KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top stories.

Thirteen Nepalis Rescued Safely from Devastating Uttarakhand Floods in India:
Thirteen Nepali nationals caught in the severe floods in Uttarakhand, India, have been safely rescued, according to the Nepali Embassy in India. The embassy provided an updated list of missing persons to the local Uttarakhand administration, confirming the survival of these individuals. Among those rescued are Prashant Kamu from Kalikot and the family of Prashansa Shah, Komal Shah, and Raman Shah, who are husband, wife, and son. Rescue efforts continue as authorities work to account for all affected Nepalis in the flood-affected region.

Normalcy Returns to Tense Kailali Prison After Violent Clash:
Calm has been restored at Kailali Prison in Dhangadhi following a violent clash between inmates in Blocks A and B. Police deployed 50 security personnel to control the situation, confirmed Deputy Superintendent Raj Kumar Singh. Authorities are also holding meetings with prisoners’ relatives. One injured inmate, Bharat Chaudhary, died during treatment, while 44 others remain hospitalized at Seti Provincial Hospital. The prison, housing 680 inmates, is severely overcrowded with a capacity for just 100. Police efforts continue to ensure safety and prevent further incidents.

Landslide in Lamjung’s Marsyangdi Kills One, Injures Three at Hydropower Site:
A landslide near Naiche village, Marsyangdi Rural Municipality-6, Lamjung, claimed the life of 44-year-old Lagandhwaj Gurung on Saturday. Gurung, working on the 40.27 MW Super Nyadi Hydropower Project, died instantly when the landslide struck during lunchtime at the construction camp. Three others—Biraj Gurung (21), Pritam Lama (35), and Bikash Bisht (25)—were seriously injured and taken to Besisahar Provincial Hospital. About 40 workers were present at the camp; four were hit by the landslide, with Gurung found dead at the site. Police are investigating and have deployed rescue teams.

Nepal Earns Rs 4.5 Billion Profit from Power Trade, PM Oli Announces:
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced on Saturday that Nepal made a profit of Rs 4.5 billion from electricity exports this year, exceeding the value of imports. Sharing the update on social media, he highlighted the country’s progress in reducing electricity imports. Oli also noted that while power outages for the public had ended earlier, industrial sectors still faced shortages. However, he confirmed that power supply to industries has now been improved, marking a significant step toward stable and expanded energy distribution across Nepal.

RSP Vice-Chair Dr. Swarnim Wagle Confirms Family and Supporters Backing for Ravi Lamichhane’s Bail:
Dr. Swarnim Wagle, vice-chair of the Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP), stated that party chairman Ravi Lamichhane’s bail amount of over Rs 274 million was raised through family sources and well-wishers, not the party. Lamichhane, jailed in the Supreme Cooperative scam case, submitted a bank guarantee for bail. Wagle explained that Lamichhane’s sister sold land and his wife Nikita, along with many supporters, contributed funds. The party has also formed a formal ‘Legal Defense Fund’ to support legal battles. Over 3.2 million signatures have been collected in a campaign supporting Lamichhane’s cause.

NC General Secretary Bishwa Prakash Sharma Criticizes Government’s Draft Intelligence Bill:
Nepali Congress General Secretary Bishwa Prakash Sharma has condemned the government’s draft ‘National Intelligence and Investigation Bill,’ stating it violates citizens’ privacy rights. In an interview with News Agency Nepal, Sharma emphasized that while the government has the authority to protect its people, it must not invade private spaces or conduct unauthorized surveillance such as phone tapping and recording. He warned the bill could be misused by those in power and stressed the need for public consultation before enacting such laws. Sharma recalled the strong opposition to a similar bill proposed in 2019 and highlighted ongoing concerns over constitutional privacy rights violations.

11 Indian Nationals Arrested in Kaski with 6.4 Kg Illegal Gold and Silver:
Police in Kaski have arrested 11 Indian nationals involved in illegal gold and silver trade, seizing 6.4 kilograms of gold, 444 tola of silver, and NPR 514,665 in cash. The arrested include Rajendra Ramchandra Jagatap (41), Ujwal Bhomik (38), Sunita Pawar (40), Manik Lal Adat (45), Asit Var (35), Tapas Samant (44), Sandeep Dhap (35), Somnath Pal (41), Deepak Samant (47), Govind Dinda (47), and Provas Majhi (49). Originating from Kolkata and West Bengal, they have long operated as illegal gold and silver dealers in Pokhara. The suspects and seized items have been handed over to the Revenue Investigation Office in Butwal for further action.

Gandaki Province Faces Turmoil Over Plan to Cut 200 Staff, Abolish Key Offices:
The Gandaki Provincial Government’s plan to reduce administrative and financial burdens by cutting at least 200 staff and abolishing dozens of provincial and district offices has sparked major controversy. Based on a committee report led by former secretary Sharad Chandra Paudel, the restructuring aims to save Rs 3–4 billion annually but raises fears over job security and service disruptions. The plan targets overlapping directorates in sectors like agriculture, health, and infrastructure. Civil service unions have strongly opposed the move, demanding transparency, no quota cuts, and protection of career paths, warning of protests if ignored. Final approval rests with the Council of Ministers.

Minister Gurung Urges Maximum Use of AI to Benefit Indigenous Communities:
Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung stressed the importance of harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for national development during a seminar on ‘Indigenous Nationalities and Artificial Intelligence’ held to mark the 31st International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. He highlighted AI’s role in sectors like agriculture, health, education, tourism, and disaster management, emphasizing that all countries, rich or poor, can benefit from it. Gurung also called for unity among indigenous groups to protect their rights and warned that improper use of AI could pose challenges. The Indigenous Nationalities Commission reaffirmed the state’s duty to protect indigenous communities.

President Ramchandra Paudel Celebrates Rakshabandhan and Janai Purnima with Traditional Vedic Rituals:
On the occasion of Rakshabandhan and Janai Purnima, President Ramchandra Paudel, along with First Lady Sabita Paudel, received the Rakshabandhan and Nawayagyopavit (Janai) through traditional Vedic rituals at Shital Niwas on Saturday. The ceremony, conducted by priest Arjun Neupane, also included close relatives of the President. Marking the culturally significant festivals, Paudel extended warm wishes to all Nepalis and expressed hope that these celebrations would strengthen mutual respect, friendship, and goodwill among Nepal’s diverse communities.

Kaligandaki Corridor Reopens After Landslide Clears, Vehicular Movement Resumes:
Vehicular movement on the Kaligandaki Corridor in Baglung resumed on Sunday morning after being blocked by a landslide since Friday evening. The landslide occurred near Kalakhola, Baglung Municipality-12, around 7 PM, completely obstructing the road. Police Inspector Keshav Thapa confirmed that debris was cleared by machinery by 10 AM, restoring connectivity to the southern part of Baglung district. The Corridor, a national pride project, had disrupted travel to Mustang, Butwal, Bhairahawa, and Sunauli. Previous clearing efforts were delayed due to heavy rain and ongoing landslides. Stranded passengers were finally able to continue their journeys.

Body of Missing Swimmer Attacked by Crocodile Found in Bardiya:
The body of 19-year-old Rup Milan Tharu, who went missing after a crocodile attack while swimming in the Karnali River tributary at Thakurbaba Municipality-9, Bardiya, was found about 2.5 kilometers downstream. Local herders discovered the body and informed the police. Tharu, a recent 12th-grade graduate from Tribhuvan Secondary School, had disappeared on July 5 during the incident. His body was found mutilated, according to local forest committee chair Hari Gurung. Security personnel, Bardiya National Park staff, and locals had been searching the river by boat and on foot. The body was sent to Bardiya Hospital for postmortem.

Trailer of Janai Haraeko Manche Depicts Struggles of Nepal’s Lower-Middle Class Life:
The trailer of Janai Haraeko Manche, a film portraying the realities of Nepal’s lower-middle-class life, was released on Janai Purnima. Directed by Himal Neupane, the story follows Vijay Baral’s character, who dreams of working in Korea to repay his father’s debt and build a concrete home. Arriving in Kathmandu, he is cheated and trapped in hardships. A failed migration attempt leads him to meet Miruna Magar, while his sister (Keki Adhikari) suffers at the hands of her husband. These emotional threads highlight love, sacrifice, and struggle. Produced by Kamal and Bimal Neupane, the film will be released on August 22 (Bhadra 6).

Bollywood Actor Deepraj Rana Returns to Nepali Cinema with Sukh Dukh:
Bollywood actor Deepraj Rana, known for roles in Singham Returns, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, and Dabangg 3, is set to return to Nepali cinema after a long gap since his appearance in the late Shree Krishna Shrestha-starrer Kohinoor. He has been signed for Sukh Dukh, directed and produced by Neeta Dhungana Adhikari. Rana said the film’s storyline drew him to the project. Filming will begin in Falgun. Actress Bipana Thapa has also joined the cast, reuniting with Neeta after Hraswa Dirgha. Veteran actors Mithila Sharma and Madan Krishna Shrestha are also confirmed, with more casting details yet to be announced.

Trailer of Magne Raja Showcases Magne Budha in Lead Role with Satirical Punch:
The trailer of Magne Raja, starring popular comedian Kedar Ghimire (Magne Budha), was launched in Kathmandu on Thursday. Directed by Rishi Lamichhane, the film humorously portrays Magne Budha’s dream of becoming wealthy. Alongside Ghimire, the cast includes Varsha Siwakoti, Wilson Bikram Rai, Shishir Bangdel, and Sharda Giri, with Aryan Sigdel in a special role. TV presenter and former National Assembly member Komal Oli plays a judge. Blending comedy with social commentary, the film satirizes Nepal’s socio-economic and political realities, stressing the value of hard work. Produced under Aarambha Production by Munal Ghimire, Magne Raja releases nationwide on Bhadra 6.

Nepali Film Mohar Based on Social Evil ‘Deuki’ Begins Nationwide Advance Ticket Sales with Strong Demand:
Advance ticket sales for the Nepali film Mohar, centered on the social evil practice of ‘Deuki,’ have commenced nationwide amid enthusiastic audience response and high expectations fueled by its trailer. Produced by Chumban Jung Shahi under Filmmakers Pvt. Ltd. and directed by Om Pratik, Mohar has secured numerous prime showtimes across major multiplex chains including QFX, INI Cinemas, One Cinemas, Big Movies, and FQube. The film will debut with multiple shows in Kathmandu’s top cinemas and several key cities like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Biratnagar. Featuring strong performances by Pal Shah, Neeti Shah, Benisha Hamal, and others, Mohar has generated significant buzz due to its impactful theme and popular music.

Super-Sub Miya Strikes Late as Nepal Beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 in U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers:
Nepal earned their first win of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia on Friday in Thimphu. Substitute Sukriya Miya scored the decisive goal in the 90th minute, converting a cutback from Meena Deuba after Purnima Rai’s dummy left her unmarked. Nepal, who earlier drew 1-1 with hosts Bhutan, now have four points in Group A, keeping qualification hopes alive. Saudi Arabia, coming off a 15-0 loss to DPR Korea, had few chances. Nepal next face table-toppers North Korea, three-time champions, on Sunday in a crucial clash for a semifinal berth.

Nepal Premier League Second Edition Auction Begins with 38 Slots Open:
The auction for the second edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) started on Saturday at Royal Tulip, Lalitpur, featuring 38 slots across eight teams. The auction includes three categories: 9 players in Category A, 37 in Category B, and 118 in Category C, with a total of 164 players after recent additions. National team player Dev Khanal, who previously played for Karnali Yaks, was signed by Chitwan Rhinos after a Rs 1.5 million bid by both Chitwan Rhinos and Lumbini Lions, with Chitwan winning through a lucky draw. Notably, Santosh Karki went unsold in the auction.

Hobart Hurricanes Academy Squad Announced for Top End T20:
The Hobart Hurricanes Academy has announced its 14-member squad for the Top End T20 Series in Australia, starting Wednesday. The team includes Australian international fast bowler Billy Stanlake and several Big Bash League and national age-group players. Nepal will play Hobart Hurricanes Academy on August 19 in its fourth match. This is Nepal’s first participation in the 11-team tournament, which features Pakistan A, Bangladesh A, Chicago Kingsmen, multiple BBL academy squads, and two local teams. Nepal’s group-stage matches run from August 15 to 22, with the top four teams advancing to the semifinals. Both semifinals and the final are scheduled for August 24.

Nepal U-19 Captain Hemant Dhami Joins Sudurpashchim Royals in NPL Auction:
Nepal U-19 team captain Hemant Dhami has been signed by Sudurpashchim Royals for the second edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Listed in Category B with a base price of Rs 500,000, Dhami attracted bids from Pokhara, Lumbini, Sudurpashchim, and Janakpur franchises. He was ultimately selected by Sudurpashchim Royals through a lottery for Rs 1 million. Earlier, national player Dev Khanal was also signed by Chitwan Rhinos via the lottery system during the ongoing NPL auction.

Bharatpur Clinches NYA Nepal Cup, Beats Kalika on Penalties:
Bharatpur Metropolitan Committee won the National Youth Association Nepal Cup football title, defeating Kalika Municipal Committee 4-2 in a penalty shootout in the final. The match, held at Krishnapur ground, ended goalless in regulation time despite Bharatpur dominating play. Bharatpur goalkeeper Manoj Gurung was named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series, earning NPR 6,000. Bharatpur received the trophy and NPR 100,000, while runners-up Kalika took home NPR 50,000. Bharatpur’s Samir Shrestha was awarded Best Striker, Kalika’s Saujan Khadka Best Defender, and Kalika’s Aman Tamang Best Goalkeeper, each receiving NPR 3,000. Eight teams participated in the tournament.

Netanyahu’s Gaza City Takeover Plan Triggers Global Backlash and Fears of Escalation:
Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan for the military to “take control” of Gaza City to defeat Hamas, while distributing humanitarian aid outside combat zones. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists Israel will not govern Gaza, proposing Arab-led administration instead. The plan sparked sharp global criticism, with Germany halting military exports and the UN, EU, UK, France, and others calling it a dangerous escalation. Hamas labeled it a “new war crime,” while hostages’ families warned it jeopardizes captives’ lives. Supporters argue it could weaken Hamas, but Gaza residents fear renewed displacement amid worsening famine conditions and mounting humanitarian concerns.

Trump-Putin Alaska Summit to Explore Controversial Ukraine Peace Plan:
US President Donald Trump will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15 to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Trump hinted at a possible territorial swap, with Russia keeping Crimea and the Donbas while relinquishing Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, a plan reportedly similar to Putin’s earlier proposal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected any deal excluding Ukraine or involving territorial concessions, citing the constitution. The White House is pushing European leaders to consider the plan, though agreement remains uncertain. Trump claims a trilateral peace deal is possible, while Moscow’s demands—neutrality, NATO withdrawal, and lifting sanctions—remain unacceptable to Kyiv.

Trump Says Biden’s Ukraine Policy Risked World War III, Pushes for Peace with Putin:
US President Donald Trump claimed the Ukraine conflict could have escalated into World War III under Joe Biden. Since taking office in January, he has restored diplomatic ties with Moscow and reduced US arms shipments to Kiev, calling the war “Biden’s war.” Trump criticized Biden’s $350 billion military support for Ukraine and said the conflict could be settled soon. He aims to recoup costs through a minerals deal with Kiev, though much of the resources lie in Russian-controlled regions. Moscow calls the war a NATO proxy conflict. A peaceful resolution will be the main focus of Trump’s upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin.