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.

NEB Mandates 14-Year Age Limit for SEE Candidates

The National Examination Board (NEB) has circulated an order across the country mandating that students must be 14 years of age to participate in the Secondary Education Examination (SEE). Students who do not meet the age requirement by mid-April, 2026, of the examination year can amend their date of birth, as provisions exist for such revisions. This mandate has caused confusion among students and parents, as the Education Ministry had previously decided in the fiscal year 2021 to remove the 14-year age limit, applying the restriction only to the final school-level exam (Grade 12). The board is currently registering students for the fiscal year 2025/26 SEE and Grade 9 registration for the next year’s exam.

Madhesh Province Inducts Three New Ministers

Three new ministers took the oath of office and secrecy in Madhesh Province on Sunday. Province Chief Surendra Labh Karna administered the oath to the new inductees. Mahesh Prasad Yadav, the Parliamentary Party leader of the Janmat Party, was sworn in as the Minister of Finance. The other two ministers, Jangi Lal Ray from the Nepali Congress and Kanish Patel from the CPN (Unified Socialist), were sworn in as ministers without portfolio. This cabinet expansion follows recent political developments aimed at strengthening the provincial government and improving service delivery across the region. The new ministers expressed their commitment to focusing on economic stability and development.

Madhesh’s New CM to Seek Vote of Confidence on Wednesday

Madhesh Province Chief Minister Krishna Prasad Yadav is set to seek a vote of confidence on Wednesday. The decision was made at a meeting of the seven-party ruling coalition, according to JSP Chief Whip Ram Ashish Yadav. Chief Minister Yadav, appointed on Saturday from the Nepali Congress, formed a small Cabinet immediately after his swearing-in. Province Chief Surendra Labh Karna administered the oath of office to Jangi Lal Ray Yadav (Nepali Congress) and Kanish Patel (CPN-Unified Socialist) as Ministers without Portfolio and Mahesh Prasad Yadav (Janamat Party) as the Minister of Finance. The remaining ministries will be decided after the Chief Minister secures the vote of confidence.

Former President Bhandari Meets Prime Minister Karki

Former President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister Sushila Karki met at Singha Durbar on Sunday. Former President Bhandari was visiting Singha Durbar to inspect the structures damaged by arson during the Gen Z protest on September 8 and 9. Reconstruction is underway at the complex, which houses various ministries. This is the first meeting between Bhandari and Prime Minister Karki since Karki was appointed head of the interim government following the Gen Z protest. Former President Bhandari’s private residence was also set on fire during the movement.

Government Forms Probe into Bardiya Suicide Case

The Home Ministry has formed an investigation committee to probe the suicide case of a young woman in Badhaiyatal–4, Bardiya, who allegedly took her life after failing to secure citizenship. Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal stated that the ministry took serious note of the widespread concern over the incident, acting on directives from Prime Minister Sushila Karki. The decision was made at the secretary level on Sunday, forming the committee under the coordination of Joint Secretary Suresh Panthi, Chief of the Policy, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division. The committee also includes Under Secretary Kul Shekhar Aryal and one other member. The probe team has been mandated to carry out an impartial and factual investigation and submit its report within five days.

Proportional Electoral Program Kicks Off for Upcoming HoR Election

The Election Commission has intensified preparations for the House of Representatives member election, set for March 5, 2026. The proportional representation electoral program began on Sunday, with political parties given until Tuesday to submit their applications to participate. According to Commission Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai, the list of approved parties will be published on December 12. Parties must submit the closed list of candidates on December 28 and 29, with the final list published in January. Out of 275 members in the House of Representatives, 110 will be elected through the proportional system. Registration for candidates under the first-past-the-post system will take place in January as well.

10,926 Polling Stations Planned for HoR Election

A preliminary plan outlines 10,926 polling stations for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. According to Home Ministry Spokesperson Anand Kafle, security challenges have led to the categorization of these sites. Specifically, 3,518 polling stations have been placed on the highly sensitive list, while 4,529 are on the sensitive list. Furthermore, out of 22,304 polling centers, 7,150 are categorized as highly sensitive and 9,320 as sensitive. Preparations are underway to recruit over 132,000 temporary police personnel, who will be deployed with other security forces in a three-tier security arrangement.

Protest Greets Janardan Sharma in Rukum Paschim

Pragatisheel Loktantrik Party leader Janardan Sharma was met with protests, black flags, and slogans upon his arrival in his home district of Rukum West on Sunday. Workers of the Nepali Communist Party protested against the former Deputy General Secretary of the erstwhile Maoist Centre at Salle Airport, Musikot Municipality–1. The protest was fueled by Sharma’s recent decision to lead the formation of the Progressive Democratic Party in disagreement with the NCP’s unification process, which was spearheaded by former CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman Prachanda. Protesters chanted slogans like “Janardan Sharma Murdabad” and “Down with the right-wing opportunists.” Sharma was in the district to inaugurate a party office and address a youth gathering.

Outgoing Madhesh Chief Minister Makes Staff Transfers Before Resigning

Outgoing Madhesh Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Yadav allegedly engaged in staff transfers and appointments after the Supreme Court issued a mandamus ordering him to seek a vote of confidence within 24 hours. It was revealed that the cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yadav, held meetings on December 1 and December 2, during which 38 employees, including an 11th-level joint secretary, were transferred. Jay Kumar Ghimire, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism, was appointed as the acting chief secretary. Furthermore, Dr. Om Aryal, Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Population, was transferred to the Chief Minister’s office.

KP Oli Sends Letters to Party Members Ahead of 11th General Convention

Ahead of the CPN (UML)’s 11th National General Convention, starting on December 13, Chairman KP Sharma Oli has started sending personal letters to party members. Rajan Bhattarai, Secretary of the Mass Mobilization Committee, stated that the letters aim to emphasize the need for pro-democracy forces to unite. Oli portrays the UML as the guardian of nationalism, the charioteer of democracy, and the hero of good governance, committed to fulfilling the dream of a prosperous Nepal. The general convention’s opening ceremony will be held at Sallaghari, Bhaktapur, on December 13 at 12:30 PM. Workers from Bagmati, Gandaki, and Madhesh provinces are specially planned to attend the inauguration.

RSP Calls for Applications for Direct Election Candidates

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has called for applications from eligible party members to select candidates for the first-past-the-post electoral system in the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. The party has set an application fee of Rs 25,000 and opened the process on Sunday. Applications can be submitted via the party’s official mobile app. According to the party’s statement, party members facing financial hardship can submit their application along with the required documents to the central office or the candidate selection committee via email, without paying the application fee.

Gen Z Activist Dhungana Urges PM Karki to Resign

Gen Z activist Miraj Dhungana urged Prime Minister Sushila Karki not to insult the Gen Z protest, making the request at the Kathmandu District Police Complex while demanding the release of fellow activist Prakash Sharma. Dhungana expressed concern about the potential return of old party leaders to government after the election. He demanded that Prime Minister Karki resign, asserting that the interim government has failed in national development and that the government has been “hijacked,” leading to the Gen-Z demands being ignored. Dhungana claimed that police only arrested youths who participated in the September 9 demonstration, while incidents from the September 8 protest remain uninvestigated.

NC Baitadi Recommends Election Candidates

The Nepali Congress (NC) Baitadi district recommended candidates for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. The decision was made through a voting process at a joint meeting held on Saturday, after consensus failed. For the direct election, District President Chatur Bahadur Chand received a unanimous 73 votes from all present representatives, securing the top position. Bishnu Dutt Joshi received 45 votes. Janaki Bhatta was recommended as the sole female candidate. For the proportional representation system, Kanta Chand was recommended after securing 45 votes. The NC also recommended three names for the National Assembly election.

CIAA Files Rs 8.36 Billion Claim in Pokhara Airport Case

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has decided to file a corruption case regarding the construction of Pokhara International Airport. CIAA is currently proceeding with the filing process at the Special Court, naming five former ministers and others as defendants. CIAA sources indicate the commission is demanding a claim amount of Rs 8.36 billion. The former ministers named as defendants are Bhim Acharya, Ram Kumar Shrestha, Dipak Amatya, Ram Sharan Mahat, and the late Post Bahadur Bogati (his wife, Ram Maya Bogati, has been named as a defendant).

Suspended CAAN DG Implicated in Pokhara Airport Corruption Case

Suspended Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), Pradeep Adhikari, has been implicated in the corruption case related to the construction of Pokhara International Airport. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed a charge sheet against 56 individuals, including Adhikari, at the Special Court. Adhikari was previously named as a defendant in a corruption case concerning the construction of the heliport in Nalinchowk, Bhaktapur. In that case, CIAA took him into custody and filed a charge, which is currently being heard in the Special Court.

International Civil Aviation Day Observed

International Civil Aviation Day is being observed worldwide Sunday, under the theme “Safe Skies and a Sustainable Future for All.” The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized December 7 as the day in 1996 to increase awareness of international civil aviation’s importance to the sustainable development of member states. The day also builds support for the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) leadership. ICAO is responsible for fostering a safe, secure, inclusive, and environmentally responsible global air transport network. The observance aims to reinforce worldwide awareness of the industry’s role in the social and economic growth of nations.

NHRC Submits Annual Report to President

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) presented its annual report for the Fiscal Year 2024/25 to President Ram Chandra Paudel at an event held at Shital Niwas Sunday. NHRC Chairman Tap Bahadur Magar submitted the report in accordance with Article 294 of the Constitution of Nepal, which mandates the commission to submit its annual report to the President. The report highlights the state of human rights in the country and includes recommendations to the government for their protection and promotion. The president thanked the commission for its work, emphasizing the importance of human rights in a democratic society.

NHRC Receives 105 New Human Rights Violation Complaints

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) received 105 new complaints related to human rights violations during the last fiscal year, 2024/25. In the annual report submitted to President Ram Chandra Paudel on Sunday, NHRC Chairman Tap Bahadur Magar stated that the commission completed investigations into 280 complaints (old and new). The commission made 49 complaint-specific and 8 policy-level recommendations to the government. The NHRC also recommended that the government provide Rs 4.7 million in compensation to seven victims. However, only 13.29 percent of the commission’s recommendations have been fully implemented, while 52.60 percent are in the process of implementation.

Security Heightened at Kailali Border Ahead of Election

Security vigilance has been significantly increased along the Nepal-India border in the Kailali district to ensure security for the upcoming House of Representatives election. The election is scheduled for March 5, 2026. The District Administration Office stated that security agencies are implementing strict checks to prevent the illegal entry of any unidentified suspicious individuals or groups. Information Officer Shivraj Joshi confirmed that the security arrangements have been intensified due to the election and other security sensitivities, adding that security has also been tightened on the Indian side. The administration has urged the public to cooperate by reporting any suspicious activity to the nearest security body.

Bagmati to Launch Digital Park for Youth Health

The Bagmati Province Health Ministry is set to launch a pilot ‘Adolescent Digital Park’ this year to promote safe sexual and reproductive health behaviors among youth. Health Minister Kiran Thapa Magar announced the initiative, stating that it addresses the need for education given the rise in issues like unsafe sexual relations and abortions. The park will use smart technology and digital boards to disseminate information, including animated videos and podcasts, on topics such as puberty, hygiene, and sexual abuse. The Ministry has allocated Rs 2.5 million for the project, which will be implemented in coordination with local municipalities in areas frequented by adolescents, such as Hetauda or Kathmandu.

Hetauda Road Expansion Halted by Supreme Court Order

The Road Division Office, Hetauda, has temporarily suspended the main road expansion project in the market area. According to Division Chief Guru Prasad Adhikari, the road boundary protection program (2025) for national highways within the Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City was halted due to a Supreme Court order. The division had demolished approximately 500 houses on Saturday, giving owners two days to remove their belongings. The Supreme Court issued the writ of certiorari on December 5, and the order was served on Sunday. The order, issued by Judge Meghraj Pokharel, instructs the Road Division Office to maintain the status quo and not implement the expansion notice. The Road Division had previously issued a 15-day ultimatum on November 21 to expand the road boundaries to 75/75 feet (25/25 yards) along the Mahendra Highway and Tribhuvan Highway.

4.6 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Darchula

An earthquake of magnitude 4.6 on the Richter scale was recorded in the Darchula district on Sunday. According to Chintan Timilsina, Chief of the Surkhet-based National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre, the tremor occurred at 8:28 am with its epicenter near the Ghusa area of Apihimal Rural Municipality. The quake was strongly felt in Darchula and its neighboring districts, including Baitadi. There were no immediate reports of major damage or casualties, but the event highlights the seismic vulnerability of the region. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, as the area remains susceptible to seismic activity.

10 Health Volunteers Honored in Nepalgunj

Ten Female Health Volunteers in Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City was honored and given a farewell upon reaching the retirement age of 60. Sub-Metropolitan Mayor Prashant Bista, Deputy Mayor Kamaruddin Rai, and Chief Administrative Officer Ram Hari Sharma presented the volunteers with shawls and certificates of appreciation. The honored volunteers included Narayani Rupakheti, Asha Devi Baishya, Chandra Kala Gurung, Nirmala Sahu, and Jyoti Shrestha. Mayor Bista praised their commendable role in enhancing community health awareness and contributing to better health indicators. He also assured the volunteers that the municipality remains serious about providing encouragement and professional development opportunities for them.

Locals Shut Down Tatopani Checkpoint

Locals have shut down the Tatopani Checkpoint due to the failure to proceed with the upgrade of the Kodari road section. The closure comes after the Department of Roads failed to open the tender for the permanent stabilization of the Eco Landslide area as agreed upon. Ward Chairman Kumar Shrestha of Bhote Koshi Rural Municipality–2 confirmed the ongoing protests, stating the failure to implement the agreement poses a risk to the settlements above the landslide. He warned that the Kodari road section of the checkpoint would remain completely closed indefinitely until the agreement is executed, despite the border point annually generating billions of rupees in revenue.

Basic Mediation Training Concludes in Sunsari

An eight-day basic mediation training program, totaling 48 hours, was successfully concluded in Inaruwa, Sunsari, by the Mediation Council. The training aimed to produce new mediators for establishing long-term peace and building a civilized society, according to Council Chairman Kumar Regmi. Twenty-seven participants received certificates after the training. Speakers emphasized that mediation is an excellent process for dispute resolution, saving time, reducing mental stress, and avoiding financial burdens. They also noted that judicial committees are resolving 70 to 80 percent of disputes through mediation. Chief Trainer Chup Bahadur Thapa and Chief Guest Bhadrakali Pokharel were present at the closing ceremony to distribute the certificates.

30-Week Football Training Concludes

A 30-week football skill enhancement training program organized by Annapurna RCT concluded on Sunday. The grassroots program was held at the Chainchor Football Ground and involved 71 players, including 22 girls. Head Coach Mrigendra Mishra led the training, assisted by Arjun Lama, Suresh Shahi, and Rajiv Shahi. Program Coordinator Ashok Manandhar stated that the initiative is vital for producing quality players for age group football in Nepal and confirmed that such programs will continue regularly. The initiative demonstrates a commitment to long-term talent development and strengthening the future of Nepali football.

NYC Galkot Wins Second Bhambak United Cup

NYC Narethanti Galkot secured the title of the Second Bhambak United Cup club-level volleyball tournament, held in Rampur Municipality–5, Bhambak. NYC defeated the host, Bhambak United Club, in the final in 3–0 straight sets on Saturday, with set scores of 25–22, 25–13, and 25–20. The champions took home a cash prize of Rs 200,000. Sanju Bikram Shah of NYC was declared the Most Valuable Player. Mayor Raman Bahadur Thapa of Rampur Municipality promised to allocate a budget for skill development and infrastructure to encourage youth involvement in the national sport.

Kharal Wins Eighth National Mayor’s Cup Cycle Race

Achyut Krishna Kharal of Kavre won the Eighth National Mayor’s Cup Cycle Race competition held in Nepalgunj on Saturday. He finished the 36-kilometer open MTB cycle race in 1 hour 2 minutes 40 seconds, securing the title and a Rs 25,000 cash prize. Mukesh Tharu of the Nepal Army came second, winning Rs 15,000, and Dev Bohara of Banke came third, receiving Rs 10,000. In the women’s 16-kilometer open MTB cycle race, Aesse Shrestha of Banke placed first, followed by Sita Sarki (second) and Nisha Tharu (third) from Bardiya, winning Rs 20,000, Rs 10,000, and Rs 7,000, respectively.

Film Production Licenses Hit Historic High: 70 in Four Months

A historic record has been set in Nepali film production, with 70 new films receiving production licenses in the first four months of the fiscal year 2025/26, according to the Film Development Board. This number represents an increase of nearly 37 percent compared to the 51 licenses issued during the same period last year. Board spokesperson Santosh Lohani called the enthusiasm a positive sign but stressed the need for quality to match the quantity. He suggested that if the increase is merely in number without focusing on quality, it could be detrimental to the industry. The rise is attributed to the digital media boom, commercial success, and the entry of large business houses.

Paul Shah Launches ‘Hami Chhau Foundation’ for Social Service

Actor and model Paul Shah has launched the social organization ‘Hami Chhau Foundation’ to actively engage in community welfare, health, and education in remote, underserved districts. The foundation was formally announced on Saturday, and its inaugural program was a free health camp in a squatter settlement in Shankhamul. Shah stated that it had been his long-time dream to start the foundation to serve the community. He announced plans to organize annual free health camps, provide scholarships to financially weak students, and offer immediate relief during disasters. Shah also declared that he will dedicate 10 percent of his earnings from films to the foundation. His most recent film, Mohar, was a hit.

Bipin Karki Starrer Film ‘Unko Sweater’ Expands Release to India

The Bipin Karki starrer film, Unko Sweater, which is the third highest grossing Nepali film of 2025 so far, has expanded its release in India. The film, which has already screened in the Nepali-majority northeastern states, will begin showing in other Indian cities from this coming Friday. The producing company, the film will be screened in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Shimla, Dharamshala, Kullu, Tezu, Namasai, Shillong, and other cities in Assam. The film has already been released in Guwahati, Kolkata, Dehradun, New Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Director Nabin Chauhan said the film’s journey from Gangtok to South India is a significant achievement, opening doors for the international presence of Nepali cinema.

Over 900 Dead in Indonesia Floods; Aid Airdropped to Cut-Off Areas

The death toll from recent flooding in Indonesia has exceeded 900, with hundreds still missing. The disaster struck after a powerful and rare cyclone formed over the Malacca Strait last week, causing torrential rain and landslides that destroyed more than 100,000 homes. Efforts to reach cut-off areas are ongoing, with aid having to be airdropped into some places. Survivors in the hardest-hit area of Aceh Tamiang described entire villages being swept away. The governor of the region stated that many people are now facing starvation in remote areas. Land access to Sibolga City and Central Tapanuli remains cut off as of Sunday, with aid reaching them only by air and sea.

Russia Launches Heavy Strikes on Ukraine Following US-Backed Peace Talks

Russia launched heavy overnight strikes across Ukraine shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported a constructive call with US President Donald Trump’s negotiating team following three days of talks in Florida. Vitaliy Maletsky, Mayor of Kremenchuk, reported that the central industrial city was hit by a massive combined attack, damaging infrastructure and disrupting water, electricity, and heating, though no deaths were confirmed. Russia also claimed it shot down seventy-seven Ukrainian drones. The strikes occurred amid intensified efforts to build a US-backed peace framework. Zelensky stated that he will continue working with Washington on a deal to ensure Russia honors any agreement and prevents a new invasion.

Netflix Acquires Warner Bros Discovery for USD 72 Billion in Historic Deal

Netflix has agreed to buy Warner Bros Discovery’s television, film studios, and streaming division for USD 72 billion, a deal that hands control of one of Hollywood’s oldest assets to the streaming pioneer. The agreement follows a weeks-long bidding war, where Netflix’s offer of nearly USD 28 per share eclipsed rival Paramount Skydance. Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO, stated that this rare opportunity will help them achieve their mission to entertain the world by giving them access to Warner Bros’ vast content trove, including Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, and DC Comics heroes. The cash-and-stock deal, which values Warner at USD 27.75 a share, or about USD 82.7 billion including debt, is expected to close after the spinoff of Discovery Global in the third quarter of 2026.

World’s First MF Husain Museum Opens in Doha, Qatar

Lawh Wa Qalam, the world’s first museum dedicated to the late legendary Indian artist M. F. Husain, opened to visitors last week in Doha, Qatar. Spanning over 3,000 square meters, the museum honors the legacy of the artist who spent his last years in Qatar and was granted citizenship in 2010. It is located on the expansive campus of Qatar Foundation’s Education City. Inside, more than 150 works, including paintings, sculptures, and films, map the breadth of his career. Curator Noof Mohammed stated that the goal is for visitors to experience the world as he did. The building itself is inspired by a 2008 sketch Husain made. A main attraction is Seeroo fi al ardh, the ambitious multimedia project that occupied Husain’s final years.

25 Killed in Fire at Goa Nightclub, Explosion Suspected in Kitchen

A fire at the popular nightclub Birch by Romeo Lane in the coastal region of Goa, India, has killed 25 people, including tourists and many of the club’s staff. Local officials reported that the blaze ripped through the venue near a popular beach on Saturday at midnight local time, with police suspecting a gas cylinder explosion in the club’s kitchen. Goa’s Director General of Police, Alok Kumar, stated that most bodies were found near the kitchen. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that three people died from burn injuries and others from suffocation, adding that three to four tourists perished. The venue was packed as it was hosting a Bollywood specialist DJ. An inquiry into the cause of the fire has been launched.