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.

Lawmakers Advance Central Bank Reform Bill

The House of Representatives’ Finance Committee has intensified deliberations on proposed amendments to the Nepal Rastra Bank Act, consulting bankers, financial institutions, the central bank, and government officials. The bill seeks to update the legal framework governing Nepal Rastra Bank to better reflect the evolving financial landscape, strengthen monetary governance, and enhance regulatory effectiveness. Introduced in Parliament in May, the proposed reforms are intended to reinforce financial stability, improve institutional accountability, and align Nepal’s central banking framework with modern economic and banking practices.

CAAN Split Seen as Key to Expanding Nepal’s Aviation Economy

The government has unveiled draft legislation to split the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) into separate regulatory and service entities, a long-awaited reform aimed at strengthening aviation governance and unlocking economic opportunities. The proposed restructuring aligns with ICAO recommendations and could bolster Nepal’s efforts to secure removal from the European Union’s air safety blacklist, potentially opening European markets for Nepali airlines. The new Nepal Air Services Authority (ASAN) would independently manage airports and air navigation services, while enhanced safety measures are expected to improve operational efficiency and support tourism and aviation sector growth.

PM Delivery Unit Begins Operations to Fast-Track National Projects

The Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit has officially begun operations under the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers to strengthen implementation of government policies and development projects. Established under an 18-point national commitment approved by the Cabinet, the unit will coordinate among ministries, remove bottlenecks in national pride projects, monitor performance indicators in real time, and improve public service delivery and capital spending. Reporting directly to the Prime Minister, the unit is led by joint secretaries from key ministries. The model is based on the “Deliverology” system pioneered in the United Kingdom and later adopted by several countries.

Gagan Thapa Urges Parties to Prioritize Principles Over Power

Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa has called on political parties to prioritize ideology and democratic values over the pursuit of political power. Speaking at a youth interaction program on Sunday, Thapa criticized the past decade of Nepali politics for becoming excessively power-centric and condemned the formation of “opposition-free” provincial governments as contrary to democratic norms. Stressing that integrity outlasts political office, he urged parties to strengthen internal democracy by combining the experience of senior leaders with the ideas and energy of younger members to build a more vibrant and accountable political organization.

UML Reviews Political Strategy with Federal Lawmakers

The CPN (UML) held an interaction with its federal lawmakers at the party’s central headquarters in Chyasal, Lalitpur, to review the evolving political situation and prepare its parliamentary strategy. Party Chairman KP Sharma Oli, General Secretary Shankar Pokharel, Vice-Chairman Prithvi Subba Gurung, and other senior leaders attended the meeting. The discussion focused on strengthening the party’s role in the federal parliament and coordinating legislative priorities amid ongoing political developments.

Dahal Returns After Addressing Asian Leftist Conference

Nepali Communist Party (NCP) Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal has returned from Sri Lanka after attending the Asian Dialogue Program organized by the International People’s Assembly. During the “Hands of Asia Conference” in Colombo, Dahal delivered the keynote address, outlining his views on shifting global power dynamics, the challenges of imperialism and neoliberalism, South Asian people’s movements, and the prospects for 21st-century socialism. He also held meetings with senior leaders of Sri Lanka’s major leftist political parties during the visit.

Oli Criticizes Government, Claims Youth Exodus Worsening

CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli has accused the government of lacking constitutional legitimacy and failing to address the continued outflow of Nepali youth seeking jobs abroad. Speaking to UML lawmakers, the former prime minister argued that the government has remained silent over what he described as a worsening migration crisis. However, official data from the Department of Foreign Employment shows overseas labor departures fell by 5.6% in fiscal year 2025/26, with 792,187 labor permits issued—down by 47,079 from the previous year, contradicting Oli’s claim of a rising exodus.

Jhalanath Khanal Criticizes Government, Calls for Left Unity

Former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal has criticized the government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, claiming it has failed to address key national challenges and has weakened governance, public livelihoods, and diplomatic relations. In a public statement, the senior communist leader urged leftist parties to unite, arguing that the public expects patriotic and progressive forces to work together. Khanal also warned his own party against entering “unholy alliances” with right-wing forces for short-term political gains. He called for an immediate Central Committee meeting to prevent what he described as growing right-wing opportunism within the party.

Police fire shots in Kathmandu’s Kuleshwor, three arrested with large drug stash

KATHMANDU: Police opened fire and arrested three suspected drug traffickers in Kuleshwor, Kathmandu, on Sunday afternoon. A team from the Narcotics Control Bureau fired two rounds during the operation to apprehend the suspects, identifying them as two Nepali national and one Indian national. The Indian national sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during the incident. Police recovered a significant stash of 24,700 ampoules of Tramadol from their possession. Further investigation into the case is underway.

Three Dead as Heavy Rain Triggers 58 Disaster Incidents Across Nepal

Continuous heavy rainfall triggered 58 disaster-related incidents across Nepal in the past 24 hours, killing three people and injuring 13, according to Nepal Police. The fatalities included two drowning victims in Khotang and one person who died from a snakebite in Dolakha. Authorities estimated property losses at around Rs 2.36 million and urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain on high alert. Since mid-April 2026, the monsoon and pre-monsoon season has caused 168 deaths, injured 994 people, left two missing, and resulted in more than 3,400 disaster incidents nationwide.

30 Injured in Three-Vehicle Collision on Narayangadh–Muglin Highway

At least 30 people were injured, one critically, in a collision involving two passenger buses and a freight truck at Jalbire on the Narayangadh–Muglin Highway on Sunday morning. According to the District Police Office, the crash occurred when a Mugling-bound bus attempted to overtake a truck and collided head-on with an oncoming bus. Emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby hospitals, with 21 receiving treatment at Chitwan Medical College and the remaining nine at the College of Medical Sciences. Police are investigating the incident, which temporarily disrupted traffic along the busy highway.

5.0-Magnitude Quake Shakes Rukum East, Tremors Felt Across Western Nepal

A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck Rukum East on Sunday afternoon, sending tremors across several districts in western Nepal. According to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre, the quake occurred at 4:30 p.m., with its epicenter in Kol, Rukum East. Residents in Rolpa, Dang, and Arghakhanchi reported brief but strong shaking, prompting many to rush outdoors. No immediate reports of casualties or property damage were received. Authorities are monitoring the situation for possible aftershocks. Nepal lies in a highly active seismic zone, making earthquakes a frequent occurrence and highlighting the need for continued disaster preparedness and response.

Flash Flood Alert Issued for Small Rivers Across Multiple Districts

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has warned of a high risk of flash floods in small rivers and streams across dozens of districts, urging residents to remain alert. The warning covers rivers flowing through eastern, central, western, and far-western Nepal, including Kathmandu Valley and several Tarai districts, where localized flooding is possible due to heavy rainfall. However, the department said water levels in major river systems—including the Koshi, Narayani, Bagmati, Karnali, Mahakali, Kankai, Kamala, Babai, East Rapti, and West Rapti—remain below the danger level, although continuous monitoring and caution have been advised.

Facebook Web Outage Disrupts Access for Thousands of Users

A widespread outage disrupted Facebook’s web platform on Sunday, preventing thousands of users from accessing their accounts through desktop browsers. The issue began around 1:30 p.m., with many users receiving an “Account Temporarily Unavailable” error message when attempting to log in or browse the site. The disruption appears to be limited to the web version, as the official Facebook mobile app continues to function normally. The cause of the outage has not yet been disclosed.

Tour de Lamjung Aims to Boost Tourism, Local Economy

Lamjung will host the inaugural Tour de Lamjung 2026 from September 4–6, with around 400 cyclists expected to participate in a three-day event designed to promote tourism and stimulate the local economy. Organized by the Lamjung Cycling Association, the event will showcase the district’s natural and cultural attractions while benefiting homestays, hotels, restaurants, and small businesses along the route. With an estimated budget of Rs 2.8 million, organizers hope the cycling festival will strengthen adventure tourism, generate local income, and evolve into a national and international sporting event in the years ahead.

Two Killed in Flash Floods in Khotang

Two people lost their lives in separate flash flood incidents in Khotang on Friday following heavy rainfall. According to the District Police Office, 43-year-old Shanta Rai was found dead in the Chhange River near her home in Nerpa, Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality-6. In another incident, 71-year-old Parshuram Pariyar was swept about 100 meters downstream while attempting to cross a swollen seasonal stream in Baksila, Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality-4. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious as monsoon-triggered floods continue to pose risks across the district.

Swiss-Backed UN Program Aims to Strengthen Mental Health Care in Nepal

Swiss Ambassador Danielle Meuwly reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to improving mental health and psychosocial support in Nepal at the launch of the Joint United Nations Mental Health Support Program. She said mental health is not only a healthcare issue but also one of human rights, development, and social inclusion. Meuwly called for greater investment in community-based services, stronger national institutions, and equitable access to care for women, youth, and marginalized communities. The initiative is supported by UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO, with Switzerland pledging long-term support for inclusive and resilient mental health systems.

Nepal Embassy in India Names Pradeep Khadka, Anna Sharma Cultural Ambassadors

The Embassy of Nepal in India has felicitated actors Pradeep Khadka and Anna Sharma as Nepal-India Cultural Goodwill Ambassadors in recognition of their contributions to Nepali cinema and cultural diplomacy. The honor aims to strengthen the longstanding cultural ties between the two countries through the arts. Following the ceremony, the Embassy screened the film AKTOR: Take 1 as part of its “Nepali Movie Month” initiative. The Embassy said cinema continues to play a vital role in bringing the people, cultures, and shared stories of Nepal and India closer together.

‘Gauthali’ Opens Strong as Audience Demand Boosts Screenings

Nepali film Gauthali posted a strong opening weekend at the box office, prompting theaters to add screenings following high audience demand. Producer-director Kapil Rijal said the film received more shows on Saturday than on its opening day, with additional screenings added after several sold out. Cast members, including Arun Chhetri and Simran Khadka, visited theaters in Kathmandu to thank viewers and gather feedback. Praised for its authentic portrayal of rural life, the film explores themes of home, family, and relationships and features an ensemble cast led by Arun Chhetri, Simran Khadka, and Madan Krishna Shrestha.

‘Jadau Hajur’ Title Track Released Ahead of Film’s September Premiere

The title song of the upcoming Nepali film Jadau, “Jadau Hajur,” has been released on the Hi-Tech Entertainment YouTube channel ahead of the film’s September 25 theatrical debut. Sung by Rajan Raj Siwakoti and Rachana Rimal, the upbeat dance number is written and composed by Babul Giri and features lead actors Niti Shah, Prabhat Pal Thakuri, and Rajashree Thapa. Jointly directed by Anjan Sharma and Kazi Limbu, Jadau boasts an ensemble cast and will be distributed nationwide by the NGCN Group.

Applications Open for Miss Universe Nepal 2026

Applications for Miss Universe Nepal 2026 have officially opened, with organizers launching this year’s edition under the theme, “You are perfect as you are.” Global Glamour Venture said the pageant aims to select a confident and accomplished representative for the international Miss Universe competition. The grand finale is scheduled for September 6 at the Soaltee Hotel. Married and unmarried women, including Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) applicants, are eligible to compete. Interested candidates can register through the official Miss Universe Nepal website or mobile app.

NTV Plus to Air FIFA World Cup Final Free for Nepali Viewers

Nepali football fans will be able to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 final live for free on NTV Plus. Minister for Communication and Information Technology Bikram Timsina announced that the state-owned television channel will broadcast tonight’s title clash between defending champions Argentina and European champions Spain without any additional charge. The free telecast is expected to benefit a large number of viewers given the strong interest in the tournament. NTV Plus had earlier also aired the FIFA World Cup third-place play-off between France and England free of cost.

Mbappe Surpasses Messi, Leads World Cup Golden Boot Race

France captain Kylian Mbappe overtook Lionel Messi in both the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot race and the tournament’s all-time scoring chart despite France’s 6-4 defeat to England in the third-place play-off. Mbappe scored twice to take his tournament tally to 10 goals, two ahead of Messi’s eight. His brace also lifted his overall World Cup tally to 22 goals in 22 matches, surpassing Messi’s 21 goals in 33 appearances. England secured the bronze medal after a thrilling contest, with Bukayo Saka scoring a hat-trick and Jude Bellingham adding a stoppage-time goal.

England Beat France 6-4 to Clinch World Cup Bronze

England secured third place at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a thrilling 6-4 victory over France in Miami, ending Didier Deschamps’ 14-year tenure as French manager on a disappointing note. Bukayo Saka starred with a hat-trick as England raced to a 4-0 first-half lead before surviving a spirited French comeback led by Kylian Mbappe’s brace. Mbappe’s two goals took his World Cup tally to a record 22, surpassing Lionel Messi’s 21. However, Saka’s late penalty and Jude Bellingham’s stoppage-time strike sealed England’s highest World Cup finish on foreign soil since winning the 1966 title.

Trump Set to Present World Cup Trophy Amid Political Spotlight

US President Donald Trump is expected to present the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino after Sunday’s final between Spain and Argentina. The appearance comes after Trump’s controversial intervention earlier in the tournament, when he reportedly asked FIFA to overturn a red card issued to a US player. The final will also bring together leaders from Spain, Mexico, and Canada, offering a stage for high-level diplomacy amid ongoing political tensions. Security has been heightened for the event, with Trump expected to attend alongside First Lady Melania Trump.

Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Tops 5,100 as IMF Releases Emergency Funds

The death toll from last month’s twin earthquakes in Venezuela has risen to 5,119, while 16,740 people have been injured, according to official figures. The International Monetary Fund has released USD 346 million in emergency financing to support relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts. Authorities said the funds will help rebuild homes, infrastructure and essential public services. More than 128,000 families have received assistance, while over 21,000 people remain in temporary shelters. The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, also damaged hundreds of buildings and triggered around 1,350 aftershocks, with rescue and rehabilitation operations still underway.

US Completes Eighth Consecutive Night of Strikes Against Iran

The United States has completed its eighth consecutive night of military strikes against Iranian targets, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced, as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East. According to CENTCOM, the latest operation targeted Iranian military infrastructure linked to threats against US forces and regional security. The strikes follow a series of retaliatory actions after attacks on US personnel in the region. The continuing military campaign has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, with both Washington and Tehran exchanging warnings amid growing international concern over further escalation.

Baloch Activist Condemns Pakistan Over Rising Student Disappearances

A Baloch human rights activist has accused Pakistan of pursuing a “failed and inhumane” policy amid an alleged rise in enforced disappearances of students in Balochistan. The activist claimed students are being targeted for exercising their fundamental rights, describing the disappearances as part of a broader pattern of repression in the province. The remarks come as rights groups continue to raise concerns over alleged enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions in Balochistan. Pakistani authorities have repeatedly denied allegations of systematic abuses, while calls for independent investigations into missing persons continue from activists and international human rights organizations.

Five Afghan Migrants Found Dead Near Iran Border, 14 Still Missing

Afghan security forces have recovered the bodies of five Afghan nationals who went missing while attempting to cross illegally into Iran through the deserts of western Nimroz province. The victims were part of a group of 19 people believed to have become lost in the harsh desert terrain, where extreme heat and dehydration are suspected to have caused the deaths. Search and rescue operations are underway to locate the remaining 14 missing individuals, as authorities continue efforts in the remote border region.