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.

Elections for House Committee Chairpersons Scheduled for Friday

The Federal Parliament Secretariat has scheduled the elections for the chairpersons of the House of Representatives thematic committees for Friday, April 17. Candidates must register their proposals between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Thursday, with the list of candidates to be published later that evening. The House of Representatives consists of 10 thematic committees, including Finance, Public Accounts, and International Relations. Additionally, there are four National Assembly committees and two joint committees. Secretary Harka Raj Rai noted that ministers must provide 24 hours’ notice if they intend to vote in these “mini-parliament” elections.

Govt. Forms Commission to Investigate Assets of Public Servant

The government has decided to form a five-member Asset Investigation Commission to scrutinize the wealth of high-ranking officials. Chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Rajendra Kumar Bhandari, the commission will verify and investigate the assets of major political figures and senior bureaucrats who held office between 2005/06 and 2025/26. Other members include former judges Purushottam Parajuli and Chandiraj Dhakal, former Deputy Inspector Ganesh KC, and Chartered Accountant Prakash Lamsal. Education Minister Sasmit Pokhrel announced the decision, emphasizing the government’s commitment to accountability.

Speaker DP Aryal’s Vehicle Fined for Traffic Violation in Thapathali

The vehicle of Speaker Dol Prasad (DP) Aryal, along with escort vehicles, was fined by traffic police for a lane violation in Thapathali on Wednesday. Officers issued three tickets at Singha Durbar after the vehicles were observed crossing lanes in violation of traffic rules. The speaker’s personal secretary, Navaraj Pandey, clarified that drivers had been previously instructed to follow all regulations, but the incident occurred following a recent change in driving personnel. The traffic police confirmed that the action was taken to uphold the “Traffic Violation Record System” regardless of the vehicle’s status.

Ministry of Communications Implements Mandatory One-Day Task Policy

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has enforced a new code of conduct to improve service delivery across its departments. Under the new rule, any task or file received by an employee must be completed on the same day or by the following day at the latest. Joint Secretary Subash Chandra Shiwakoti stated that all employees must sign a commitment letter to ensure accountability and quality work. If a task cannot be completed within the deadline, the employee is required to immediately inform their supervisor. The policy also includes directives for maintaining austerity in the use of government resources.

Prime Minister Balen Shah Discusses Regional Issues with PR Lawmakers

Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) held a consultation meeting with Proportional Representation (PR) lawmakers from all political parties on Wednesday. The discussion took place at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar. The meeting focused on understanding sector-specific problems and regional development needs across the country. This session follows previous consultations the Prime Minister held with lawmakers from various provinces to gather diverse perspectives on governance and local issues.

Home Minister and Japanese Ambassador Discuss Disaster Management

Home Minister Sudhan Gurung and Japanese Ambassador Maeda Toru met to discuss bilateral cooperation and infrastructure projects. The minister expressed interest in the progress of the Nagdhunga Tunnel project and proposed the establishment of a disaster management university in Nepal with Japanese technical assistance. Ambassador Toru praised the integration of the Nepali community in Japan and reiterated commitment to migration cooperation and the sustainable development of tourism in Lumbini. Both parties emphasized the historical friendship and the need for enhanced technical sharing in disaster risk reduction.

Foreign Minister Meets German Ambassador to Discuss Bilateral Relations

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal received the German Ambassador to Nepal, Udo Eugen Volz, at the Ministry on Wednesday. During the meeting, Ambassador Volz congratulated Minister Khanal on his appointment and conveyed a message of goodwill from the German Federal Foreign Minister, Dr. Johann David Wadephul. The diplomats discussed various aspects of the Nepal-Germany relationship, focusing on strengthening diplomatic ties and exploring future areas of cooperation between the two nations.

Minister Sasmit Pokhrel Requests UK Support for Autism Schools

The Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Sasmit Pokhrel, held a meeting with Rob Fenn, the British Ambassador to Nepal, on Wednesday. During the discussions at the Ministry, Pokhrel expressed gratitude for the United Kingdom’s continued support of Nepal’s education sector. He specifically requested technical and human resource assistance for the establishment of “Autism Schools” planned for all seven provinces. Ambassador Fenn and Minister Pokhrel also discussed broader bilateral cooperation and shared interests in enhancing educational quality and inclusivity across the country.

8 New Ministers Appointed to Gandaki Provincial Cabinet

Gandaki Province Governor Dilliraj Bhatta administered the oath of office and secrecy to eight newly appointed ministers on Wednesday. Representing the Nepali Congress, Jit Sherchan was appointed Minister of Economic Affairs, Nanda Prasad Neupane as Minister of Energy and Water Supply, Rekha Gurung as Minister of Social Development, and Namdu Gurung as Minister of Forests and Environment. From the CPN (UML), Govinda Bahadur Nepali took charge of Physical Infrastructure, Yashoda Rimal of Industry and Tourism, Laxman Pandey of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and Bhim Karki as Minister of Health.

UAE Grants Amnesty to 128 Nepali Prisoners During Ramadan

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has granted amnesty to 128 Nepali prisoners on the occasion of Ramadan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Wednesday expressing gratitude to the UAE government for the gesture. The release followed a formal request made by the government of Nepal through its embassy in Abu Dhabi. This humanitarian act has been welcomed as a significant diplomatic development during the holy month, allowing the pardoned individuals to return to their families.

Agriculture Ministry Officials Conducted 155 Foreign Trips Across 32 Countries

In the fiscal year 2024/25, employees of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development conducted 155 foreign trips to 32 countries, including Italy, Rwanda, and South Korea. Thailand was the most visited destination with 36 trips involving 53 officials, while India saw the highest number of participants with 100 employees across 19 visits. While costs were largely covered by international agencies like the FAO, UNDP, and ADB, critics question the practical implementation of knowledge gained, citing instances where unrelated specialists were sent to specific technical seminars.

Teacher Records and Pensions to be Managed by Provincial Ministries

Starting next fiscal year, the National Teacher Record Office will transfer the management of permanent community school teachers’ service records (Sheetroll) and pension benefits to provincial education ministries. General Manager Shrawan Kumar Pokharel stated that this move aligns with point 15 of the government’s 100 points reform agenda. The transition will include the implementation of digital services and e-pension facilities. The office is currently in the process of approving the necessary working procedures to decentralize these administrative tasks to the provincial level.

Petition Filed for Urgent Hearing on Rabi Lamichhane Asset Case

A petition was filed in the Supreme Court on Wednesday seeking an urgent hearing regarding the revision of charges against Rabi Lamichhane and other defendants in an organized crime and asset laundering case. Law student Ayush Badal submitted the request after a bench of Justices Binod Sharma and Abdul Aziz Musalman referred the case to a full bench on March 29 without setting a specific date. The case challenges a decision made by former Attorney General Sabita Bhandari to amend charges for several defendants, including the fugitive GB Rai. The petitioner argues that the serious nature of the case requires a prompt judicial resolution.

Harka Sampang Opposes Proposal for MPs to Appoint Personal Secretaries

Harka Sampang, Chairman of the Shram Sanskriti Party, has publicly opposed a proposal allowing Members of Parliament (MPs) to appoint personal secretaries. Sampang argued that providing a monthly salary of Rs 30,000 to each secretary would result in a monthly state expenditure of over Rs 8.2 million. He calculated the total cost to be approximately Rs 99 million annually and nearly Rs 495 million over a five-year term. While the previous administration under Sushila Karki had abolished these positions, the current government led by Balen Shah is reportedly preparing to reinstate the provision.

Supreme Court Orders Written Response in Dipak Khadka’s Habeas Corpus Case

The Supreme Court has ordered a written explanation regarding the detention of former Energy Minister Dipak Khadka. A joint bench of Justices Til Prasad Shrestha and Shanti Singh Thapa issued the order on Wednesday, requesting documents from the Lalitpur District Court and the Department of Asset Laundering Investigation. Khadka was arrested following the discovery of burnt cash at his residence during the Gen Z protests. His wife, Binita Thapa, filed the habeas corpus petition after his detention was extended for a third time for a period of three days on April 13.

RSP Parliamentary Party Discusses Committee Chairperson Elections

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) held a parliamentary party meeting on Thursday at its office in Singha Durbar. According to General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti, the meeting was convened at 12:15 PM to discuss the upcoming elections for the chairpersons of various parliamentary committees. The agenda also included a review of diverse legislative matters and the party’s strategy regarding committee leadership. This internal consultation follows the publication of the official election schedule for the “mini-parliament” committee heads.

NC Lawmaker Drona Kumar Kunwar Resigns from Gandaki Assembly

Drona Kumar Kunwar, a directly elected Nepali Congress (NC) lawmaker from Baglung-2, resigned from the Gandaki Provincial Assembly on Wednesday. Kunwar submitted his resignation to the Speaker following his exclusion from the newly reshuffled provincial cabinet. Although he was a contender for a ministerial post, Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey did not include him in the latest expansion involving NC and CPN (UML) members. Kunwar stated in his letter that while he no longer holds a public office, he remains committed to serving the people of his constituency.

NC Discipline Committee Seeks Clarification from Purna Bahadur Khadka

The Nepali Congress (NC) Central Discipline Committee has issued a seven days clarification notice to former Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka. Committee Coordinator Taraman Gurung stated that the decision was made because Khadka continued to issue press releases in his capacity as Acting President, which is deemed a violation of the party’s statute. The committee’s investigation focuses on the procedural validity of these communications and has requested a formal explanation from Khadka within the specified timeframe.

CIAA Files Corruption Charges Against 16 Officials in Lumbini

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed a corruption case at the Special Court against 16 individuals, including former Lumbini Province Secretary Baikuntha Adhikari. The charges involve irregularities in the construction of a cold storage facility in Sammarimai Rural Municipality-4, Rupandehi. Spokesperson Suresh Neupane stated that the accused, including agriculture officers and cooperative managers, allegedly received payments without completing the work during the fiscal year 2019/20. The CIAA has claimed an embezzlement amount of Rs 7.1 million and is seeking the recovery of the funds along with imprisonment.

Education Center Requests Data on School Mergers and New Establishments

The Center for Education and Human Resource Development has directed all local levels to provide details on school mergers and the establishment of new schools. This request is part of the government’s 100 points governance reform agenda approved on March 27. Director Shyam Prasad Acharya stated that the center is seeking information on scientific mapping using GIS technology. Additionally, local bodies must submit data on students receiving mandatory scholarships in private and trust-run schools, as well as records of children enrolled based on local certifications in the absence of birth certificates.

NTA Integrates National Registration Data into’ Nagrik App’

The Department of Information Technology has initiated the integration of national registration data, including birth, marriage, and divorce records, into the ‘Nagarik App’. Director General Shree Chandra Sah confirmed that the preliminary process is underway to allow these certificates to be available digitally within the app. Additionally, the system is in the final stages of integrating civil service records, Public Service Commission admission cards, and No Objection Certificates (NOC) for foreign study. While the project was slated for completion in 45 days, Communications Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina has directed the department to finish the integration ahead of schedule.

Medical Council Stops Unauthorized IVF Consultations in Kathmandu

The Nepal Medical Council (NMC) has directed the Kathmandu District Administration Office to stop an unauthorized medical camp scheduled at Hotel Yak & Yeti on April 16. The event, advertised as an IVF consultation program featuring Indian doctors Jaideep Malhotra and Narendra Malhotra, reportedly lacked the mandatory prior approval from the council. Registrar Dr. Satish Kumar Dev emphasized that according to the Medical Council Act 1964, all domestic and foreign medical practitioners must be registered and obtain specific permission before conducting clinical services or camps to ensure public health safety.

Kathmandu Shop Owner Fined Rs 25,000 for Littering Sidewalk

The Kathmandu Metropolitan Police Force has fined a shop owner in Durbar Marg Rs 25,000 for littering the sidewalk. The action was taken after a social media video showed dust being shaken from a shop mat onto the public walkway in Ward No. 1. The metropolitan city clarified that the fine was imposed as part of administrative penalties to maintain urban cleanliness. Authorities warned that strict monitoring of public spaces will continue to ensure business owners comply with sanitation regulations.

Actor Anmol KC Announces Lineup of Four Meaningful Film Projects

Actor Anmol KC has officially announced his upcoming film lineup, including Batulo Joon, A Mero Hajur 5, Before We Met, and Jerry: The Last Climb. Taking to social media on Wednesday, the actor expressed his gratitude to fans, calling their support his “strength.” Batulo Joon, produced by Sunrise Pictures, is scheduled for a Dashain release. KC noted that these projects feature “meaningful stories” and come after the success of his previous film Jerry on Top, which became the highest-grossing movie of his career in the 2025/26 context.

Priyanka Karki’s ‘Masterni’ Set for August 28 Release

The film Masterni, produced by actress Priyanka Karki, is scheduled for release on August 28 following coordination with distributors. Directed by Indian filmmaker Subhendu Ghosh, the crime thriller and murder mystery features Priyanka Karki alongside Saroj Khanal, Pramod Agrahari, Aryan Sigdel, Anup Bikram Shahi, Gauri Malla, and others. The film is produced by Priyanka Karki, Ayushman Joshi, Cabinet Shrestha, and Pranit Karki, with Suraksha Singh Malhotra serving as executive producer. The story is written by Priyanka Karki, with additional writing by Shan Basnet, who also contributed to the film’s dialogues.

Nepali Women’s Cricket Team Departs for ICC Challenge Trophy in Rwanda

The Nepali women’s cricket team departed for Rwanda on Wednesday to participate in the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) organized a farewell for the squad, led by Captain Indu Barma and Vice-Captain Puja Mahato. The tournament, scheduled from April 18 to May 1, features host Rwanda, Nepal, the USA, Vanuatu, and Italy. Nepal will play its opening match against the USA on April 18 in a double round-robin league format. Head coach Harshal Pathak is leading the 14-member squad, with the team finishing at the top of the table being declared the winner.

Nepal to Face India in ITF U-12 Tennis Semifinals

The semifinal lineup for the boys’ category of the ITF Asia U-12 Tennis Competition (South Asian Regional Qualifying) was finalized on Wednesday. From Group A, India and Sri Lanka advanced as winners and runners-up, respectively, while Pakistan and Nepal secured their spots from Group B. In the semifinals, India will face Nepal, and Pakistan will compete against Sri Lanka. On Wednesday, Pakistan defeated Nepal 3-0 in the boys’ matches at the Satdobato Tennis Court. In the girls’ round-robin league, India also defeated Nepal 3-0. The finalists of this regional qualifier will earn a spot in the Asian Final scheduled to be held in Singapore from September 15 to 20.

Tribhuvan Army Club Remains Undefeated in PM Cup League Stage

The league stage of the Prime Minister Cup One-Day National Cricket Tournament concluded on Wednesday with the Tribhuvan Army Club emerging as the only undefeated team. The army secured 8 wins from 9 matches, with one match washed out, finishing at the top of the table. In their final league match, Army defeated Lumbini Province by 1 wicket. Sudurpashchim Province finished second with 12 points and will face Army in the final on Friday. The top 6 teams, Army, Sudurpashchim, APF, Madhesh, Lumbini, and Police, have qualified for the upcoming Jai Trophy Multiday National Cricket Tournament, while Koshi Province finished at the bottom without a single win.

Switzerland Grants CHF 1 Million to Nepal

The government of Switzerland has agreed to provide a grant of CHF (Swiss Francs) 1,000,000 to the Investigation of Enforced Disappeared Persons and Truth and Reconciliation Fund. The Cabinet approved the grant during its meeting on Wednesday. The funds are intended to support the ongoing processes of investigating disappearances and promoting reconciliation from the conflict era. During the same session, the government also approved the Third Amendment to the Economic Procedures and Financial Accountability Rules 2026 and formally decided to establish the Asset Investigation Commission.

Lebanon and Israel Hold First Direct Diplomatic Talks in Three Decades

Lebanon and Israel held direct diplomatic negotiations in Washington on Tuesday, marking their first such encounter in over 30 years. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the meeting as a “historic opportunity” aimed at ending the conflict with the Iran-backed group Hezbollah. While Israel demanded the disarmament of all non-state armed groups, Lebanon called for an immediate ceasefire and measures to address the humanitarian crisis. Since the escalation of Israeli military operations on March 2, over 2,000 lives have been lost. Despite the talks, Hezbollah claimed to have launched 24 attacks against Israeli forces on the same day.

Sri Lanka Repatriates 238 Iranian Sailors Amid Indian Ocean Tensions

The Sri Lankan government has repatriated 238 Iranian sailors who were rescued following conflicts in the Indian Ocean. Deputy Defense Minister Aruna Jayasekera confirmed that 206 sailors from the vessel IRIS Bushehr and others from the IRIS Dena were sent back to Iran via chartered flights on Tuesday. The IRIS Dena had reportedly come under attack by a US submarine on March 4, resulting in 104 fatalities. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that the protection was provided on humanitarian grounds under the 1907 Hague Convention, while maintaining Sri Lanka’s neutrality by denying US fighter jets the use of local ground facilities.

Donald Trump Signals Possible Peace Talks in Islamabad by April 18

US President Donald Trump has indicated that negotiations with Iran could resume in Pakistan within the next two days. Following a deadlock in previous talks, the mediation efforts of Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal General Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have paved the way for a potential meeting by April 18. The US delegation, expected to be led by Vice President JD Vance, is demanding a 20 years halt to Iran’s uranium enrichment, while Iran is pushing for a limit of no more than 10 years. A successful outcome could convert the current temporary ceasefire, ending on April 22, into a long-term peace agreement.

Russia Offers Energy Support to China Amid Middle East Conflict

Russia has signaled its readiness to fulfill China’s energy needs as the conflict in the Middle East threatens global supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. During a press conference in Beijing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Moscow has sufficient resources to act as an alternative supplier if maritime routes are disrupted. Lavrov also confirmed that President Vladimir Putin is preparing to visit China within the first half of 2026. Following a meeting with President Xi Jinping, Lavrov emphasized that the Russia-China strategic partnership remains stable and capable of facing any challenges, providing a balance of power in international affairs during times of global instability.