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.

PM Balen Shah Meets CMs to Resolve Administrative Issues

Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) held a high-level meeting with the Chief Ministers of all 7 provinces at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar. The discussions focused on accelerating development projects, ensuring the equitable distribution of resources, and resolving persistent administrative and financial hurdles faced by provincial governments. This meeting follows the Prime Minister’s earlier consultations with individual members of parliament regarding regional concerns. The Prime Minister’s Office indicated that the dialogue aimed to strengthen federal coordination and provide provincial leaders with the necessary support to meet local governance goals and infrastructure targets effectively.

Speaker Aryal Shuffles Members of House Committees

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal reorganized the membership of several thematic committees within the House of Representatives on Thursday. Key changes include the appointment of Punam Kumari Agrawal and Dipak Raj Bohora to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee, replacing Ranju Neupane and Chandan Kumar Singh. Furthermore, Dipak Raj Bohora and Bablu Gupta were moved to the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, while Ganesh Karki and Ram Lama were reassigned to the International Relations and Tourism Committee. House Secretary Harka Raj Rai confirmed that these adjustments, made in accordance with parliamentary regulations, will be formally proposed for consensus during the upcoming session to ensure balanced committee representation.

Parliamentary Committee Chair Elections Set for Tomorrow

The nomination process for the chairpersons of 10 thematic and two joint committees of the Federal Parliament concluded on Thursday. Candidates registered their papers at the office of the Secretary of the House of Representatives between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, with the final list of candidates published at 4:30 PM. The elections are scheduled for tomorrow, at 1:00 PM during the respective committee meetings. This timeline follows a decision made by Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal on April 10 to finalize committee leadership. Proposers and supporters will present the names during the meetings, and the chairperson will be selected through a formal vote or consensus.

Vigilance Center Recommends Action Against 632 Government Employees

The National Vigilance Center has recommended departmental action against 632 government employees following surprise inspections of various public offices. The center’s spokesperson, Narayan Prasad Bhatta, stated that the employees were found absent or late during office hours, violating the Civil Service Act, 1949. Under Section 55 of the Act, these employees will receive formal warning letters, and those who have already received two warnings may face more severe disciplinary measures. The center is currently extending its monitoring to one district in each of the 7 provinces, focusing on offices with high public interaction to ensure better service delivery.

Government Approves Two-Day Weekly Holiday for Health Sector

Following pressure from 14 professional health organizations, the government has decided to implement a 2 days weekly holiday in hospitals and health institutions. Under this new rule, Outpatient Department (OPD) services across government hospitals will remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays. However, emergency and indoor services will continue to operate 24 hours a day. The agreement was reached during a meeting between Health Minister Nisha Mehta, Health Secretary Dr. Bikas Devkota, and representatives of health workers. This move aligns health workers’ schedules with other civil servants while the Ministry of Health and Population prepares to expand emergency service capacity to manage the weekend closure of routine clinics.

Supreme Court Orders Immediate Release of Former Minister Dipak Khadka

The Supreme Court issued a writ of habeas corpus on Thursday for the immediate release of former Minister Dipak Khadka, ruling his arrest and detention lacked legal standing. A joint bench of Acting Chief Justice Sapna Pradhan Malla and Justice Shrikant Poudel stated that the investigation into revenue leakage could proceed without keeping the defendant in custody. The court noted that the Revenue Leakage (Investigation and Control) Act allows for settlements if the defendant agrees to pay the claimed amount and fines. While ordering his release, the court mandated that Khadka must seek judicial permission before traveling abroad and remains under investigation for the alleged financial offenses.

Student Unions Protest Demanding Relief and Tax Repeal on Fuel

Joint Student Unions organized a protest at Maitighar on Thursday, demanding the immediate repeal of taxes imposed on petroleum products. Protesters carried placards and banners calling for a price adjustment and a relief package for the general public, who are struggling with rising costs. The students criticized the government’s current pricing policy, arguing that heavy taxation on essential fuel is fueling inflation across all sectors. The demonstration highlights growing public dissatisfaction following recent price hikes, with student leaders warning of further agitation if the government fails to address their demands for affordable fuel and economic relief.

Opposition Leaders Meet Speaker Aryal Over Parliamentary Issues

Leaders from the Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), and Communist Party of Nepal held a joint meeting with Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal on Thursday. Participating lawmakers included Arjun Narsingh KC, Bhishma Raj Angdembe, Yogesh Gauchan, Barshaman Pun, and Yuvraj Dulal, among others. The meeting at the Speaker’s office in Singha Durbar focused on coordination regarding the upcoming parliamentary committee elections and the smooth functioning of the House. The leaders discussed ensuring a collaborative approach to legislative duties and addressing procedural concerns. This high-level dialogue reflects ongoing efforts among major political parties to reach a consensus on parliamentary management and the distribution of committee responsibilities.

Deputy Speaker Thakur Urges Inclusion of “Dowry-Free” in Invitations

Deputy Speaker Rubi Kumari Thakur has called on the public to mention “Dowry-Free Wedding” on marriage invitation cards to combat the deep-rooted social evil. Sharing her views on Facebook, she noted that most invitations she receives lack any mention of rejecting dowry, suggesting the practice remains prevalent. Thakur emphasized that giving, receiving, or even participating in weddings involving dowry is socially unacceptable and legally punishable. She stated that such traditions directly harm women’s dignity and equality. To lead by example, the Deputy Speaker announced she would not attend any wedding where dowry is exchanged, urging a collective shift toward civilized and equal marriage practices.

Home Minister Gurung Clarifies Source of Ancestral Property

Home Minister Sudhan Gurung addressed public comments regarding his property disclosure during a press meet at Singha Durbar on Thursday. Clarifying the details, he stated that the assets mentioned in his official report are ancestral properties dating back to his grandfather’s time. He emphasized that the family property remains undivided, which is why it was included in his legal disclosure as per current regulations. Minister Gurung urged the media and the public not to create unnecessary confusion or spread rumors regarding his heritage, asserting that his financial filings are a transparent reflection of his long-standing family holdings rather than recently acquired wealth.

Minister Chaudhary and ADB Director Discuss Agriculture Development

Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister Gita Chaudhary and Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Director Arnaud Cauchois met at the Ministry of Agriculture to discuss agricultural expansion and investment. During the meeting, Minister Chaudhary announced that high-level administrative costs would be curtailed by no longer hosting project events in five-star hotels. Instead, these funds will be redirected toward targeted communities and field projects. The discussion also covered challenges in seed and nursery management and the implementation of the Nepal Green and Resilient Financing Facility. Both parties emphasized increasing private sector engagement and climate-resilient farming, while the government committed to streamlining policy hurdles to accelerate ongoing high-value crop projects funded by the ADB.

Kabindra Burlakoti Appointed Chief Whip of Rastriya Swatantra Party

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) parliamentary party meeting on Thursday officially appointed General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti as the chief whip. The meeting also designated MP Prakash Chandra Pariyar and MP Kranti Shikha Dhital as whips to coordinate the party’s legislative activities. These appointments aim to streamline the party’s performance in the House of Representatives and ensure disciplined participation in parliamentary debates. As Chief Whip, Burlakoti will be responsible for issuing party directives to members during crucial votes and maintaining communication between the party leadership and its lawmakers to present a unified front on national issues.

Harka Sampang’s Facebook Page Disabled After Mass Reporting

The Facebook page of Labor Culture Party Chairman and MP Harka Raj Rai (Sampang) was disabled on Thursday following a surge in mass reports. IT expert Karun Rai confirmed that the social media platform restricted access due to alleged violations of community standards regarding violence. The shutdown occurred shortly after Sampang posted a status identifying Tribhuvan International Airport as “Yalamber Airport” upon his arrival. Known for sharing his daily administrative and political activities via social media, the Dharan-based leader’s digital absence has sparked significant discussion. His technical team is currently working with Facebook to appeal the restriction and restore the page, which served as his primary channel for public communication.

Ganesh Parajuli Selected as Deputy Leader of RSP Parliamentary Party

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has appointed Ganesh Parajuli as the Deputy Leader of its parliamentary party. The decision was finalized during a parliamentary party meeting held on Thursday. General Secretary and Main Whip Kabindra Burlakoti confirmed the appointment, stating that Parajuli will play a key role in assisting the party leadership with legislative strategy and internal coordination. This move completes the core leadership structure of the RSP within the House of Representatives, following the recent appointments of the Main Whip and Whips. The party expects this reinforced leadership team to enhance its effectiveness in parliamentary proceedings and policy advocacy.

Bharat Bahadur Khadka Files Nomination for PAC Chair

Nepali Congress MP Bharat Bahadur Khadka has officially registered his nomination for the chairmanship of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). His candidacy was formally recommended by the Nepali Congress parliamentary party on Thursday following a strategic decision to lead the oversight body. Earlier, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) announced it would support the main opposition in taking this role to ensure balanced parliamentary scrutiny. The nomination process took place at the office of the Secretary of the House of Representatives in Singha Durbar. The election for the committee chair is expected to formalize the leadership role responsible for auditing government expenditures and financial transparency.

RSP Parliamentary Party Fixes Monthly Levy for MPs and Ministers

The Rabi Lamichhane-led Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) parliamentary party meeting has finalized the distribution of key roles and the monthly levy for its members. Kabindra Burlakoti has been appointed as the chief whip, while Prakash Chandra Pariyar and Kranti Shikha Dhital will serve as whips. The meeting decided that RSP members of parliament will contribute a monthly levy of Rs 16,500, while ministers will pay Rs 18,000. Additionally, personal secretaries of ministers are required to contribute Rs 2,000 monthly to the party fund.

Authorities Start Delivering Passports and Licenses to Citizens’ Homes

In a major shift toward decentralized service delivery, the government has begun delivering passports and driving licenses directly to citizens’ doorsteps. Director General of the Postal Services Department Manmaya Bhattarai confirmed that pilot programs are active in Makwanpur, Myagdi, and Dadeldhura, with Sankhuwasabha and Nawalparasi soon to follow. On Wednesday, the Chief District Officer of Myagdi, Rabindra Acharya, personally delivered passports in Beni Municipality wards 2 and 6. This initiative, led by Communications and Information Technology Minister Bikram Timsina, aims to fulfill a 100 days government goal to eliminate long queues and middleman interference. A delivery fee of Rs 55 has been tentatively proposed for the service.

Parsa District Starts Immediate Biometrics for National IDs

The District Administration Office in Parsa has introduced a one-door system to collect biometric data for National Identity Cards immediately after a citizen receives their new citizenship certificate. Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal stated that the new arrangement eliminates the need for service seekers to return for a separate process. A dedicated station has been added to handle the 10 minutes biometric procedure for the 50 to 60 people who obtain new citizenship in Parsa daily. While this service is currently available for new citizenship applicants, the office plans to extend the same immediate biometric facility to those seeking citizenship copies (duplicates) in the near future to further streamline administrative tasks.

Kathmandu Metro and Nepal Police Partner for Urban Security

Kathmandu Metropolitan City Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol and Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki met on Thursday to strengthen cooperation for urban safety and management. The discussions centered on enhancing road safety, traffic management, and the protection of encroached public lands. Acting Mayor Dangol expressed interest in joint initiatives to manage disorganized settlements and make the city street-human-friendly. IGP Karki pledged full security support and announced the appointment of a focal person within the Valley Police Office to coordinate directly with the metropolitan authorities. This partnership aims to create a more secure and orderly environment for the residents of Kathmandu.

Government Proposes New Classification System for Zoos

The Ministry of Forests and Environment has initiated a legal process to classify zoos based on their area and number of wildlife species. According to the draft “Standards for Establishment and Operation of Zoos, Wildlife Rescue Centers, and Wildlife Hospitals, 2082,” facilities will be divided into 3 categories. A ‘Large Zoo’ must span at least 50 hectares and house 100 species, while a ‘Medium Zoo’ requires 20 hectares and 40 species. A ‘Small Zoo’ must cover at least 5 hectares with 10 species. The standards also mandate five freedoms for wildlife, including proper nutrition, medical care, and a stress-free environment, while requiring post-mortems and dignified burials for deceased animals.

Keki Adhikari Joins Cast of Upcoming Film ‘Maharajdhiraj’

Actress Keki Adhikari has officially joined the cast of the upcoming film Maharajdhiraj, portraying the role of the queen. Presenter Biraj Bista welcomed her to the project, expressing gratitude for her presence and encouragement. The announcement comes just 3 days after Adhikari launched her own film, Station. She joins lead actor Pushpa Khadka, who was recently revealed as the titular king in the film’s first poster. Directed and written by Parichhed Sen, the thriller-period drama features a strong lineup including Neer Shah, Aryan Sigdel, and Barsha Raut. Filming is set to begin in early April in Sunsari, with a planned release during the Phulpati festival.

Kathmandu’s LOD Club Ranked 40th Best in the World

The LOD (Lord of the Drinks) club in Thamel has secured the 40th position in DJ Mag’s prestigious list of the world’s top 100 clubs for 2026. Competing against over 500 international venues, the Nepali club climbed from its 44th rank in 2025. Director Bhupen Kunwar described the achievement as a matter of national pride, noting its potential to boost nightlife tourism and attract international music lovers to Nepal. LOD has consistently appeared on the list, ranking 52nd in 2022, 49th in 2023, and 50th in 2024. This steady rise highlights the club’s adherence to international service standards and its growing influence in the global entertainment industry.

Trailer Released for Family Drama Film ‘Paral Ko Aago’

The official trailer for the film Paral Ko Aago was unveiled on Thursday, signaling a story focused on domestic tension, social conflict, and human emotion. The footage depicts the strained marital relationship between lead characters played by Prakash Saput and Suhana Thapa, highlighting themes of violence and subsequent remorse. Saugat Malla and Srijana Adhikari appear as neighbors in a rural setting, contrasting the central conflict with their stable bond. Directed by Laxman Sunar and inspired by Guru Prasad Mainali’s classic short story, the film explores rural values and the struggle for reconciliation. Produced under Hari Om Cine Makers, the movie is scheduled for nationwide release on April 24.

Foundation Stone Laid for Rs 56.2 Million Lahan Cricket Stadium

Mayor Mahesh Prasad Chaudhary laid the foundation stone for a new cricket stadium at Yagyabhumi in Lahan Municipality-4 on Thursday. The project is a joint venture between the federal and local governments, with a contract value of Rs 56.2 million. While the initial estimate was Rs 82.3 million, the contract was awarded 30% below cost. Mayor Chaudhary assured that despite the low bid, technical teams would strictly monitor quality to ensure the facility becomes a regional sports hub. The federal government contributed Rs 30 million, with the municipality funding the remainder. Construction is targeted for completion by mid-April 2027.

Jhapa 11 Defeats Nepal Police Club to Reach Gold Cup Final

The Jhapa 11 secured a spot in the final of the 38th Nobel Birat Gold Cup after defeating Nepal Police Club 1–0 on Wednesday. The decisive goal came in the 67th minute when Phaguram Tharu fired a powerful shot into the net at the Sahid Maidan. This victory served as a long-awaited revenge for Jhapa 11, who lost to the same departmental team by the same score in the 2016 final. Swolomon King was named ‘Player of the Match’ and received Rs 11,000. Jhapa 11 will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Samrat Sports Club and Church Boys United for the title and a Rs 1.1 million prize.

India Debates Historical Bill for One-Third Female Seat Reservation

The Indian Parliament began debating a landmark bill on Thursday that seeks to mandate a 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. While the proposal aims to increase female representation from its current 14%, it has sparked controversy due to its link to a future delimitation process. Opposition parties worry that redrawing electoral boundaries based on the 2011 census could increase seats from 543 to approximately 850, potentially shifting political power toward northern states. Supporters, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, argue the move will empower women in health and education policy, while critics fear regional imbalances and political advantages for the ruling party.

Bangladesh Seeks USD 2 Billion Emergency Energy Support

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tariq Rahman has appealed to international development partners for a USD 2 billion emergency fund to stabilize the Bangladeshi economy amidst a global energy crisis. Speaking at the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus online summit, the Prime Minister described the situation as more severe than the 1970s oil crisis. To manage the shortage, the government has already restricted market hours, increased emergency fuel imports, and launched a ‘fuel app’ to prevent unnecessary hoarding. Rahman emphasized that developing nations are disproportionately affected and that regional cooperation is essential to prevent economic collapse. The requested funds are intended to ensure fuel supply and manage demand while the country transitions toward more sustainable energy sources.

Pakistan PM Sarif Arrives in Qatar for Peace Mediations

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha on Thursday to act as a primary mediator between the United States and Iran. Following high-level talks in Saudi Arabia, Sharif is expected to meet with the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to facilitate a second round of peace negotiations. Previous discussions in Islamabad failed to secure a permanent end to hostilities following the April 7 ceasefire. The conflict has severely impacted Qatar’s energy infrastructure, forcing a temporary halt in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) production. As a major supplier to Asia, including Pakistan, Doha’s stability is crucial for regional energy security. Sharif plans to continue his diplomatic mission with a subsequent visit to Turkey.

UK Announces Major Drone Support Package for Ukraine

The United Kingdom has announced a significant defense aid package for Ukraine, including at least 120,000 drones to assist in self-defense. Defense Secretary John Healey confirmed the support during the 34th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Berlin. The package features long-range, reconnaissance, intelligence, and logistics drones, many of which are already being delivered. Aimed at boosting Ukraine’s counter-offensive capabilities against Russian forces, the investment primarily utilizes UK-based firms to create domestic jobs while strengthening global security. This follows a recent defense partnership agreement intended to counter low-cost, high-efficiency military technologies and includes previous commitments of hundreds of thousands of artillery shells and anti-aircraft missiles.