Kathmandu
Monday, November 17, 2025
KATHMANDU: Nepal News is transforming the way stories are told in Nepal. No longer content with simply reporting events, our journalists dig deeper, asking not only what is happening, but why it matters.
Each story is carefully planned, with clear assignments, structured outlines, thorough research, verified data, and insightful quotes. Every piece is thoughtfully edited and crafted to provide clarity amid the noise.
Every week, we present a curated selection of stories that capture the heartbeat of Nepal — from groundbreaking investigative reports to human-interest features, policy analyses, and cultural insights. These are more than just news stories; they are windows into the forces shaping our society, economy, and daily lives.
Here’s a look at the seven standout features from last week, each reflecting our commitment to quality journalism, storytelling depth, and editorial integrity. Explore these stories to understand not just the headlines, but the narratives behind them.
‘My father Boris, who started tourism in Nepal, was an amazing man’: Michael
In an interview conducted by Nepal News Editor in Chief Prashant Aryal, Michael Lissanevitch reflects on the extraordinary life of his father, Boris Lissanevitch, celebrated as Nepal’s Grandfather of Tourism. Michael recounts Boris’s arrival in the 1950s, his creation of the Royal Hotel, his role in shaping Nepal’s early tourism industry, and his vibrant relationships with global celebrities and Nepali royalty. He also shares personal stories of family struggles, cultural contributions, and his own deep bond with Nepal.
Province Chief’s disputed move sparks outrage
In a detailed report by district correspondent Birendra Raman, Madhesh Province has plunged into turmoil after Province Chief Sumitra Subedi Bhandari secretly appointed UML leader Saroj Kumar Yadav as Chief Minister in a late night ceremony held at a Bardibas hotel. The move triggered vandalism, fierce protests, and clashes at Madhesh Bhawan as opposition parties accused Bhandari and Speaker Ram Chandra Mandal of subverting constitutional norms. With parties demanding legal action and analysts calling the appointment unethical and unconstitutional, the crisis has escalated into a broader challenge to federalism.
Kavre land deal mirrors Patanjali scandal: Trishakti and CG involvement
In an investigative report by special representative Khila Nath Dhakal, decades of concealed land irregularities in Panauti have surfaced, revealing how Trishakti Cement acquired over 200 ropani for an industry that was never built, then illegally transferred much of it to industrialist Binod Chaudhary. The land, originally exempted from ceiling limits for industrial use, is now the site of CG Holdings’ luxury housing project. Government records, ministerial decisions, and a CIAA probe show serious legal violations, frozen plots, attempted resales, and questionable leases, exposing 25 years of official inaction.
Rs 14.720 Billion tax bonanza: Assembling firms pocket massive tax waivers in 5 years
Uddab Thapa, Special Representative at Nepal News, reports that nearly a decade after the government introduced incentives for domestic vehicle assembly, consumers in Nepal have seen little benefit, while select businessmen have profited from tax exemptions. Since FY 2016/17, assembly industries have received customs and excise duty relief worth billions, yet vehicle prices, employment, and value addition remain limited. Weak oversight, unclear safety standards, and inconsistent production persist. Experts call for legal stability in tax policy and rigorous monitoring to ensure consumers gain tangible benefits.
The barren harvest: Sports associations produce neither growth nor talent
Deep Subedi, Correspondent at Nepal News, reports that many Nepali sports associations, including the Nepal Ice Hockey, Ski, Futsal, and Archery Associations, remain largely inactive despite existing for years. Lacking offices, athletes, and infrastructure, officials often focus on foreign travel and personal gain rather than organizing competitions. The National Sports Council and Ministry of Youth and Sports are aware, with recent directives to revive activities and enforce the Sports Development Act, requiring national-level competitions and stricter monitoring to prevent misuse of association registration for prestige or benefits.
Carbohydrate hegemony in the Nepali kitchen
Kalpana Bhattarai, Correspondent at Nepal News, reports that Nepali diets are heavily carbohydrate-based, with rice dominating morning and evening meals, contributing to rising obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Cases like Sita Khatri and Arjun Kumar Bhattarai exemplify this trend. Experts, including Dr. Jyoti Bhattarai of Metro Hospital and nutritionist Kabita Maharjan, warn that excessive rice consumption, low intake of fiber-rich foods, and reliance on processed carbohydrates are major health risks. Authorities emphasize balanced diets, reduced carbs, and increased awareness to curb the growing health crisis.
https://english.nepalnews.com/s/health/carbohydrate-hegemony-in-the-nepali-kitchen/
Youth pursue more cosmetic surgeries as beauty expectations intensify
Prabhakar Gautam, Senior Correspondent at Nepal News, reports a surge in cosmetic surgery and aesthetic treatments among young Nepalis, driven by social media and global beauty trends. Procedures, ranging from noninvasive skin treatments to facial reconstructive surgery, are sought to enhance self-confidence, emulate idols, or meet societal pressures. Experts, including Dr. Manish Bajracharya and Dr. Eliz Aryal, warn that rising demand, coupled with unlicensed clinics, poses health risks and psychological strain, urging moderation, awareness, and prioritization of education and skills over superficial beauty pursuits.
