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. Here’s today’s key updates:

PM Karki Vows Relief and Security for Private Sector, Pledges Business-Friendly Policies:
Prime Minister Sushila Karki addressed the ‘National Economic Debate 2.0,’ assuring the government’s commitment to support industries and businesses affected by disruptions linked to the Gen Z movement. She emphasized rule of law, condemning harassment, bribery, and policy manipulation targeting honest entrepreneurs, and promised immediate relief and confidence-building measures. Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal highlighted efforts to restore private sector conditions, while Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal noted strict action against criminals and reinforced collaboration between government and businesses. Ministers stressed legal reforms, banking stability, and domestic employment, urging industrialists to operate with confidence, while the private sector called for streamlined services and business-friendly regulations.

Government to Launch Special Operation to Retrieve Fugitives and Looted Weapons:
Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal announced that the government will soon initiate a special operation to bring back escaped prisoners and recover weapons looted during the Gen Z Movement. Speaking at an FNCCI economic event on Saturday, Aryal said that out of 14,549 escapees, 9,521 have already returned while 5,105 remain at large. Of the 710 looted weapons, most have been recovered, though some are still missing. Citing the ineffectiveness of repeated public notices, Aryal emphasized that direct government action is necessary. He underscored that maintaining law and order is the state’s responsibility and pledged closer cooperation with the private sector.

Election Commission Urges Citizens to Complete Voter Registration by November 16:
The Election Commission of Nepal is actively collecting voter lists nationwide ahead of the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai reported encouraging progress in recent registration drives. Citizens eligible to vote must be 18 by March 4, 2026, and have a citizenship certificate. The Commission urges all eligible Nepalis to register by November 16, noting that high participation has caused heavy server loads and access difficulties. After the election, all citizens aged 16 and above with citizenship certificates will be eligible to register for future voter lists, continuing the standard electoral practice.

Madhesh Province Chief Minister Jitendra Prasad Sonar Resigns:
Madhesh Province Chief Minister Jitendra Prasad Sonar (Sonal) resigned from the provincial assembly after assessing slim chances of winning a confidence vote. Two Maoist Centre lawmakers, Rahbar Ansari and Mala Kumari Karn, openly rebelled, refusing to support the government, making it impossible for Sonar to secure the vote. During proceedings, Speaker Ramchandra Mandal moved toward a division of votes, but Sonar preemptively announced his resignation. Ansari criticized the assembly’s moral and procedural integrity, while Karn opposed centralized governance, refusing to vote for or against any party leader. With three members suspended and two absent, the province now faces political uncertainty.

Madhesh Province Chief Minister Jitendra Prasad Sonar (‘Sonal’) has officially resigned, with his resignation accepted by Province Head Sumitra Subedi Bhandari. The province’s official statement cited Article 169(1)(a) of the Constitution of Nepal, confirming the acceptance on Kartik 22, 2082 BS. Until a new arrangement is made, the existing council of ministers has been assigned to carry out the functions of the provincial government, as per Article 169(3) of the Constitution.

Newly Formed Nepali Communist Party Sets Key Decisions to Strengthen Organization and Election Preparedness:
The newly formed Nepali Communist Party has taken decisions to enhance organizational efficiency and election readiness. In a press note issued by party spokesperson Agni Prasad Sapkota on Saturday, the central committee emphasized conducting unity message programs across all provinces to promote party cohesion nationwide. The meeting also decided to advance election-related activities in a structured and effective manner, signaling intensified preparations for upcoming polls. Party-affiliated organizations, fronts, and auxiliary bodies were instructed to coordinate with relevant party levels for grassroots mobilization. The meeting was held at the central office in Parisdanda under the chairmanship of party coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’.

Tribhuvan International Airport Reopens After Runway Electrical Glitch:
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu resumed flight operations today after a temporary closure caused by a short circuit in its runway lighting system. The technical fault, which disrupted operations for over four hours, led to the suspension of all landings and takeoffs, affecting numerous domestic and international flights. Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Director General Pradip Adhikari confirmed to Nepal News that the issue has been fully resolved. “Flight operations have now resumed, and all aircraft have been informed,” he stated. Passengers are advised to check with airlines for any delays caused by the disruption.

Members Submit Detailed Reports and Proposals at Rastriya Swatantra Party Chitwan Meeting:
Chitwan: At the ongoing extended meeting of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) in Sauraha, five members submitted reports and proposals with suggestions. Party leaders at various levels registered their written documents and reports with the central committee. Shankar Shrestha, Secretary of the Central Organization Department, submitted the longest report of 20 pages. Central members Dr. Buddhi Sharma and Madhu Aryal submitted three-page proposals each, while Dr. Toshima Karki presented a three-page document. Chitwan district chair Krishna Bhusal submitted a one-page report. Another member, Pramod Nyaupane, submitted a document titled “Organizational Suggestions,” which the central committee will consider despite his absence at the meeting, according to General Secretary Kavindra Burlakoti.

Durga Prasai Under Surveillance in India :
Self-proclaimed activist Durga Prasai, known for his pro-royalty activities and anti-party rhetoric, is reportedly under high surveillance by Indian security agencies during his visit to India. Prasai, who previously fled to India following clashes during a royalist movement in Chaitra, attempted to meet Indian political leaders, ministers, and intellectuals to signal support from India ahead of planned protests but all declined to do so. Sources say he was closely monitored by the Indian security and intelligence in Delhi, with officials restricting access to any government or no government level meetings. India emphasized maintaining non-interference and preserving stable relations with Nepal’s government.

3rd Trans-Himalaya Communication Conference Highlights Cross-Cultural Dialogue and Reliable Information:
The 3rd Trans-Himalaya Communication and Social Development Conference concluded at CDJMC’s Camera Building, emphasizing enhanced information flow across the region. Inaugurated by Prof. Deepak Aryal, the two-day event brought together scholars from Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, China, Japan, and the U.S. Participants discussed digital-era collaboration, cross-cultural communication, and the ethical use of social media. Key sessions highlighted reliable information’s role in climate change awareness and early warning systems. Speakers stressed cooperation among Trans-Himalayan societies despite cultural diversity. Experts also reflected on historical influences of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism on Nepali and Chinese cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding and dialogue.

Eleven Nepal–India Border Points in Mahottari Closed Ahead of Bihar Election:
Eleven border points along Nepal’s Mahottari district will be closed for 72 hours starting this evening due to the upcoming Lok Sabha election in Bihar, India, scheduled for Tuesday. Chief District Officer Indradev Yadav confirmed that borders will be sealed from 6:00 p.m. today until 6:00 p.m. on November 22, with a high alert in place. The District Administration Office, Mahottari, issued a public notice stating that all cross-border movement will be suspended during this period, except for emergency cases. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure security and smooth enforcement of the temporary closure.

Nepali Cinema Welcomes Two New Releases: Jari 2 and Man Binako Dhan:
This week, the Nepali film industry released two contrasting films worldwide, including Nepal: the highly anticipated sequel Jari: Song of Chyabrung and the social drama Man Binako Dhan, based on child singer Ashok Darji’s life. Jari 2, directed by Upendra Subba and produced by Rambabu Gurung, opened with 258 shows nationwide and 192 international locations, featuring actors Dayahang Rai, Miruna Magar, and Vijay Baral. Meanwhile, Man Binako Dhan, written and directed by Tank Budhathoki, highlights Ashok Darji’s journey from hardship to success, screening 76 shows across Nepal. Both films have drawn strong initial audiences, with word-of-mouth crucial for sustaining momentum.

Jari 2: Song of Chyabrung Premieres with Praise for Limbu Culture and Historical Storyline:
The highly anticipated Nepali film Jari 2: Song of Chyabrung premiered yesterday at Big Movies, Kamalpokhari, ahead of its global release today. Directed by poet and filmmaker Upendra Subba, the film received widespread acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of how indigenous Limbu culture and religion were impacted during the Maoist conflict. Attendees, including actors Dayahang Rai, Miruna Magar, Vijay Baral, producers Rambabu Gurung, Rohit Adhikari, and former Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar, praised the film’s storytelling and cultural authenticity. Miruna Magar’s traditional Limbu attire stood out during the premiere. Produced by Rambabu Gurung, Madhu Mijar, and Jeevan Gurung, the film features a star-studded cast highlighting Limbu heritage.

APF and Nepal Police Set for Jhapa Women’s Gold Cup Final:
APF Football Club will face Nepal Police Club in the Jhapa Women’s Gold Cup final after defeating Army Club 4–2 in a penalty shootout during Saturday’s semifinal at Dudhe Stadium, Shivasatakshi. The match ended 1–1 in regular time, with Army taking the lead in the 63rd minute through Chandra Bhandari and APF equalizing via captain Anita Basnet’s injury-time free-kick. In the tiebreaker, APF scorers included Savita Ranamagar, Anita Basnet, Nisha Thokar, and Rashmikumari Ghising. Army managed only two successful penalties. APF goalkeeper Anjana Ranamagar was named player of the match, receiving NPR 15,000 and the trophy. The final is scheduled for Kartik 24.

Pradeep Bhandari, Sumana Sapkota Win NOC Anniversary Health Run:
Pradeep Bhandari and Sumana Sapkota claimed first place in the men’s and women’s races organized by Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) to mark its anniversary. The 10-km men’s race, held at Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwor, saw Bhandari finish in 53 minutes 10 seconds, followed by Digambar Pant and Manoj Kumar Das. In the 5-km women’s race, Sapkota completed the course in 32 minutes 9 seconds, with Sharmila Katuwal and Raj Kumari Rai finishing second and third. Around 130 participants, including NOC staff, media personnel, and private sector representatives, took part. Winners received medals, prizes, and 50-gram silver coins.

Salhesh Claims Pathari Gold Cup with 2–1 Win Over Pathari 11:
Salhesh won the Pathari Gold Cup, defeating host Pathari 11 Football Club 2–1 in the final at Pathari Stadium on Saturday. Pathari 11 initially led through Dheeran Bisht Chhetri’s 18th-minute penalty, but Salhesh equalized via a penalty by Jay Gurung in the 58th minute. Samir Tamang scored the decisive goal in the 69th minute, securing victory for Salhesh. Around 5,000 spectators witnessed the match, with Pathari fans disappointed by their team’s loss. Salhesh received NPR 500,000 and the trophy, while Pathari 11 earned NPR 250,000. Jay Gurung was named man of the match, with awards also given for best goalkeeper, top scorer, and best coach.

Delhi Air Quality Hits ‘Very Poor’ to ‘Severe’ Levels, Exceeding 400 in Multiple Areas:
Delhi’s air quality deteriorated sharply on Saturday, with pollution levels surpassing 400 in several locations, making it one of India’s most polluted cities. The 24-hour average AQI stood at 361 at 4 pm and rose to 372 by 6 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Monitoring data from 39 stations showed 15 areas, including Wazirpur (424), Bawana (424), Burari Crossing (420), and Alipur (417), exceeding 400. NCR regions like Noida (354), Greater Noida (336), and Ghaziabad (339) remained in the ‘very poor’ category. PM2.5 and PM10 were primary pollutants, with poor air expected to persist over the next few days.

Hungary Secures One-Year Exemption to Continue Russian Oil Purchases:
Hungary will be allowed to continue buying Russian oil for one year, according to White House sources, marking a political win for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of April’s election. The exemption comes amid US sanctions on Russian energy following stalled peace negotiations. Orbán visited Washington with a 180-member delegation, seeking both the exemption and a public endorsement from President Donald Trump. Trump praised Orbán as a “great leader” and friend, granting the exemption to maintain Hungarian energy supply through the Druzhba and South Stream pipelines. Analysts suggest the move bolsters Orbán’s campaign, as low energy prices could influence voter sentiment.

Top European Leaders Skip EU-CELAC Summit Amid US-Colombia Tensions:
Several top European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will skip the EU-CELAC summit in Santa Marta, Colombia, on Sunday. The summit, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Europe and Latin America, faces low attendance amid tensions between the United States and Colombia and US policy pressures on Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro. Over two dozen high-level participants have canceled. While Donald Trump will also not attend, his foreign policy has already influenced the summit agenda, shaping discussions on regional relations and US-Latin America engagement.