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.

A Changed Congress Will Transform the Nation- NC President Thapa:
Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa emphasized that the party has transformed to drive national change, speaking at the central election mobilization committee announcement for Kathmandu-4. He asserted that Congress will not compromise on democracy and social justice and is committed to good governance and zero tolerance for corruption, reflecting citizens’ expectations. Thapa highlighted the party’s reform agenda and inclusive approach as its strength. He also stressed that Congress aims to create employment opportunities for youth within Nepal, signaling a focus on economic growth alongside political and social reforms as the party moves forward ahead of upcoming elections.

Oli Urges Swift Supreme Court Decision Amid Doubts Over March 5 Elections:
CPN-UML Chairperson K.P. Sharma Oli stated that it remains uncertain whether the elections scheduled for March 05 will take place. Speaking at the Okhaldhunga–Kathmandu party rally, he criticized low population in high hill and Himalayan regions, questioning the significance of voting there. Oli accused previous unrest on September 08-09 of plunging the country into crisis. He urged the Supreme Court to quickly decide on parliament restoration, emphasizing that prolonged inaction during a constitutional crisis undermines judicial legitimacy. Oli reaffirmed that UML will respect the court’s decision but insisted it must issue a ruling before the elections.

Prachanda Calls Upcoming Election “Extraordinary,” Highlights Party Unity:
Nepali Communist Party Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ described the upcoming election as occurring under extraordinary circumstances, speaking at a party event in Kathmandu for Solukhumbu cadres. He thanked all supporters for helping navigate the country through crises following the September 8-9 Gen-Z protests, emphasizing that elections are the only solution to the nation’s political turmoil. Prachanda stated that while other parties opposed holding elections, his party remained determined to proceed. He highlighted the formation of the unified Nepal Communist Party, bringing together 23 factions, aiming to prevent foreign interference and strengthen national unity and political stability.

Nepali Congress Mobilizes Central Committee for March 5 Elections:
Targeting the March 5 elections, Nepali Congress has decided to deploy its Central Mobilization Committee and all central members across districts and constituencies nationwide. At a press conference at the party’s central office, spokesperson Devaraj Chalise said all central-level leaders and members would be actively involved at the district and constituency level to strengthen organizational presence for the polls.
Chalise emphasized that political institutions do not grow old, only leaders do, adding, “The party doesn’t age; it brings new ideas and leadership.” He stressed that citizens’ votes will shape the country’s future, asserting, “Nepali Congress is the country’s future.”

Sunsari‑1 Election Set for Historic Clash Between Emerging Forces and Established Parties:
Sunsari‑1, historically a communist stronghold, is witnessing a new electoral dynamic as former Dharan mayor Harka Sampang’s Labour Culture Party (“Mato”) faces off against Rastriya Swatantra Party’s Goma Tamang (“Ghanti”). With 150,393 voters across Dharan, Barahkshetra, and Ramdhuni municipalities, the race marks a shift from party dominance to personality- and issue-driven politics. Sampang, aiming for parliament, confronts opposition from old parties coordinating to prevent his victory. While new forces dominate local discussion, traditional parties like UML, Congress, and independents remain in contention. Voter sentiment focuses on infrastructure, unfinished projects, and governance credibility.

Bhaktapur Election Heats Up: Tradition vs Change in the Race for Parliamentary Seats:
With just 32 days until the Falgun 21 House of Representatives elections, Bhaktapur emerges as a political hotspot. The district, long dominated by the Nepal Workers and Peasants Party (NWPP), sees a clash between legacy candidates and new contenders. In Constituency-1, NWPP’s Prem Suwal seeks a fourth term, challenged by experienced figures like former Som Mishra (UML) and Kiran Nyaupane (Congress). Constituency-2 centers on Mahesh Basnet (UML), aiming for a comeback against Congress’ Kabir Rana and Rastriya Swatantra Party’s Rajiv Khatri. With over 205,000 voters, social media, house-to-house campaigns, and youth-focused strategies will play a decisive role.

Gulmi-1 Race Heats Up as Young Challengers Threaten Veteran Candidates:
The upcoming March 5 House of Representatives election in Gulmi-1 promises a tight contest. Veteran leaders—NC’s Chandra Bhandari and UML’s Pradeep Gyawali—face stiff competition from Rastriya Swatantra Party’s rising star Sagar Dhakal and NCP’s Sudarshan Baral. Historically a two-way contest between Congress and UML, the entry of these young candidates has transformed the race into a four-way battle. In 2022, Bhandari narrowly defeated Gyawali by 1,592 votes, while proportional representation votes showed RSP and NCP trailing behind. With 122,186 registered voters, the constituency’s result remains unpredictable, setting the stage for an intense and closely watched election.

Rupandehi-1 Election Campaign Kicks Off Amid Calm, Voters Observe Candidates Closely:
Campaigning for the March 21 Rupandehi parliamentary elections has begun, with both seasoned and new candidates vying for voter support. Unlike previous elections, the atmosphere is calm, with no large rallies or aggressive promotion. Rupandehi-1 sees a competitive field including former Congress and UML leaders, Rastriya Swatantra Party, and other emerging parties. Voters are cautious, observing candidates’ behavior, past performance, and promises before deciding. Devdah Municipality and surrounding wards are key areas with diverse communities, including marginalized Madhesi populations. While candidates focus on door-to-door outreach, the electorate remains reserved, weighing experience, development record, and credibility ahead of the polls.

Makwanpur-2 Race Heats Up as Old Guards Face New Faces Ahead of March 05 Elections:
Makwanpur-2 is gearing up for a competitive March 05 House of Representatives election, with veteran politicians and newcomers battling for dominance. UML has fielded 2022 winner Mahesh Kumar Bartoula, while Raswapa has nominated 25-year-old Gen-Z candidate Prashant Upreti from senior leader Balendra Sah’s core team. Nepali Communist Party has chosen Lavsher Bist, a former Thaha mayor, and Congress fields Buddhi Lama, targeting ethnic votes. With previous alliances dissolved, the contest is now a multi-party showdown. Candidate recognition, local influence, and strategic voter bases are expected to play decisive roles in this high-stakes election.

Rautahat Adds 18 Polling Centers Ahead of House Elections:
Ahead of the upcoming House of Representatives elections, Rautahat district has added 18 polling centers and one polling site, raising the total to 541 centers and 277 sites. The additions reflect an increase of 21,156 voters, bringing the district’s total electorate to 436,611 across four constituencies, 16 municipalities, and two rural municipalities. Of the polling centers, 152 are classified as highly sensitive, 100 as sensitive, and 27 as normal. In the 2022 elections, 282,430 voters cast ballots, with Madhav Kumar Nepal, Kiran Sah, Prabhu Sah, and Deb Prasad Timalsina elected from constituencies 1–4, respectively.

Parsa-3 Voters Demand Development as Election Campaigns Heat Up:
With just over a month to go for the March 5 House of Representatives election, candidates in Parsa-3 are intensifying campaigns through house-to-house visits and voter outreach. The constituency, 10 km west of Birgunj, faces chronic issues such as poor roads, inadequate drinking water, weak education, limited healthcare, and lack of local industries. Residents are seeking candidates committed to real development rather than rhetoric. Contestants include Rupesh Kumar Pandey (CPN-UML), Surendra Kumar Chaudhary (Nepali Congress), Ramakant Prasad Chaurasiya (Rastriya Swatantra Party), and Chhotelal Yadav (Nepali Congress). Citizens emphasize jobs, infrastructure, and improved public services as key election issues.

Sabina Kafle’s Homecoming Energizes Jhapa–5 Election Campaign:
In Jhapa–5, Mayor Balen Shah’s campaign gains a unique boost as his wife, Sabina Kafle, actively engages with voters in her childhood village of Urlabari of Morang district near Jhapa. While Balen is seen as an outsider, Sabina’s homecoming creates an emotional connection with locals, bridging ties through personal interactions, smiles, and handshakes. Her presence highlights social diversity, familial roots, and community trust, offering a humanizing touch to the campaign. Rastriya Swatantra Party workers view her involvement as a strong symbol of support. Beyond party lines and political calculations, Jhapa–5 voters are responding to trust, relationships, and shared identity alongside traditional electoral considerations.

Kanchanpur-1 Election Heats Up as Candidates Promise to Complete Incomplete Projects:
Kanchanpur-1, historically unpredictable in voter behavior, sees a fierce contest for the upcoming election. Incumbent UML MP Tara Lama Tamang and former Maoist MP Bina Magar are vying to continue or revive incomplete development projects, from Doa River control to tourism and local infrastructure. Congress candidate Gopi Upadhya emphasizes addressing everyday community issues, while Rastriya Swatantra Party’s Janak Singh Dhami highlights grassroots engagement. With 19 candidates from major parties and independents, the constituency’s diverse Tharu population could be decisive. Voter focus is split between completing prior projects, local problem-solving, and party allegiance, making the outcome highly uncertain.

Former Allies Thakur Gaire and Somprasad Pandey Face Off Again in Palpa‑2 Election:
Thakur Gaire (CPN-UML) and Somprasad Pandey (NCP), once allies until 2017, are competing again in Palpa‑2. Gaire previously defeated Pandey in the 2022 last election, and both candidates emphasize completing unfinished development projects. Gaire highlights local infrastructure and youth engagement, while Pandey focuses on linking Tansen to Lumbini and fulfilling past initiatives. Other contenders include Nepali Congress’s Himal Datt Shrestha and Rastriya Swatantra Party’s Madhav Bahadur Thapa. Despite previous alliances, both major candidates now contest independently. Voter attention remains on development issues like the Siddhababa road and tunnel, alongside local governance and public service delivery.

President Poudel to Lead 18-Member Delegation on Japan Visit Amid Criticism:
President Ramchandra Poudel is set to travel to Japan tomorrow, departing from Kathmandu to Tokyo with an 18-member delegation. The visit has drawn attention because the interim government had previously decided that official foreign trips by the head of state or government should include no more than ten members, citing cost-effectiveness. Officials confirm, however, that the expanded delegation was approved, overriding the earlier guideline. A senior secretary from the Prime Minister’s Office claimed the decision was made at a cabinet meeting, arguing it was justified in the name of “presidential prestige,” despite being implemented just before elections.

Election Commission Releases Sample Ballots for House of Representatives Polls:
The Election Commission of Nepal has released sample ballots for the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 05. The samples cover all seven provinces, including ballots for districts with a single constituency and separate ballots for districts with multiple constituencies. Election Commission spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai explained that ballot size is determined by the number of candidates: larger ballots for constituencies with more candidates and smaller ones for those with fewer. Districts in Karnali Province with only one constituency—such as Salyan, Dolpa, Mugu, Jumla, Kalikot, Humla, Jajarkot, and Rukum West—will have small-sized ballots to accommodate their candidate lists efficiently.

Election Commission Steps Up Monitoring to Curb Misinformation and Code Violations:
The Election Commission of Nepal has intensified monitoring to prevent the spread of false, misleading, and hateful content that violates the Election Code of Conduct, 2082. Under its newly established Information Transmission and Coordination Center, the commission has identified 302 harmful posts and referred them to relevant authorities for action. All political parties, candidates, government bodies, media, and citizens are expected to comply. To ensure transparency, parties and candidates have been instructed to maintain separate bank accounts for election expenses. So far, 21 entities have been asked for clarifications regarding code violations, with follow-ups ongoing.

Pradeep Paudel: Congress Heard Youth Voices in September 8–9 Protests:
Nepali Congress General Secretary Pradeep Paudel stated that the party listened most attentively to the youth during the September 8–9 protests. Speaking to voters in Kathmandu-5, he emphasized that Congress has incorporated young voices into its agenda and adapted itself in response to public concerns. Paudel highlighted the party’s commitment to generational change, asserting that it has prepared itself to address youth aspirations. He also stressed that voters should feel proud of Congress representatives who work effectively to implement reforms and strengthen democratic practices. Paudel noted his own political growth, claiming his capability has tripled since his first electoral victory.

Dr. Mahat Condemns Destruction, Reaffirms Congress Commitment to Democracy:
Nepali Congress leader Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat emphasized the party’s steadfast commitment to democratic values while addressing a joint electoral interaction organized by Congress Nuwakot. Condemning the destructive events of January 24, he stressed that Congress supports freedom of expression but will never tolerate vandalism. Mahat highlighted how past disruptions, including the Maoist conflict, hindered national development, which Congress helped resolve through peace and the constitution. He criticized recent youth-led protests for setting the country back and cited his own efforts as finance minister, including allocating nearly NPR 7 billion for Nuwakot, underscoring Congress’s focus on constructive governance and development.

Ex-Minister Mahabir Pun Campaigns in Magdi: “I Make No Promises, I Only Listen”:
Former Minister Mahabir Pun, running as an independent in Myagdi with support from Rastriya Swatantra Party and others, has been campaigning door-to-door, emphasizing he will make no promises solely to win votes. Social media is abuzz with videos of Pun engaging villagers in candid dialogue, stressing that while he will work if elected, he will also act on local issues regardless of election outcome. “I won’t make false promises or buy votes,” he said, urging people to vote only if they trust him. Pun’s approach highlights transparency, accountability, and direct engagement with constituents ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Bhattarai Warns Nepal Could Face Ukraine‑Like Crisis if Democracy Is Undermined:
CPN‑UML Secretary Rajan Bhattarai has warned that Nepal risks sliding into a Ukraine‑style national crisis if democratic norms are weakened. Addressing a gathering in Kathmandu, he said attempts to seize power through violence, vandalism, and unrest pose a serious threat to national stability. Bhattarai stressed that while democracy is not flawless, it is the most effective system for peaceful change, grounded in constitutional supremacy and the rule of law. He cautioned voters to remain vigilant against forces promoting chaos, warning that ignoring such risks could drag the country into prolonged instability and conflict.

CPN-UML’s Basnet Questions Missing Mandate of Gen-Z Movement, Readies for Elections:
CPN-UML Secretary Mahesh Basnet, also a candidate from Bhaktapur-2, expressed concern over the unfulfilled objectives of the recent Gen-Z movement. Speaking with voters, Basnet said the movement’s three core demands—eradicating corruption, ending nepotism and promoting good governance, and ensuring citizen demands are reflected via social media—remained largely unmet. He questioned why the National Independent Party adopted the movement’s agenda and where the raised issues disappeared. Basnet argued that unforeseen political developments created by the Gen-Z protests forced major parties to focus on electoral preparations. Consequently, he emphasized that CPN-UML is now fully ready for the upcoming elections.

Kathmandu Launches Home-Based Health Survey for Senior Citizens Above 70:
Kathmandu Metropolitan City has initiated a home-based health survey for senior citizens aged over 70, starting Sunday. Nursing staff, trained for five days, will visit households equipped with medical supplies, tablets, and basic health tools. Acting Chief Sunita Dangol emphasized the survey as both a professional and humanitarian duty, urging staff to provide compassionate care, especially to isolated or vulnerable elders. The program prioritizes those with limited financial means, chronic illnesses, or mobility issues who cannot regularly visit health facilities. The survey aims to assess health, provide basic medical services, and ensure seniors receive timely home-based care.

Bara Double Murder Linked to Extramarital Affair, Two Arrested:
Police have concluded that the recent double murder in Parwanipur, Bara, stemmed from an extramarital affair. On the night of Magh 14, 46-year-old Sumitra Mandal and her 31-year-old son Ram Ishwar Mandal were killed with sharp weapons, leaving the husband Jagroop Mandal and daughter Rina Kumari injured. Authorities arrested Ram Ishwar’s wife, 23-year-old Manita Devi Mandal, and her paramour, 27-year-old Dharmendra Mahto, both implicated in the killings. Mahto had returned from UAE shortly before the attack. Preliminary investigations indicate that the killings were premeditated by Manita, with Mahto carrying out the act. Further investigation is ongoing.

Health Insurance Board Directs Hospitals to Avoid Unnecessary Patient Referrals:
The Health Insurance Board has instructed all affiliated health institutions to refrain from unnecessary patient referrals. According to Board spokesperson Bikesh Mall, such referrals cause undue stress for patients and result in avoidable medical tests. The directive emphasizes that hospitals must utilize services available within their facilities and comply with the Health Insurance Act 2074, Health Insurance Regulations 2075, and Referral Procedures 2080. Institutions unable to provide specific services should refer patients to the nearest capable facility, completing referral forms accordingly. Noncompliance may result in claims rejection or suspension of agreements under the health insurance rules.

FNCCI Urges Political Parties to Include Private Sector Support in Election Manifestos:
The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has urged political parties to incorporate clear policies on private sector protection, promotion, and morale in their upcoming election manifestos. FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal highlighted that the private sector contributes around 81% of GDP and generates 86% of employment, but remains historically weak and demoralized. He warned that prolonged neglect, coupled with post-23–24 Bhadra movement damages—estimated at NPR 36 billion in direct losses and NPR 80 billion overall—could further constrain investment, employment, and revenue, threatening Nepal’s economic recovery and stability.

Construction Begins on 31.92 MW Upper Mewa Hydropower Project in Taplejung:
Construction has commenced on the Upper Mewa Hydropower Project in Mikwa Khola Rural Municipality, Taplejung. The 31.92 MW project’s main axis tunnel and ventilation passages are being excavated using blasting, with a roughly 4-kilometer underground tunnel planned for completion within a year. The ceremony was attended by provincial assembly member Tilak Kumar Menyango, local officials, and ward representatives. Promoted by Saurya Holding Pvt. Ltd., the project covers Ward Nos. 4 and 5 of Mikwa Khola. Total investment is NPR 637 crore, with 75% funded by financial institutions led by Global IME Bank and 25% through Saurya Holding’s equity issuance. Completion is expected in three years.

Nepali Embassy, BNS Hold Conference on Challenges Facing Nepali Students in the UK:
The Nepali Embassy in the UK, in collaboration with the Britain–Nepal Society (BNS), organized a one-day conference addressing the concerns of Nepali students studying in the UK. The event, attended by over 60 stakeholders including university officials, government representatives, and educators, focused on challenges faced by students and potential solutions. Acting Ambassador Bipin Duwaadi highlighted the embassy’s initiatives to support students, while panelists discussed policy review, crisis support, and coordination among stakeholders. Outcomes included establishing an online forum, multi-stakeholder council, and a policy advisory task force. Nepal ranks as the fifth-largest source of international students in the UK, with over 60,000 NOCs issued in the past five years.

Heavy Snow Cleared on Upper Mustang’s Kagbeni–Korala Road; Traffic Slowly Resumes:
After heavy snowfall blocked Upper Mustang’s Kagbeni–Korala road since Wednesday, snow removal operations have begun, reopening the route up to Lomanthang. Authorities, including the District Administration Office, Lomanthang and Damodarkunda Rural Municipalities, and the Kali Gandaki Corridor project, deployed machinery and police personnel to clear snow from Chhusang to Korala. Earlier, over two feet of snow had completely obstructed the Jomsom–Korala stretch, affecting locals, tourists, security forces, and election monitoring teams. Snow clearance continues on the remaining 25 km from Lomanthang to Korala, aiming to fully restore road access and normalize daily life and essential supply transport in Upper Mustang.

RSP Leader Balen Shah Visits Hospital; Journalist Dinesh Sitoula Remains Unconscious:
Journalist Dinesh Sitoula, who fell unconscious during Rastriya Swatantra Party senior leader Balen Shah’s election campaign in Achham, remains in critical condition. Sitoula, 43, from Dupcheshwar Rural Municipality, Nuwakot, is undergoing treatment on a ventilator after suffering a stroke. Family members have requested the hospital to release accurate health updates, as no official statement has been made. Balen Shah visited the hospital around noon to inquire about Sitoula’s condition, and doctors said he will remain under observation until 7 a.m. the next day. Hospital access is restricted to immediate family, and both colleagues and Shah have been unable to meet him.

Police Find No Sign of Burglary at RSP Senior Leader Balen Sah’s Home:
Police in Kathmandu have confirmed that no burglary occurred at the residence of senior Rastriya Swatantra Party leader Balendra Sah. According to DSP Kaushal Budhathoki of Kathmandu Police, an inspection of the house revealed a broken door grille, but there were no signs of theft or property damage. Authorities stated that despite the grille being damaged, the house’s contents remained untouched. The police have confirmed that the incident does not constitute a robbery. Investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the broken grille and whether it was an attempted intrusion or accidental damage.

Nepali Film ‘Kumari’ Team Hosts Youth Dialogue on Cinema, Music, and Media:
The team of the upcoming Nepali film Kumari, releasing on Magh 23, organized a youth discussion on expectations from Nepali cinema, music, and media at Nepal Pragya Pratisthan, Kamaladi, Kathmandu. Around 500 students and young participants attended. Panelists included director Dinesh Raut, writer Vikas Subedi, producer Mahendra Adhikari, singer Kehar Singh Limbu, and Madan Award-winning writer Amar Nyaupane. Youth highlighted the need for originality, cultural reflection, and emotional depth in films and music. Kumari’s debutant actors Abhishek Khadka and Aakriti Rajbhandari, along with its popular songs like Doko Bunne, were praised for capturing the contemporary generation’s expectations.

Indian Singer Kailash Kher Lends Voice to Nepali Film Shivansh:
Nepali film Shivansh, set to release on February 1 for Maha Shivaratri, features the powerful vocals of internationally acclaimed Indian singer Kailash Kher. Kher has performed the iconic Shiv Tandav Stotram, adding a spiritual and majestic dimension to the film’s soundtrack. In a video message, Kher described this collaboration as a symbol of strong cultural ties between India and Nepal and expressed his deep affection for Nepali audiences. Produced by Anjan KC and directed by Santosh Kumar Atreya, the film stars Praveen Khatiwada, Tej Giri, Rusa Nyaupane, Bimala Limbu, and Vikas Joshi, with posters highlighting intense drama and conflict.

Singer-Actor Prakash Saput Shifts to Politics After Career Setbacks:
Nepali singer and actor Prakash Saput, known for his musical hit Paradeshi 2 and acting debut in films like Purnbahadurko Sarangi, has faced a challenging year. Following public praise for UML leader KP Sharma Oli, Saput’s films—including Basant, Haribahadurko Jutta, Maitighar, Soltini, and Mirmire—have largely flopped, with box office returns failing to cover investments. Even his recent song Nai Bhansesi Nai underperformed. Amidst these setbacks, Saput has turned to politics, joining the Rastriya Swatantra Party as a proportional candidate. Observers note that while his entertainment career struggles, a new political path now offers him a promising alternative.

Play Agnichakshu Highlights Living Kumari, Women’s Empowerment, and Social History:
The play Agnichakshu, focusing on the life of the Living Kumari, social structures, women’s empowerment, and historical context, is being performed daily from Magh 11 to Magh 25. Evening shows are at 5:15 pm, with Saturday matinees at 1:15 pm. Written by Chandraprasad Pandey and directed by Krishnabhakta Maharjan, the play artistically explores the conflict between tradition, personal desire, and national duty. The cast includes Krishnabhakta Maharjan, Manju Shrestha, Hena Nagarkoti, Salona Bajracharya, Sushil Rajopadhyay, Shrishesh Shrestha, Kundan Shakya, Dhiraj Thapa Magar, Manis Manav, and child actor Divyata Chaudhary. The production combines compelling performances and strong stagecraft to spark cultural reflection and social dialogue.

Unko Sweater Becomes a Hit in Theaters and on YouTube:
Nepali film Unko Sweater has achieved remarkable success both in theaters and online. Released on YouTube seven days ago, it has already garnered over 6.6 million views, with viewers praising its story, acting, music, cinematography, and dialogues. The film celebrated 51 days in theaters, earning more than NPR 11.41 crore, and also collected INR 1.5 crore in India. Songs like “Phool,” “Chinejo Jindagani,” “Kafle,” and “Makhamali” have become instant favorites. Directed by Naveen Chauhan, the film features Bipin Karki, Miruna Magar, Alex Paras, and others, exploring an engaging cross-cultural love story. Actor Bipin Karki expressed gratitude to fans for their overwhelming support.

Actors Pal Shah and Benisha Hamal Release Separate Films, Pal’s Aa Bata Ama Dominates Box Office:
Following their success in Mohar, actors Pal Shah and Benisha Hamal have released separate films on the same day. Pal’s Aa Bata Ama, exploring familial love and parent-child bonds, premiered in over 150 shows and led ticket bookings on its first day. Directed by Chandra Pant, the film features Bipana Thapa, Pradeep Rawat, and others, appealing to audiences who enjoy emotion-driven stories. Meanwhile, Benisha’s The Blue Light, which she also executive produced, opened in 72 shows. Directed by Baliram Chauhan and starring Arpan Thapa, Ayushman Joshi, and Srishti Shrestha, the film received critical praise at its premiere but relies on audience word-of-mouth for commercial success.

Gandaki Province Wins Sixth Tiger Cup Volleyball, Defeats Nepal Police Club 3–1:
Gandaki Province claimed the men’s title at the Sixth Tiger Cup Volleyball Championship, defeating Nepal Police Club 3–1 in the final at Pokhara Stadium. After losing the first set 23–25, Gandaki made a strong comeback to win the next three sets 28–26, 25–22, and 25–17, securing their third championship title. In the third-place match, Parbat Volleyball Association beat Tribhuvan Army Club 3–0 (25–19, 29–27, 25–13) to finish third in their first appearance. The tournament, organized by Tiger Group of Pokhara Nepal from Magh 9, featured six men’s teams and five women’s teams, with Tip Top New Diamond Youth Sports Club winning the women’s title.

Nepal Beats Mumbai Cricket Academy Presidents XI by 48 Runs in Second T20 World Cup Warm-Up:
Nepal continued its T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing 48-run win over Mumbai Cricket Academy Presidents XI in their second practice match. Chasing 184, Mumbai was restricted to 135 for 8 in 20 overs. Sandeep Lamichhane starred with 3 wickets for 24 runs in 4 overs, while Lalit Rajwanshi and Gulshan Jhade took 2 wickets each. Opener Arif Sheikh scored an unbeaten 66 off 42 balls to guide Nepal to 183 for 5. Earlier, Mulchandani top-scored for Mumbai with 47. Nepal had previously won their first warm-up match by 7 wickets and will travel to Chennai for two final preparatory games.

Pooja Mahato to Captain Nepal in Asia Cup Rising Star After Indu Burma Injury:
Nepal’s women’s cricket team will be led by Pooja Mahato in the upcoming Asia Cup Rising Star tournament, following the injury of regular captain Indu Burma. Indu sustained an injury during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier match against Scotland and is expected to be sidelined for about 12 weeks. Pooja, formerly the team’s vice-captain, has been officially entrusted with the captaincy by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN).

Nepal’s National League Struggles with Spectator Turnout Despite Star Players:
The ongoing National League in Nepal has failed to capture its past excitement, with over 100 players leaving for overseas leagues and average match attendance limited to around 200 spectators. The league, organized by ANFA for the third time, features 17 teams and 137 matches across three venues. While teams like Tribhuvan Army, NRT, APF, and Machhindra FC include national team stars such as Arik Vist, Navayug Shrestha, Manish Dangi, and Vishal Shrestha, some prominent players like captain Kiran Limbu, Rohit Chand, and Ananta Tamang are absent. Injuries and a three-year hiatus of domestic football have also affected the league’s vibrancy.

Nepal in Group C of T20 World Cup After Bangladesh Withdrawal; Scotland Joins:
Nepal will compete in Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after Bangladesh withdrew over geopolitical concerns, benefiting Scotland, which replaces them. Group C now features Nepal, Scotland, Italy, England, and two-time champions West Indies. England, led by Harry Brook, and West Indies, captained by Shai Hope, are considered the strongest sides, while Nepal is expected to compete for third place. Nepal, captained by Rohit Paudel, has shown steady improvement, highlighted by a historic series win over West Indies last September. Italy will make its World Cup debut, and Scotland, led by Richie Berrington, has played six previous World Cups.

Only Two Nipah Virus Cases Confirmed in West Bengal, Authorities Maintain Strict Surveillance:
India’s National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed only two cases of Nipah virus in West Bengal since December. Both patients are healthcare workers, and testing of 196 contacts returned negative results. The NCDC clarified that some media reports had circulated misleading and speculative data. In response, the Indian government coordinated with West Bengal authorities to implement preventive measures, including monitoring suspected individuals and laboratory testing for early detection. Officials emphasized that the situation remains under constant surveillance, with all necessary public health interventions actively enforced to contain any potential spread of the virus.

Sunetra Pawar Becomes Maharashtra’s First Woman Deputy CM Following Ajit Pawar’s Death:
Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar was unanimously elected as the Nationalist Congress Party’s legislature leader on Saturday and sworn in as Maharashtra’s first woman deputy chief minister at Lok Bhavan. Her nomination follows the sudden death of her husband, former deputy CM Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash earlier this week. Sunetra, 62, entered the Rajya Sabha in June 2024 after an unsuccessful Lok Sabha bid and will need to secure a legislative seat within six months. Meanwhile, NCP chief Sharad Pawar noted ongoing talks for a potential reunification of the party’s two factions, tentatively scheduled for February 12.

Millions of Epstein Documents Released, Shedding Light on High-Profile Connections:
The US Department of Justice released over three million pages, 180,000 images, and 2,000 videos related to Jeffrey Epstein, marking the largest disclosure since a law mandated public access. The files detail Epstein’s prison time, death, and his associates, including Ghislaine Maxwell, as well as correspondence with high-profile figures like Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and Donald Trump. While some emails reference social or financial interactions, officials emphasize no evidence of wrongdoing in many cases. Microsoft and Musk have denied allegations contained in the files, which also include unverified claims compiled by the FBI prior to the 2020 US election.

EU Says No Evidence Greenland Faces Foreign Threats Amid US Security Claims:
The EU has dismissed claims that Greenland faces imminent threats from foreign powers, countering recent remarks by US President Donald Trump about acquiring the island. European NATO members have rejected Trump’s warnings of potential Russian or Chinese attacks, calling them implausible. EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas said there is no intelligence showing Greenland is targeted and criticized the notion that Chinese investments in Europe pose automatic security risks. While Russia and China have Arctic interests, neither is reportedly eyeing Greenland. The European Commission continues to explore Arctic security measures, including increasing its presence and icebreaker capabilities, without framing the island as a hotspot.

UN Chief Warns Organization Could Run Out of Money by July Amid Member State Shortfalls:
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Friday that the organization faces an imminent financial crisis, with unpaid member contributions totaling $1.6 billion at the end of 2025. Chronic delays and shortfalls, combined with reduced US funding and budget cuts under the Trump administration, have forced hiring freezes and program cutbacks. Guterres called on all member states to pay in full and on time or overhaul financial rules to prevent collapse, noting that the UN could exhaust regular budget funds by July. He also highlighted the paradox of reimbursing member states for funds the UN does not yet have, describing the situation as “Kafkaesque.”

Mass Power Outages Hit Ukraine After Technical Malfunction, Not Cyberattack:
Ukraine is facing widespread power outages after a “technical malfunction” disrupted key electricity lines connecting Ukraine with Moldova and Romania, Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed. At 10:42 a.m. local time, the 400 kV line linking Romania and Moldova and the 750 kV line between western and central Ukraine simultaneously shut down. Kyiv and surrounding areas have experienced electricity, heating, and water outages amid freezing temperatures, prompting urgent restoration efforts. Officials stressed the incident was not a cyberattack. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said crews are working to stabilize the grid, as Ukraine continues to recover from months of Russian strikes targeting its critical infrastructure.