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.

President Paudel Reorganizes Cabinet Seniority on PM’s Recommendation

President Ram Chandra Paudel has revised the seniority ranking of the Council of Ministers following a recommendation from Prime Minister Balendra Shah. Under the new order, Minister for Foreign Affairs Shishir Khanal has climbed to the third position, while Minister for Home Affairs Sudhan Gurung has moved down to the fifth. Minister for Finance Swarnim Wagle retains the second spot behind the prime minister. The hierarchy now places Biraj Bhakta Shrestha at fourth and Sunil Lamsal at sixth, with Minister for Labor Deepak Kumar Shah ranked at the bottom of the 15-member cabinet. The reshuffle was formalized on Tuesday, in accordance with Article 76(9) of the Constitution of Nepal.

Government Urges ‘Work From Home’ Amid Global Fuel Crisis

To combat rising petroleum prices and international supply shortages, the government has appealed to the public and officials to adopt ‘work from home’ practices and increase the use of electric vehicles. Minister for Federal Affairs and General Administration Pratibha Rawal announced on Tuesday that the cabinet has approved a 50 percent discount on the infrastructure development tax for petrol, diesel, and kerosene to provide temporary relief. Other measures include the implementation of a Sunday public holiday, fuel quota cuts for high-level officials, and the potential for an odd-even vehicle numbering system. Minister Rawal emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding EV infrastructure and formulating a national ethanol policy as long-term solutions.

Lila Bhandari Takes Oath as National Assembly Vice-Chairperson

Lila Bhandari, the newly elected Vice-Chairperson of the National Assembly, was officially sworn into office on Tuesday. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal in the presence of President Ram Chandra Paudel at Shital Niwas. The ceremony was attended by Vice-President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Balendra Shah, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, and Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla. Bhandari assumes the role following her recent election victory, joining the leadership of the upper house of parliament.

Gunakar Bhatta Appointed Vice Chair of National Planning Commission

Gunakar Bhatta has been appointed as the vice-chairman of the National Planning Commission. Minister for Federal Affairs and General Administration Pratibha Rawal stated that the meeting of the Council of Ministers held on Tuesday appointed Bhatta to the position of vice-chairman of the commission. He is a former executive director of Nepal Rastra Bank.

Authorities Recall Ambassadors from 6 Nations

The government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah has officially recalled ambassadors from six countries, including India. According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri, written notices were dispatched on Monday, directing the envoys to return within one month. The recalled officials include Dr. Shankar Sharma (India), Chitralekha Yadav (Australia), Sumnima Tuladhar (Denmark), Shiba Maya Tumbahangphe (South Korea), Kapilman Shrestha (South Africa), and Purna Bahadur Nepali (Sri Lanka). With this decision, 17 of Nepal’s 34 diplomatic missions are currently without leadership, as new appointments have yet to be finalized for vacancies that have persisted for over six months.

Supreme Court Issues Show-Cause Order on Government Advertising Policy

The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause order against the government’s decision to restrict official advertisements exclusively to state-owned media. On Tuesday, Justice Meghraj Pokhrel’s single bench demanded a written explanation from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers following a writ petition filed by the Nepal Media Society. The society argues that the policy, which bars private media from receiving government ads, violates constitutional rights to freedom of expression and the Advertising Regulation Act. While the court declined an immediate stay, it has summoned both parties for a discussion on whether to issue an interim order.

Nepal Federation of Journalists Launches Protests Against Ad Monopoly

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has launched the first phase of a protest campaign against the government’s decision to centralize all public advertisements within state-owned media. FNJ General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal stated that the move is a direct attack on private media and independent journalism. The Federation officially began its pressure campaign on April 8 after multiple requests to Minister for Communication Bikram Timsina to revoke the policy went unheeded. The FNJ maintains that the directive issued by the Prime Minister’s Office to all federal, provincial, and local bodies must be withdrawn immediately to ensure media diversity.

Tribhuvan International Airport Installs First Public Defibrillator (AED)

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has become the first public location in Nepal to install an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The life-saving device, located in Ward No. 9 of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, is designed to provide immediate assistance during sudden cardiac arrests or heart rhythm failures. Ward Chairman Ramji Bhandari stated that having such equipment in high-traffic areas is a major step toward emergency health security. The installation was coordinated by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City in partnership with the Health Advancement Program in South Asia Nepal to improve passenger safety at the country’s primary international gateway.

Ministry Approves 10-Point Reform Plan for Digital Governance

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has launched a 10-point action plan to modernize public service delivery. Approved following a March 27 cabinet decision, the plan includes launching an integrated application system via the Nagarik App within 45 days for passports and driver’s licenses. Furthermore, the Postal Service will be transformed into a “Government Courier Service” within 90 days to deliver documents like e-SIMs and academic certificates to citizens’ homes. The initiative also targets clearing the backlog of 2.9 million driver’s licenses by mid-July and making 250 government websites disability-friendly.

Home Ministry to Launch Central Command System for National Security

The Ministry of Home Affairs is set to establish a central command system to streamline crime control and public security monitoring across Nepal. Ministry spokesperson Anand Kafle announced on Monday that the new system will allow for real-time, simultaneous communication with all District Administration Offices, District Police Offices, and Armed Police Force units. Additionally, the Ministry has already implemented a notification system via SMS and email to update citizens on the progress of their filed complaints. Home Minister Sudhan Gurung has directed officials to provide weekly progress reports on these initiatives to ensure improved accountability and a better working environment for staff.

Finance Minister Promises Transformative Budget and Market Stability

Minister for Finance Swarnim Wagle has assured the Stock Brokers Association and the Nepal Economic Journalists Society (SEJON) that the upcoming federal budget will be “transformative and historic,” comparable to the reforms of 1991. During meetings on Monday, he emphasized that the government is private-sector friendly and remains committed to removing Nepal from the “grey list” through improved governance. Addressing rumors in the share market, the minister stated that the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and the current coalition are not against investors. He urged small investors not to panic over ongoing investigations, clarifying that the government aims for a transparent, paperless, and credible trading environment.

Department Issues Warning Against Thin Plastic Bags Below 40 Microns

The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has issued a fresh directive to enforce the ban on plastic bags thinner than 40 microns. Reaffirming a January 31, 2022, cabinet decision and the fiscal year 2022/23 budget statement, the Department stated that the production, import, sale, and use of such plastics have been strictly prohibited since November 17, 2025. Despite the existing ban, market monitoring has revealed continued use, prompting the government to warn of strict penalties for violators. The measure is part of a broader “Plastic Bag Ban Action Plan 2022” aimed at reducing environmental pollution nationwide.

Police Arrest 33 Middlemen Exploiting Service Seekers in Madhesh Province

Madhesh Province Police have detained 33 middlemen during a crackdown on illegal activities across several government offices. The special operation, conducted on Tuesday, targeted individuals who were reportedly exploiting service seekers by demanding extra money for “fast-track” services and providing false information. According to Superintendent of Police Man Bahadur Rai, arrests were made at transport and land revenue offices in Birgunj, Gaur, Chandrapur, Malangwa, Dhanusha, and Saptari. Authorities have urged the public to avoid using intermediaries and to report any such solicitations to the police via the 100 emergency line. Those arrested will face legal action under existing laws for obstructing fair service delivery.

Govt. Orders Private Schools to Refund Illegal Admission Fees

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has directed all local governments to ensure that private (institutional) schools refund admission and other fees collected against existing laws. Through a circular issued via the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, the government aims to enforce its April 5 directive and a Supreme Court order prohibiting admissions before the official start of the academic session. Ministry spokesperson Shiva Kumar Sapkota warned that schools failing to refund advance or excess fees could face action under the Education Act, 1971. To manage fuel supply challenges, the Council of Ministers has officially scheduled the new academic session to commence on April 18.

Lawmaker Mahabir Pun Calls for Accountability Over ‘Gen Z Protests’

Independent Member of Parliament Mahabir Pun has stated that the leadership of the time must take moral responsibility for the shortcomings and incidents that occurred during the ‘Gen Z’ protests. Speaking at the Federal Parliament building on Tuesday, Pun argued that while former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak may not have directly ordered the use of force, the heads of government must answer for the actions of subordinate agencies. He emphasized that accepting mistakes is a fundamental tenet of a democratic system. Pun also urged the current government to take issues raised by various lawmakers in parliament seriously and address public concerns with urgency.

Home Minister Inspects Flood-Prone Roshi River in Kavre

Minister for Home Affairs Sudhan Gurung conducted an onsite inspection of the Roshi River in Kavre on Tuesday to address recurring flood concerns. Following persistent complaints from local residents regarding annual monsoon damage, the minister assessed high-risk settlements and critical infrastructure in the area. During the visit, he evaluated potential risk-reduction strategies and coordinated with local authorities to prepare for the upcoming rainy season. The inspection aims to finalize a mitigation plan to protect the community and minimize property loss before the monsoon peaks.

CPN (UML) Lawmakers File Complaint Against Cyberbullying of Young Girls

A group of 18 female lawmakers from the CPN (UML), including Secretary Padma Kumari Aryal and Central Committee member Ram Kumari Jhakri, filed a formal complaint at the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau in Bhotahity on Tuesday. The lawmakers highlighted an alarming rise in cyberbullying, harassment, and defamatory comments directed at young girls across social media platforms. The complaint emphasizes that such digital abuse severely impacts the mental health and social security of victims. The parliamentarians have demanded an immediate and effective investigation to ensure the safety and dignity of girls and to bring perpetrators of online harassment to justice.

Internal Crisis Deepens in CPN (UML) as Leaders Demand Special Convention

The CPN (UML) is facing internal turmoil as Acting Chairman Ram Bahadur Thapa ‘Badal’ summoned youth leaders to the party headquarters in Chyasal on Tuesday to discuss a growing signature campaign for a Special National Convention. Over 400 members of the National Convention Representative Council, including leaders like Kamal Joshi and Upendra Shahi, are demanding a leadership change following the party’s “unexpected defeat” in the March 5 general elections. The dissidents point out that the party’s vote share dropped to 13.4 percent and noted that 11 out of 15 candidates in Kathmandu lost their deposits. Under Article 73 of the party statute, a special convention must be called if 51 percent of the 2,263 council members sign the demand.

Cabinet Authorizes Land Acquisition for Tunnel and Expressway Projects

In a significant move for national infrastructure, the Council of Ministers has approved the acquisition of private land for several major projects. On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the government greenlit the procurement of 4578.60 square meters of land in Dhuni Besi-9 for the western section of the Nagdhunga Tunnel and 1017.47 square meters in Uttargaya-5 for the Pasang Lhamu Highway. Additionally, the cabinet authorized the use of 46.39 hectares of national forest land for the Kathmandu-Terai-Madhesh Fast Track. This clearance includes the removal of 1,898 trees across Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Makwanpur districts to facilitate the expressway’s construction.

Karnali Government Announces Six Additional Public Holidays

The Karnali Province government has approved six additional public holidays for the upcoming fiscal year 2026/27. During a cabinet meeting in Birendranagar, the provincial administration designated March 26 as Dhan Diwas and October 8 for the Chandanpath Temple Fair, though these two are specific to Jumla district. For the entire province, holidays will be observed on Saune Sakranti, Province Foundation Day, and Kojagrat Purnima. Additionally, National Paddy Day will be a holiday in the other nine districts of the province, excluding Jumla.

Hetauda Municipality Bans Vehicle Washing in Rivers to Curb Pollution

Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City has issued an immediate ban on washing vehicles in the Rapti, Karra, and other local rivers to protect the environment and public health. The municipality warned that the discharge of oil, grease, and detergents from trucks, buses, and motorcycles is severely polluting water sources and harming aquatic life. Under the Local Government Operation Act, 2017, and environmental protection laws, violators face fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000. Municipal police have been authorized to seize vehicles found violating the ban and initiate legal proceedings against the owners.

NEFIN Unveils 39-Point Action Plan for Indigenous Rights

The newly elected committee of the Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN), led by Chairman Nima Lama Hyolmo, has released a 39-point three-year work plan. Announced at a press conference on Tuesday, the plan prioritizes the construction of NEFIN’s own office building on land already purchased in Lalitpur. Key objectives include lobbying for a dedicated Ministry of Indigenous Affairs, renaming provinces based on identity, and expanding the number of provinces from seven to eleven. General Secretary Bimal Saru Magar further demanded that the government apologize for historical discrimination against indigenous groups and officially declare activists Sukdev Gurung and Padam Limbu as martyrs.

Heavy Snowfall Blankets Mustang and Manang Districts

High-altitude regions in northern Nepal are experiencing heavy snowfall, disrupting normal life while attracting tourists. In Mustang, the Muktinath area of Varagung Muktichhetra-1, along with both Upper and Lower Mustang, has seen continuous snowfall since Monday afternoon. Similarly, the upper reaches of Manang have been covered in thick snow since Sunday evening. The sudden weather shift has significantly dropped temperatures across the mountainous belt, affecting local residents and pilgrims visiting the sacred Muktinath shrine.

Film Bill Tabled in House of Representatives After National Assembly Approval

The Film Bill, aimed at modernizing Nepal’s cinema industry, was officially tabled in the House of Representatives on Tuesday. House Secretary Harka Raj Rai presented the bill, which was recently passed with amendments by the National Assembly on February 11. Originally registered by former Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung in April 2025, the new legislation seeks to replace the outdated Film Act of 1969. The bill intends to develop the film sector as a social, cultural, and entertainment industry while promoting Nepal as a global filming destination and updating regulations for the digital era.

Neeta Dhungana Begins Filming Directorial Debut ‘Parvati’ in Kaski

Neeta Dhungana has begun filming her directorial debut feature film, Parvati, from Tuesday, with production underway in Mirsha Village of Machhapuchchhre Rural Municipality-1 in Kaski District. Dhungana is taking on a triple role in the project as producer, director, and lead actor. According to cinematographer Sudip Baral, filming commenced following a traditional script-consecration ceremony. The film features an ensemble cast including Deepa Shree Niraula, Ashok Darji, Siru Bista, Radhika Kandel, Raj Pangeni Sharma, Rajendra Nepali, and Asha Paudel. The project also marks Dhungana’s reunion with Ashok Darji after Man Binako Dhan. The screenplay has been written by Shivam Adhikari, while Saroj Adhikari of The Cartoonz Crew is making his feature film debut as an assistant director. The film is scheduled for release on August 28.

IGP Cup 2026 Sports Tournament Begins at APF Stadium

The ‘Armed Police Inspector General Cup 2026’ was officially inaugurated by Additional Inspector General (AIG) Narayan Datta Paudel at the Nepal APF Stadium on Tuesday. The tournament features 622 male and female athletes from nine offices, including the APF Training Academy and eight regional headquarters. On the opening day, the Bindhyavasini Brigade (Rupandehi), Muktinath Brigade (Kaski), and Baidyanath Brigade (Kailali) secured victories in football, while the Kailali and Chhinnamasta (Mahottari) brigades won their opening volleyball matches. The competition, which includes football, volleyball, athletics, and kabaddi, is scheduled to conclude on April 12.

Japanese Brand Sponsors Karate Athlete Gurung

World-renowned Japanese karate uniform company Shureido has officially sponsored Nepali karate athlete Erika Gurung, providing her with four sets of uniforms, one bag, four shin guards, four belts, four pairs of gloves, and five T-shirts. Gurung is the first Nepali athlete to receive such support from the company. The two-year agreement includes annual provision of equipment. National team chief coach Kushal Shrestha said international support boosts athletes’ morale and performance. The sponsorship marks a milestone for Nepali karate and signals growing international interest in Nepali athletes.

Government Pledges Support for Fapla Cricket Ground Construction

Minister for Education, Science and Technology, and Youth and Sports Sasmit Pokhrel has committed government support for the completion of the Fapla Cricket Ground in Dhangadhi, Kailali. During an inspection of the site on Tuesday morning, the minister noted the high level of cricket enthusiasm in Sudurpashchim Province and stated that the current administration would prioritize the project’s progress. Following the inspection, the minister attended a meeting at Shahid Dashrath Chand University of Health Sciences in Geta and is scheduled to visit Sudurpashchim University and the dry port under construction in Dodhara Chandani, Kanchanpur, later today.

Artemis II Crew Begins Earthward Journey After Breaking Apollo Record

The four-member Artemis II crew has begun its return journey to Earth after completing a historic lunar flyby that shattered a 56-year-old distance record. On Tuesday the crew reached a maximum distance of 406,778 kilometers from Earth, surpassing the Apollo 13 record by 4,105 miles. During the mission, Pilot Victor Glover (the first Black man to fly to the Moon); Mission Specialist Christina Koch (the first woman); and Jeremy Hansen (the first non-American) observed rare lunar craters and a solar eclipse from behind the Moon. The crew also proposed naming two new craters: ‘Integrity’ (after the spacecraft’s nickname) and ‘Carole’ (in memory of Commander Reid Wiseman’s late wife). The Orion capsule is now on a free-return trajectory and is expected to splash down in approximately four days.

Iran Rejects 45-Day Ceasefire Proposal Amid Trump’s Ultimatum

Iran has officially rejected a 10-point ceasefire proposal mediated by Pakistan that aimed to halt the ongoing 13-day conflict with the U.S. and Israel. According to the state news agency IRNA on Monday, Tehran insisted that any truce must include international recognition of its rights, war reparations, and guarantees against future attacks. This refusal follows a stern warning from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that if the Strait of Hormuz is not opened for free navigation by Tuesday, Iran would face “terrible attacks” on its critical infrastructure. While President Trump acknowledged the ceasefire proposal as a “significant step” during a White House briefing, he noted it was currently “not enough” to end the hostilities.

Indian Court Sentences 9 Police Officers to Death for Custodial Murder

In a landmark ruling, a district court in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has sentenced nine police officers to death for the brutal custodial murder of a businessman and his son. The victims, P. Jayaraj and his son Benniks, were arrested in June 2020 for allegedly keeping their mobile shop open past lockdown hours during the COVID-19 pandemic. A Central Investigation Bureau (CBI) investigation revealed the duo died after being subjected to “extreme torture” while in police custody. The judge found the officers guilty of murder and destruction of evidence, stating the gravity of the crime warranted the harshest punishment. This marks one of the rare instances in India where multiple law enforcement officials have received the death penalty simultaneously.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Blocks Hormuz Strait to “Enemy” Vessels

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all commercial vessels traveling to or from ports associated with Iran’s “enemies.” This strategic chokepoint is vital for global energy, with data showing that 2,268 vessels, including 47 supertankers and 9 liquid gas carriers, transmitted signals in the western Gulf over the last 24 hours. Analysts note a significant shift in maritime traffic since the conflict began; approximately 49 percent of all vessels currently using the route are on U.S., EU, or UK sanction lists. For oil and gas tankers specifically, that figure rises to 65 percent, highlighting the extreme volatility and geopolitical risk currently facing international energy markets.