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.

Two Earthquakes Strike Western Nepal

Western Nepal experienced two earthquakes within a 12-hour window on Monday. A 4.1 magnitude tremor struck Bajhang at 1:14 PM, with its epicenter located in Rayal. Earlier that morning, at 3:51 AM, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake was felt in Darchula, centered around Murai. This sequence follows recent seismic activity in the region, including a 4.0 magnitude quake in Darchula on March 18 and a 3.6 magnitude tremor in Bajhang on March 6. While no immediate casualties or significant property damage were reported, the frequent tremors have caused alarm among residents. Seismologists continue to monitor the western region, which has seen an increase in moderate seismic events over the past month.

Vice President Yadav Meets Bangladeshi Ambassador Rahman

Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav held a courtesy meeting with Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Nepal, Md. Shafiqur Rahman, at the Lainchaur office on Monday. The leaders discussed multi-faceted bilateral relations, focusing on mutual respect and sovereignty since establishing ties in 1972. Yadav congratulated Bangladesh on its successful elections and expressed hope for strengthened cooperation between the new governments. Ambassador Rahman emphasized priorities in commerce, education, and energy. He specifically requested increasing the current cross-border power supply from 40 megawatts to 60 megawatts. Both officials reiterated that the relationship remains rooted in deep trust and strong people-to-people connections, providing a solid foundation for future regional stability and economic growth.

Home Ministry Honors Security Personnel for Election Success

Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal honored officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and various security agencies on Monday for their roles in the successful House of Representatives elections. During a ceremony, letters of appreciation were presented to Home Secretary Rajkumar Shrestha, Police IG Dan Bahadur Karki, and APF IG Raju Aryal, among others. The minister praised the coordination and collective leadership that ensured peace and security during the polls held on March 5. Ananda Kafle, the ministry’s spokesperson, noted that the strategic management of the District Security Committees in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur resulted in a positive outcome, establishing a new standard for national election security and administrative efficiency.

Parliamentary Offices for 6 Parties Near Completion in Singha Durbar

Management of parliamentary party offices for six newly elected national parties is entering its final stages within Singha Durbar. The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which emerged with a significant mandate, has been allocated the largest hall in Secretariat Building No. 2, featuring a meeting space with 180 chairs. RSP General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti requested the reuse of existing furniture and carpets to prioritize cost-cutting. Meanwhile, offices for the CPN, Shram Sanskriti Party, and RPP are being set up in the building previously used by RSP. According to Parliament Secretariat Spokesperson Ekram Giri, Nepali Congress and CPN (UML) will retain their previous locations, with all offices expected to be fully operational before the upcoming session.

Ministry Officials Expect Lower Forest Fire Risks This Year

Govinda Prasad Sharma, Secretary of the Ministry of Forests and Environment, stated on Monday that the likelihood of major forest fires is lower this fiscal year. Speaking at an awareness program in Kathmandu, Sharma explained that significant winter rainfall from the first week of January till mid-January has helped dampen the forest floor. He noted that the moisture causes fallen leaves to decay faster, naturally reducing the fuel available for wildfires. Despite the optimistic outlook, the Secretary urged authorities to remain vigilant against accidental fires and emphasized the need for further research and public awareness to mitigate environmental damage. He stressed that a proactive approach is essential to minimize potential losses during the upcoming dry season.

Iran-Israel Conflict Threatens Indian and Nepali Economies

The escalating war between Israel, the United States, and Iran has cast a shadow over India’s rapid economic growth. Following the military strikes on February 28, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted the passage of 25% of global oil and 20% of gas. India, which relies on the Gulf for 40% of its oil and 80% of its gas, faces soaring energy prices and a 10% drop in the stock market over four weeks. Goldman Sachs warned of slow growth and high inflation ahead. Nepal’s economy, heavily dependent on the USD 130 billion remittance flow from 10 million workers in the Gulf, also faces a looming crisis.

Solo Foreign Trekkers Permitted in Restricted Areas

The Department of Immigration has announced that solo foreign trekkers are now allowed to obtain permits for restricted areas in 13 districts. The decision, effective from March 22, removes the previous requirement for foreigners to travel in groups. However, Director Tikaram Dhakal specified that solo trekkers must still apply through a registered agency and hire at least one mandatory trekking guide. To enhance safety, the department has set a maximum ratio of seven trekkers per guide. Additionally, the permit process has been modernized, allowing visitors to apply online using a visa submission ID if a formal visa number is not yet available.

Separate Desk for Non-Resident Nepalis at TIA

The Department of Immigration has instructed the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) office to establish a dedicated desk for Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) and foreign citizens of Nepali origin. This decision aims to strengthen the cultural bond of the global Nepali diaspora with their homeland and facilitate tourism and investment. The move follows long-standing requests from the Association of Nepali Origin (ANO). ANO President Dilli Adhikari welcomed the decision, thanking Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal for the initiative. The department officially corresponded with the airport office on Sunday to implement the arrivals and departures desk, ensuring that the diaspora feels respected and connected during their visits to Nepal.

Nepal Airlines Announces Additional Flights to Dubai

Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) has scheduled additional flights on the Kathmandu to Dubai route to accommodate passengers. The corporation announced a flight from Kathmandu on March 25, with a return flight from Dubai on March 26. Another round-trip operation is set for March 27 and March 28. Flights will depart Kathmandu at 11:15 PM local time. NAC stated that priority will be given to travelers who held tickets between February 28 and March but were unable to travel. Passengers requiring urgent travel on these specific dates must re-verify their tickets, with seating assigned on a first-come, first-served basis according to availability.

Rabi Lamichhane Congratulates PM Sushila Karki on Elections

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane met Prime Minister Sushila Karki at Baluwatar on Sunday to offer congratulations on the successful conduct of the national elections. Lamichhane praised the prime minister’s “iron determination” for ensuring a peaceful and high-quality democratic transition. He stated that his party respects the decisions made by the current government and urged the administration to continue working at full capacity until the new government is formed. During the meeting, Lamichhane also raised concerns regarding the safety of Nepali workers in the Middle East, issues faced by students in Portugal, and the stability of petroleum supplies. Prime Minister Karki congratulated RSP on its electoral success and encouraged the young leaders to work with integrity for the nation.

Renu and Ganga Dahal Offer Condolences to KP Sharma Oli

Renu Dahal and Ganga Dahal, daughters of CPN (Maoist Center) Coordinator Prachanda, visited Gundu on Monday to offer condolences to CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli. The visit followed the passing of Oli’s father, Mohan Prasad Oli, who died on March 13 at the age of 97. Renu Dahal, the mayor of Bharatpur, shared the visit on social media, expressing heartfelt tributes to the late Mohan Prasad and deep sympathy for the bereaved family. The sisters met with the former prime minister to pay their respects during the mourning period, highlighting a moment of personal solidarity across political lines following the significant loss for the Oli family.

Nepali Congress to Review Election Defeat

The Nepali Congress has summoned a Central Work Execution Committee meeting for Tuesday at 1:00 PM. Acting Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Dulal issued a notice requesting the presence of all office bearers, members, and provincial presidents at the party headquarters in BP Nagar, Lalitpur. This follow-up meeting comes shortly after the previous session concluded on Sunday. The primary agenda remains the review of the party’s performance in the March 5 elections. The committee will further discuss the political landscape after rejecting the resignation of Gagan Thapa, who had stepped down following the party’s electoral defeat.

3 Arrested in Kathmandu for Illegal Cryptocurrency Trading

The Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office arrested three individuals for their involvement in illegal cryptocurrency trading. The suspects, identified as Indian national Pravesh Ali, Naresh Reule of Banke, and Dipti Pokharel of Sarlahi, were apprehended with Rs 1.5 million in cash. Following the initial arrest of Reule in Samakhushi on March 20, police tracked down the other two accomplices. An investigation of their mobile devices revealed Binance IDs with transactions totaling a massive Rs 1.368 billion. Authorities have intensified their crackdown on digital currency operations as such transactions remain prohibited under current Nepali law. The suspects are currently in custody for further legal proceedings.

Protests Erupt in Saptari Over Missing Pregnant Minor

Local residents in Saptari blocked the East-West Highway at Kadarbona for three hours on Sunday to demand information regarding a missing 14-year-old Dalit girl. The minor, who was reportedly seven months pregnant, has been missing since March 14 from the home of Maheshwar Yadav, where she worked as a domestic helper for ten years. Family members and human rights activists allege sexual exploitation and fear an illegal forced abortion. DSP Dambar Bahadur Puri stated that preliminary reports suggest the girl may have been taken by her sister, but a search is ongoing. Protesters have vowed to continue their struggle until the girl is found and those responsible are brought to justice.

Police Confirm Homicide in Saurav BK Case

The District Police Office Myagdi has confirmed that the death of 24-year-old Saurav BK, previously reported as a fall from a tree, was a murder. Following a detailed investigation and post-mortem report showing head injuries, police arrested 22-year-old Prakash BK on Saturday. The incident occurred on February 19 in the Gaiyabhat forest of Annapurna Rural Municipality-3. Police Inspector Sagar Timilsina stated that the murder resulted from a dispute following alcohol consumption involving Sohan BK, Prakash BK, and Shubham BK. The suspect reportedly confessed to the crime during preliminary interrogation. The District Court has granted a seven-day remand for further investigation into the homicide.

Homicide Charges Filed Against 6 Individuals in Siraha

Police in Siraha have filed attempted murder charges against six individuals following a violent clash over a motorcycle repair bill. The accused, including Arif Miya, Kariya Miya, and Arman Miya, were involved in a dispute on March 20 in Siraha Municipality-12. According to DSP Ramesh Bahadur Pahal, the argument between Salman Miya and Hashim Dafali escalated into a physical fight, leaving six people injured. While Arif Miya is currently in police custody, authorities are searching for the remaining five fugitives. One victim remains under medical care, while others have been discharged from the Provincial Hospital Siraha after receiving treatment for their injuries.

Maternal and Neonatal Death Reported in Surkhet After Rescue

A 21-year-old postpartum mother, Sarita Kumari Rokaya, and her newborn infant have died while undergoing treatment in Surkhet. Rokaya, a resident of Badimalika Municipality-1 in Bajura, gave birth to a 1,500-gram infant at Bajura District Hospital on March 19. Due to excessive bleeding and the infant’s low birth weight, both were airlifted to the Surkhet Provincial Hospital. According to Assistant Officer Laxman Pudasaini, the infant passed away on March 20, followed by the mother on Sunday. Doctors noted that Rokaya suffered from a pre-existing heart condition and had been previously advised by physicians in Kathmandu in 2022 not to seek a second pregnancy due to health risks.

Police Penalize 175 Ride-Sharing Drivers in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police have penalized 175 ride-sharing drivers during a special crackdown on unauthorized operations and traffic violations. Superintendent of Police Naresh Raj Subedi stated that many drivers were operating “offline” without using authorized digital platforms, while others ignored “pick and drop” rules in busy areas. Separately, the Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office arrested five individuals for foreign employment fraud. The suspects, including Arjun Bahadur Paudel and Sangeeta Shrestha, allegedly swindled millions from victims by promising jobs in Croatia, Portugal, and the UK. The arrested individuals have been sent to the Department of Foreign Employment for further legal action, as authorities intensify monitoring of both road safety and financial crimes.

Department Launches E-Pension for Civil Servants

The Department of National Personnel Records (Civil) has officially launched an E-Pension service, transitioning the agency toward a “faceless” operation. Director General Shrawan Kumar Pokharel stated that the approximately 3,275 civil servants who retire annually can now process their pension documents online without visiting the central office. The system leverages District Treasury and Controller Offices (DTCO) in all 77 districts to upload retiree details and verify documents digitally. Once reviewed, the Kitabkhana applies digital signatures and stamps, allowing retirees to open pension accounts at their chosen banks. This digitization aims to eliminate the need for repeated travel to Kathmandu, allowing employees who have resigned or reached mandatory retirement age to receive their benefits through a streamlined, transparent electronic process.

Hearing Postponed for Former Minister Saroj Singh

The hearing for a corruption case involving suspended lawmaker and former Madhesh Province State Minister Saroj Kumar Singh was postponed on Monday. The postponement was requested by the government attorney before the bench of Special Court Chair Sudarshan Dev Bhatta and Vidur Koirala. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed a claim of Rs 3.8 million against Singh. He is accused of embezzling consumer committee funds by transferring them into a joint account with his wife through his personal secretary, Binod Kumar Lal. Fifteen other individuals have been named as defendants in the ongoing legal proceedings.

Meteorological Department to Extend Forecasts to 7 Days

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology plans to extend its weather forecasting from three days to seven days in the near future. Senior Meteorologist Raju Pradhananga emphasized that higher-quality observation data from satellites and radars is essential to minimize loss of life from disasters like heavy rain and wildfires. Currently, the department provides specific services for aviation and mountaineering and has implemented “impact-based forecasting” in 21 local units. While flood forecasting accuracy in the Narayani has reached 90%, challenges remain due to limited budgets and the impact of climate change on extreme weather patterns.

Department Forecasts Temperature Rise Across Major Cities

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology issued a temperature forecast for Monday, indicating a rise in heat across Nepal. Maximum temperatures in Biratnagar, Janakpur, Nepalgunj, and Dhangadhi are expected to reach between 28°C and 30°C. In Kathmandu, the maximum temperature will fluctuate between 21°C and 23°C, with a minimum of 9°C to 11°C. Pokhara is predicted to see highs of 22°C to 24°C. Conversely, mountainous regions remain cool, with Jomsom seeing a minimum of 1°C to 3°C and Jiri at 3°C to 5°C. Bhairahawa and Dharan are also expected to hit 29°C, while hilly districts like Okhaldhunga will experience relatively milder weather conditions.

Insurance Authority Penalizes Seven Companies and Suspends Broker

The Nepal Insurance Authority has taken disciplinary action against seven insurance companies and suspended Aliant Reinsurance Broker for three months. According to Spokesperson Pujan Dhungel, the companies penalized include Himalayan Reinsurance, Himalayan Life, Nepal Life, Asian Life, Neco Insurance, The Oriental Insurance, and Nepal Reinsurance. The action follows investigations into the Hilton Hotel insurance case linked to the Gen Z protests on September 7 and 8, 2025, which resulted in damages worth Rs 4 billion. Authorities found serious regulatory breaches regarding reinsurance liabilities and “riot and terrorism risk” coverage. Additionally, the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of Nepal Re, Himalayan Re, and The Oriental were penalized under Section 134 of the Insurance Act, 2022.

Bagarphant-Dudhekhola Road Upgraded After 18 Years

An 18-year wait for the residents of Beni Municipality has ended with the successful upgrading of the Bagarphant-Kopre-Dudhekhola road section. The project, implemented through the Infrastructure Development Office Myagdi, involved widening the 2.5-kilometer track, improving turns, and constructing drainage and retaining walls. Machhapuchhre Himalayan JV secured the contract for Rs 55.9 million in 2024. Local residents noted that the upgrade has reduced travel time from 20 minutes to just five minutes. Although 80% of the work is complete, contractor Niraj Bhandari highlighted that a lack of adequate budget from the Gandaki Province government is hindering the completion of the final 390-meter concrete section.

Agriculture Limited to 70% of Arable Land in Karnali

Only 69.71% of the total arable land in Karnali Province is currently under cultivation, according to the Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture, and Cooperatives. Out of 3 million hectares of total land, only 287,761 hectares are considered cultivable, with 87,159 hectares remaining fallow. Mukunda Sharma, an agriculture officer, stated that year-round irrigation covers only 38,233 hectares. District data reveals significant disparities; for instance, Dolpa cultivates only 5,970 hectares of its 788,900 hectares, while the provincial capital, Surkhet, cultivates 35,010 hectares. The ministry emphasized that expanding irrigation to the 30,407 hectares currently receiving only partial water is critical for increasing regional food production.

Seventeen Rhinos Die in Chitwan This Fiscal Year

A total of 17 rhinoceroses have died in and around Chitwan National Park during the current fiscal year. According to Information Officer Abhinash Thapa Magar, one rhino died due to electrocution, while the remaining 16 succumbed to natural causes. Overall, 57 wild animals have perished since July 2025, including four tigers, three elephants, and 18 spotted deer. Causes of death include territorial fights, drowning in swamps, and predator attacks. Despite these losses, authorities noted that increased community awareness has successfully prevented poaching incidents this year. In comparison, the previous fiscal year saw a higher mortality rate, with 81 wildlife deaths recorded.

Nepali Short Film Selected for Oberhausen Festival in Germany

The Nepali short film Test of Water has been selected for the 72nd edition of the International Short Film Festival Oberhausen in Germany. Written and directed by Ayan Pariyar, the film will compete in the Children and Youth Competition Official Selection from April 28 to May 3. Produced by Jyotsal Rajbhandari, Diwas Shrestha, and Prem Prasad Adhikari, the story follows a nine-year-old boy named Bire living in poverty who finds hope in the simple discovery of clean water. The cast includes Afant BK, Anup Dotel, and Sonika Shahi Thakuri. The production team, including board members of Everest Film Academy, described the selection as a significant milestone for bringing Nepali stories to a prestigious international global stage.

Film Development Board Calls for National Film Award Applications

The Film Development Board issued a public notice on Monday inviting applications for the National and Special Film Awards. According to the board, films released between April 14, 2025, and April 13, 2026, are eligible to apply for various categories. To qualify for the competition, the films must have undergone a formal public screening. These prestigious awards are traditionally presented annually by the President of Nepal to recognize excellence in the domestic cinema industry. The board has urged filmmakers and production houses to list their projects within the specified deadline to be considered for the upcoming ceremony.

New Diamond Club Wins National Women’s Volleyball Title

The New Diamond Club from Chandragiri Municipality, Kathmandu, has won the National Women’s Volleyball title in Hetauda. In the final match held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, New Diamond defeated the Keshavlal Shrestha Memorial Foundation in straight sets (25-13, 25-15, 25-23). Along with the trophy, the winners received Rs 300,000, while the runners-up earned Rs 200,000. Sunita Chhetri of New Diamond was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, receiving Rs 10,000. Other individual honors went to Jenisha Bishwakarma (Best Spiker), Bhawana Tamang (Best Setter), and Kumar Rai (Best Coach). The competition, managed by the Makwanpur District Volleyball Association, featured six national teams participating in the multi-sectoral festival.

Sudurpaschim and Lumbini Win Openers in PM Cup

Sudurpaschim Province and Lumbini Province secured victories on the opening day of the PM Cup Men’s National Cricket Tournament on Monday. In Birgunj, Sudurpaschim defeated Karnali Province by six wickets, successfully chasing a target of 120 runs in 29.2 overs. Hemant Dhami was the standout performer, taking six wickets for just 16 runs. Meanwhile, in Janakpur, Lumbini secured a massive 148-run victory over Koshi Province. Lumbini posted 249 runs in 49.3 overs before bowling out Koshi for 101 runs in 31.4 overs. The tournament features ten teams, including seven provinces and three departmental sides, competing for a top prize of Rs 1 million.

Captain Dev Khanal Leads Lumbini to Victory in PM Cup

Lumbini Province secured a dominant 148-run victory over Koshi Province in the PM Cup One-Day National Cricket Tournament on Monday in Janakpur. Batting first, Lumbini posted a total of 249 runs before being bowled out in 49.3 overs. Captain Dev Khanal led the innings with an impressive 92 runs off 100 balls, including eight boundaries and one six, while Santosh Yadav contributed 48 runs. In response, Koshi struggled against the bowling attack and was dismissed for just 101 runs in 31.4 overs. Santosh Yadav excelled with the ball, taking four wickets, while Rajendra Bam claimed three. Koshi’s Ankit Subedi was the top scorer for his team with 30 runs.

Russia Offers Intelligence Swap Deal to United States

Russia has reportedly proposed a deal to stop providing intelligence to Iran if the United States ceases its intelligence sharing with Ukraine. According to Politico, the offer was made by Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev during a meeting in Miami with Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner. While the US has reportedly rejected the proposal, the move has sparked concern among European nations regarding attempts by Vladimir Putin to drive a wedge between Western allies. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently described Russia as a strategic partner, while US officials suspect Russian intelligence has already assisted Iran in carrying out precise military strikes against American interests during the ongoing regional conflict.

Fatal Plane Crash at New York’s LaGuardia Airport

A pilot and co-pilot were killed and dozens of passengers injured when an Air Canada aircraft collided with a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York on Sunday night. The flight, carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, struck the rescue vehicle on the runway at 11:40 PM local time during landing. According to media reports, the fire truck was responding to another emergency involving a different flight reporting a strange smell in the cockpit. Air Traffic Control had ordered the truck to stop, but the collision occurred seconds later. While 41 people were hospitalized, most have been discharged. The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation amid growing concerns over airport staffing and safety budgets.

South Korea Exports Surge 50% in March

South Korea’s exports jumped 50% during the first 20 days of March compared to the previous year, driven by a massive global demand for semiconductors. Data from the Korea Customs Service shows total exports reached USD 53 billion, with semiconductor exports alone totaling USD 19 billion, nearly double last year’s figures. Automobile exports also rose to USD 4 billion, while computers and mobile devices saw significant double-digit growth. Meanwhile, imports increased by 20% to USD 41 billion, led by crude oil, coal, and semiconductor equipment. This surge reflects a dynamic recovery in global trade activities and underscores South Korea’s dominant position in the international technology and electronics manufacturing sectors.

Modi Issues Stern Warning Over West Asia Tensions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha for 25 minutes on Monday, expressing grave concern over escalating conflicts in West Asia. Modi emphasized that attacks on civilian settlements and power plants are unacceptable and called for a resolution through diplomacy. He issued a stern warning against obstructing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical trade route. To ensure energy security, India has expanded petroleum imports from 27 to 41 countries and maintains a strategic reserve of 5.3 million metric tons. Additionally, Modi highlighted that 375,000 Indians have been evacuated from conflict zones, including over 1,000 citizens and 700 medical students from Iran.