KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefg, inbringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know.

President Paudel Defends New PM Appointment in Supreme Court Reply

The President’s Office submitted a written reply to the Supreme Court, defending President Ram Chandra Paudel’s appointment of the new Prime Minister following the Gen Z protest. The reply asserts that the decision was made in consultation with political parties and the then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to avoid a constitutional vacuum and provide political stability. The office claims the action aligns with the president’s constitutional duty to protect the constitution and promote national unity. It argues that given the “critical circumstances” and lack of immediate constitutional alternatives, the decision is protected by the doctrine of necessity.

All-Party Meeting Called to Discuss March 5 Election Security

Prime Minister Sushila Karki has called an all-party meeting at her official residence in Balwatar at 4:00 PM to discuss preparations for the March 5, 2026, general election. The meeting will include representatives from the government, the five major political parties, Election Commission commissioners, and the chiefs of the security agencies. The primary focus of the discussion is expected to be ensuring a secure environment for the elections, a priority repeatedly raised by political parties in previous discussions with the prime minister.

Election Commission Debates Six Parties Seeking Registration with Unpaid Fines

The Election Commission (EC) is debating whether to register six political parties for the upcoming March 5, 2026, election because they have failed to pay fines for not submitting their income and expenditure details for the fiscal year 2023/24. These parties, which include Akhand Sudurpaschim Party Nepal and Rashtrabadi Yuwa Morcha, have filed registration applications despite being penalized. While the deadline to submit details for the last fiscal year is mid-February 2026, the EC must decide on the applications of these non-compliant parties before proceeding with the election preparations.

Proportional Representation System Mandates 50 Percent Women Candidates

The House of Representatives Election Act mandates that political parties must ensure that at least 50 percent of their total candidates under the proportional representation (PR) system are women. The Election Commission (EC) has set the timeline for the PR system to begin on December 7. Parties can submit their applications from December 7 to 9, with the final list of closed-list candidates due on December 28 and 29. The law also requires candidates to be selected based on inclusive principles, including geographical and provincial balance.

Traffic Police Mandate Departure from Bus Parks Only

The Valley Traffic Police Office has strictly enforced a new rule requiring all long-distance public transport vehicles to depart exclusively from designated bus parks in the Kathmandu Valley. Spokesperson Naresh Raj Subedi explained that the measure is aimed at controlling severe traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, which is often caused by long-distance vehicles illegally picking up and dropping off passengers on busy roads. The office is also reviewing route permits and plans to intensify awareness classes for drivers who violate rules like speeding or driving under the influence.

Nepal’s Farm Soil Quality Declining: 54% Found Acidic

A government report from the Department of Agriculture’s latest Digital Soil Map shows that the quality of Nepal’s agricultural soil is deteriorating. Fifty-four percent of the total soil tested is acidic, a one percent increase from last year. Additionally, the average organic matter content has decreased to 2.59 percent from 2.77 percent last year. The primary reasons cited are the imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers, low use of organic manure, excessive pesticide use, and soil erosion, which causes about 1.7 millimeters of topsoil loss annually.

Nepal Marks 12th World Soil Day with Focus on Soil Health

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development is observing the 12th World Soil Day with the main event scheduled for Friday. The theme for this year is “Healthy Soil, Healthy Villages, and Cities.” Data shows that approximately 54 percent of tested soil in Nepal is acidic, and 37 percent is low in organic matter. The day aims to promote sustainable soil management and strengthen fertility for future generations. Soil testing was formally initiated in Nepal in 2014, in Panchkhal, Kavrepalanchok.

Kirant Community Celebrates Udhauli Festival

The Kirant community celebrated the Udhauli festival with joy and reverence for ancestors and nature on Thursday, the occasion of Mangsir Purnima. This festival marks the celebration of the harvest and also symbolizes the time when people, animals, and birds migrate from the hills to the warmer plains for the winter. The festival is observed with different names by subgroups: Chasuwa by the Yakkha, Folasadar by the Sunuwar, Udhauli Sakela by the Rai, and Chasok Tangnam by the Limbu. Worship is performed at Sakelastan.

KMC Deputy Mayor Dangol Stresses Yomari Punhi as a ‘Culture’

On Thursday, Yomari Punhi was observed in Nepal, a special festival of the Newar community. Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol emphasized that Yomari Punhi should be celebrated as a “culture,” not just a festival. Addressing the 22nd National Jyapu Day and Yomari Punhi program, she highlighted that the Jyapu Day reflects the diligence, soil, and identity of the Jyapu community. Dangol stated that the celebration, including its various jatras and traditions, must be viewed as an integral part of the community’s existence, promoting the goal of making the Nepali name globally recognized.

Uncertainty Looms Over Rasuwagadhi Border Reopening

Trade between Nepal and China remains uncertain despite the near completion of a Bailey bridge at the Rasuwagadhi border. The key commercial route has been severely impacted since its infrastructure was washed away by a flood on July 8. Although the Bailey bridge is ready, the date for operation is unknown, as the construction company has yet to hand it over to the Chinese side. Furthermore, the Korala border in Mustang has closed for the winter season, compounding trade difficulties.

Prime Minister Karki Pledges to Hold Election on March 5

Prime Minister Sushila Karki pledged that the government is fully committed to holding the general election on the announced date of March 5, 2026. Addressing the 22nd National Jyapu Day on Thursday, she stated the government’s duty is to hand over power to the youth and set the country on the path of rapid development. Karki emphasized that the government is fully engaged in this goal and called for cooperation from all Nepalis. She noted that the Gen Z protester’s demands for good governance and employment must be fulfilled.

UML to Mobilize 10,000 Volunteers for General Convention Opening

The CPN (UML) plans to mobilize 10,000 volunteers for the open session of its 11th National General Convention. Bhanubhakta Dhakal, coordinator of the Volunteer Mobilization Committee, stated that the large deployment is necessary for the opening ceremony at the Sallaghari Open Field in Bhaktapur on December 13. Approximately 500 volunteers will be deployed for the closed session at Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu. The convention, running from December 13 to 15, will feature 2,400 delegates, with volunteers also managing parking arrangements for vehicles arriving from the east and west.

NC Sends Membership Forms for 15th General Convention

The Nepali Congress (NC) has begun dispatching active membership forms to all regions, municipalities, and wards in preparation for its 15th General Convention, scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from January 10 to 12, 2026. The party has issued a circular setting strict eligibility criteria for candidates. Specifically, individuals convicted of social discrimination, domestic violence, or child labor are ineligible. Additionally, those elected via the proportional representation system in the 2022 elections cannot be nominated for the upcoming bye-elections or future proportional seats.

Durga Prasai Demands Referendum on Monarchy and Federalism

Durga Prasai, Patron of the Nagrik Bachau Dal, has called on the interim government to hold a referendum on the restoration of the Vedic Sanatan Hindu religion, the monarchy, the abolition of provinces, and the implementation of a directly elected executive system. Prasai warned that a referendum is the “last option” if the government wants to avoid conflict. He criticized the current government for failing to prosecute corrupt officials and arresting Gen Z activists, stating the government is moving in the wrong direction and must release the arrested individuals.

CPN (UML) to Use E-Voting for 11th National General Convention

The CPN (UML) has decided to use electronic voting machines for the leadership election at its upcoming 11th National General Convention. The convention is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from December 13 to 15, with the closed session taking place at Bhrikutimandap. This decision, following the use of e-voting in the 10th convention, aims to expedite the process. The convention will select 15 office bearers and a 251-member Central Committee, with approximately 2,200 delegates expected to participate.

Ratna Park to Offer Free WiFi for Visitors

The renovated Ratna Park (Shankhadhar Udyan) in Kathmandu is set to offer free WiFi access to the public. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has begun installing six Nepal Telecom routers to provide 500 Mbps capacity internet service throughout the park. Entry fees range from Rs 20 for students to Rs 100 for foreign tourists. The park, which charges fees for entry and photo shoots, currently generates between Rs 5 million and Rs 10 million in annual revenue for the KMC.

Dr. Kumar Sharma Acharya Appointed Press Council Chairman

Dr. Kumar Sharma Acharya, a senior advocate and resident of Tulsipur Sub-metropolitan City-2, Dang, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Press Council Nepal. His appointment by the Cabinet fills the leadership vacuum that had existed for six months since the four-year term of the former Chairman, Balkrishna Basnet. Acharya, who holds a PhD from Purbanchal University, stated he would issue a formal response regarding the council’s duties and responsibilities once he formally assumes the role.

Health Ministry Urges Caution Against Flu as Cold Rises

The Ministry of Health and Population has urged the public to take precautions against influenza (flu), which is expected to increase as cold temperatures rise. Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki noted that individuals of all ages are susceptible, but children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with compromised immunity face a higher risk. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. Symptoms include fever, headache, and body aches. The ministry advises frequent hand washing, covering the mouth and nose, staying home when sick, and consuming plenty of fluids and nutritious food for prevention.

Prabhu Management Founder, 4 Others Charged with Fraud

The Attorney’s Office has filed a case against Founder Chairman Devi Prakash Bhattachan of Prabhu Management Private Limited and four individuals, along with two companies, for fraud, criminal breach of trust, and Hundi (illegal remittance). The case alleges a failure to pay back some Rs 65 million in remittance and deposit funds to 38 cooperatives. The maximum sentence for the fraud charge is seven years imprisonment. Separately, Rajendra Shakya, Chairman of the Guna Group, was arrested for a banking offense linked to the Prabhu Group.

Lt. General Shrestha Appointed UNISFA Force Commander

Lieutenant General Ganesh Kumar Shrestha of the Nepali Army has been appointed as the new Force Commander for the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) Peace Mission. UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of Lt. Gen. Shrestha, who has 36 years of service in the Nepali Army and has held leadership roles in previous UN missions, including in South Sudan (UNMISS). He succeeds Major General Robert Yaw Affram of Ghana. UNISFA has been deployed since June 27, 2011, to monitor the disputed border between Sudan and South Sudan.

Kathmandu Gorkhas Secure Playoff Berth with 13-Run Win

The Kathmandu Gorkhas secured a playoff berth by defeating the Pokhara Avengers by 13 runs in today’s first final league match. Chasing 166, Pokhara were bowled out for 152 in 20 overs. Shahab Alam starred with a match-winning six wickets for 25 runs from four overs, supported by Karan KC and Sunny Patel, who took two wickets each. Earlier, Kathmandu posted 165 for eight with half-centuries from Ben Charlesworth (64 off 55) and Bhim Sharki (55 off 23). Pokhara’s chase was led by Rishi Dhawan’s quick 54 off 31.

CAN Announces 26-Member Preliminary Squad

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) announced a 26-member preliminary women’s cricket team today for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualifier. The squad includes notable players such as Indu Barma, Sita Rana Magar, and Rubina Kshetry. The team will begin a closed-door training session at Mulpani Cricket Ground starting Friday. The global qualifier, hosted in Nepal, will run from January 12 to February 1, 2026. The top four countries will qualify for the World Cup in England in June 2026. Nepal is placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh, Namibia, the Netherlands, and Papua New Guinea.

SAFF Women’s Club Championship Begins Friday in Kathmandu

The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women’s Club Championship begins on Friday at Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu. The tournament features the host, APF Club (Nepal), and clubs from four other countries. APF will play its first match against Nasrin Sports Academy (Bangladesh) at 6:00 PM on Friday. APF Coach Jibesh Kumar Pandey stated the club’s goal is to keep the title at home, noting that the team is ready and filled with national players. The top two teams from the league stage will compete for the championship title.

NKL to Host NextGen Inter-School Kabaddi Championship

Nepal Kabaddi League (NKL) will host the NKL NextGen Inter School Kabaddi Championship to foster player development from the grassroots level. The Kathmandu Valley selection tournament begins this coming Sunday at Mid Valley Secondary School in Thimi, Bhaktapur, featuring eight schools. Winners from this and other regional selections in Pokhara, Biratnagar, Butwal, Dhangadhi, and Janakpur will compete in the final round during NKL Season 2. The initiative aims to increase interest in Nepali Kabaddi, following the success of the first season, which saw Janakpur Knights crowned champions.

Film ‘Abhimanyu: Chapter 1’ Released on Holiday

The film Abhimanyu: Chapter 1, starring actors Kameshor Chaurasiya and Laxmi Bardewa, was released on Thursday, capitalizing on the Dhanya Purnima and Udhauli festival holiday. Directed by Sushant Gautam and written by Mukesh Khanal, the film also features Kiran Shrestha and actress Rekha Thapa in a guest role. The movie premiered earlier this week and received positive reviews. Produced by Binod Paudel and Gunjan Giri, the film was released globally in both Nepali and Hindi languages, aiming to capitalize on strong word of mouth.

Meta Shuts Down 500,000 Australian Under-16 Accounts Before Ban

Meta has started removing an estimated 500,000 accounts of Australian children under 16 years old from Instagram and Facebook platforms, ahead of the nation’s world-first social media ban on December 10. Approximately 150,000 Facebook users and 350,000 Instagram accounts are affected. Companies face fines of up to USD33 million if they fail to take “reasonable steps” to stop under-16s from having accounts. Meta has asked the government to mandate app stores to verify user age to provide a “standardized and privacy-preserving approach.”

Thailand Lifts Afternoon Alcohol Ban for Six-Month Trial

Thailand has temporarily lifted a decades-old ban on the sale of alcoholic drinks in the afternoons as part of a bid to boost tourism. For a six-month trial period, liquor sales are now permitted between 14:00 and 17:00 at accredited establishments. The ban, which was originally introduced in 1972 to stop government employees from drinking during work hours, has long frustrated visitors. Alcohol sales are now allowed continuously from 11:00 to midnight for the next 180 days to maximize tourism revenue during the Christmas and New Year holiday season.

Bangladesh’s New National Citizen Party Trails in Election Polls

The student-led National Citizen Party (NCP), formed after the revolt that toppled Sheikh Hasina, is struggling to gain ground ahead of the February 2026 election. Despite high hopes, an International Republican Institute poll in December showed the NCP in third place with only 6 percent support, trailing the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at 30 percent and Jamaat-e-Islami at 26 percent. NCP chief Nahid Islam (27) acknowledged the party’s weak organization and is holding talks with other parties to form an alliance.

EU Opens Antitrust Probe Against Meta Over WhatsApp AI Integration

The European Commission has opened a new antitrust investigation into Meta Platforms over the rollout of its Meta AI features in WhatsApp. The probe focuses on Meta’s policy regarding AI providers’ access to the messaging service after the Meta AI chatbot was integrated into WhatsApp’s interface in March 2025 across European markets. Italy’s antitrust watchdog is conducting a parallel investigation. The new EU probe will be conducted under traditional antitrust rules, reflecting the growing scrutiny of Big Tech’s use of generative AI.

IndiGo Cancels Over 300 Flights, Stranding Thousands of Passengers

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has canceled over 300 flights since Tuesday, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. The airline, which holds over 60 percent of the domestic market share, blamed technical glitches, weather, and new Flight Duty Time Limit rules for the massive disruption. The Federation of Indian Pilots, however, stated that the cancellations cannot be attributed to the new rules. The DGCA is investigating the crisis, which comes after a recent survey showed 54 percent of passengers reported issues with the airline’s timeliness.

Astronomers Find Massive Spiral Galaxy From Early Universe

Indian astronomers Rashi Jain and Yogesh Wadadekar used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to discover a massive, fully formed spiral galaxy, named Alaknanda, from when the universe was only 1.5 billion years old. The galaxy, which spans approximately 30,000 light-years in diameter and has 10 billion solar masses of stars, looks remarkably similar to the Milky Way. Its existence challenges the current understanding of galaxy formation, as galaxies from that time, 12 billion years ago, known as cosmic dawn, were expected to be chaotic and small.