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.

Govt. Announces 3-Day Holiday for Elections

The government has decided to grant a three-day public holiday for the upcoming elections. Government Spokesperson and Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal said the decision was made during Tuesday’s Council of Ministers meeting. Earlier, the Election Commission of Nepal had recommended holidays on March 4, 5, and 6. Voting for the House of Representatives election is scheduled for March 5. With Holi on March 2 in the hills and March 3 in the Terai, followed by Saturday on March 7 and International Women’s Day on March 8, the election period will see nearly a week of holidays.

Only 9 Political Parties Open Bank Accounts for Election

The Election Commission reported on Tuesday that only 1,213 out of 3,406 direct candidates have opened required bank accounts for the March 5 election. Furthermore, only nine out of 68 participating political parties, including Nepali Congress and Janata Samajwadi Party, have complied. Assistant Spokesperson Kul Bahadur GC explained that the Election Support Bank Account Procedure 2026 mandates these accounts to ensure transparency and monitor spending limits. All financial assistance and campaign expenses for both proportional and first-past-the-post systems must be transacted through these designated accounts to maintain legal financial oversight.

Missing Youth Found Dead in Rajbiraj Pond

An 18-year-old youth, Angad Kumar Mehtar, was found dead on Tuesday after drowning in Turanti Pond in Rajbiraj-7, Saptari. Family members reported that he had left home on Sunday to visit his sister in Bhimnagar, India. A police team led by Inspector Pramod Sah recovered the body with the help of divers. Deputy Superintendent of Police Dambar Bahadur Puri stated that preliminary investigations suggest the victim suffered from epilepsy, which may have contributed to the accident. The body has been sent to Gajendra Narayan Singh Hospital for an autopsy as further investigation into the incident continues.

Ministry Directs Hospitals to Submit Gen Z Injury Data

The Ministry of Health and Population has issued an urgent directive to all health institutions to provide details of individuals injured during the Gen Z protest. Spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki stated that while the government has already decided to provide monthly allowances of Rs 9,000 for serious injuries and Rs 4,000 for moderate cases, only 200 people have been classified so far. Hospitals must submit the missing data between February 13 and February 27. The coordination committee will verify these records to finalize the list of beneficiaries entitled to medical treatment and financial relief as per the latest government decision.

Cabinet Approves Gen Z Council and $4 Million Chinese Grant

Government Spokesperson Om Prakash Aryal announced that the Council of Ministers decided on Tuesday to form a Gen Z Council. The cabinet also accepted a cash grant of USD 4 million from the Chinese government for the upcoming parliamentary elections. Furthermore, the financial investment framework for the Budhigandaki Reservoir Hydropower Project was approved. Other key decisions include appointing District Judge Dr Diwakar Bhatta as the Chairman of the Kathmandu Consumer Court and fixing public holidays for the fiscal year 2026/27, spanning from July 17, 2026, to July 16, 2027.

Bir Hospital Resident Doctors Launch Protest over Unmet Demands

Resident doctors at Bir Hospital, under the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), began a protest on Tuesday by staging a one-hour sit-in. Dr Prakash Kharel, president of the Resident Association of NAMS (RAN), warned that they would boycott all services except emergency and inpatient care if a five-month-old agreement remains unfulfilled. The agreement includes timely payment of subsistence and night duty allowances, health insurance for residents, and modernized library facilities. Despite a formal request for a meeting on February 9, the administration has failed to act, prompting the current spontaneous agitation.

NHRC Warns Against Use of Children in Campaigns

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed serious concern over security challenges and code of conduct violations ahead of the March 5 election. Spokesperson Dr Tikaram Pokharel highlighted recent tensions in Dang, Rautahat, and Parsa that necessitated prohibitory orders. The commission strictly directed political parties to stop using children in rallies and social media advertisements, labeling it a grave violation. Additionally, the commission warned leaders against using hate speech that could incite communal violence. Monitoring has been intensified nationwide to ensure a peaceful, rights-friendly environment and to protect democratic values during the final stages of the election.

Voter Education Launched for Women in Banke and Bardiya

The Information and Human Rights Research Center has initiated a voter education program in Banke and Bardiya targeting the March 5 election. Supported by the Forum for Women, Law and Development, the campaign focuses on Tharu, Madhesi, Muslim, and marginalized women, as well as youth aged 18. In Janaki Rural Municipality-2, Advocate Bishwajit Tiwari facilitated a mock polling session to explain the code of conduct and ballot procedures. Ward Chairman Chandrika Prasad Gupta emphasized that this training is crucial to reducing void votes and ensuring effective participation from minority communities during the upcoming polls.

Oral Complaints Rise Regarding Election Code Violations in Kanchanpur

The Election Code of Conduct Monitoring Committee in Kanchanpur reported a surge in oral complaints as the March 5 election approaches. Monitoring Officer Mohan Chandra Joshi stated that while only three written complaints have been filed, oral grievances regarding unauthorized posters and noise pollution are being resolved immediately. Police have been instructed to remove campaign materials from public property and control loudspeaker use outside designated hours. The committee is currently investigating written complaints and may seek clarifications from candidates or parties. Despite the increase in minor disputes during door-to-door campaigns and rallies, officials confirmed that no serious or violent violations have been reported so far.

Election Officials in Tanahun Receive Technical Training

The Office of the Chief Election Officer in Tanahun completed a two-day training session on Tuesday for polling officers and assistants. A total of 314 polling officers and 290 assistants from two constituencies were trained in ballot management, counting procedures, and emergency protocols. District Election Officer Bikash Lamsal emphasized making the election technology-friendly to minimize errors. Chief District Officer Shivalal Tiwari added that an integrated security plan involving mobile strike teams is in place to protect the 254,397 registered voters. All necessary election materials and ballots have been secured at offices in Damauli and Duilegauda ahead of the March 5 polls.

Election Training Commences for Officers in Myagdi

Chief Election Officer Surya Bahadur Thapa inaugurated a training program for polling officers in Myagdi ahead of the March 5 election. Thapa urged officials to set aside political biases and maintain neutrality during the polls. Chief District Officer Rabindra Acharya assured participants that a robust integrated security plan, including mobile and strike teams, is active to ensure a peaceful voting environment. The two-day training, facilitated by District Election Officer Bimal Gautam, covers the code of conduct and administrative responsibilities. Monitoring Officer Ramnath Sharma emphasized that adherence to legal protocols is essential for a credible and transparent electoral process.

Over 20K Police Personnel Deployed in Sudurpashchim

A total of 20,822 security personnel have been deployed in Sudurpashchim Province to secure the upcoming parliamentary elections. This force includes 7,168 personnel from the Nepal Police and 13,654 specialized election police. Senior Superintendent of Police Padam Bahadur Bista stated that additional staff, ranging from four to six members per station, have been assigned to sensitive border areas. Kailali district has the highest deployment with 1,746 police and 3,576 election police. The security strategy follows a three-tier system: police in the inner circle, followed by the Armed Police Force, and the army in the outer perimeter.

Baglung Residents Hesitant to Surrender Licensed Weapons

Despite a notice from the District Administration Office in Baglung to surrender licensed arms for election security, only 59 out of 142 registered weapons have been submitted. The deadline expired 18 days ago on February 3. Superintendent of Police Tilak Bharati stated that an “Operation Team” is now searching for both licensed and illegal weapons. While no arrests have been made, police recovered 124 illegal muskets hidden in forests and abandoned huts. Authorities have warned that failure to deposit licensed weapons immediately at the nearest police post may result in legal action, as these arms pose a risk to public peace.

614 Nepalis Renounce Citizenship in Three Months

A progress report from the Ministry of Home Affairs revealed that 614 individuals renounced their Nepali citizenship in the last three months. The primary reasons cited include obtaining permanent residency in developed nations like the USA, Canada, and Europe, as Nepal does not recognize dual citizenship. Additionally, 56,134 citizens corrected their personal data during this period. The ministry issued a total of 202,956 citizenships, including 119,012 by descent and 3,340 through matrimonial naturalization. The trend of renunciation is largely driven by high-achieving students and migrant workers seeking better facilities and legal status in their host countries.

Over 14K Citizens Killed in Road Accidents Over 5 Years

Data from Police Headquarters reveals that 14,214 people lost their lives in road accidents across Nepal over the last five years, while 171,952 others were injured. In the fiscal year 2019/20, at least 2,291 deaths occurred, followed by 2,883 in 2020/21. Most recently, some 2,079 people died in the first nine months of 2024/25. Statistics show that roughly 80% of victims are men over the age of 25. Director Ganesh Man Singh Rai of the Department of Transport Management cited a lack of resources and manpower for monitoring, noting that recent Gen Z protest unrest further damaged the department’s infrastructure and technical monitoring capabilities.

Govt. Declares Wild Boar Agricultural Pest for One Year

The Ministry of Forests and Environment published a notice on Monday declaring the wild boar “agricultural harmful wildlife” for another year. This allows farmers to chase, capture, or kill boars damaging crops on private land without prior permission. However, the ministry clarified this does not apply to small breeds of boars or those inside national parks and forest reserves. If a boar is killed, a report must be filed with a ward representative and five local witnesses. The meat can be consumed within the ward for non-commercial purposes after paying a revenue fee, while captured boars must be handed over to forest offices.

Damauli Provincial Hospital Implements Digital Medical Records

The Provincial Hospital in Damauli has transitioned to a digital medical record system to streamline patient services. Chairman Kamal Mohan Wagle stated that while the shift from paper to computer-based records might cause minor initial delays, it allows staff to access patient histories with a single click. The hospital, which served 107,983 patients in the last fiscal year, provides specialized care in dialysis, mental health, and intensive care to residents of Tanahun, Lamjung, and Gorkha. Recent upgrades also include modern dental units, ventilators, and a two-tier mortuary chamber, further modernizing the facility established as a health post in the fiscal year 1977/78.

Nepathya Band to Perform First Concert in Siliguri

The legendary folk-rock band Nepathya is set to perform its first-ever concert in Siliguri, India, on February 28. Local organizer Bikesh Kayastha from Positive Vibes reported that 3,000 tickets were sold a week before the event, with fans expected from Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Nepal’s border districts. The concert will be held at the Utsodhaara Teesta Township grounds, with doors opening at 5:30 PM. Lead singer Amrit Gurung, supported by Dhruba Lama and Subin Shakya, expressed excitement about strengthening emotional ties through language. The event follows the band’s successful international tours, including a performance at London’s Wembley Arena last year.

Filming Begins for ‘Karki Saila’ in Eastern Nepal

The production of the film Karki Saila, directed by Rajendra Basnet, commenced on Tuesday in Dhankuta. The first day of shooting featured actors Jitu Nepal, Priyana Acharya ‘Munni,’ and Sushil Pokharel. Director Basnet announced a one-month filming schedule covering Dhankuta, Barahakshetra, and Chatara. The movie marks the first collaboration between Jitu Nepal and Priyana, who rose to fame in the series Sakkigoni. Produced by Bal Kumar Rai under Karna Bahadur Films, the project features cinematography by Dambar Rai and action choreography by Kiran Dahal. A release date will be set post-production.

Filming Concludes for Social Drama ‘Mitjyu’ in One Month

The filming of Mitjyu, directed by Anil Budha Magar, was completed in one month across locations in Dang and Rolpa. Producer Janak Gharti Magar attributed the timely completion to the coordination between the cast and technical crew. The film features a star-studded cast, including Dayahang Rai, Saugat Malla, and Teriya Phounja Magar, who makes her acting debut. Following the success of his previous film Gharjwai, this is Anil Budha Magar’s second directorial venture. Edited by Lokesh Bajracharya with music by Shree Krishna Bam Malla, Mitjyu is scheduled for release on May 29 to coincide with Republic Day.

Sabitra Bhandari Raises Rs 14.5 Million for Surgery

National football captain Sabitra Bhandari ‘Samba’ raised nearly Rs 14.5 million within 24 hours for her knee surgery. After appealing for help on February 23, 2026 (Falgun 11) due to a lack of support from the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), she received over Rs 10 million in Nepali accounts and NZD 52,000 (approx. Rs 4.5 million) via international platforms. Samba suffered a torn ACL while playing for Wellington Phoenix in the Australian Ninja A-League. She has now requested a halt to donations, as the funds cover her treatment in Qatar, including accommodation. The striker promised a strong return to the national team within nine to 12 months.

National Women’s Team to Face Congo in Thailand FIFA Series

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has organized an international friendly series in Thailand as part of the FIFA Series 2026. The Nepal women’s national team will join Thailand, Congo, and an OFC representative to provide regular competitive opportunities for national squads. Nepal’s first fixture is scheduled against Congo on April 13. Following the opening round, a final match will be held on April 16 between the winners of the first two games to determine the series champion. This initiative by FIFA aims to foster international growth and technical development for women’s football across different confederations.

3 Dead in Virginia Domestic Violence Incident Involving Nepali Family

Three people died in a domestic violence case in Mantua, Virginia, after police responded to an early morning emergency call. Authorities said 50-year-old Chhatra Bahadur Thapa fatally attacked his wife and adult daughter before being shot by officers when he refused to drop a weapon. A son-in-law was seriously injured and is receiving hospital treatment, while a one-year-old child was found safe. The Fairfax County Police Department is investigating. The Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C., is coordinating with community groups to support relatives.

Recruiters Urge Faster Job Demand Verification in Japan

A delegation from the Nepal Foreign Employment Entrepreneurs Association met with Acting Ambassador Harihar Kant Paudel in Tokyo to request a faster verification process for Japanese job demands. General Secretary Mahesh Kumar Basnet noted that while Japan offers attractive salaries for nearly 300,000 resident Nepalis, delays in demand letter certification cause many to lose opportunities. Ambassador Paudel explained that a limited staff of only three officers for a population that has surged from 1,000 to 300,000 makes providing rapid service difficult. The association urged the embassy to adopt online technology to streamline certification and ensure that Japanese employers can efficiently hire Nepali workers.

Historic Nor’easter Buries US East Coast Under Record Snow

A powerful nor’easter dumped record snowfall across the US East Coast, disrupting travel and cutting power to over 600,000 properties. Parts of Rhode Island recorded nearly 37 inches, setting a new state record, while New York’s Central Park saw over 19 inches. Travel bans were imposed in several states, and thousands of flights were cancelled nationwide. In Massachusetts, nearly 300,000 customers lost electricity. The storm is expected to move toward eastern Canada, though strong winds may continue.

India’s Cabinet Approves Proposal to Rename Kerala as ‘Keralam’

India’s Union Cabinet has approved a proposal to rename the state of Kerala as “Keralam,” following a resolution passed by the state assembly. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the decision. Under Article 3 of the Constitution, the President will refer the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, to the state legislature for its views before it is introduced in Parliament. The proposal, backed by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, seeks to reflect the state’s name in Malayalam across official usage.

72 Tigers Die in Virus Outbreak at Tourist Park in Northern Thailand

Authorities in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, are investigating the deaths of 72 tigers at Tiger Kingdom Chiang Mai over a two-week period. Laboratory tests confirmed canine distemper virus, a highly contagious disease that affects animals’ respiratory and nervous systems. Officials said the outbreak has now been contained, and no human infections have been reported. The park, home to more than 240 tigers, has been temporarily closed for disinfection. Authorities are also testing food and environmental samples, while animal welfare groups have raised concerns about disease risks in captive wildlife facilities.