KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing 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.

PM Karki Orders Probe into Bardiya Tragedy Over Citizenship Issue:
Prime Minister Sushila Karki has directed Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal to investigate a tragic incident in Bardiya, where a girl took her life out of frustration over citizenship hurdles, resulting in the death of her 61-year-old father. Expressing grief on social media, PM Karki called the event a disgrace to society and the state, citing judicial and administrative delays as contributing factors. She apologized and emphasized that gender-based discrimination, including issues in citizenship acquisition, will not be tolerated. The Prime Minister urged all stakeholders to ensure justice and facilitate citizens in securing their legal rights.

Seven-Vehicle Collision Blocks Prithvi Highway in Dhading:
A major accident involving seven vehicles occurred on Saturday at Chaalise, Dhunibesi–6, along the Prithvi Highway in Dhading. The crash involved a school bus, three other buses, two trucks, and a motorcycle, reportedly caused by brake failure on an Indian-number-plated truck. Police and local residents are conducting rescue operations, while the highway remains completely blocked. Most passengers on two buses sustained injuries and have been taken to nearby health facilities and Kathmandu for treatment. Authorities are working to remove damaged vehicles and restore traffic. Journalist Ashish Thakuri reported the ongoing rescue efforts from the scene.

Nepali Congress Prepares for Party Convention and HoR Election, Says Gagan Kumar Thapa:
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa said preparations for the party’s 15th general convention and the upcoming House of Representatives election will proceed simultaneously. Speaking at a press meet in Sarlahi, Thapa acknowledged concerns over limited time, as the convention is scheduled next month, and urged intensified focus. He noted that previous debates on holding the convention first had delayed progress. Emphasizing commitment to the March 5 election, Thapa highlighted government responsibility to curb criminal activities, including threats from escaped inmates and looted weapons. He also announced plans to campaign nationwide for the party presidency while contesting elections from Kathmandu Valley.

UML Chairman Oli Calls for Strengthening UML Ahead of 11th General Convention:
CPN (UML) Chair KP Sharma Oli urged party members and the public not to fear the decline of established political parties, asserting that UML will emerge stronger after upcoming elections. Speaking at the launch of the party’s e-bulletin Nabayug at the central office in Chyasal, Oli emphasized that the success of the 11th national convention is crucial for both the party and democracy. He called on leaders to ensure a successful congress and stressed that future polls should be free, fair, and fearless. UML General Secretary Shankar Pokhrel and leader Padma Aryal also shared their perspectives on the party’s preparations.

Speaker Ghimire Raises Concerns Over Election Timing and Economic Security:
Speaker of the dissolved House of Representatives, Devraj Ghimire, has expressed concern over growing mistrust among political parties regarding the upcoming elections. Speaking at a Birta Jaycees event in Birtamod, Jhapa, Ghimire highlighted potential delays due to security challenges. He urged the government to involve the private sector in decision-making to stabilize the economy, noting that increased anarchic activities have weakened investor confidence and business morale. Ghimire emphasized that addressing security and economic concerns is essential for timely elections and maintaining national stability, stressing the need for coordinated efforts between political leaders and the business community.

Ujyalo Nepal Party Central Committee Member Bidhya Shrestha Resigns Over Hetauda Road Expansion:
Bidhya Shrestha, central committee member of Energy Minister Kulman Ghising-led Ujyalo Nepal Party, has resigned, citing moral objections to the ongoing road expansion in Hetauda. Announcing her resignation on social media, Shrestha said her conscience would not allow her to remain in the party amid demolition of structures along road boundaries in the main market area. The Road Division Office began clearing properties this morning, following public notices for owners to remove structures within 25-yard limits along the East-West and Tribhuvan Highways. Shrestha urged fellow activists to reflect on the situation and act with moral responsibility, emphasizing her duty to stand with affected citizens.

New Water Treatment Plant to Clean Tukucha Rivulet, Generate Electricity:
A 15-million-litre-per-day water treatment plant is under construction to clean the Tukucha rivulet in Kathmandu before it flows into the Bagmati River. Built on 2.53 hectares at Tripureshwor and Kupandol with a Rs 3.18 billion concessional ADB loan, the facility aims for completion by mid-December next year. The plant will also generate 800 kilowatts of electricity as a by-product. While construction at Tripureshwor is progressing, local opposition has delayed works in Lalitpur, where only electricity-generating structures will be built. Minister Kulman Ghising inspected the site, emphasizing the government’s focus on managing tributaries and riverbanks to clean the Bagmati.

Asia-Pacific Geriatrics Conference Opens in Nepal, Focuses on Senior Care Challenges:
The Asia-Pacific Geriatrics Conference began in Nepal today, highlighting challenges in senior citizen healthcare. Inaugurating the event, Health Minister Dr. Sudha Sharma acknowledged Nepal’s senior-friendly policies but cited limited resources as a barrier. She emphasized increasing quotas for geriatricians and nurses to meet the needs of the country’s three million senior citizens. Geriatrician Dr. Ramesh Kandel noted that only six of Nepal’s ten registered geriatricians are currently practicing. Dr. Umesh Bogati, Chair of the Geriatric Society of Nepal, called for regional collaboration to improve senior health. The conference, organized by the Asia Pacific Geriatric Network, includes participants from over 20 countries.

Nepali Embassy in Muscat Holds Labour Awareness, Financial Literacy Program:
The Nepali Embassy in Muscat organized a labour awareness and financial literacy programme for Nepali workers on Friday, providing guidance on artificial intelligence, physical and mental health, social security, and legal work practices in Oman. A free health camp by Al Sama Hospital offered basic medical services, while passport and consular services were also made available. Ambassador Dornath Aryal highlighted discussions from the 11th Standing Committee on Development Diplomacy, focusing on worker welfare, policy reforms, and promoting tourism, trade, and employment. The Non-Resident Nepali Social Club submitted a memorandum urging policy review. Workers appreciated the comprehensive support provided on a public holiday.

Director Dinesh Raut’s New Romantic Film ‘Kumari’ Releases First Song, Sets Valentine’s Day Release:
Nepali director Dinesh Raut’s upcoming romantic film Kumari has released its first official song, “Kata Chhau Mero Phool”, ahead of its nationwide release on Magh 23, close to Valentine’s Day. The song, performed live by Kehar Singh Limbu and his band Kehar and the Lunga, has quickly gained popularity among Gen-Z audiences on YouTube and TikTok. The film stars debutants Abhishek Khadka and Aakriti Rajbhandari, alongside Ghanshyam Joshi, Sunita Shrestha, and others. Produced by Mahendra Adhikari under Binish Entertainment and Picture Frame, Kumari features four songs composed by Kehar Singh Limbu, Suman Tamang, and Prashant Siwakoti, with lyrics by Sagar Lamichhane Magar, Suman Tamang, and Yubaraj Kafle.

US Embassy Supports Restoration of 1,500-Year-Old Yenga Hiti in Kathmandu:
The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, in partnership with the World Monuments Fund and Chiva Chaitya Organization, inaugurated the restored Yenga Hiti in Lagan, Kathmandu, reopening its water flow after 50 years. Supported by a $275,000 U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) grant, the project revives a historic water system serving the community for over 1,500 years. US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks highlighted the restoration’s significance for cultural preservation, community resilience, and tourism growth. Part of the “Hitis of Kathmandu Valley” project, it provides training for heritage professionals and aims to restore at least three traditional hitis in the valley.

Nepali Film Eklo to Premiere at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image:
Nepali sci-fi film Eklo will make history as the first Nepali movie to hold a formal premiere at New York’s prestigious Museum of the Moving Image, a venue previously reserved for Hollywood projects by directors like Christopher Nolan and Martin Scorsese. Directed by Pradeep Shahi, the film features Pradeep Khadka, Vijay Lama, Benisha Hamal, Kavita Nepali, and British actor Jamie Bacon. The premiere will include the main cast and technical team. Eklo is set for worldwide release, including Nepal, from Poush 17, showcasing high-level visuals, technology, and storytelling aimed at bringing Nepali cinema to an international audience.

Nepali Film PR to Release Overseas in Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong-Macau, and Portugal:
Shobhit Basnet’s Nepali film PR is set for international screenings in Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong-Macau, and Portugal. Himalayan Craft HK Limited’s director Akash Banjara will handle the Hong Kong-Macau release, while Portugal’s screening rights were acquired by Sukdev Adhikari and Mahesh Nyoure. The movie, produced under Salon Salina Films, will premiere in Nepal on Mangsir 26, following special shows in various Australian cities last month. Featuring lead actors R.A. Suraj Paudel, Vinita Karki, Rajan Kunwar, Pooja Chaudhary, Ashma Adhikari Mastani, and others, the film also includes special appearances by Neer Shah, Gauri Mall, and Ravindra Khadka.

Teaser of Yam Sherpa’s Family Drama Mirmire Released Ahead of Nationwide Release:
The teaser of Nepali family drama Mirmire, directed by Yam Sherpa, has been released ahead of its nationwide premiere on Magh 1. Centered on the emotional bond between a father and his daughter in the absence of their mother, the teaser highlights Daya Hang Rai as the devoted father and Shaisa Gauchan as his daughter, portraying their struggles and heartfelt moments. Srijana Ninglekhu appears as a teacher, hinting at a subtle romantic subplot. Produced by Yarsa Films, the movie also features Prakash Saput, Maotse Gurung, Chhulthim Gurung, and others. The teaser emphasizes emotional storytelling, suggesting strong audience appeal for this family-centric narrative.

Pokhara Avengers Beat Chitwan Rhinos by 8 Wickets in NPL Second Season:
Pokhara Avengers defeated Chitwan Rhinos by 8 wickets in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Saturday. Chasing 121, Pokhara reached 122 in 19 overs, losing only two wickets. Adam Rossington led the chase with 65 off 48 balls, while Arjun Kumal remained unbeaten on 43. For Chitwan, Rijan Dhakal and Saif Zaib claimed one wicket each. Batting first, Chitwan posted 120 for six, with Dev Khanal top-scoring at 35, Alpesh Ramjani adding 33, and Kushal Malla 23. Dhananjaya Lakshan took three wickets for Pokhara, supported by one each from Kiran Thagunna, Rohit Chand, and Bipin Khatri.

Faf du Plessis, Sam Heazlett Lead Biratnagar Kings to First NPL Win Over Sudurpaschim Royals:
Biratnagar Kings defeated Sudurpaschim Royals for the first time this Nepal Premier League (NPL) season on Saturday, powered by an explosive opening partnership from Faf du Plessis and Sam Heazlett. Chasing 148 at the TU International Cricket Ground, Biratnagar reached the target in just 12 overs. Heazlett scored 51 off 27 balls, while du Plessis contributed 50 off 20, dominating the Royals’ bowling. Avinash Bohara and Harmeet Singh took two and one wickets respectively, but could not halt the chase. The win propelled Biratnagar to second place, setting up a rematch with Sudurpaschim in the 1st Qualifier on December 9.

Nepal Finishes Runner-Up in U-19 ACC Premier Cup, Prepares for Asia Cup Challenge:
Nepal’s U-19 cricket team returned home as runners-up in the ACC Premier Cup in UAE, maintaining an unbeaten run until the final, where they lost to the host team by 27 runs. Nepal defeated Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia in earlier rounds, with standout performances from Neeraj Kumar Yadav, who scored a century against Saudi Arabia, and bowlers Nitesh Kumar Patel and Chandan Ram. Key senior NPL players missed the tournament, allowing new talent to gain experience. The same squad will now compete in the ACC Asia Cup from December 12–21 against Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka in a one-day format, facing tougher challenges.

SAFF Launches First-Ever Women’s Club Championship in Nepal:
The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) inaugurated its first Women’s Club Championship at Dasharath Stadium, aiming to develop women’s football in the region. The tournament features club champions from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Bhutan, with Maldives and Sri Lanka absent. Nepal is represented by APF Club, India by East Bengal FC, Pakistan by Karachi City FC, Bangladesh by Nasrin Sports Academy, and Bhutan by Transport United Ladies FC. Most teams have signed foreign players to strengthen squads, while Nepal’s APF relies solely on domestic talent. The championship is expected to elevate competitive standards and provide exposure for women footballers across South Asia.

Tribhuvan Army Club Wins 13th Korean Ambassador International Taekwondo Championship:
Tribhuvan Army Club emerged as the champion of the 13th Korean Ambassador International Taekwondo Championship, held over six days at the Nepal Taekwondo Academy in Satdobato. The Army Club secured 10 gold, 12 silver, and 10 bronze medals. Nepal Police Club finished second with 6 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze, while APF Club claimed third with 4 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze. In the children, cadet, and junior categories, Swastik, Pokhari, and Bijeshwari Dojangs topped their respective divisions. Outstanding players included Ashish Bhandari (Police) and Swastika Tamang (Army) in seniors. The championship featured 1,530 competitors from Nepal, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Bhutan across all Taekwondo disciplines.

Russia Launches Massive Drone and Missile Strike on Ukraine Amid Peace Talks:
Overnight into Saturday, Russia launched 653 drones and 51 missiles at Ukraine, prompting air raid alerts nationwide and wounding at least eight people, including three in Kyiv. Ukrainian forces intercepted 585 drones and 30 missiles, but 29 locations, including industrial and residential areas, were struck. President Zelenskyy said energy infrastructure was the primary target, alongside a railway station in Fastiv. Russia reported shooting down 116 Ukrainian drones over its territory, while Ukraine reportedly hit Russia’s Ryazan Oil Refinery. The attacks coincided with ongoing US-mediated peace talks, with Kyiv aiming to pressure Moscow into ceasing hostilities, even as previous negotiations yielded limited progress.

IndiGo Restores 95% of Flight Network as Cancellations Drop:
IndiGo’s flight operations showed significant improvement on Saturday after five days of disruptions, with 95% of its network connectivity restored. The airline is set to operate over 1,500 flights by the end of the day, a sharp recovery from Friday’s crisis, when more than 1,000 flights were cancelled. Saturday cancellations fell below 850, with the airline connecting 135 of its 138 destinations. IndiGo attributed the disruptions to operational challenges and said its teams are focused on stabilising schedules, reducing delays, and assisting customers. The carrier anticipates further improvements in flight operations over the coming days.

Macron to Meet Zelensky, Starmer, and Merz in London Amid US-Led Peace Talks:
French President Emmanuel Macron announced he will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in London on Monday to review the progress of ongoing US-mediated negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. Macron criticised Russia’s “escalatory approach” and stressed the importance of maintaining international pressure on Moscow to push it toward a peace settlement. The meeting comes amid heightened diplomatic efforts as Ukraine and its allies seek to secure a resolution, coordinate strategy, and reinforce support for Kyiv while negotiations continue under US facilitation.