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.

President Paudel Authenticates Finance Mobilization Bill, 2026

President Ramchandra Paudel has authenticated the ‘Alternative and Development Finance Mobilization Bill, 2026’. According to the Office of the President, the bill was approved under Article 113(2) of the Constitution of Nepal. The legislation had recently been passed by the House of Representatives before being submitted for presidential authentication. The new law is aimed at facilitating alternative and development-oriented financial mobilization in the country. With the President’s approval, the bill has now been formally enacted into law following completion of the constitutional process.

National Assembly Meeting Adjourned Without Sitting

The scheduled meeting of the National Assembly was adjourned today without taking place. The session, set for 1:15pm, was cancelled through a notice issued by the Federal Parliament Secretariat. According to General Secretary Padma Prasad Pandey, the meeting was postponed by the National Assembly Chairperson citing special reasons and rescheduled for Friday at 1:15 PM. The House had last met on June 19, 2026, and today’s session was expected after a six-day gap. A similar postponement also affected the House of Representatives earlier, which was adjourned before sitting.

Nepal Expresses Condolences Over Venezuela Earthquake Tragedy

The Government of Nepal has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property caused by powerful earthquakes that struck Caracas. Extending condolences to the bereaved families, Nepal conveyed sympathy to the Government and people of Venezuela. It also prayed for the swift rescue of missing persons and the speedy recovery of the injured. Nepal stated that it stands in solidarity with Venezuela during this difficult time.

SC Seeks Explanation in Bishnu Paudel Habeas Corpus Case

The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause order on a habeas corpus petition filed on behalf of former minister Bishnu Paudel, who was arrested in Surkhet on June 22. Justice Shrikant Paudel issued the order following a hearing on the petition. Paudel is under investigation by the Department of Money Laundering Investigation for allegedly abusing his ministerial authority to help businessman Deepak Bhatta acquire shares in Shreeram Tobacco Pvt. Ltd. The petition, filed by his wife Domaya Paudel, claims his arrest and detention were unlawful.

US Envoy Pays Courtesy Call on Vice President, Discusses Nepal-US Diplomatic Ties

US Chargé d’Affaires Scott Urbom paid a courtesy call on Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav on Thursday, where both sides discussed Nepal-US relations and cooperation. Vice President Yadav highlighted the long-standing partnership since diplomatic ties were established in 1947, emphasizing shared values of democracy, human rights, and development cooperation. He thanked the US for its support to Nepal’s socio-economic progress and expressed hope that next year’s 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations will further strengthen ties. Urbom described the relationship as historic and multi-dimensional, reaffirming America’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s development and ongoing projects.

VP Attends Russian National Day Reception in Kathmandu

Vice-President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav attended a reception on Wednesday marking Russia’s National Day. Speaking at the event, Aleksei Vladimirovich Surovtsev praised Nepal’s non-aligned foreign policy and adherence to the Panchsheel principles. He noted that Nepal and Russia will celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations on July 20, describing the relationship as a longstanding friendship built on goodwill, mutual respect and people-to-people ties. The ambassador expressed confidence that bilateral cooperation would continue to deepen. The event also featured cultural performances.

Nepal Showcases Investment and Tourism Potential at Oman Business Forum

The Nepali Embassy in Oman organized a special program on “Economic Partnership for Mutual Prosperity” to promote trade, investment, tourism, and employment opportunities between the two countries. Held in Muscat, the event brought together over 100 business leaders, entrepreneurs, media representatives, and community members. Nepali Ambassador Dornath Aryal highlighted Nepal’s investment potential and strategic location between India and China, inviting Omani investors to explore opportunities in the country. The program also featured discussions on Omani labor regulations, tourism promotion, and networking sessions aimed at strengthening business and economic cooperation between Nepal and Oman.

RSP Convention Will Strengthen and Unite Party: Minister Timilsina

Minister for Information and Communication Bikram Timilsina has said the ongoing general convention of the Rastriya Swatantra Party will make the party stronger, more responsible, and unified. Speaking after casting his vote in Chitwan, Timilsina said there are no internal factions within the party and stressed the need for collective direction based on delegates’ decisions. He added that the convention reflects grassroots democracy, with members from across the country participating in leadership selection. He expressed confidence that the newly elected leadership will guide the party in line with public expectations and strengthen its organizational structure.

Education Minister Defends Timely, Transparent NEB Result Publication

Minister for Education and Sports and Government Spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel has said that the National Examination Board’s result publication process was completed in a timely and transparent manner. In a Facebook statement, he clarified that there was no undue haste, adding that results were released after streamlining procedures and mobilizing additional human resources. Amid ongoing protests over the results, Pokharel said the government respects peaceful expression but expressed concern over abusive comments on social media. He urged restraint and respect in public discourse. He also informed that a special committee has been formed to verify grading, data entry, and address students’ concerns.

Over 10,000 Anti-Rabies Vaccine Vials Available in Nepal, Supply Boost Expected

The Ministry of Health and Population has confirmed the availability of 10,011 vials of anti-rabies vaccine across central, provincial, and district hospitals. Co-spokesperson Dr. Samir Kumar Adhikari said 2,500 vials have been received with support from the World Health Organization, while 4,500 more are expected soon. The ministry is coordinating with local levels to manage animal bite cases and ensure uninterrupted supply. Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital currently has enough stock for about 40 days. Officials said supply is expected to stabilize after routine procurement.

Grade 12 Students Protest NEB Over ‘Rushed’ Results and Errors

Grade 12 students staged a protest at Maitighar Mandala on Thursday, alleging that errors in their results were caused by a rushed evaluation process by the National Examination Board. The results were published within 40 days under government directive, which students claim compromised accuracy and led to incorrect grading for many candidates. They also criticized the high fee structure for re-totaling answer sheets and demanded a fair, affordable review and chance examination system. Protesters urged the board to ensure accuracy and transparency in future evaluations.

APF Deploys Monsoon Response Units at 54 High-Risk Locations Nationwide

The Armed Police Force (APF) has established temporary monsoon response units at 54 disaster-prone locations across the country to strengthen rescue and emergency operations during the rainy season. Temporary shelters have been set up in all seven provinces, while 16 disaster management units have been equipped with personnel and resources across mountain, hill, and plains regions. The APF has also maintained permanent disaster response stations in 16 districts, which will operate year-round. According to APF spokesperson Deputy Inspector General Netra Bahadur Karki, more than 8,180 armed police personnel are on 24-hour standby to respond to monsoon-related emergencies.

Shuttered Ilam Tea Factories Resume Work Amid Export Challenges

Tea industries in Suryodaya, Ilam, have resumed operations after shutting down earlier this month due to Indian restrictions on Nepali tea exports. The 53 factories, closed since June 15, reopened following assurances from Suryodaya Municipality and the federal government to address the crisis. Industry representatives said commitments to provide warehouse space and efforts by a federal task force to find long-term solutions encouraged the decision. Producers have also pledged to focus on high-quality, pesticide-free orthodox tea that meets international standards while exploring alternative export markets beyond India.

Nepal Army Sergeant Killed, Captain Injured in Kailali Grenade Blast

A Nepal Army sergeant was killed and a captain injured after a grenade exploded during a routine firing exercise in Kailali District on Thursday morning. The incident occurred around 9:17 AM at the Sudurpashchim Division Training School in the Jalpa Community Forest area of Mohanyal Rural Municipality, according to police. The deceased, Sergeant Himal Bikram Bista, died during treatment at a hospital in Lamki after sustaining critical injuries while handling the grenade. Captain Himraj Joshi suffered shrapnel injuries and was airlifted to Kathmandu for further treatment. Authorities said his condition is stable. An investigation into the incident is underway.

South Asian Conference in Colombo Reaffirms Commitment to End Violence Against Children

The South Asian Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children concluded in Colombo with a renewed regional commitment to strengthen child protection systems across South Asia. The two-day event, held from June 23–24, 2026, was jointly organized by SAARC, the Government of Sri Lanka, UNICEF, World Health Organization, and the UN Special Representative on Violence Against Children. Ministers and officials from across the region stressed the urgency of ending violence against children as a shared moral and developmental priority. Nepal participated in the conference, with a delegation led by Secretary Radhika Aryal reaffirming its commitment to global child protection goals.

Music Khabar Music Award 2082 Honorees Announced

The nominees and honorees for the 13th Music Khabar Music Award have been announced ahead of the main ceremony scheduled for Sunday. Organizers MusicKhabar.com said veteran composer Shambhujeet Baskota will receive the ‘Long-Term Sadhana Honor 2082’ for his decades-long contribution to Nepali music. Lyricists Unnati Bohara ‘Sheela’, Bijay Shiwakoti, Purushottam Sanu, and Sushila Paudel, along with singers Shiva Pariyar and Kalika Roka, and media figures Kuber Giri and Gopi Krishna Chapagain, will also be honoured. The awards will be presented across 33 categories covering multiple genres, including folk, pop, modern, and film music.

Cannes Award-Winning Nepali Film ‘Elephants in the Fog’ Set for Domestic Release

The Cannes Film Festival award-winning Nepali film Elephants in the Fog (titled Tiniharu in Nepali) is set for nationwide release in Nepal from September 4. The announcement was made during a poster unveiling event in Kathmandu on Wednesday. Directed by Abinash Bikram Shah, the film created history by becoming the first Nepali feature to win an award at the Cannes Film Festival, securing the Jury Prize in the ‘Un Certain Regard’ section. The internationally co-produced film involves production teams from Nepal, France, Germany and other countries. It features an ensemble cast including Pushpa Thing Lama, Deepika Yadav, and others.

FIFA Suspends ANFA Indefinitely Over Third-Party Interference

FIFA has imposed an immediate and indefinite suspension on the All Nepal Football Association over continued third-party interference in football administration. The decision follows a prolonged dispute between ANFA and the National Sports Council regarding executive elections and governance. As a result, Nepal’s national teams, clubs and football officials are barred from international competitions, development programs and training activities. Financial assistance from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation has also been halted. The suspension will remain in place until FIFA’s conditions are met and external interference ends.

Brazil Cruise Into Knockout Stage With 3-0 Win Over Scotland

Brazil secured top spot in Group C and a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a 3-0 victory over Scotland. Vinícius Júnior scored twice in the first half, while Matheus Cunha added a third after the break. The win also saw Vinícius become the first Brazilian in 24 years to score in each of his country’s opening three World Cup matches. Neymar made his first appearance of the tournament after recovering from injury. Brazil finished the group stage with seven points and advanced alongside Morocco, while Scotland’s qualification hopes remain uncertain.

Morocco Reach Round of 32, Bosnia Boost Knockout Hopes

Morocco came from behind twice to defeat Haiti 4-2 and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 as Group C runners-up. Meanwhile, Bosnia and Herzegovina strengthened their knockout hopes with a 3-1 win over Qatar. Teenager Kerim Alajbegovic opened the scoring with a stunning long-range strike, becoming the youngest player since 1966 to score from outside the box at a World Cup. The result eliminated Qatar and left Bosnia well-placed to advance.

Switzerland Top Group B as Canada Make History Despite Defeat

Switzerland defeated Canada 2-1 in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match in Vancouver to finish top of the group. Switzerland struck twice early in the second half through Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi, while Canada pulled one back via Promise David. Despite the loss, Canada secured a historic place in the Round of 32 for the first time, becoming the first host nation since 1994 to progress with four points. Switzerland held on after late pressure and will advance as group winners.

164 Dead, 971 Injured as Earthquakes Hit Venezuela

At least 164 people have been killed and 971 others injured after a series of powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, according to reports. The tremors caused widespread destruction, damaging homes, buildings, and infrastructure across several affected regions. Emergency response teams have been deployed to carry out rescue operations and provide aid to survivors as authorities continue assessing the scale of the disaster. Many residents were forced out of their homes amid fear of aftershocks, which officials say could continue in the coming days. Authorities have warned of further risks as damaged structures remain unstable and relief efforts intensify.

8 Dead, 20 Injured in Kolkata Godown Collapse; Probe Ordered

The death toll in the collapse of an under-construction godown shed in Kolkata’s Taratala area has risen to 8, with 20 others injured, according to Kolkata Police. The incident occurred on Wednesday near Brace Bridge, triggering a large-scale multi-agency rescue operation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. Three people, including a supervisor and two labour suppliers, have been arrested, and a Special Investigation Team has been formed. Officials suspect construction irregularities, while political allegations and corruption claims have also surfaced.

Strong 7.2 Quake Off Japan’s Iwate Shakes Wide Region

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck off the coast of Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, on Thursday, shaking a wide area from Kanagawa to Hokkaido. The Japan Meteorological Agency said long-period ground motion caused tremors to be felt far from the epicenter, with intensity levels of 1 and 2 recorded across several prefectures. Seismologists linked the quake to ongoing tectonic plate activity and warned of continued seismic risks after a series of strong quakes since late 2025. They also noted potential tsunami concerns if seabed displacement occurs, though no advisory was issued this time.