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.

Cabinet Meeting Approves Agreement Signed with Gen-Z Reps

A meeting of the Council of Ministers held today approved and decided to implement the 10-point agreement signed between the government and Gen Z representatives on Wednesday. The agreement was signed on December 10 at the Office of the Prime Minister, Singha Durbar. A cabinet meeting decided to publish the agreement in the Nepal Gazette, the Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel confirmed.

Five Non-Resident Ambassadors to Nepal Present Letters of Credence

Newly appointed ambassadors from different countries to Nepal have presented their letters of credence before President Ramchandra Paudel.  At separate ceremonies held at Sheetal Niwas on Thursday, President Paudel received letters of credence presented by five newly appointed non-resident ambassadors, according to the Office of the President. Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Nepal, Sardor Mirzayusupovich Rustambaev; Ambassador of Romania to Nepal, Sena Latif; Ambassador of Tajikistan to Nepal, Lukmon Bobokalonzoda; Ambassador of Iceland, Benedikt Hoeskuldsson; and Ambassador of Cuba to Nepal, Juan Carlos Marsan Aguilera, presented their credentials.

Government Moves to Repatriate Corpses of 5 Nepali Killed in Goa Nightclub

The government has initiated efforts to repatriate the bodies of five Nepali citizens who died in a nightclub fire in Goa, India, last Saturday. The fire, caused by a cylinder explosion in the club’s kitchen, claimed 25 lives, including the five Nepalis. The deceased have been identified as Churna Bahadur Pun (31) from Dang, Bivek (a.k.a. Lil Bahadur Katuwal) from Sindhuli, Sabin Bishwakarma and Sudip Gurung from Jhapa, and Manoj Jora from Dadeldhura. According to Lok Bahadur Chhetri, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nepali Embassy in Delhi has completed the necessary paperwork, and arrangements are being made in coordination with local Nepalis in Goa for the repatriation.

Rabi Lamichhane and Chhabilal Joshi Case Hearing Postponed Again

The hearing for the case involving Rastriya Swatantra Party President Rabi Lamichhane and former DIG Chhabilal Joshi, the then-operator of Gorkha Media, was postponed again on Thursday. The case, which was scheduled before the bench of Justices Tej Narayan Paudel and Sagar Bista at the Tulsipur High Court, Butwal Bench, was marked as “not to be seen” (Herna Namilne). This is the latest in a continuous series of postponements since the case related to the Supreme Cooperative fraud and organized crime charges was first listed on October 30. Lamichhane and Joshi are among the defendants collectively charged with misappropriating Rs 109.9 million.

Anti-Corruption Body Files Case Against Six, Including Undersecretary, in Visit Visa Scam

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed a corruption case against six individuals, including then-Chief of the Tribhuvan International Airport Immigration Office and Joint Secretary Tirtharaj Bhattarai, for allegedly running an illegal extortion racket targeting Nepalis traveling abroad on visit visas. The visit visa scandal came to light after the CIAA arrested Joint Secretary Bhattarai on March 20. The investigation also raised questions about the roles of former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, then-Home Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi, and other Ministry of Home Affairs officials who were implicated in the alleged planning and setting up of the extortion ring at the airport.

NC Directs Party Bodies to Follow Strict Candidate Recommendation Criteria

The Nepali Congress party has instructed its subordinate committees to strictly adhere to the circular regarding the recommendation of candidates for the upcoming House of Representatives (Pratinidhi Sabha) and National Assembly (Rastriya Sabha) elections. On Thursday, Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Poudel issued a directive reiterating the need to recommend candidates based on the specified criteria and number, as outlined in the party’s circulars issued on December 1 and 3. For the House of Representatives, the party had limited recommendations to a maximum of three candidates for the direct system (including at least one woman) and a maximum of two for the proportional system (focusing on inclusion and at least one woman). This reminder was issued after some constituency committees were found to have recommended candidates in violation of the prescribed rules.

Tiger Census Scheduled for Dec-16 Across Five National Parks

Nepal is set to begin its three-month tiger census from December 16, continuing the quadrennial count. The census will be conducted in five national parks: Chitwan, Parsa, Banke, Bardia, and Shuklaphanta National Park. According to Avinash Thapa Magar, Information Officer at Chitwan National Park, training for about 150 participants, including park staff, technicians, and local volunteers, will take place on December 16 and 17. The area has been divided into grids of two square kilometers. Automatic cameras will be placed in high-traffic tiger areas for 20 days in each of the three main blocks, and the tigers will be identified by the unique stripe patterns on their bodies. The 2022 census recorded 355 adult tigers in Nepal.

International Mountain Day Celebrated Today, Highlighting Climate Risks

International Mountain Day is being celebrated today across various countries to raise awareness about the impact of melting glaciers on mountain life and to build cooperation for positive change concerning mountain communities and the environment. Since 2003, the day has been observed annually on December 11 under the call of the United Nations (UN). The UN reports that two billion people globally depend on water flowing from mountain regions, which are now under severe threat from rapid glacier melt due to rising global temperatures. Furthermore, over 15 million people worldwide are highly vulnerable to the potential risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).

Police Arrest 46 Individuals from Kathmandu New Bus Park

The Kathmandu Valley Police Office, Ranipokhari, and the New Bus Park Police Post arrested 46 individuals on Wednesday evening for harassing passengers and engaging in suspicious activities at the Gongabu-based New Bus Park. According to SP Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, spokesperson for the Kathmandu District Police Office, those arrested include taxi drivers, hotel owners, and hotel staff who were forcibly grabbing bags and causing distress to passengers arriving in Kathmandu. The police initially warned the arrestees but stated they would take strict legal action if the incidents are repeated. The police have announced that this campaign against passenger harassment will be continuous.

Morang Administration Recovers Rs 60 million and Land from Loan Sharks

The active involvement of the Morang District Administration Office in delivering justice to victims of loan-sharking has yielded significant results. Since the government delegated full authority to District Administration Offices, the Morang office has successfully recovered over Rs 60 million and several square meters of land for the victims in the last six months. From Jestha to the end of Kartik of the current fiscal year, the administration settled 239 out of 930 registered complaints, recovering Rs 65.5 million and 50794.31 square meters of land. Despite challenges like political pressure and threats, the administration continues its work, with an average of two new complaints registered daily.

Police Seize 13 Tractors for Illegal Riverbed Excavation in Makwanpur

The Makwanpur District Police have seized 13 tractors for the illegal excavation and transportation of riverbed materials in various parts of the district. According to Police Inspector Raju Prasad Kurmi of the Makwanpur District Police Office, the police are taking necessary action against the drivers and owners of the tractors that were caught illegally extracting and transporting stone and sand. This operation comes amid a growing trend of illegal excavation and smuggling of river products in the Makwanpur district.

Free Services for Gender-Based Violence Victims Rise at Bheri Hospital OCMC

The number of gender-based violence (GBV) victims receiving free health services from the One-Stop Crisis Management Centre (OCMC) at Bheri Hospital, Nepalgunj, has been steadily rising over the past three years. According to hospital data, a total of 1,113 victims received free care over the last three fiscal years, with the number increasing from 352 in 2022/23 to 399 in 2024/25. In the last fiscal year, 387 women and 12 men received services. Forensic expert Dr. Arvin Shakya stated that the OCMC provides medical treatment, forensic evidence collection, psycho-social counseling, and coordination for legal aid, shelter, and rehabilitation to victims from Banke and surrounding districts.

Dengue Cases Persist with 96 New Infections in a Week

Despite the onset of cold weather, the transmission of dengue fever has not subsided, according to data from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD). The EDCD reported 96 new dengue infections in the last week alone. Since Pus of last year, a total of 8,262 cases have been confirmed across 76 districts nationwide, with six deaths recorded during the same period. Gandaki Province leads the count with 2,145 confirmed cases, followed by Bagmati with 2,132, Lumbini with 1,346, and Koshi with 1,036 cases.

Manmohan Technical University to Start BSc Nursing Classes in Dhankuta Hospital

The Manmohan Technical University (MTU) is preparing to launch its BSc Nursing program classes in the Dhankuta District Hospital following the hospital’s handover by the Koshi Province Government. The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Subash Shree Pokharel, stated that the curriculum for the four-year program has been prepared in accordance with the standards set by the Medical Education Commission (MEC). The province decided to transfer the hospital to MTU in Jestha to establish a teaching hospital, a process expected to conclude by Magh. Dr. Pokharel confirmed that the BSc Nursing classes are scheduled to commence in the upcoming academic session, likely by the next acedamic session. Established in 2019, MTU is the country’s first technical university founded by a provincial government.

Ex-Chief Secretary Aryal Defends Use of Force in Gen Z Movement

Former Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal submitted a written defense to the Supreme Court, claiming that the firing of shots during the September 8 Gen Z protest occurred after demonstrators broke through barricades near the Everest Hotel in Naya Baneshwar. He argued that the use of force was necessitated when protesters, who had been granted permission for a peaceful assembly, violated the prohibition order by moving toward the International Convention Centre and attempting to enter restricted government property. Aryal symbolically held four Gen Z representatives, such as Ankit Malla, Sudhan Gurung, Sabal Gautam, and Purushottam Yadav, responsible for acting contrary to the agreement. He emphasized that security personnel have a duty to protect themselves, government property, and weapons.

13th Nepal Human Rights International Film Festival Kicks Off in Kathmandu

The 13th Nepal Human Rights International Film Festival is commencing today in Kathmandu, bringing together human rights-focused films from around the world. The five-day festival, running until December 15, is being held at the auditoriums of the Film Development Board and the Nepal Tourism Board under the theme “Child Rights.” Festival Director Pandav Khatri reported that 50 films from 26 countries will be screened, many of which have previously participated in prestigious international festivals like Cannes, Berlinale, Venice, and Busan. Highlights include the Cannes Film Festival 2025 Palme d’Or (Short Film) winner, “I Am Glad You Are Dead Now,” and “Navi Lily.” Interactive discussions, photo exhibitions, and live painting will also be part of the event.

Ambassador Urges Vietnamese Investors to Explore Opportunities in Nepal

Dhan Bahadur Oli, Nepali Ambassador to Thailand and Vietnam, urged Vietnamese investors to increase their investments in Nepal, citing vast potential, particularly in export-oriented industries. During a discussion in Hanoi with the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the ambassador highlighted the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and stressed the need for economic cooperation in trade and investment. Chandra Prasad Dhakal, FNCCI President, also emphasized strengthening economic ties, pointing out that Nepali products like handicrafts, tea, coffee, and herbs have good market potential in Vietnam. Both officials emphasized investment opportunities in manufacturing, ICT, pharmaceuticals, and tourism, including cable cars and resorts.

Nepal Repatriates 47 More Citizens from Myanmar Scam Centers

An additional 47 Nepali citizens who were lured to Myanmar under the pretext of work and forced into illegal computer game scam operations have been rescued and repatriated. According to the Nepali Embassy in Bangkok, the individuals were being held captive and forced to work in illegally operated online scam centers. The 47 citizens, consisting of 45 males and two females aged between 17 and 41, were rescued in coordination with relevant Thai authorities and returned home on Wednesday. Since the start of the rescue operations in 2023, a total of 365 Nepali citizens have been brought back home from these centers.

Nepal to Facilitate Labor Approval for Skill-Based Trainees in Germany

The Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security is preparing to provide labor permits (Shram Sweekriti) to Nepali individuals going to Germany for skill-based vocational training and work. This move aims to resolve current visa problems, where the Ministry of Education has been reluctant to issue a No Objection Letter (NOC) for individuals classified as workers, and the Ministry of Labor has hesitated to issue permits to those classified as students. Approximately 500 Nepali students travel to Germany annually after studying the language for up to two years. The Labor Ministry requested suggestions from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Law, and Education on July 20 this year to make a policy decision to ensure the safety and welfare of these workers, although the Education Ministry has yet to respond.

Communication Minister Kharel Stresses ‘Kitab Jatra’ Role in Educating Nepal

Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, stated that the Kitab Jatra (Book Festival) plays a vital role in creating an educated Nepal and fostering a reading culture. Inaugurating the seventh edition of the festival on Thursday, he emphasized the need to increase access to education for all children. The minister, who is also the government spokesperson, urged stakeholders to ensure quality education and expressed the government’s commitment to holding the election within the stipulated time, along with ensuring good governance and controlling corruption in line with the spirit of the Gen Z protest. Kitab Jatra Director Rishiraj Adhikari noted that the two-day event aims to raise public awareness about education and includes book exhibitions and various academic sessions.

Lumbini Into Final, will Face Sudurpaschim on Saturday

Lumbini Lions has reached the final of the ongoing second edition of Nepal Premier League (NPL).  Lumbini secured its place in the final, defeating Biratnagar Kings by 40 runs in qualifier 2 held on Thursday. It is facing Sudurpaschim Royals in the final match on Saturday.  Invited to bat first after losing the toss at TU International Cricket Ground, Lumbini Lions made 134 runs in 20 overs losing eight wickets.  Chasing the 135-run victory target, Biratnagar Kings made 94 runs in 17.4 overs at the loss of all wickets. For Biratnagar, Sam Heazlett scored the highest 34 runs and Naren Bhatta 21 runs.

Eleventh District-Level President’s Running Cup Tournament Begins in Myagdi

The 11th District-Level President’s Running Cup Sports Tournament officially began on Thursday at the Beni Open Theatre in Myagdi, organized by the Myagdi District Sports Development Committee. Over 400 athletes, selected from six local units, are participating. The event was inaugurated by former State Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Kham Bahadur Garbuja, who highlighted the role of sports in promoting mental and physical health and discipline among students. Over two days, athletes will compete for 42 gold medals in disciplines including volleyball, kabaddi, and athletics. A total of 98 athletes will be selected from this tournament to represent the district in the Gandaki Provincial competition.

Arsenal and Manchester City Secure Wins in UEFA Champions League

English clubs Arsenal and Manchester City continued their winning streak in the UEFA Champions League matches held on Wednesday night. Arsenal defeated Belgian club Club Brugge with a 3-0 victory, with Noni Madueke scoring two goals and Gabriel Martinelli adding one. In another match, Manchester City stunned Spanish team Real Madrid with a 2-1 win on their home ground, thanks to goals from Nico O’Reilly and Erling Haaland. Other results on Wednesday include Benfica beating Napoli (2-0), Juventus defeating Paphos (2-0), Ajax beating Qarabag (4-2), and Copenhagen winning against Villarreal (3-2). PSG drew (0-0) with Athletic Club Bilbao.

US Announces Cancellation of 85,000 Visas Amid Tightened Immigration Rules

The US State Department announced the cancellation of 85,000 visas starting in January 2025, citing strict enforcement of immigration rules and border security. The announcement was made via social media platform X, emphasizing the Trump Administration’s ongoing commitment to strict immigration oversight. A senior official revealed that over 8,000 of the revoked visas belonged to students. Reasons for cancellation reportedly include offenses such as unsafe driving, theft, and assault, as well as visa overstays and ‘support for terrorism’. This action follows the Department’s plan, outlined last August, to implement a continuous vetting system for the over 55 million foreign nationals holding valid US visas.

Pakistan’s Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hameed Sentenced to 14 Years

A Pakistani military court has sentenced former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Faiz Hameed to 14 years in prison, marking the first time a former head of the agency has been court-martialed. The 15-month proceedings, which began on August 12, 2024, found Hameed guilty of four charges, including violation of the Official Secrets Act, misuse of power and government resources, and involvement in political activities. Hameed, who led the ISI from 2019 to 2021 during former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure, was known as a staunch supporter of Khan. The exact details of the case, heard behind closed doors, were not made public. The ISPR statement confirmed that Hameed was granted the right to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

Trump Launches ‘Gold Card’ Visa Scheme for USD 1 Million Wealthy Foreigners

President Donald Trump has launched the “Trump Gold Card” scheme, offering fast-tracked US visas to wealthy foreigners who pay a fee of at least USD 1 million. The card promises a “direct path to citizenship” for qualified and vetted people, aimed at retaining invaluable talent for American companies. The scheme requires a USD 1 million fee as evidence that the individual will “substantially benefit the United States” and also mandates a non-refundable USD 15,000 processing fee. A “platinum” version offering special tax breaks will soon be available for USD 5 million. The program has drawn criticism from Democrats for unfairly favoring the wealthy, even as the administration intensifies its immigration crackdown, including pausing applications from 19 countries and charging a USD 100,000 fee for some H-1B visa applicants.

Myanmar Military Air Strikes Hit Hospital in Rakhine, Killing at Least 34

Air strikes launched by the Myanmar military hit a hospital in Mrauk-U town, Rakhine state, on Wednesday night, killing at least 34 people and injuring dozens more, according to ground sources. The hospital is located in an area controlled by the Arakan Army, one of the ethnic armies fighting the military regime. Khaing Thukha, a spokesperson for the Arakan Army, reported that most of the casualties were patients, calling the attack the latest “vicious attack” targeting civilian places. This strike occurs just weeks before the military junta’s planned general election on December 28, which critics and opposition groups, including the Arakan Army, have pledged to boycott, labeling it a “sham election.”

US Seizes Crude Oil Tanker off Venezuela, Calling it an Act of Piracy

The US has seized a “very large” crude oil tanker, the Skipper, off the coast of Venezuela, marking a significant escalation in the pressure campaign against the Nicolás Maduro government. The seizure was a coordinated effort by the FBI, Coast Guard, and other agencies, with President Donald Trump stating, “We keep it, I guess… I assume we’re going to keep the oil.” US Attorney General Pam Bondi described the vessel as transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran, alleging its involvement in an illicit shipping network supporting terrorist organizations like Hezbollah. Venezuela swiftly denounced the action as an act of “international piracy.” The vessel, previously sanctioned in 2022, was believed to have been “spoofing” its position, though it was last near Iran in mid-September before arriving off the coast of Guyana in late October.