Department, applications can be submitted from July 2, 2025, until July 11, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Students across Nepal are eligible to apply. Each year, the city conducts scholarship exams for 10% of students enrolled in institutional (private) schools within its jurisdiction. Since 2022, the city has provided scholarships to around 15,000 students under this program. For the 2025–26 academic year, the scholarship exam is scheduled for July 19, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Another Arrest in Karnali Development Bank Scam, Former Chairperson Pashupati Dayal Mishra Held: In connection with the ongoing investigation into the Karnali Development Bank scam, another individual has been arrested. Former chairperson Pashupati Dayal Mishra was taken into custody from Nepalgunj, according to Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) SSP Hobindra Bogati. Mishra served as the bank’s chairperson from 2009 to 2018. Prior to his arrest, the CIB had already detained the bank’s then chairperson and CEO Rajendra Bir Raya. The suspects are currently being held in the custody of the District Police Office in Nepalgunj, where the CIB is continuing its investigation.

All Indices Rise on Wednesday as NEPSE Surges for Fourth Straight Day: All indicators of Nepal’s stock market rose on Wednesday, with the NEPSE index, Sensitive Index, and sectoral indices all posting gains. The NEPSE index climbed by 34.42 points, or 1.29%, compared to the previous trading day, reaching 2,694 points. This marks the fourth consecutive day of gains for the NEPSE. Trading volume also saw a significant rise. While the total turnover on the previous day stood at NPR 7.03 billion, it jumped to NPR 9.74 billion today. The hydropower sector accounted for the largest share, with trading worth NPR 4.56 billion. Out of all traded companies, share prices of 182 rose, 65 declined, and one remained unchanged.

NRB Withdraws Rs 60 billion Liquidity Amid Excess in Banking System: With excess liquidity in the banking system, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) withdrew Rs 60 billion from the market on Wednesday. According to the NRB’s Monetary Management Department, the liquidity was withdrawn through a 63-day deposit collection instrument via auction. This move follows a similar operation on Sunday, when the central bank withdrew Rs 30 billion for the same duration. Banks and financial institutions interested in investing through the deposit collection tool submitted bids with a minimum of Rs 100 million and a maximum divisible amount of Rs 500 million.

Nepal Rastra Bank Penalizes Two Commercial Banks and Two Payment Service Providers: Nepal Rastra Bank has taken action against Agriculture Development Bank and Jyoti Development Bank for violating unified directives. Agriculture Development Bank was issued only a warning for failing to comply with the Unified Directive, 2024, which applies to class A, B, and C banks and financial institutions. Besides this, payment service providers Paywell Nepal Pvt. Ltd. and Sajilo Pay Payment Service have been completely revoked (their licenses canceled).

SEBON to Amend Rules to Extend Deadline for Brokers: Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) is amending the Securities Business Regulations, 2007, allowing broker companies that have not met the paid-up capital threshold additional time until the end of Chaitra (mid-April) to comply. The board has sent the amendment proposal to the Ministry of Finance for approval.

Government Targets 100% Electricity Access Within Two Years: Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Deepak Khadka said the government aims to provide 100% electricity access across the country within two years. Replying to questions during the National Assembly budget session on Wednesday, the minister said programs are underway to increase annual per capita electricity consumption to 1,500 units within two years. He expressed confidence that achieving this target would establish Nepal as an energy-exporting nation and generate NPR 8.886 billion in revenue.

Nepali Film ‘Chitra’ Now Available Worldwide on Amazon Prime Video: The film “Chitra,” directed by Ghanshyam Lamichhane, is now accessible to audiences around the world. The movie has been released on the OTT platform Prime Video (Amazon Prime Video). Originally premiered in Nepal on Poush 27, 2080 BS (January 12, 2024), the film has been Hindi-dubbed and digitally distributed internationally by Release World. According to the producers, “Chitra” is the first Nepali film to be released globally on Amazon Prime. Earlier, Nepali films were limited to the UK or USA versions of Amazon Prime, but “Chitra” has broken this boundary by launching on the global platform.

Singer Shantishree Pariyar’s Teej Song ‘Maya’ Released with Music Video: Singer Shantishree Pariyar’s Teej song “Maya” has been released. The lyrics are written by Rekhiram Biyogi, and the melody was composed by Sherchan Sunar. The song’s music arrangement is by Govind Anek. A music video has also been produced, featuring performances by Juna Bishwakarma, Sherchan Sunar, and Khim Bahadur GM. The video is directed and choreographed by Smriti Timilsina, known as “Guruama.” Cinematography was handled by Mahesh Maharak, and the editing was done by Naveen Ghartimagar.

Poster of Nepal’s First Film ‘Aama’ Featured on Postage Stamps: The poster of the film “Aama” has been printed on postage stamps. This announcement was made by the Film Development Board during a special program held on Monday to mark its 25th anniversary. “Aama,” released in Ashoj 2021 BS (mid-1964 AD), is Nepal’s first-ever film. Directed by Hira Singh Khatri, the film starred Shivshankar Khatri and Bhuvan Chand in the lead roles. This film is considered the beginning of the Nepali film industry. The Postal Services Department has issued two stamps, each valued at Rs. 10, featuring the “Aama” poster.

Popular Comedian Maksam Gaudel to Return to Acting After Health Treatment: Popular comedian among the youth, Mexam Gaudel, is set to return to acting after receiving medical treatment. He shared via social media that his health is gradually improving and that he will soon resume his artistic career. “After suddenly facing health issues a few months ago, I have been undergoing treatment, and my health is now progressively getting better,” he wrote. Gaudel was admitted to Medanta Hospital in Delhi a few months ago for treatment after developing a wound on his pancreas. He has recently been appearing on the show “Comedy Night with Champions.”

Nepal Crushes Sri Lanka 8-0 in AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers: Nepal registered a thumping 8–0 victory over Sri Lanka in their second match of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers on Wednesday. Star forward Sabitra Bhandari (Samba) scored a first-half hat-trick, while Geeta Rana netted twice. Nisha Thokar, Rekha Paudel, and Pooja Rana added one goal each to seal the dominant win.

Former Nepal U-20 Women’s Players Anjali Chand and Sabina Chaudhary Sign with Bhutan’s Thimphu City FC: Former Nepal national U-20 women’s team players Anjali Chand and Sabina Chaudhary have signed contracts with Bhutan’s Thimphu City FC. They will represent Thimphu City in the 2025 Bhutan Women’s National League. Both players have agreements valid until October 2025. Currently, Thimphu City FC is placed fourth in the league standings based on goal difference, having won their first two matches. Anjali plays as a midfielder, while Sabina serves as a defender. The signing was made possible at the request of Thimphu City FC owner Hise Chiring, according to independent football agent Navin Chitrakar.

TU Cricket Ground Renovation Misses Extended Deadline Again: The renovation work at the Tribhuvan University cricket ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, is unlikely to be completed by the newly extended deadline for the second time. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Urban Development held a press conference announcing that the renovation work will extend until the upcoming fiscal year. Project chief Chakravarti Kantha also confirmed that the work will not be completed by the end of Asar (mid-July). Originally, the work began on Falgun 21 (early March) with a plan to finish by Baishakh 24 (early May). However, as the project was not completed on time, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli instructed that the work must be finished by the end of Asar, leading to a deadline extension accordingly.

Sports Ministry’s 31 Event Registrations Not Accepted by Organizers of 20^th Asian Games: The Ministry of Youth and Sports recently sent registration emails for 31 sports events to the organizing committees for the 20th Asian Games. However, it has been understood that these committees have not registered the events directly. The organizing committees responded that, as per rules, registrations must be done through the Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC). They asked the ministry to coordinate via NOC accordingly. NOC President Jeevan Ram Shrestha clarified that 30 sports events have already been registered through the NOC. The organizing committees confirmed that registrations for these 30 sports are complete and instructed the ministry to liaise through the NOC.

Karnali Yaks Retain Sompal Kami and Six Others for NPL Season Two: The Nepal Premier League (NPL) franchise team Karnali Yaks has retained seven players, including marquee player Sompal Kami, for the second season of the tournament. The team has decided to keep Gulshan Jha, Nandan Yadav, Bipin Prasad Sharma, Dipendra Rawat, Arjun Gharti, and Younis Singh Thakuri along with Kami. Meanwhile, Karnali has released Dev Khanal, Rit Gautam, Mausam Dhakal, Bhuvan Karki, and Deepak Dumre ahead of the upcoming season. Last season, Karnali Yaks made headlines by signing Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan.

Over 40 Palestinians killed as Trump says Israel agrees to Gaza truce: Israeli forces have killed more than 40 Palestinians across Gaza as they target aid seekers and displaced people sheltering in tents. More than 610 Palestinians have been killed in just five weeks while waiting for food parcels at the US and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) sites. US President Donald Trump says Israel has agreed to “the necessary conditions to finalize” a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, and urges Hamas to accept the proposal. Officials at al-Shifa, the largest medical centre in northern Gaza, say hundreds of patients are “facing death” as the hospital runs out of fuel amid Israel’s blockade.

US Halts Some Weapons Shipments to Ukraine, White House Says: The US has halted some weapons shipments to Kyiv, the White House has said, as Russia’s war against Ukraine has intensified. The decision was taken “to put America’s interests first” following a Department of Defense review of US “military support and assistance to other countries”, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said on Tuesday. The US has sent tens of billions of dollars in military aid to Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, leading some in the Trump administration to voice concerns that US stockpiles are too low.

Trump Threatens Japan with Tariff Up To 35% As Deadline Looms: US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a “30% or 35%” tariff on Japan if a deal between the two countries is not reached before a deadline next week. That would be well above the 24% tariff Japan was hit with as part of Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day” on 2 April, when he announced steep import duties on countries around the world. The tariffs on most US trading partners, including Japan, were later lowered to 10% for 90 days to give them time to negotiate deals with Washington. That pause is due to expire on 9 July and Trump has said he is not planning to extend the deadline.

Kanye West Blocked from Entering Australia over Hitler Song: American rapper Kanye West has been blocked from entering Australia over a song glorifying Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. Australia’s home affairs minister Tony Burke revealed that his department had cancelled West’s valid visa after the song Heil Hitler was released in early May. West’s song has been widely condemned and has been banned on most platforms. The highly controversial rapper, also known as Ye, identifies as a Nazi and is known for his anti-Semitic comments. He is married to Australian designer Bianca Censori.