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.

14 Injured in Sankhuwasabha Bus Accident; Driver on the Run:
Fourteen people were injured in a road accident at Deurali Ghumti in Laligurans Municipality-1, Sankhuwasabha, on Saturday. A passenger bus (Ba 2 Pa 7244), en route to Damak from Mulgaun in Dharmadevi Municipality, veered off the road and fell about 10 meters, according to DSP Leela Raj Lamichhane of the District Police Office, Tehrathum. Among the injured, 23-year-old Sabin Bista of Dharmadevi-9 is in critical condition and has been referred to BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan. The remaining victims are being treated at Basantapur Hospital. Meanwhile, the bus driver, Khem Mahat of Dharmadevi-6, has fled the scene.

Former President Yadav Warns of Ecological Crisis, Calls for Urgent Conservation of Chure and Forests:
Nepal’s first President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav has expressed concern over the neglect of Nepal’s natural beauty, saying thousands of areas comparable to Switzerland remain unprotected. Speaking at a program organized by the Tarapati Bhattarai Memorial Foundation in Kathmandu on Saturday, Yadav stressed the need to conserve Nepal’s forests and water resources. He lamented that during his lifetime, the destruction of Char Kose Jhadi and the Chure hills has led to severe water shortages in the Terai. Calling Chure the “water reservoir of Nepal,” he warned against ongoing environmental degradation and urged moral responsibility to protect the country’s natural heritage.

PM Oli Briefs President Paudel Ahead of UN Conference in Turkmenistan:
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli met with President Ram Chandra Paudel at the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas, on Saturday. During the meeting, PM Oli informed the President about Nepal’s upcoming participation in the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, scheduled to be held in Awaza, Turkmenistan. According to the President’s Private Secretariat, PM Oli will represent Nepal at the international conference taking place from August 5 to 8, 2025 (20 to 23 Shrawan 2082 BS). The meeting focused on Nepal’s preparations and diplomatic engagements at the high-level forum addressing the unique challenges of landlocked developing nations.

Jhala Nath Khanal Expresses Anger at Madhav Nepal Over Remarks About Leaving Party:
Senior CPN (Unified Socialist) leader Jhala Nath Khanal has expressed deep disappointment and anger toward party chair Madhav Kumar Nepal over remarks suggesting Khanal might leave the party. At a press conference on Saturday, Khanal said he was hurt by Nepal’s statement, questioning whether a true communist leader would issue such an order. He criticized the comments as reflecting “low-level petty bourgeois thinking” and said he had always regarded Nepal as a grand leader. Khanal emphasized he never expected such a statement from a colleague he had worked with since 2032 BS, calling it uncharacteristic of party leadership.

Maoist Centre’s Standing Committee Meeting Postponed Until Sunday:
The CPN (Maoist Centre)’s Standing Committee meeting has been postponed for today after continuing into the afternoon on its second day. The meeting, which began at 11 a.m. Saturday at the party’s central office, will resume at 11 a.m. on Sunday, according to the secretariat of party chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’. Members discussed the agenda and proposals presented by Prachanda on Friday. On Saturday, 18 Standing Committee members, five office bearers, and one official from the Disciplinary Commission expressed their views. Each member was allotted 10 minutes to speak during the session. Discussions are expected to continue tomorrow.

PM Oli Urges Youth to Uphold Ideals of Democratic Struggles and Martyrs:
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has called on the younger generation to carry forward the dreams and sacrifices of the martyrs and leaders of Nepal’s leftist democratic movements. Speaking at an event marking the 28th Tulsilal Memorial Day, organised by the Tulsilal Memorial Foundation, Oli urged youth to uphold the patriotic commitments and vision of a prosperous Nepal set by past leaders. Highlighting Tulsilal Amatya’s lifelong dedication and sacrifices, the UML Chairperson also reflected on the historic role of the Constituent Assembly in establishing republicanism. The event featured a school-level quiz contest award ceremony and a book launch on Buddhist ideologies.

Ram Karki Proposes Leadership Rotation Every 9 Months to Strengthen Democracy in Maoist Centre:
CPN (Maoist Centre) Secretary Ram Karki proposed adopting a leadership rotation system every nine months to promote stronger democracy and address growing centralization within the party. Speaking during the Standing Committee meeting chaired by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ Karki said weakening democracy and authoritarian tendencies have hindered party progress. Deputy General Secretary Bishwarman Pun expressed dissatisfaction over internal disputes being made public and urged members to resolve differences internally. Another leader, Matrika Yadav, offered self-criticism for previously opposing leadership reforms. Party spokesperson Agni Prasad Sapkota said 25 members shared views, with most expressing concern over airing internal conflicts publicly, while Devaendra Paudel emphasized unity under Prachanda’s leadership.

Biplav and Kiranti Hold Intensive Talks on Possible Left Unity:
Netra Bikram Chand ‘Biplav’, General Secretary of the Nepal Communist Party, and CPN (Maoist Centre) leader Sudhan Kiranti held a 75-minute meeting in Hattiban on Saturday to explore the basis for future party unification. The discussion focused on contemporary politics and the need for unity among Nepal’s communist forces to navigate the national crisis. Biplav emphasized collective responsibility in overcoming current challenges, saying, “If not us, who else?” Kiranti gifted Biplav a framed photo of martyr Dil Bahadur Ramtel as a symbolic reminder of past sacrifices. He stressed that building a strong party matters more than public speculation.

Bagmati CM Bahadur Singh Lama Agrees to Resign After Deal with NC President Deuba:
Bagmati Province Chief Minister Bahadur Singh Lama has agreed to step down following an agreement with Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba. According to lawmaker Ram Krishna Chitrakar, Lama will resign on Sunday, ending the impasse after losing the parliamentary party leadership to Indra Baniya. Initially unwilling to resign, Lama reached a compromise allowing him to nominate three ministers—Govinda Lamsal, Maya Shrestha, and Gita Gurung—who are yet to be sworn in. The deal aims to preserve unity within the party despite leadership changes. The agreement was finalized during a meeting at Deuba’s residence in Budhanilkantha on Saturday.

CIEDP Reaffirms Survivor-Centric Approach in Transitional Justice Process:
The Commission of Investigation on Enforced Disappeared Persons (CIEDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring meaningful participation of conflict-era survivors in transitional justice, particularly in truth-seeking and prosecutions. At a stakeholder discussion held Friday, input was gathered to aid in drafting rules under the newly amended Enforced Disappearances Enquiry, Truth and Reconciliation Act, 2071 BS (2014). Commission spokesperson Shrijana Pokhrel said former officials, secretaries, victims’ families, legal experts, and senior government representatives provided key suggestions on investigation mechanisms, thematic expertise, psychosocial support, and confidentiality. These recommendations will guide the preliminary draft, marking progress toward a survivor-focused justice framework.

Shekhar Koirala Stresses Need to Engage Gen-Z in Nepali Congress for Party’s Future:
Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala has emphasized the urgent need to engage the Gen-Z generation in the party to secure its future. Speaking at a program in Biratnagar on Saturday, Koirala warned that failing to connect with the youth could jeopardize the party and weaken democracy itself. He pointed to internal rivalries and egos as reasons behind Congress losing elections despite having strong grassroots presence. Highlighting growing youth disillusionment with politics, he urged converting apathy into attraction. Koirala also advised party president Sher Bahadur Deuba to act as a unifying figure and meet leaders beyond the ruling alliance.

Bhim Rawal Alleges Government Opening Door for Foreign Military Presence in Nepal:
Bhim Rawal, coordinator of the Matribhumi Jagaran Abhiyan, Nepal, has accused the government of enabling the entry of foreign military forces into Nepal. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu on Saturday, Rawal criticized a recently passed law allowing foreign entities to generate electricity from Nepal’s rivers and mandating that project security be handled by the developers themselves. He claimed this provision paves the way for foreign armies to enter Nepal. Rawal also objected to proposed changes in the citizenship bill, questioning how “descendant-based citizenship” is valid if a father’s name and address are no longer required for eligibility.

MrBeast and Mark Rober Launch #TeamWater to Bring Clean Water to 2 Million People:
YouTube stars Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast) and Mark Rober have launched #TeamWater, a global campaign aiming to raise $40 million by August 31 to provide clean water to 2 million people worldwide. Partnering with WaterAid, the initiative unites creators from over 84 countries, leveraging their 2 billion followers to fund sustainable solutions like solar wells and gravity-fed pipelines. Following the success of #TeamTrees and #TeamSeas, this marks their third major environmental push. The campaign emphasizes creator-led, community-driven action to address the global water crisis. All donations will directly support clean water projects across regions from Colombia to Bangladesh.

New Nepali Film ‘Riyal Ringet’ Hits Theatres Nationwide, Highlights Pain and Reality of Migrant Workers:
The Nepali feature film ‘Riyal Ringet’, which portrays the struggles and realities of migrant Nepali workers, was released nationwide on Friday. The film has garnered around 100 screenings across Nepal, and received praise during its premiere for its emotional storytelling, acting, music, and strong social message. Audiences described it as “a mirror of millions of Nepalis’ lives.” The film reflects the hardships of workers in Gulf countries, with its title referencing currencies like the Qatari Riyal, Saudi Riyal, and Malaysian Ringgit. Directed by Vibhor Pokharel and written by Pradeep Bhardwaj, it stars Pramod Chaulagain, Nita Dhungana, and other seasoned actors.

First Look of Nepali Film ‘Maitighar’ Unveiled, Set for Dashain Release:
The first look poster of ‘Maitighar’, produced under the banner of Rohit Adhikari Films, has been released ahead of its nationwide premiere on Asoj 13 (Fulpati day). Directed by Milan Tamang, the film features a strong ensemble cast including Kedar Ghimire, Dhiraj Magar, Prakash Saput, Upasana Singh Thakuri, Shyamashree Sherpa, Buddhi Tamang, and Yuvraj Lama. The story is written by Chandrakumar Dong, with screenplay and dialogue by Ramsharan Pathak. Emphasizing Tamang culture and family bonds, the film blends tradition and emotion. The visually striking poster showcases characters in role, hinting at a heartfelt narrative rooted in cultural values and ancestral ties.

Yam Sherpa’s New Film ‘Mirmire’ to Release Nationwide on Magh 1:
Director Yam Sherpa’s upcoming film ‘Mirmire’ is set to release across Nepal on Magh 1, as announced by the production team on the birthday of lead actress Sirjana Ninglekhu. Produced under the banner of Yarsa Films, the film features Dayahang Rai, Prakash Saput, and Sirjana Ninglekhu in lead roles. This marks the first collaboration between Dayahang and Saput. The film is currently being shot in Chitlang, Makwanpur, with major portions already filmed in Kavrepalanchok. ‘Mirmire’ also stars Maotse Gurung, Chhulthim Gurung, and several child actors. Written and directed by Sherpa, the film is nearing completion and is expected to wrap within two weeks.

Upcoming Film ‘Mohar’ Releases Heartfelt Song Ahead of August 7 Premiere:
The much-anticipated Nepali film ‘Mohar’, slated for release on Saun 23 (August 7), has unveiled a new emotional song titled ‘Sapana Ho Ki Bipana Ho Ki Jindagi’ to deepen its connection with audiences. Sung by Thaneshwor Gautam and Shanti Sri Pariyar, with touching lyrics by Prabha Bartoula and music by Gautam himself, the song beautifully captures themes of love and separation. Directed by Om Pratik and produced by Chumban Jung Shahi, the film stars Paul Shah, Benisha Hamal, and Niti Shah. ‘Mohar’ explores emotional storytelling backed by strong visuals, choreography, and music, and has already generated significant buzz through its trailer and songs.

Singer Bikki Gurung Makes a Powerful Comeback with New Song ‘Dar Lagchha’ After Five Years:
Renowned singer, songwriter, and composer Bikki Gurung has released his new song ‘Dar Lagchha’ after a five-year hiatus. Featuring his own lyrics, music, and vocals, the emotionally rich song stars actors Malika Mahat, Kunsang Bomjan, and model Purnika Sijapati in its music video. Directed by Vijay Dong and produced by Victor Rasailee, the track includes musical elements like flute (Rupesh Shakya), guitar (Suman Bika), and sarangi (Kiran Maharjan). Based in the U.S., Gurung is known for hits like ‘Keval’, ‘Mari Jaaun’, and ‘Mari Jaaun 2’. ‘Dar Lagchha’ blends traditional and modern styles, reinforcing Gurung’s distinct and heartfelt musical identity.

Tribhuvan Army Draws 1–1 with Ladakh FC in Durand Cup Comeback:
Tribhuvan Army Football Club marked its return to the 134th Durand Cup with a 1–1 draw against Ladakh Football Club in Group ‘C’ on Saturday at Jamshedpur’s Tata Sports Complex. Both teams earned their first point of the tournament. Army, which lost 3–2 to hosts Jamshedpur FC in its opening match, faced an early setback in this game when Ladakh’s center-back Sizu scored via a header in the 23rd minute from a corner. However, Nirajan Dhami equalized for Army five minutes before the end of the first half. The match ended in a draw, keeping both teams’ hopes alive in the tournament.

Bharatpur Defeats Ichchhakamana to Enter Semifinals of National Youth Union Football Cup:
Bharatpur Metropolitan Committee advanced to the semifinals of the National Youth Union Nepal Cup Football Tournament by defeating Ichchhakamana Rural Committee 1–0 in a match held today at Krishnapur Ground, Bharatpur. The winning goal came from Betap Lama in the 7th minute, securing a narrow but decisive victory. Rozal Dahal was declared Player of the Match. The tournament, organized by the National Youth Union Bharatpur Metropolitan Committee, will continue until Saun 23. Tomorrow, Rapti Nagar Committee will face Ratnanagar Nagar Committee. The winner will receive NPR 100,000 and the runner-up NPR 50,000, according to coordinator Sagar Bomjan.

Newgen Taekwondo Team to Represent Nepal at 7th Heroes Invitational Cup in Malaysia:
Five players from Newgen Taekwondo Academy will compete in the 7th Heroes Invitational Taekwondo Cup in Malaysia, starting Saun 22. The team includes Samragyee Kshetri, Ryan Aryal, Riya Aryal, Swamik Mahatara, and Bishnu Mahatara, led by coach Supreme Gurung. The players were officially bid farewell today by SAG gold medalist Aayasha Shakya and actor Sandeep Chhetri, who wished them success and encouraged fearless performance. The Heroes Invitational Cup brings together young Taekwondo talents from various countries and is considered a key exposure opportunity for emerging athletes. The tournament aims to foster international experience and sporting excellence among youth participants.

PM Modi Urges Revival of Swadeshi Spirit, Calls for Support to Local Products Amid Global Economic Uncertainty:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a strong appeal to revive the spirit of Swadeshi, urging Indians to prioritise locally-made products and stand united in the face of growing global economic uncertainty. Speaking at a public meeting in his Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, Modi emphasized the importance of self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) to strengthen India’s economy. He encouraged citizens to support Indian industries, farmers, and manufacturers, stating that buying local not only boosts the economy but also preserves cultural heritage. Modi highlighted the challenges posed by global inflation and supply chain disruptions, calling for collective efforts to overcome these obstacles by fostering indigenous production and innovation.

German Armed Forces See 28% Surge in New Recruits Amid Rising Tensions with Russia:
The German armed forces reported a 28% increase in new recruits from January to late July 2025 compared to last year, with over 13,700 joining the Bundeswehr to counter perceived threats from Russia. Germany aims to boost active-duty troops to 260,000 by 2035 and may reintroduce conscription if volunteer numbers fall short. This surge follows a 7% enlistment decline in 2023, which raised doubts about meeting recruitment targets. Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to build Europe’s “strongest conventional army” and increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2029. Moscow condemned NATO’s militarization, accusing Germany of fueling Russophobia.

Trump Deploys Two Nuclear Submarines Amid Rising Tensions with Russia Over Medvedev’s Threats:
US President Donald Trump announced he has ordered two nuclear submarines to be positioned “in the appropriate regions” in response to provocative statements by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Trump expressed concern that Medvedev’s threats, made amid escalating tensions over Ukraine, could lead to unintended consequences. While Trump did not specify deployment locations or whether the submarines are nuclear-armed or powered, he emphasized the move is for protecting US safety. Medvedev had criticized Trump’s repeated ultimatums to Russia over Ukraine and warned of possible nuclear retaliation. The Kremlin has not publicly responded, but Russia’s stock market dropped following Trump’s announcement.