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.

Rabi Lamichhane Welcomed at RSP Headquarters Following Release

Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane received a grand welcome at the party’s central office in Banasthali today. Supporters and party members gathered with musical instruments to greet him following his arrival in Kathmandu yesterday from Bhairahawa Prison. The RSP chairman had been in custody in connection with cooperative fund investigations. Immediately following the welcome ceremony, the RSP convened a central committee meeting to discuss the party’s future strategy and organizational activities. This marked his first official appearance at the party headquarters since his release.

Chinese Ambassador Chen Song Holds Farewell Meetings

The Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, held separate farewell meetings with Speaker Devraj Ghimire and National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal on Sunday. During the meetings at Singha Durbar, they discussed strengthening bilateral relations as both nations celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025. The ambassador highlighted that many Chinese investors are interested in Nepal and expressed China’s readiness to provide necessary support for the upcoming elections scheduled for March.

Gen Z Group Announces Nationwide Protest from Tomorrow

The Gen Z Miraj Dhungana group has announced a nationwide protest starting Monday. During a press conference on Sunday, coordinator Miraj Dhungana called for supporters to gather at Maitighar Mandala at 11:00 am. The group is demanding the formation of an all-party government, claiming that the current administration led by Sushila Karki has failed to fulfill the aspirations of the Gen Z protest. The group characterized the movement as a peaceful struggle to ensure political accountability and systemic change in the country.

PM Karki Urges Preservation of Indigenous Traditions and Gurung Culture

During a meeting with the Tamu Hyula Chhonj Dheen Gurung Rastriya Parisad today, Prime Minister Sushila Karki stressed the importance of safeguarding indigenous traditions against the tide of modernism. She suggested that government employees should wear traditional attire at least once a week to promote national identity. The council invited the prime minister to the upcoming Tamu Lhosar festival on December 30, which marks the Gurung community’s new year. The PM highlighted that Nepal’s cultural diversity is its greatest asset and must be preserved for future generations.

Doctor Dies After Falling From Hospital Building

A 34-year-old intern doctor, Amit Yadav, died on Sunday morning after falling from the fifth floor of Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital in Biratnagar. The incident occurred around 6:30 am near the main gate of the hospital. Yadav, a resident of Rajbiraj Municipality-9, Saptari, had completed his MBBS at the same college. Despite receiving emergency treatment for severe head injuries, he passed away. Police are currently investigating whether the fall was accidental or under other circumstances.

Electricity Regulatory Commission Drafts New Storage Project Guidelines

The Electricity Regulatory Commission has released a draft of the Storage Project Electricity Purchase and Sale Guidelines, 2025, seeking stakeholder feedback within 30 days. To qualify as a storage project, a plant must maintain a continuous full-capacity operation for at least 15 days and ensure dry season energy production is at least 35 percent of the annual total. The draft proposes a dual-tariff system for capacity and energy charges to reduce investor risk, with a maximum 17 percent return on equity. Commercial banks’ average base rate plus 2 percent will determine interest for a maximum 20-year loan repayment period.

Government Reinstates Original Medical Exam Fees for Migrant Workers

The Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security has scrapped the recent hike in health examination fees for migrant workers, restoring the previous rates. Labor Minister Rajendra Singh Bhandari made a ministerial-level decision to overturn the fee increase implemented by former minister Sharat Singh Bhandari. The fee, which had been raised from Rs 6,500 to Rs 9,500, faced widespread opposition for imposing an additional Rs 3,000 burden on workers. Ministry Spokesperson Pitambar Ghimire confirmed that all health institutions must now conduct examinations at the original rates, providing financial relief to those seeking employment in the Gulf and Malaysia.

Investigation Committee Formed for Kanchanpur Prison Clash

Local authorities have formed a 3-member committee to investigate a clash between inmates and prison leaders at Kanchanpur Prison last Friday. The incident left 8 inmates injured, with 6 currently hospitalized at Mahakali Provincial Hospital. Assistant CDO Mohan Chandra Joshi leads the team, alongside DSP Sagar Bohara and Administrative Officer Dharmaraj Upadhyay, with a 7-day deadline for the report. Inmates launched the protest alleging that prison leaders were engaging in financial irregularities regarding inmate facilities and conducting illegal activities. CDO Laxman Dhakal visited the facility on Sunday to monitor the situation.

Salary Payments Halted for Koshi Province Personal Secretaries

Salary payments for personal secretaries of 93 lawmakers in Koshi Province have been suspended since September. The halt follows Federal Government directives on September 23 and November 4 to cut costs and eliminate double benefits amid economic stagnation and Gen Z protest pressures. Although Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki initially criticized the move as federal interference, the administrative mechanism has paused payments pending legal clarity. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has sought an opinion from the Office of the Attorney General to resolve the conflict between federal circulars and provincial autonomy.

RSP Proportional Candidates Conduct Door-to-Door Campaign in Gundu

Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP) proportional representation aspirants, led by Pradip Timilsina (Sajan), conducted a door-to-door campaign on Sunday in the Gundu area of Bhaktapur. Gundu is notably the home region of CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli. The campaign is part of the RSP’s internal candidate selection process, where 353 aspirants are being evaluated through primary voting and field assignments. Sajan, who also serves as the coordinator of the party’s Rapid Action Team (RAT), participated in the initiative ahead of the final candidate list publication scheduled for December 29.

Nepali Congress Koshi Recommends 454 Candidates for Upcoming Polls

The Nepali Congress Kooshi Province Committee has recommended 454 aspirants to the center for the House of Representatives and National Assembly elections. For the House of Representatives polls on March 5, 2026, at least 323 names were sent, while 131 were proposed for the National Assembly elections on January 25, 2026. Notably, General Secretary Bishwoprakash Sharma was recommended unanimously for Jhapa-1. However, Khotang district failed to send recommendations due to the suspension of its chairman. The list includes 115 direct and 208 proportional candidates for 27 constituencies, balancing youth and veteran leaders.

Communication Minister Advocates for E-Voting and AI Policy

Communication Minister Jagadish Kharel stated that E-Voting could be implemented at a low cost for the upcoming elections if political consensus is reached. Speaking at the CAN B2B Summit 2025, he emphasized the need for digital transformation to reduce the billions spent on printing paper ballots. He also highlighted that the government passed an AI policy within three months of its formation. The minister reiterated that preparations are in full swing to conduct the House of Representatives elections on March 5, 2026.

Ministry Calls for Grant Proposals for Upcoming FY

The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration has invited local levels to submit proposals for federal supplementary and special grants. Following the first amendments to the Supplementary and Special Grant Procedures, 2025, provincial and local governments must submit their project details by the end of mid-February, 2026. Proposals must be filed through the National Planning Commission’s electronic system. This timeline aligns with the constitutional requirement for the federal budget presentation, ensuring projects are prioritized for the next fiscal year’s financial planning and resource allocation.

Committee Suggests Reducing Expensive Embossed Number Plate Fees

A government study committee has recommended lowering the fees for embossed number plates, citing they are unnaturally expensive for citizens. Current fees range from Rs 2,500 for two-wheelers to Rs 3,600 for heavy vehicles. The study found that production costs are around Rs 2,200, yet consumers are overcharged to cover infrastructure and software expenses. While the 2016 contract with a Bangladesh-USA joint venture for 2.5 million plates remains incomplete, the committee noted that changing the language from English to Nepali is legally complex.

Administrative Conflict Over Accountant Postings in Sudurpashchim

Sudurpashchim Province’s Finance Secretary Rajendra Kumar Hamal has assigned additional responsibilities to 28 accounting staff, sparking a jurisdictional row. While Provincial Treasury Controller Basudev Joshi defends the move under Civil Service Acts, accounting officer Baldev Kapadi alleges the secretary overstepped the Economic Procedure and Financial Accountability Act. Critics claim the ministry bypassed the Treasury Controller’s Office and even assigned five federal employees, including those from Bajhang’s Land Revenue and Baitadi’s District Court, to provincial offices. In protest, accountants plan to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister’s office this Sunday to void the decision.

World Meditation Day Today with Tundikhel Ceremony

On Sunday, Nepal is celebrating World Meditation Day with a grand event at Tundikhel, organized by the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology. Education Minister Mahabir Pun announced directives to include yoga and meditation as extracurricular activities in schools. Health Minister Dr. Sudha Sharma Gautam emphasized the integration of traditional practices like Ayurveda and yoga into national health policies. The event, themed “Meditation for World Peace and Harmony,” saw participation from various spiritual organizations today. This celebration highlights the government’s commitment to mental well-being and the preservation of traditional health practices across the country.

SNP Prepares for Tiger Census

Shuklaphanta National Park (SNP) is preparing for the national tiger census as part of the third complex in the countrywide monitoring program. While counting is ongoing in the Chitwan-Parsa and Bardia-Banke complexes, Shuklaphanta will begin once the specialized camera equipment arrives. The park’s tiger population rose to 36 in the 2022 census, with recent internal monitoring suggesting a further increase to 43. Spanning 305 square kilometers, the park boasts a high prey density of 146 per square kilometer, providing an ideal habitat for the growing feline population.

Non-Residential Citizenships Surpass Renunciations in Chitwan

In Chitwan, the number of individuals acquiring Non-Residential Nepali (NRN) citizenship has exceeded those renouncing Nepali citizenship since the first month of the current fiscal year (July 17). Records show 49 individuals (29 men and 20 women) took NRN citizenship to facilitate investments in Nepal, while 40 individuals (27 men and 13 women) renounced their original citizenship. Since July 17, the office issued citizenship to 3,759 individuals by descent and 11 through naturalization. Additionally, two citizenships were revoked due to dual status or involvement in activities against the state.

Migrant Resource Sub-Center Established in Palpa

A new Migrant Resource Sub-Center has been established at the Area Administration Office in Rampur, Palpa, under the SaMi program. The center aims to provide legal counseling and information to citizens seeking foreign employment. The SaMi program now operates in all 753 local levels across Nepal’s 77 districts. The center will assist workers in avoiding fraudulent companies and provide guidance on skill development and rescue operations for those facing difficulties abroad.

Electrical Equipment Worth Millions Aligned on Streets in Jumla

Expensive electrical equipment for the Tila Hydroelectric Project in Jumla has been left stranded on the streets due to a halt in the project. The 1 MW project, initiated in the fiscal year 2017/18 with an investment of Rs 110 million from the Infrastructure Development Fund, is currently non-operational. Local residents are protesting the neglect of these materials, which were purchased using public funds to expand electricity to remote areas. Current officials stated that the equipment was acquired during the previous leadership’s tenure but remains unused.

Only 20 Percent of Eligible Students Apply for TU Convocation

Interest in the Tribhuvan University convocation appears to be declining, with only 16,380 students applying out of 89,191 eligible candidates. The 51st convocation, scheduled for December 25 at Dasharath Stadium, will feature 2015 Nobel Laureate Takaaki Kajita as the chief guest. To increase participation, the university plans to hold regional ceremonies, including one in Pokhara next year. Despite the low application rate, the university expects a total attendance of 40,000 people, including parents and guests.

Successful Cataract Surgeries Performed on 107 Patients in Dhading

A two-day surgical eye camp concluded in Dhadingbesi with the successful cataract surgery of 107 individuals. Organized by the Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, the camp utilized Phaco technology for 46 patients and SICS for 61 others. Most patients hailed from Nilkantha Municipality, Jwalamukhi, and Netrawati Dabjong rural municipalities. Medical professionals noted that while most cases were age-related, timely surgery and artificial lens placement successfully restored clear vision for the participants.

New Trekking Circuit to Connect Gorkha and Lamjung

Five local units in Gorkha and Lamjung have partnered to develop the Buddha Himal-Himchuli Great Lakes Circuit. The new trekking route will cover Barpak Sulikot, Ajirkot, Dudhpokhari, Dordi, and Marsyangdi. Supported by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Nepal Tourism Board, a 21-member management committee has been formed to promote the trail internationally. The project aims to identify ancient trails and cultural routes while building necessary infrastructure like bridges and porter houses to turn the area into a sustainable tourism hub.

New Women’s Cricket Coach Harshal Pathak Arrives in Nepal

Harshal Pathak, the newly appointed head coach of the Nepal Women’s Cricket Team, arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday. Pathak was appointed last Tuesday, becoming the first-ever foreign head coach for the national women’s side. He brings 7 years of experience with Thailand’s cricket team, whom he led to their first T20 World Cup in 2020. His immediate focus will be the ongoing training camp as Nepal prepares to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier. His arrival is seen as a significant step in elevating the team’s international performance.

Team Surgery Reaches Semifinals in MPL

In the Manipal Premier League (MPL-X) organized by the MBBS 2023 batch at Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Team Surgery defeated three-time champions Team Adrenaline on Saturday. A last-minute volley by Subigya Karki secured the win, knocking the defending champions out of the tournament. The first semifinal is scheduled for next Wednesday between Team Surgery and Team Medicine, with the winner facing Team ENT in the final on Saturday. Aakash Thakulla currently leads the scorers’ list with 3 goals.

Artist Team Defeats Journalists in Friendly Cricket Match

An artist team secured a 69-run victory over a team of journalists in a friendly cricket match organized in Gulmi. Batting first, the artists scored 195 runs in 16 overs, losing only 3 wickets. In response, the journalist team was restricted to 126 runs. The match was held at the BP Park cricket ground in Isma Rural Municipality-1 to strengthen the relationship between the two professions. Local officials noted that such events help promote the newly developed international-standard sports infrastructure in the region.

Filming of Nikhil Upreti’s Movie ‘Acharya’ Halted

Filming for the movie Acharya, directed by Nikhil Upreti, has been suspended in Sarlahi after 70 percent of the work was completed. Upreti stated that the pause occurred because the schedules of Indian actors involved in the project did not align until January. The crew has returned to Kathmandu to begin editing the captured footage. Produced by actress Sanchita Luitel, the film features Promod Agrahari, Kameshwor Chaurasiya, and Bishal Pahari. The shoot originally began on August 22 in Dooars, India, before moving through Siliguri and Sarlahi.

Workshop Begins for Anil Budha Magar’s Film ‘Mitjyu’

A workshop for the upcoming film Mitjyu, directed by Anil Budha Magar, began on Saturday ahead of its filming scheduled for next month. The workshop features actors including Teriya Phouja Magar, Pushkar Gurung, and Raj Thapa to help them refine their characters and reduce production costs. Produced by Janak Gharti Magar, the film also stars Dayahang Rai and Saugat Malla. Filming will take place in various locations in Rolpa, with the official release date set for May 29, 2026.

High-Speed Train Collision Kills 7 Elephants in India

Seven wild Asian elephants, including several calves, were killed after being hit by a high-speed express train in Hojai, Assam, on Saturday. The Northeast Frontier Railway reported that the driver applied emergency brakes, but the herd was struck while crossing the tracks. Five carriages of the Delhi-bound train derailed, though no passengers were injured. Local officials noted the accident occurred outside designated elephant corridors. Assam is home to nearly 6,000 elephants, and despite railway safety efforts, collisions remain a frequent threat. Veterinarians examined the deceased animals before they were buried near the site of the collision.

US Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker Under “Blockade” Order

The US Coast Guard, supported by the Department of War, has seized the Panamanian-flagged oil tanker Centuries after it departed from Venezuela. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shared footage of the December 20 operation, stating the seizure aims to stop the movement of sanctioned oil. This follows President Donald Trump’s recent “blockade” order against Venezuelan vessels. Venezuela has condemned the act as “kidnapping and theft,” vowing to file a complaint with the UN Security Council. The US claims such vessels fund narco-terrorism, though Venezuela denies these accusations and maintains the US is attempting to steal its resources.

Australia Announces Security Review After Bondi Beach Attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ordered a review of national intelligence and police agencies following a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach last Sunday. The incident, which left 15 dead during a Jewish festival, was carried out by gunmen inspired by ISIS ideology. During a national day of reflection on Sunday, Albanese faced public heckling regarding his government’s stance on international conflicts. The review, due by April 2026, will examine if federal authorities have sufficient powers to tackle extremism. Suspected gunman Naveed Akram, 24, faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder and committing a terrorist act.

Imran Khan and Wife Sentenced to Additional Jail Terms

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been sentenced to further prison terms in a fraud case involving state gifts. The pair received 10 years for criminal breach of trust and 7 years for misconduct regarding a luxury jewelry set gifted by Saudi Arabia in 2021. They were also fined over PKR 16 million. Khan, 73, who has been detained since August 2023, maintains the charges are politically motivated. His legal team plans to challenge the verdict in the High Court, as he currently faces over 100 different legal cases.

World Bank Approves USD 700 Million Financing for Pakistan

The World Bank has approved USD 700 million in financing for Pakistan to support macroeconomic stability and service delivery. This funding is part of a larger USD 1.35 billion initiative known as the PRID-MPA. Of the newly approved amount, USD 600 million is allocated for federal programs, while USD 100 million will support the Sindh provincial government. This follows a USD 47.9 million grant in August aimed at improving primary education in Punjab. A recent report indicated that Pakistan’s fragmented regulations and opaque budgeting continue to curb investment, making these international funds crucial for the country’s fragile economy.