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.

Government Claims Foreign Policy Shift, Diplomatic Gains in First 100 Days

As it marks 100 days in office, the government has claimed a significant shift in Nepal’s foreign policy, saying it has institutionalized diplomacy focused on national interest. Officials said all diplomatic engagements with foreign envoys and high-level leaders, including the prime minister and ministers, must now be routed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The government described Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal’s visits to India and China as successful, with talks focused on border management, water resources, infrastructure, connectivity, and digital cooperation. It also highlighted participation in international forums, including the Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius, as strengthening Nepal’s global diplomatic presence.

PM Shah Appoints Vice-Chancellors to Seven Universities

Prime Minister Balendra Shah, acting as Chancellor, has appointed new vice-chancellors to seven public universities across Nepal. Bhola Thapa was named vice-chancellor of Tribhuvan University, while Kisan Datta Bhatta and Rajan Suwal were appointed to Far-Western University and Mid-Western University, respectively. Rishiram Kattel will lead Agriculture and Forestry University, Shyam Narayan Labh was appointed to Rajarshi Janak University, Devendra Adhikari to Pokhara University, and Sujan Babu Marahatta to Purbanchal University. The appointments were made following recommendations from a search and selection committee coordinated by Education Minister Sasmit Pokharel.

Rabi Lamichhane Says Government Has Laid Foundation for Good Governance

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane said the government has successfully laid the foundation for good governance while addressing public expectations during its first 100 days in office. Speaking to journalists after an orientation program on cybersecurity and the launch of the party’s digital platform, PulseRSP, for party lawmakers, he said the government had focused on citizen-centered issues and good governance. Lamichhane expressed confidence that the administration would move forward more effectively by incorporating public feedback. He added that the results of ongoing infrastructure development and other long-term projects would become visible in the coming years.

Industry Minister Conducts Surprise Inspection at Company Registrar Office

Gauri Kumari Yadav, Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, conducted a surprise inspection at the Office of the Company Registrar in Tripureshwar to review its operations and ongoing reforms. Accompanied by senior officials, she assessed service delivery and progress in digital governance. Officials briefed her on the newly implemented fully digital system, which allows online company registration and integrates PAN services to reduce in-person visits. The office has also introduced an AI-based call center for 24/7 support. The minister directed the office to ensure hassle-free public service and emphasized greater use of technology to improve efficiency.

Visually Impaired Protest Continues at Maitighar for 12th Day

Visually impaired street musicians and vendors continued their sit-in protest at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu for the 12th consecutive day on Friday. The protestors, who rely on sidewalk-based self-employment, said they have been barred from operating their businesses and are demanding a dignified management solution. They are also calling for employment opportunities suited to their skills, qualifications, and experience. They are urging authorities to allow them to continue their current work, including street vending and street music, until alternative arrangements are made. The group is also demanding an increase in social security allowances.

Govt Pledges Quality Education, Urges Youth Role in Nation-Building

At Kathmandu University’s 31st Convocation in Dhulikhel, Education Minister Sasmit Pokharel said the government aims to ensure quality education in Nepal and encouraged graduates to contribute to national development by using their skills domestically. He assured that opportunities will be created within the country and noted KU has produced over 51,000 skilled graduates. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rishikesh Wagle emphasized ethics and responsibility alongside technical skills in the AI era. Guest speaker Prof. Dr. Bhushan Patwardhan called for stronger Nepal–India collaboration in education and urged graduates to serve society responsibly.

Former UML Lawmaker Laxmi Mahato Koiri Sent to Jail

Former CPN (UML) lawmaker Laxmi Mahato Koiri was sent to Mahottari Prison on Friday after being presented before the Mahottari District Court. Koiri, who was arrested in Gaushala on Thursday, was produced before the court for implementation of a Janakpur High Court verdict sentencing him to five years in prison in connection with the murder of Armed Police Force Assistant Sub-Inspector Thaman BK. The Mahottari District Court had previously acquitted Koiri, but the Janakpur High Court overturned the ruling and convicted him. Court officials said Koiri was sent to prison after the verdict documents were obtained from the High Court.

Bird Flu Detected in 100 Locations, Health Ministry Urges Public Vigilance

The Ministry of Health and Population has urged heightened vigilance after bird flu (avian influenza) was confirmed in 100 locations across Nepal, including parts of the Kathmandu Valley. According to Joint Spokesperson Dr. Samir Kumar Adhikari, the infection has been reported in 11 districts, prompting authorities to advise the public to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds and follow strict safety measures. The Department of Livestock Services said the outbreak has spread to multiple areas, raising concerns over further transmission. Officials emphasized that the virus is primarily transmitted through infected poultry and does not easily spread between humans, while warning the public to report dead birds and ensure proper cooking of poultry products.

Bus Plunges 100 Meters in Baitadi, Injury Toll Rises to 20

The number of injured has risen to 20 after a passenger bus traveling from Dhangadhi to Baitadi fell about 100 meters off the road at Gairakhan in Patan Municipality-8 on Friday afternoon. According to the District Police Office, three passengers sustained critical head injuries, including 31-year-old Deepak BK, a 60-year-old man, and a 55-year-old woman whose identities have not been confirmed. Nine injured passengers are receiving treatment at Dadeldhura Hospital, two have been referred to Dhangadhi, and the remaining are being transported for medical care. Authorities said the cause of the accident is under investigation.

APF Seizes Smuggled Goods Worth Over Rs 3.6 Million in Morang

The Armed Police Force (APF) Nepal has seized contraband goods worth approximately Rs 3.6 million from different locations in Morang district, focusing on illegal cross-border trade. Acting on a tip-off, a patrol team from APF No. 3 Battalion Headquarters Kankalini, Morang, confiscated multivitamin medicines worth about Rs 3.08 million that were found ready for transport in the Bargachhi area of Biratnagar Metropolitan City-1. In separate operations in the Daraiya and Materuwa border areas, APF personnel intercepted illegally imported goods from India, including vegetable ghee and construction materials loaded on electric rickshaws. The total value of these seizures, including two vehicles, is estimated at Rs 525,000, and all items have been handed over to customs authorities for further legal action.

First Look of Priyanka Karki Starrer ‘Masterni’ Released

The first-look poster of the upcoming film Masterni presented by Aayanka Films has been released, featuring actress Priyanka Karki in the titular role. The poster shows her resting in a bathtub, suggesting a calm exterior with an underlying mystery, highlighted by symbolic imagery such as golden fish in dark water. Directed by Subhendu Ghosh, the film is produced by Priyanka Karki, Cabinet Shrestha, Ayushman Joshi, and Pranit Karki. It features an ensemble cast including Aryan Sigdel, Saroj Khanal, Reecha Sharma, and others. The film is set for release on August 21 in Nepali and multiple other languages.

Stakeholders Call for Dedicated Film Policy in Sudurpaschim Province

Stakeholders and filmmakers have urged the Sudurpaschim Province government to formulate a separate film policy to develop and regulate the local film sector. The call was made during an interaction program in Dhangadhi organized by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law in collaboration with the Film Journalists Association, Kailali. Speakers highlighted the province’s cultural richness, natural heritage, and tourism potential, saying cinema could promote local identity and attract investment. They stressed the need for training local talent, boosting production, and supporting stories rooted in regional history and culture. Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah said the province is considering a Film Development Board to promote cinema and tourism through films.

Applications Open for ‘Face of Nepal–2026’ Modeling Competition

The third edition of Face of Nepal–2026, organized by MS Production Pvt. Ltd., has officially begun, with applications now open. Actress Menuka Majhi is serving as the pageant director. The competition is open to participants aged 17 to 30 from across Nepal, who will be judged on confidence, personality, talent, creativity, and modeling skills. Contestants will also receive professional training in grooming, fitness, styling, and stage presentation. Auditions are scheduled for July 11, with the grand finale set for August 30 at Royal Tulip in Kathmandu. Winners will represent Nepal at the Asia Model Festival in South Korea and gain opportunities in the modeling industry.

Nepal Wins Gold, Silver, and Bronze at South Asian Bodybuilding Championship

Nepal secured three medals—one gold, one silver, and one bronze—at the 16th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship held in Thimphu, Bhutan. Aakash Shrestha won gold in the men’s sports physique (under 170 cm) category. Sita Khatri earned silver in the women’s athletic physique category, while Pukar Shakya claimed bronze in the men’s sports physique (over 170 cm) division. All three athletes were making their international debut. Nepal has participated in the championship since its inception, continuing its presence on the regional bodybuilding stage.

Portugal Edge Croatia 2-1 to Set Up Spain Clash in Round of 16

Portugal scored deep into stoppage time to secure a 2-1 victory over Croatia and book a Round of 16 meeting with Spain. Ivan Perisic gave Croatia the lead early in the second half before Cristiano Ronaldo equalized from the penalty spot after a VAR review. Substitute Goncalo Ramos netted the winner in the 94th minute, heading in Rafael Leão’s cross. Croatia thought they had forced extra time, but Josko Gvardiol’s late goal was disallowed following a VAR check for offside. The defeat marked the end of Luka Modric’s World Cup career.

Fuente Urges Focus as Spain Beat Austria 3-0 to Reach Round of 16

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente cautioned his players against complacency despite a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria to reach the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, warning that “satisfaction can kill.” Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice and Pedro Porro added his first international goal as Spain maintained a perfect defensive record in the tournament. The result sets up a Round of 16 clash with either Portugal or Croatia. De la Fuente said Spain are still below their peak, stressing the need for continued improvement despite a dominant performance that secured another clean sheet.

Switzerland Defeat Algeria 2-0 to Reach World Cup Round of 16

Switzerland advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a convincing 2-0 win over Algeria in a Round of 32 knockout match on Thursday (local time). Breel Embolo opened the scoring in the 10th minute after a fine assist from Johan Manzambi and was named Player of the Match for his performance. Dan Ndoye doubled Switzerland’s lead just after halftime in the 46th minute following a defensive clearance outside the box. Algeria, led by Riyad Mahrez, struggled to break through Switzerland’s organized defense. The Swiss side sealed the result comfortably and will next face either Colombia or Ghana on July 7 in Vancouver.

Fourth Siddha Cup Men’s Volleyball Tournament to Be Held in Benikot

The fourth edition of the Siddha Cup men’s volleyball tournament will be held in Benikot, Vyas Municipality-13, Tanahun, from July 28 to August 1, organizers said. The event is being hosted by the Siddha Baba Youth Club. Club president Manish Thapa said the tournament is expected to promote discipline, responsibility, and social engagement among youth. The winner will receive Rs 66,666, while the runner-up and third-place teams will get Rs 44,444 and Rs 22,222 respectively, along with trophies, medals, and certificates. Special awards will also be given for best player, best spiker, best setter, and best defender.

France Records 2,000+ Extra Deaths During Record June Heatwave

France saw a 29.1% rise in deaths during the week of June 22, with 2,025 additional fatalities recorded amid a severe heatwave, according to Public Health France. Officials said the figure is likely an underestimate. The death rate rose 62% in the Paris region, with similar spikes in other areas such as Pays de la Loire. Temperatures exceeded 40°C during an 11-day heatwave. Health authorities said the impact is still below the 2003 heatwave, which caused around 15,000 deaths, but may exceed last year’s 5,700 fatalities.

40 Killed as Passenger Bus Falls Into Ravine on Pakistan Border

At least 40 people were killed and eight others injured on Friday when a passenger bus traveling toward Peshawar fell into a ravine near the border of Balochistan’s Sherani district and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan, officials said. Authorities said the bus left Quetta with 36 passengers but later picked up additional travelers from a stranded vehicle, bringing the total to about 48 onboard. Rescue teams from both provinces reached the site shortly after the accident and conducted recovery operations. The injured were taken to the District Headquarters Hospital in Zhob. Officials said an investigation has been launched into the cause of the crash.

Trump Says Iran Nears Agreement on US Nuclear Deal Conditions

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has accepted nearly all US conditions in ongoing talks aimed at preventing nuclear weapons development. Speaking to CNBC, he said negotiations with the United States are close to a deal and described the goal as “denuclearization of Iran,” while asserting that US military pressure has weakened Iran’s defence and economy. He added that indirect talks continue through intermediaries in Qatar. JD Vance said the nuclear issue remains the administration’s top priority.

147 Afghan Nationals Released From Detention in Pakistan, Return Home

Afghanistan’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation said 147 Afghan nationals detained in Pakistan have been released and returned to Afghanistan on Thursday. According to the ministry, 125 of the returnees crossed into Afghanistan through the Torkham border, while 22 entered via the Spin Boldak crossing. The individuals were reportedly detained for lacking legal residency documents in Pakistan. Upon arrival, they received humanitarian assistance before being transported to their respective home provinces.