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.

Heavy Rainfall and Landslide Risks Persist Through Tomorrow

Nepal remains under the influence of monsoon winds with the monsoon trough positioned north of its average location, resulting in generally cloudy skies and continued moderate to heavy rainfall. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued warnings for sustained heavy downpours through tomorrow, Tuesday, particularly across the hilly and Terai terrains of Koshi and Sudurpashchim provinces, as well as the hilly belts of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Karnali provinces. Authorities urge residents in these regions to exercise high caution, as the persistent wet weather increases the risk of flash floods, landslides, and debris flow.

Rainfall to Ease Across Nepal Starting Wednesday

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has announced that nationwide rainfall will begin to subside gradually from this Wednesday. While light to moderate rain, thunder, and lightning are expected across many hilly and Terai areas today and tomorrow due to monsoon winds, the weather system will start to weaken thereafter. Heavy rain may still occur in isolated locations within the hilly regions of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces. Authorities urge residents in vulnerable zones to exercise high caution against floods, landslides, inundation, and debris flow.

President Paudel Calls for Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure

Addressing the 64th anniversary of the Nepal Engineers’ Association, President Ram Chandra Paudel emphasized that development must prioritize human welfare and nature. He urged for infrastructure that respects Nepal’s diverse history, geography, and culture while addressing modern economic aspirations. Noting that climate change poses a significant threat, President Paudel called for “green development” and resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding natural disasters. He concluded that Nepal’s prosperity relies on integrating the innovative spirit of the youth with the technical expertise of engineers to foster sustainable production and employment.

Prime Minister Shah Prioritizes Capital Market Reform

Prime Minister Balendra Shah met with capital market stakeholders and regulators to affirm the government’s commitment to the sector as a driver of economic prosperity. Emphasizing entrepreneurship and job creation, Shah advocated for a professional, credible market while maintaining zero tolerance for wrongdoing. Stakeholders proposed comprehensive reforms, including IPO system improvements, enhanced price discovery, and policies to boost daily turnover beyond Rs 30 billion. Key requests included easier credit flow for margin trading, tax adjustments on losses, and increased institutional participation. Regulators noted that the Capital Market Policy 2026/27 and structural amendments for NEPSE are already underway.

Govt. Halts New Recruitment Across All Public Offices

The government has officially suspended all new permanent staff recruitment for the current fiscal year. A meeting of secretaries led by Chief Secretary Govinda Bahadur Karki on Monday, today, decided that no public office may request new vacancies from the Public Service Commission. This decision follows the government’s restructuring efforts, which saw the number of ministries reduced from 22 to 18. The measure aims to manage existing staff displaced by office mergers and organizational restructuring, effectively freezing all new permanent appointments until further notice.

Govt. Secretaries Advance Governance Reform and Relief Efforts

A meeting of government secretaries, chaired by Chief Secretary Govinda Bahadur Karki, has resolved to sustain the 100-point governance reform agenda. The meeting established a mechanism to evaluate reforms, mandated regular monitoring of pending tasks, and adopted “Business Process Re-engineering” to simplify decision-making and reduce bureaucratic hierarchy. Key decisions include the prompt implementation of the integrated relief package approved by the Council of Ministers on July 2 for families of martyrs and those injured during the Gen Z protests. The secretaries finalized 22 operational areas, focusing on decentralized service delivery, financial discipline, austerity, and disaster preparedness.

3 Federal Parliament Committees Conclude Meetings

Three committees under the Federal Parliament held their respective meetings today, July 20. The Federalism Strengthening and National Concerns Committee convened at 11:00 AM in Singha Durbar to discuss the “Study on the Effectiveness of the National Women Commission” report. Later, at 1:00 PM, the Public Policy and Delegated Legislation Committee reviewed monitoring and evaluation activities in Madhesh and Bagmati Provinces. Finally, the Legislation Management Committee met at 2:15 PM in Singha Durbar to assess law implementation and legislative interrelations.

Govt. Forms Task Force to Review Public Holiday System

The government has formed a task force to review the existing public holiday framework following the implementation of the two-day weekend system. Chaired by Chief Secretary Govinda Bahadur Karki, the decision aims to assess whether the current number of holidays remains appropriate. The committee, coordinated by a Joint Secretary from the Ministry of Home Affairs, includes representatives from various ministries and has been given 15 days to submit its recommendations. This review evaluates the impact of the new holiday structure on national operations.

Government Faces Criticism Over Academy Appointment Process

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has initiated the appointment process for new officials at the Nepal Academy, the Nepal Academy of Music and Drama, and the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, following the dismissal of previous officeholders on May 2. While the government advocates for merit-based appointments, critics argue the process mirrors the politicized “quota system” of previous regimes. Controversy intensified after reports of potential candidates surfaced before the formal nomination of the recommendation committees. Observers and writers, including Bina Theeng and Bimal Acharya, have expressed skepticism, noting that the selection maneuvering involving committee members like Narayan Dhakal and Archana Thapa appears to favor sycophancy over systemic reform. Despite pledges for change, critics maintain that the academies remain recruitment centers for the ruling power, with little progress toward the deep research and intellectual discourse intended for these institutions.

Law Ministry Launches ‘Law Reform Year’ To Expedite 166 Bills

The Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs has officially initiated its ‘Law Reform Year’ project with the objective of processing 166 new bills in the upcoming fiscal year. Law Minister Sobita Gautam held the first of a series of monthly consultations with legal department heads on Monday, today, to streamline the legislative process. The Ministry has prepared a nine-point action plan to ensure that the federal parliament remains consistently engaged with legislative business, aiming to create a comprehensive and supportive environment for national development through systematic legal revisions.

Nepal and Russia Mark 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations Today

Minister of Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov exchanged messages today, July 20, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties established on July 20, 1956. Lavrov highlighted the history of friendship and mutual respect, expressing Russia’s commitment to deepening cooperation for regional stability. Khanal emphasized the importance of this partnership, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to broaden and strengthen bilateral collaboration in the coming years based on a long-standing foundation of understanding and cooperation.

Nepal, Maldives Envoys in UAE Discuss Diaspora Welfare

Nepal’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Tej Bahadur Chhetri met Maldives’ Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Thoriq Ibrahim on Monday, with the two discussing ways to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation. During the courtesy meeting at the Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi, the ambassadors exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest and promoting the welfare of their respective diaspora communities in the UAE. The meeting marked one of the first engagements between Chhetri and Ibrahim following the latter’s appointment as the Maldives’ ambassador to the UAE, according to the Embassy of Nepal.

Bishnu Prakash Sharma Emphasizes Constitutional Integrity

Nepali Congress Vice-Chair Bishnu Prakash Sharma stated that provincial power dynamics must strictly adhere to constitutional principles and that the creation of assemblies without an opposition is not envisioned by the constitution. Speaking at a press conference in Sanepa on Monday, Bishnu Prakash Sharma reaffirmed the party’s readiness to sit in the opposition if necessary to maintain democratic norms. He also announced that BP Koirala’s 44th Memorial Day will be observed nationwide on July 22-23, featuring programs on climate change and the launch of a new party initiative.

Govt. Calls for Final Applications to Register Landless Settlers

The Ministry of Land Management has issued a final call for applications for landless Dalits, landless settlers, and unmanaged settlers across 66 local levels. Beneficiaries must submit their applications in the prescribed format within 35 days starting today. Applications can be filed at the respective local offices or through designated local enumerators. The Land Issues Resolution Committee urged all eligible individuals to utilize this final opportunity, warning that failure to register within this period will result in exclusion from the upcoming land management and distribution process.

First Rail Cargo Service from Kolkata Reaches Biratnagar Today

The Nepal customs yard in Biratnagar received its first rail cargo shipment from the Kolkata port on Monday, marking the first time rail transportation for third-country imports has expanded beyond the Birgunj checkpoint. The train, carrying 40 containers of raw materials for Swastik Oil Industries, utilized the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) to ensure secure transit. This new service, coordinated by authorities including the Nepali Consulate General and the Container Corporation of India Limited, is expected to significantly reduce transit time to approximately 24 hours and lower transportation expenses, thereby strengthening the competitive capacity of industries in eastern Nepal.

Patan High Court Resolves 11,468 Cases

The Patan High Court resolved 11,468 cases out of a total docket of 16,139 during the fiscal year 2025/26. Chief Judge Lal Bahadur Kunwar reported that the court successfully cleared all cases older than 18 months and 2 years, while prioritizing development, construction, and revenue-related litigation. Currently, 353 cases remain older than 1 year, and the court has addressed 740 cases in the current fiscal year. Performance among subordinate courts varied, with Sindhupalchowk resolving 77.4 percent of cases, Rasuwa 75.6 percent, and Kathmandu District Court 42.3 percent.

Early Warning Sirens Installed to Mitigate Wildlife Conflict

Early warning systems, including sirens, have been installed in villages surrounding Banke National Park to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Strategically placed in locations such as Khadagwar, Mahadevpur, Buchapur, and Gobharpur, these sirens alert residents to the presence of animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus). Birendra Kandel, head of the park, confirmed that this initiative complements existing GPS tracking, fencing, and livestock improvement programs. This system is essential for protecting residents in buffer zones from risks, as authorities continue to monitor the park’s 9 wild elephants.

10 Books Shortlisted for Madan Puraskar

The Madan Puraskar Guthi has officially announced the shortlist of 10 books nominated for the ‘Madan Puraskar’. One of these final selections will be awarded Nepal’s highest literary honor for the year. Out of 298 submissions received by the Guthi, the selected titles include Keshab Raj Gyawali’s Agyat, Keshab Dahal’s Itha, Lalit Bista’s Utkarsha, Roshan Kumar Jha’s Nepalmandal Sanga Jodieko Simraungadhko Itihas, Beena Joshi’s (Rajbhandari) Newar Samudayaka Paramparagat Mukundonach, Uma Subedi’s Paridhi, Seema Avash’s Mahayug, Shrawan Mukarung’s Salaha, Dr Nabaraj KC’s Swasparsha, and Nadish’s Hiund. The prestigious annual award recognizes an outstanding literary work published in the Nepali language.

Minister Timilsina Meets Chinese Delegation to Discuss Movie and Cultural

Minister for Information and Communication Bikram Timilsina met with a Chinese delegation led by Everest International Film Festival founder Li Hongshu on Monday, today. The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in tourism, culture, and cinema. Bikram Timilsina highlighted the potential of film as a medium to promote Nepal’s natural beauty internationally. Li Hongshu noted that Nepal remains an ideal destination for film production and cultural exchange. Additionally, officials announced that awards for the films screened during the festival in China last April will be distributed in Kathmandu on Tuesday.

Nepali Dance Troupe Wins 3 Gold and 1 Silver Medals at Global Dance League

A Nepali dance team achieved significant success at the Global Dance League Thailand 2026, securing 3 gold and 1 silver medal while competing against teams from 16 countries, including India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa. The ‘ND Dance Junior’ team won 2 gold medals in the Junior Mega Crew and Teens categories, while also earning a silver in the Junior Crew category. Furthermore, ‘Team NT’ won a gold medal in the folk dance category. The team was selected through the ‘World of Dance Nepal 2026’ tournament and performed before international judges, including New Zealander Kaya Pierce.

Nepal Cricket Team Prepares for ICC World Cup League-2 Tri-Series in Netherlands

The Nepali National Cricket Team arrived in the Netherlands for the ICC World Cup League-2 tri-series and is scheduled to play its opening match against Namibia on Tuesday. Led by captain Rohit Kumar Paudel, the 15-member squad includes experienced players like vice-captain Dipendra Singh Airee and spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. Currently in 5th place with 24 points from 28 games, Nepal aims to secure a top-four position to qualify for the World Cup Global Qualifier. The series will conclude after matches against the Netherlands on July 23, 27, and 29 this month.

India’s Cockroach Movement Sparks Clashes During Parliament March

Police clashed with thousands of protesters in New Delhi on Monday after supporters of India’s youth-led Cockroach movement attempted to march to Parliament demanding the resignation of the education minister. Security forces used tear gas and batons to stop demonstrators, citing security restrictions around Parliament during the monsoon session. The movement, which began as a satirical response to a court remark, has evolved into a nationwide campaign driven by repeated examination paper leaks and demands for reforms to the education and recruitment systems. Protesters are also seeking accountability over student suicides linked to the leaks. The demonstrations have become a significant challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, with authorities showing early signs of engagement with protest representatives.

Ebola Outbreak Claims 930 Lives in Congo

At least 930 people have died in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) out of 2,344 confirmed Ebola cases as of Saturday, July 18, 2026. Authorities reported 37 new deaths in the last 24 hours, marking a record surge. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus and declared on May 15, 2026, remains difficult to contain due to insecurity in Ituri Province, which has faced 12 attacks on medical teams. With 36 health workers dead and others protesting, 724 patients remain in isolation as the government intensifies response efforts.

World Cup Final Halftime Show Features Global Artists

For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, a grand halftime show featuring international stars such as Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, and BTS members took place during the final. The 11-minute performance also included acts by Burna Boy and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, focusing on themes of unity and peace. While the production was lauded for its choreography, the spectacle sparked debate among traditional football fans regarding the influence of American entertainment culture on the sport. The show was divided into segments, featuring a mix of live performances and pre-recorded sequences integrated into the match program.