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.

Coordinators of 6 Subcommittees Selected for NC Policy, Research and Training Academy

The Nepali Congress’ Central Policy, Research, and Training Academy has selected coordinators for six of its subcommittees. Bishwa Prakash Sharma, the Academy’s coordinator and the party’s Vice President, formed the six subcommittees today and assigned coordinator responsibilities to make the organization more effective. He stated that Prakash Pantha has been given the responsibility of coordinator for the Disability Dialogue, Coordination, and Empowerment Subcommittee, while Resham Gurung has been appointed for the Indigenous Nationalities Dialogue, Coordination, and Empowerment Subcommittee.

PM Shah and RSP Chair Lamichhane Hold four-Hour Meeting Amid Internal and Public Pressure

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra Shah held a one-on-one, four-hour meeting with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane at the latter’s Budhanilkantha residence on Sunday. The discussion focused on a review of the government’s first 100 days, the landless settler crisis and finalising pending internal party appointments for 11 office bearers and 51 central committee positions following the party’s recent general convention. The extensive dialogue comes amid growing public scrutiny over the administration’s handling of landless settlers, recent self-immolation of Ganesh Nepali and ongoing protests at Maitighar Mandala.

Kathmandu Metropolis and Ganesh Nepali’s Family Reach 9-Point Agreement

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City and local administration have signed a nine-point agreement with the family of 25-year-old Ganesh Nepali, who died on July 10 following a self-immolation attempt outside the Department of Passport. Under the Sunday agreement, the metropolis will secure a job for Nepali’s widow based on her qualifications and cover all education expenses for his daughter up to higher education. KMC will also manage and fund the funeral logistics.

Government Assures Landless Settlers of Land Ownership Certificates After Kirtipur Relocation

A ministerial delegation has assured landless settlers relocated from the flooded Kirtipur holding center to Kharipati that they will receive land ownership certificates after necessary verification. Minister Pratibha Rawal said the government aims to end long-term political exploitation of landless communities and has started certificate distribution in Bardiya, with other districts to follow. She said verification of documents and identification of suitable land may take time. Home Minister Sudhan Gurung and Health Minister Nisha Mehta also pledged support for the families’ welfare, education, and healthcare needs.

Angdembe Criticizes Government Over Settler Relocation and Activist Arrests

Chief Opposition Leader and Nepali Congress Parliamentary Party Leader Bhishma Raj Angdembe has criticized the government’s handling of displaced landless settlers and the detention of youth activists. He questioned Prime Minister Balen Shah’s commitment to safe and organized resettlement, citing flooding at the Kirtipur holding center where evicted families were temporarily placed. Angdembe said vulnerable citizens were exposed to further hardship due to poor management. He also condemned the arrest of activists, including Majid Ansari, who were detained while monitoring flood victims’ conditions, calling the action a threat to freedom of expression and democratic accountability.

Paudel Calls for Systemic Health Reforms Beyond Hospital Pharmacy Changes

Nepali Congress General Secretary and former Health Minister Pradeep Paudel has stressed that changing hospital pharmacy signboards alone cannot ensure affordable medicines or improve healthcare governance. He called for long-term planning and practical reforms to provide relief to citizens. Paudel highlighted policy initiatives introduced during his tenure, including medicine price regulation, generic drug studies, central bidding mechanisms, and legal reforms for medicine management. He urged the current government to focus on broader healthcare improvements by implementing existing policy frameworks rather than relying on limited changes at the retail level.

Indian Additional Foreign Secretary Mahawar to Visit Nepal for Energy Ttalks

Munu Mahawar, an additional secretary at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, is arriving in Kathmandu on Monday for energy secretary-level talks scheduled for July 14–15 in Pokhara. The bilateral meeting, which hasn’t convened since February 2025, will focus on addressing delays in the 220 kV Chameliya-Jauljibi cross-border transmission line and securing India’s approval for Nepal to increase its electricity exports to Bangladesh.

Mahato Warns Government to Correct Course After 100-Day Performance

Rastriya Mukti Party Nepal Chairperson and former Deputy Prime Minister Rajendra Mahato has criticized the government’s 100-day performance, warning leaders to change their approach before public frustration grows. Mahato accused the administration of following outdated authoritarian practices instead of promoting justice, inclusion, and sensitivity. He raised concerns over displacement of poor communities, alleged discrimination, budget priorities, and threats to federalism. Calling federalism, a major achievement gained through public sacrifices, Mahato urged the government to address the demands of marginalized communities. He warned of strong resistance if public trust is ignored and expectations for change remain unmet.

Durga Prasai Escorted Home After Attempting Airport Press Conference

Medical entrepreneur Durga Prasai was taken into custody and escorted to his Bhaktapur residence after attempting to hold a press conference inside Tribhuvan International Airport on Sunday. Prasai had returned to Kathmandu from Jhapa and tried to organize an event within the airport premises, which police stopped. According to SP Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, spokesperson for the District Police Range, Kathmandu, Prasai was preparing to hold a program in a restricted area. Police detained him briefly and escorted him home, citing security concerns over organizing an event inside the prohibited zone of the airport.

Road to Ghandruk Closed Due to Modikhola Erosion

Floods in Modikhola, which flows through Kaski and Parbat, have blocked the Nayapul-Birethanti-Ghandruk road. Heavy rainfall has been taking place since this morning in Kimrung, Annapurna Rural Municipality-11 of Kaski, causing landslides at various places and flooding in the Modikhola. The road connecting Ghandruk has been completely closed as the flood has washed away a road section near Seuli Bazaar, the border of Annapurna Rural Municipality-8 and Ward No. 10. Similarly, the restaurant and house of local Deepil Gurung in the same place have been completely washed away, while Jagan Pun’s restaurant has also been damaged.

Indian Foreign Ministry Official Mahawar Arriving in Nepal for Energy Talks

Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, is scheduled to visit Nepal on July 13 to participate in bilateral energy mechanism meetings. Mahawar, who heads the North Division overseeing India’s relations with Nepal, China, and Bhutan, will meet Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal during his visit. He will also take part in high-level discussions of the Joint Steering Committee and Joint Working Group on energy and water resources cooperation between Nepal and India. The bilateral meetings are scheduled for July 14 and 15, focusing on strengthening collaboration in the energy and water sectors.

Landless Settlers Protest in Kathmandu Over Evictions and Housing Concerns

The United National Landless Settlers’ Front organized a protest rally at Maitighar in Kathmandu on Sunday, demanding proper management and alternative housing for evicted landless settlers. The demonstration followed flooding at the Kirtipur holding center, where displaced families were sheltered, and the arrest of a Gen Z activist supporting their cause. Protesters condemned the police action and called for the activist’s immediate release. The group warned that its movement would continue until the government ends arbitrary evictions and ensures secure and fair arrangements for affected families.

Heavy Rain Forecast for Sunday Night Across Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki Provinces

The Meteorological Forecasting Division has warned of potential extremely heavy rainfall tonight in certain hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces, amid currently widespread cloudy skies and ongoing light to moderate rain across most parts of the country. Over Monday and Tuesday, the weather will remain mostly cloudy in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, with general cloud cover in Karnali and Sudurpashchim.

Private Schools Urge Government to Review Education Fees and Loan Provisions

Private school associations in Nepal have urged the government to reconsider provisions in the fiscal year 2026/27 budget and the 10th Amendment of the Education Regulation. In a joint statement, they highlighted the sector’s contribution, with 10,471 private schools educating around 3.74 million students and supporting significant economic activity. The associations opposed the 3% Equity Education Service Fee, calling it an unfair burden on parents, and demanded its removal. They also requested collateral-free higher education loans of at least Rs 1 million and expansion of the “Earn While You Learn” program to support students.

Flood-Hit Landless Settlers Relocated from Kirtipur to Bhaktapur Holding Centers

Landless settlers staying at the Radha Swami Holding Center in Kirtipur have been relocated to holding centers in Bhaktapur after continuous rainfall flooded their temporary settlement. A total of 89 people from 31 families were moved to the Kharipati Holding Center between Saturday and Sunday, while some others were transferred to Bode. The government had earlier removed landless settlers from areas along the Bagmati River, including Thapathali, but a permanent solution for their resettlement remains unresolved. Displaced families continue to seek secure housing and long-term management from authorities.

Nepal’s Stock Market Hits Six-Month Low as Investor Confidence Weakens

Nepal’s stock market has declined sharply, with the NEPSE index falling to around 2,600 points, its lowest level in six months. Despite expectations of a market recovery following a new government, budget measures, and monetary policy announcements, investor confidence remains weak. The index has dropped about 350 points from its March peak, as concerns over policy effectiveness, investor uncertainty, and limited market incentives continue. Analysts say recent business-related arrests, cautious institutional investors, and the lack of major stock market support in monetary policy have contributed to the prolonged downturn, leaving investors in a wait-and-watch position.

Recruitment Agencies Oppose Foreign Employment Department’s Action Over India Transit Routes

The Nepal Foreign Employment Entrepreneurs Association (NAFEA) has raised concerns over the Department of Foreign Employment’s decision to take action against 441 recruitment agencies for sending workers through Indian airports. NAFEA argued that many Nepali migrant workers used Indian airports due to high airfares, limited flight availability, and previous government relaxations during Tribhuvan International Airport upgrades. The association said penalizing agencies for following a worker-friendly transit arrangement violates principles of fairness and good governance. It urged the department to withdraw the action and resolve the issue through dialogue with stakeholders to protect migrant workers’ interests.

Sundarijal Residents Remain Thirsty Despite Supplying Water to Kathmandu

Residents of Sundarijal, the main water supply hub for the Kathmandu Valley, continue to face severe water shortages despite hosting major treatment facilities. While Melamchi water is processed in Sundarijal before distribution to the capital, communities in Gokarneshwar and Kageshwari Manohara municipalities still depend on stone spouts, wells, and public taps. Locals have urged authorities to address the imbalance, with lawmakers also warning of action if source-area water problems remain unresolved. Officials cite outdated pipelines and malfunctioning treatment facilities as key challenges, while residents demand reliable access to clean drinking water as a basic right.

Nepal Launches Three-Month Dengue Awareness Campaign Nationwide

The Ministry of Health and Food Safety has announced a three-month dengue awareness campaign across Nepal during Mid-July to Mid-October of fiscal year 2026/27. The campaign aims to strengthen prevention efforts through coordination with all 753 local levels and community participation. Under the “Every Friday, Clean Friday” initiative, offices, schools, and organizations will conduct cleaning drives to remove mosquito breeding sites. Awareness programs, radio messages, youth mobilization, and monitoring of risk areas such as tire shops and construction sites will be carried out. The ministry has urged people with dengue symptoms to seek medical care or call the 1115 helpline.

Justice March Against Loan Sharking Moves Toward Kathmandu

The pedestrian “Justice March” against predatory lending practices entered its fourth day as participants moved forward from Lalbandi toward Kathmandu. Launched from Janakpur on July 9, the march includes victims and entrepreneurs demanding government action and protection of their rights. Hundreds of participants are carrying placards with messages against fraudulent loan practices and seeking justice without prolonged struggles. Organizers said the movement will continue until it reaches the capital, citing repeated failures to implement previous government agreements. Marchers are covering around 20 to 26 kilometers daily and are expected to arrive in Kathmandu within a week.

Minister Chaudhary Calls for Better Management of Sauraha Elephant Center

Agriculture, Forest, and Environment Minister Geeta Chaudhary has emphasized improving the management of the Elephant Breeding and Training Center in Sauraha to make it a major tourist attraction. During an inspection, she highlighted that around 200,000 tourists visit the center annually and pledged ministry support to enhance facilities and operations. The center currently houses nine female elephants and seven calves used for conservation and other tasks. Minister Chaudhary also reviewed human-wildlife conflict cases, meeting victims’ families and reaffirming the government’s commitment to reducing wildlife-related incidents and supporting affected communities.

Six Injured Airlifted to Nepalgunj After Fatal Bajhang Jeep Crash

A Nepali Army helicopter airlifted six critically injured people to Nepalgunj on Sunday following a deadly jeep accident in Kedarsyu Rural Municipality-7, Bajhang. The rescue operation was delayed on Saturday due to bad weather, forcing the helicopter to land at Chainpur instead of the crash site. The injured victims were initially taken to Bajhang District Hospital before being referred for specialized treatment. The accident occurred when a jeep traveling from Bungal Municipality to Durgathali Rural Municipality veered off the road, killing three people and injuring 13 others. Rescue efforts continued despite challenging conditions.

Khajura Builds Alternative Route to Improve Nepalgunj-Gulariya Connectivity

Khajura Rural Municipality in Banke has constructed a new road connecting Adarsha Secondary School, Dhaulagiri village, and B-Gaun as an alternative route for the Nepalgunj-Gulariya section of the Hulaki Highway. The road bypasses the busy Khajura market area, allowing smoother travel even when the main highway faces disruptions. The project was made possible after the completion of a bridge built with Rs 61.09 million from the provincial government. The municipality is also working to connect all eight wards with blacktopped roads, expand paved roads, and improve drainage systems to create dust-free and flood-free communities.

Third International Nepali Film Award Ceremony to Be Held in Kathmandu

The third edition of the International Nepali Film Award (INFA), previously hosted in the United Kingdom, will be organized in Kathmandu on August 15. INFA Events UK and INFA Nepal announced the event while unveiling the top five nominations across various categories. The nominees were selected from 40 Nepali films released between April 2025 and April 2026. Veteran actor Harihar Sharma leads the jury panel, which has assured an impartial selection process. The award ceremony will honor achievements in 32 categories, while veteran actor Madan Krishna Shrestha will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award with a cash prize.

Deepashree Niraula Undergoes Successful Brain Tumor Surgery, Health Improving

Popular Nepali actress and director Deepashree Niraula has undergone successful surgery after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. She was admitted to Annapurna Neurological Hospital in Maitighar, where a medical team led by Dr. Basanta Panta performed the procedure. According to updates shared by Deepak Raj Giri, Niraula has been shifted from the ICU to a general ward and is expected to be discharged within a week. Niraula, a prominent figure in Nepal’s entertainment industry for decades, is known for her acting career and direction of several successful films.

Nation Honors Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya on 213th Birth Anniversary with Literary Events

Nepal is set to celebrate the 213th birth anniversary of national icon and pioneering poet Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya on Monday with various literary and commemorative programs nationwide. The Bhanu Pratisthan in Kathmandu will organize a morning procession, chariot parade, city tour, and tribute ceremony at the Nepal Academy. Other events include a garland-offering program at Bhanubhakta’s statue in Ranipokhari and an award ceremony honoring poet Bhuwan Hari Sigdel. Literary programs have also been organized by schools and institutions to commemorate the poet’s contribution to Nepali literature.

Posters of ‘Maya Bhanekai Yasto Hola’ and ‘Kamala Miss’ Unveiled Ahead of Release

Nepali cinema has unveiled first-look posters for two highly anticipated family dramas ahead of their releases. ‘Maya Bhanekai Yasto Hola’, directed by Rekha Thapa after an eight-year hiatus, revealed a vibrant poster featuring its ensemble cast during a pre-wedding Haldi ceremony, hinting at a wedding-centered family story. Meanwhile, veteran filmmaker Neer Shah returns to direction after a decade with ‘Kamala Miss’, an emotional psychological drama exploring motherhood, love, and sacrifice. Inspired by Bijay Malla’s acclaimed play Kohi Kina Barbad Hos, the film marks Shah’s comeback with another socially rooted, family-focused narrative featuring a strong ensemble cast.

FIFA Offers World Cup Final Pitch Souvenirs Starting at USD 450

FIFA has started selling preserved pieces of the 2026 World Cup final pitch as official collectibles. The souvenir turf, kept in premium acrylic with a USB keepsake, contains fragments of the original playing surface. Individual pieces are priced from USD 450, while the top package costs USD 3,000 and includes a replica ticket, miniature World Cup ball, and trophy replica. The sale follows criticism over the quality of the MetLife Stadium field, which normally uses an artificial surface for NFL games. FIFA expects to generate significant revenue from the memorabilia.

France, Spain, Argentina and England Set for FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals

The FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal lineup has been confirmed after thrilling quarterfinal matches, with Argentina, France, Spain, and England advancing to the final four. France will face Spain in the first semifinal on July 14 at Dallas Stadium, while defending champions Argentina will meet England on July 15 at Atlanta Stadium. The winners of both matches will compete in the final on July 19 at the New York–New Jersey Stadium. The remaining teams are now battling for a place in the championship match as they continue their pursuit of the prestigious World Cup trophy.

NYC’s Rockefeller Center Erupts as Argentina Reaches World Cup Semi-Finals

Defending champions Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland on Saturday. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring before Dan Ndoye equalized in the second half. Switzerland’s task became tougher after Breel Embolo was sent off, and Julian Alvarez restored Argentina’s lead in extra time with a superb long-range strike. Lautaro Martinez added a late goal to seal the win and set up a semi-final clash with England. Hundreds of football fans gathered at New York City’s Rockefeller Center to watch the do-or-die match and celebrate Argentina’s dramatic victory.

Bellingham Brace Sends England into World Cup Semi-Finals

Jude Bellingham scored twice as England rallied from a goal down to defeat Norway 2-1 after extra time and book a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. Andreas Schjelderup gave Norway the lead before Bellingham equalized just before halftime. Both teams had goals ruled out, and the match remained level after 90 minutes. Bellingham netted the winner in extra time after capitalizing on a rebound, earning Player of the Match honors. England will face defending champions Argentina in the semi-finals. The victory also saw Jordan Pickford become England’s most-capped goalkeeper in World Cup history with 18 appearances.

US Launches Fresh Strikes as Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz

The United States launched a new wave of strikes on Iranian military targets after Tehran attacked a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command said it struck 140 targets, including missile and drone sites, while Iran claimed the waterway was closed until further notice and warned of a severe response. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps later said it targeted a US air base in Jordan as retaliation. The escalation follows attacks on commercial tankers earlier this week, raising regional tensions and threatening global shipping through one of the world’s busiest oil transit routes.

South Korea Issues First Emergency Heatwave Alert Under New Warning System

South Korea has issued its first-ever emergency heatwave alert under a new system introduced to address increasingly severe heatwaves. The Korea Meteorological Administration issued the warning for Gyeongsan and Pohang cities in North Gyeongsang Province after temperatures reached emergency levels. Officials said the alert indicates conditions where even healthy people face a higher risk of serious heat-related illness or death. Authorities advised residents to avoid outdoor activities, move to cooler places, and ensure children and pets are not left inside vehicles. The new system aims to improve responses to longer and more intense heatwaves.

Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Dies at 74

Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who transformed the Gulf nation into a regional powerhouse, has died at the age of 74, the Amiri Diwan announced on Sunday. Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and played a key role in expanding its global influence through the development of Al Jazeera, the country’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and its rise as a major liquefied natural gas exporter. He handed power to his son Sheikh Tamim in 2013 in a rare peaceful transition among Gulf rulers.

Delhi Tribunal Awards Rs 30.45 Lakh Compensation to Newspaper Distributor’s Family

A Delhi Motor Accident Claims Tribunal has awarded Rs 30.45 lakh in compensation to the family of a newspaper distributor who died after being hit by a tractor in northeast Delhi in 2020. Presiding Officer Manish Sharma directed Magma HDI General Insurance Company, the vehicle’s insurer, to pay the amount with nine percent annual interest. The tribunal, while hearing a claim petition filed by the victim’s family, held that the tractor driver was responsible for gross negligence that led to the fatal accident. The order was issued on July 3.