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.

PM Karki Visits Karnali to Commend Election Success

Prime Minister Sushila Karki visited Karnali on Thursday to thank security forces, government employees, and citizens for successfully conducting the House of Representatives election on March 5. During her visit to Rara in Mugu and Khalanga in Jumla, she held interactions with security chiefs, praising their dedication despite geographical challenges. Press Advisor Ram Bahadur Rawal noted that the Prime Minister also observed the Karnali Technical School, established in 1980. She attributed the successful democratic exercise to the unity of the Nepali people during a high-stakes transition period.

EC Submits 2026 Parliamentary Election Report to President

The Election Commission (EC) submitted the final report of the House of Representatives election, held on March 5, to President Ram Chandra Paudel. During a ceremony at Shital Niwas on Thursday, Acting Chief Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari presented the findings. President Paudel expressed satisfaction over the successful completion of the polls under complex circumstances, noting that the peaceful conduct of the election has strengthened public trust in the democratic system. He extended gratitude to the commission and civil servants for ensuring a free and fair environment across all constituencies despite the challenging national security landscape.

Severe Storm Warning Issued for Eastern Nepal

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has issued an emergency alert following weather forecasts of high-velocity winds in Eastern Nepal. On Saturday, March 21, wind speeds are expected to reach 119 km per hour in Biratnagar, Dhankuta, and Dharan. Additionally, heavy rain and snow are forecast for Karnali and Sudurpashchim on Friday. Under-Secretary Ram Bahadur KC urged citizens to stay indoors, secure weak structures, and avoid traveling. The authority warned that the storms could uproot trees, damage communication lines, and pose risks of fire, advising residents to close windows and turn off electrical appliances during the peak hours.

Supreme Court Orders Retrieval of Rabi Lamichhane Case Records

The Supreme Court has ordered the Office of the Attorney General to submit the “opinion order” and related documents regarding the amendment of the charge sheet against Rabi Lamichhane. A joint bench of Justices Sharanga Subedi and Sunil Kumar Pokharel issued the directive following a writ filed by Senior Advocate Dinesh Tripathi and others. The court noted that while the Rupandehi District Government Attorney’s Office mentioned an order dated January 16 to amend charges for money laundering and organized crime, the document was missing from the initial submission. The hearing is scheduled for March 23.

Supreme Court Writ Petition Challenges Home Minister Aryal’s Nomination

Advocates Manish Kumar Shrestha and Basu Khadka filed a writ petition at the Supreme Court on Thursday challenging the National Assembly nomination of Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal. The petitioners argue that the March 15 Cabinet recommendation violates Article 87 (1) (e) of the Constitution, which prohibits persons holding a position of profit from being eligible for the Federal Parliament. Since Aryal receives a salary from the state treasury as a minister, the writ demands his resignation prior to nomination. The court has scheduled the initial hearing for April 8 to determine if an interim stay order is necessary.

Nepal Joins Global Forum on Transparency and Tax Information Exchange

Nepal has officially become the 173rd member of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes (OECD). The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) described the move as a landmark achievement for international tax cooperation and financial governance. As a member, Nepal will implement global standards for “exchange of information on request” and “automatic exchange of information.” This membership is expected to control illicit financial flows, strengthen the fight against money laundering, and boost investor confidence. The IRD noted that Nepal will now undergo peer review processes to ensure its regulatory frameworks align with international best practices.

Nepal Moves Toward Majority Government Under Article 76 (1)

Following the submission of the final election report to President Ram Chandra Paudel on Thursday, Nepal has officially entered the process of government formation. Under Article 76 (1) of the Constitution, the President shall appoint the leader of the parliamentary party with a majority in the House of Representatives as the Prime Minister. With the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) securing 182 seats in the 275-member house, this marks the first time since the constitution’s promulgation that a single party has attained a majority to form a government under this specific sub-clause.

Proportional Representation Certificates Issued to 110 Lawmakers

The Election Commission began distributing certificates to 110 lawmakers elected through the proportional representation (PR) system on Thursday. Following the March 5 election, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured the highest count with 57 PR seats. The Nepali Congress received 20 seats, while CPN (UML) gained 16. Other seats were distributed among the Nepal Communist Party (9), the Shram Sanskriti Party (4), and the RPP (4). The list was officially finalized on Monday, and the commission is now finalizing the aggregate report to be presented to the President, marking the transition toward the formation of the new federal government.

Home Ministry Honors 45 Gen Z Protest Martyrs

The Ministry of Home Affairs has installed portraits of 45 individuals, including “Governance Warriors” and police personnel, who lost their lives during the Gen Z protest on September 8 and September 9, 2025. Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal stated that these displays, also placed at Singha Durbar and district offices, serve as a reminder of the sacrifice made for transparency and corruption control. Following a Cabinet decision on November 3, 2025, the government officially declared them martyrs. The movement led to a 10-point agreement and the formation of the current citizen government, which recently oversaw the national elections.

Immigration Department Issues Mandatory Work Permit Notice for Foreign Players

The Department of Immigration has formally requested the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) to ensure all foreign players obtain work permits and labor approvals before participating in matches. Following complaints that various clubs in the National Women’s/Men’s League were fielding players on tourist visas, the department issued a press release on Thursday. Officials warned that monitoring has commenced and immediate legal action will be taken against players found violating visa objectives. The department stressed that participation in professional sports without formal labor clearance is a direct violation of immigration regulations.

20 Nepalis Rescued from Illegal Online Centers in Cambodia

A total of 20 Nepali nationals have been rescued from illegal “online scamming” centers and casinos in Cambodia and repatriated to Nepal on Thursday. The operation was coordinated by the Nepali Embassy in Bangkok with the assistance of the Cambodian government. Officials noted that many victims had been lured on tourist visas before their passports were seized. Data shows a sharp rise in Nepalis traveling to Cambodia, from 101 in 2021 to 9,676 in 2025. The embassy has urged citizens to only travel for foreign employment with valid labor permits and to avoid “get-rich-quick” promises in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, or Thailand.

IGP Karki Rewards 69 Police Personnel for Election Security

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dan Bahadur Karki has decided to provide cash prizes to 69 police personnel for their exceptional performance during the House of Representatives election on March 5. Among the awardees are Central Election Cell Chief AIG Uma Prasad Chaturvedi and AIG Ishwar Karki of the Ranipokhari office. Additionally, seven DIGs, including Arun Paudel and Binod Ghimire, and seven SSPs, such as Dayanidhi Gyawali, were recognized. The awards, which include 19 SPs like Basundhara Khadka, aim to boost morale following the peaceful conduct of the national polls despite significant security challenges identified by the analysis teams.

Youth Protest in Chitwan Demanding Gen Z Protest Report

A group of youths staged a silent sit-in outside the District Administration Office in Chitwan on Thursday morning to demand the release of the Gen Z protest investigation report. Led by coordinator Sapkota, the protesters called for the government to publicize the findings of the commission headed by former Justice Gauri Bahadur Karki. The commission was formed to investigate the events of September 8 and September 9, 2025. Protesters displayed placards asking for the full report and stressed that transparency is essential to ensure justice for victims and accountability for the guilty. Similar demonstrations have continued at Maitighar, Kathmandu, for the past five days.

Gagan Thapa Resigns as Nepali Congress President After Defeat

Gagan Thapa has resigned as the president of the Nepali Congress following an unexpected defeat in the House of Representatives election. In the Sarlahi-4 constituency, Thapa secured 22,831 votes, losing to Amaresh Kumar Singh, who received 35,688 votes. Thapa submitted his resignation to Vice President Bishwakarma Sharma on Wednesday, citing moral responsibility for the party’s performance. The Nepali Congress is currently limited to 38 seats, including 18 FPTP/direct and 20 proportional representation seats. The party’s Central Work Execution Committee is scheduled to meet this Friday to discuss the resignation and review election results.

Gyan Bahadur Shahi Elected RPP Parliamentary Party Leader

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) has unanimously elected Gyan Bahadur Shahi (Gyanendra) as its parliamentary party leader. The decision was made during a meeting of lawmakers at the party’s central office on Thursday, as confirmed by spokesperson Mohan Kumar Shrestha. Shahi, who serves as the party spokesperson, was elected to the House of Representatives from Jumla. Following his appointment, Shahi named Khusbu Oli as the Chief Whip of the party. RPP secured a total of five seats in the recent election, comprising one FPTP/direct seat and four proportional representation seats, establishing their presence in the new federal parliament.

Private Schools Violate Regulations with Early Enrollment Drives

Despite education regulations requiring the completion of annual exams and the issuance of report cards before new admissions, several private schools in Kathmandu have started the 2026 academic session enrollment. Schools such as Galaxy Public School, Little Angels’ School, and Rosebud School have issued notices for entrance exams this month. Namaraj Dhakal, Chief of the Education Department at Kathmandu Metropolitan City, clarified that legal enrollment should only begin in April. Currently, 674 private and 87 community schools operate within the metropolis, where Grade 8 exams are scheduled until March 26.

Acute Blood Shortage Hits Koshi Province Hospitals

Major hospitals in Koshi Province, including Koshi Hospital, are facing a severe blood crisis, forcing relatives of patients to seek donors via social media. Shivanand Yadav, Chief of Provincial Blood Transfusion Service Biratnagar, stated that the daily demand in the province reaches 900 to 1,000 units. The Association of Private Health Institutions of Nepal emphasized the need for centralized management, as small hospitals lack storage. Currently, hospitals are using an “exchange” system where relatives provide any blood group in return for the required type to prevent treatment delays.

Homicide-Suicide Attempt Reported in Kailali

A 31-year-old man, Ram Bahadur Magar, shot and killed his 27-year-old wife, Sanjita Magar, before attempting suicide in Godawari Municipality-4, Kailali. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon in a forest near Amaleshaini village while the couple was grazing goats. Police Spokesperson Yogendra Timilsina reported that Sanjita died at the scene from a musket shot. Ram Bahadur was found unconscious and transported to Seti Provincial Hospital in Dhangadhi for treatment. Authorities arrived at the site late Wednesday night following reports from local residents, and a formal investigation is underway pending the arrival of the victim’s family.

Forest Fire Awareness Week Launches in Nawalparasi

The Division Forest Office Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta Purba) has initiated Forest Fire Awareness Week from March 15 to March 21. Office Chief Bishnu Prasad Adhikari stated the campaign aims to minimize damage to lives and biodiversity as the dry season begins. In the 2024/25 fiscal year, fires in 71 locations damaged 2,150 hectares of forest, while the previous year saw 5,289.65 hectares affected. With human activity accounting for 96 percent of fires, the office is coordinating with the Army and local communities to clean fire lines and conduct safety demonstrations.

Consumers Defrauded by Relabeling of Baby Food

Investigations have revealed widespread price gouging in the sale of Nutricia brand infant formula. A consumer reported that new stickers with higher prices were being placed over the original manufacturer’s retail price on milk tins. Upon removing a red sticker priced at Rs 1,495, the original printed price was found to be Rs 1,415. While retailers claim the products arrive from suppliers in this condition, the Consumer Protection Act labels selling above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) or altering price stickers as a punishable offense. The Department of Commerce has received a formal complaint and confirmed that monitoring and legal action against the involved distributors will commence immediately.

KMC and Red Cross Partner for City-Wide First Aid Training

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has signed an agreement with the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) Kathmandu District Branch to conduct basic first aid training across all 32 wards. The memorandum was signed by KMC Health Department Director Dipak KC and NRCS District Chairman Shyam Kaji Dotel in the presence of Acting Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol. The program aims to equip local residents and ward officials with life-saving skills. Key attendees included NRCS Vice-Chairman Anjana Shrestha Maskey and Treasurer Laxmi Ratna Tuladhar. This partnership focuses on enhancing community-level disaster resilience and emergency medical response within the metropolitan area’s urban health framework.

HPV Vaccination Campaign Targeted for 1,277 Girls in Jumla

The Public Health Service Office in Jumla is set to launch a vaccination campaign against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) to prevent cervical cancer. Scheduled for March 23 and March 24, the initiative targets 1,277 girls, including 1,165 grade six students and 112 out-of-school girls aged 10 years. Office Chief Kiran Kumar Sharma confirmed that 84 vaccination centers have been established across eight local units. This includes 277 girls in Chandannath Municipality and 164 in Tatopani Rural Municipality, aiming for comprehensive coverage against the virus.

Chitwan National Park Releases 250 Gharial Crocodiles into Rapti

Chitwan National Park has released 250 gharial crocodiles into the Rapti River during the current fiscal year. Since the establishment of the breeding center in 1978, a total of 2,280 crocodiles have been released across various rivers, with the Rapti receiving the highest count of 1,525. Information Officer Abinash Thapa Magar noted that while 419 were released in the Narayani and 110 in the Babai, the species remains at high risk due to river pollution and fishing nets. Currently, the center houses 598 crocodiles, which are typically released after reaching five years of age.

Kathmandu Metropolis Opens Free Parking at Dharhara Complex

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has commenced free parking services at the Dharhara area for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. Following a February 21 Cabinet decision, the responsibility for managing the facility was handed over to the metropolis. City Police Chief Bishnu Prasad Joshi stated that the basement can accommodate 702 motorcycles and 262 cars across two levels. The facility is open for entry from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with all vehicles required to exit by 8:00 PM. The area is equipped with CCTV cameras, fire extinguishers, and specialized ventilation for safety.

Teaser Released for Film ‘Ek Muthi Badal’ on Sharma’s Birthday

The teaser for the film Ek Mutthi Badal: My Share of Sky was released on Thursday, coinciding with lead actress Aanchal Sharma’s birthday. Directed by Sahara Sharma and produced by critic Abhimanyu Dixit, the film explores women’s internal questions through poetic narratives. The cast includes Nisha Sharma, Usha Rajak, and Manish Niroula, with an almost entirely female-led technical crew. Executive producer Nikun Shrestha confirmed that the project involves international co-production with Germany’s Sara Fazilat. Produced by Gounthali Entertainment and Mon Production, the film is scheduled for theatrical release on May 15, focusing on social themes and gender perspectives.

Actress Swastima Khadka Discusses Different Role in ‘Lalibazar’

Actress Swastima Khadka shared that her role in the upcoming film Lalibazar is a significant departure from her previous work, involving an audition process after a decade-long career. Speaking to journalists following positive responses to the film’s teaser, Khadka revealed she portrays a female sex worker in the social drama. The project, produced by Shatkon Arts and directed by Yam Thapa, focuses on marginalized narratives. The cast includes Rabindra Singh Baniya, Samaira Thapa, and Mukunda Shrestha, with a screenplay co-written by Pradeep Bhattarai. Produced by Dipesh Khatri, the film is scheduled for release on May 1, challenging traditional cinematic portrayals of social issues in Nepal.

‘Snow Leopard Sisters’ Documentary Premieres in Lalitpur

The documentary film Snow Leopard Sisters had its Nepal premiere at Labim Mall, Lalitpur, on Wednesday evening. Directed by Sonam Choeki Lama, Ben Ayers, and Andrew Lynch, the film follows the journey of indigenous conservationist Tshiring Lhamu Lama as she mentors 17-year-old Tenzin Bhuti Gurung in tracking the endangered snow leopard in Dolpa. The project, which began as a personal archive of Lama’s conservation efforts, features Oscar-winning director Joanna Natasegara and Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio as executive producers. Having already won over a dozen international awards, the film highlights the intersection of indigenous knowledge and wildlife protection in Nepal’s remote highlands.

ANFA Instructed to Prevent Foreign Players on Tourist Visas

The Department of Immigration has directed the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) to stop including foreign players on tourist visas in national league matches. Director Tikaram Dhakal stated that under the Immigration Rules 1994, foreigners are strictly prohibited from working or engaging in professional sports without a valid labor permit and work agreement. The directive follows complaints of clubs fielding international players in the National Women’s/Men’s League while on visitor status. The department warned that immediate legal action would be taken against both clubs and players found in violation, emphasizing that all professional sporting participation requires formal labor clearance through established government channels.

Nepal Police Club Defends Jai Trophy Cricket Title

Nepal Police Club successfully defended their Jai Trophy Men’s Elite Cup title by defeating Tribhuvan Army Club by four wickets in the final. Chasing a target of 227 runs, Police reached the goal with six wickets down, led by Rashid Khan’s 81 runs from 128 balls. Kushal Bhurtel contributed 51 runs, while Sagar Dhakal took four wickets. The final, originally scheduled for March 1 to 3, was postponed due to the general election. The three-day match concluded with Army as the runner-up for the second consecutive year, following a tied first innings of 221 runs each.

21st Nepal Paragliding Championship Opens in Pokhara Amid Conflict Concerns

The 21st Open Nepal Paragliding Championship commenced in Pokhara on Thursday, inaugurated by Mayor Dhanraj Acharya. However, ongoing tensions in the Middle East have impacted international participation, with only 62 pilots from five countries attending, down from the expected 100 athletes from seven nations. Nepal Airsports Association (NAA) President Anil KC confirmed that 25 registered players could not travel due to regional instability. The three-day accuracy competition offers a total prize pool of Rs 3 million, with the male winner receiving Rs 150,000. Security Director Yogesh Bhattarai ensured all safety protocols are in place for flights from Sarangkot to Khapaudi.

Four Dead in Iranian Missile Strikes on Israel

At least four people, including a foreign worker, were killed during a heavy ballistic missile attack launched by Iran against Israel on Wednesday night. Magen David Adom emergency services reported that a 30-year-old foreign national died in Moshav Adanim due to missile shrapnel. In the West Bank, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society confirmed three fatalities in Beit Awwa, identified as Sahira (50), Amal (36), and Meis Masalma (17). The Israeli military claimed that approximately half of the missiles used were equipped with cluster munitions. Iran stated the strikes were retaliation for the assassination of security chief Ali Larijani.

Global Energy Prices Surge Amid Iran-Israel Conflict Escalation

Global energy markets were hit by a 35 percent surge in natural gas prices as the Iran-Israel conflict entered its 20th day. Brent crude oil rose to USD 112 per barrel following Iranian drone and missile attacks on major Gulf energy hubs, including Qatar’s Ras Laffan gas center and Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi and Mina Abdullah refineries. United Arab Emirates (UAE) officials also reported debris falling on the Habshan gas center. Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi criticized the United States’ involvement in the war, suggesting it has worsened the situation. Since the conflict began on February 28, gas prices have increased by over 60 percent.

Saudi Arabia Warns Iran Over Continued Regional Attacks

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud warned Iran that the “limit of patience” is being reached following orchestrated attacks on Saudi and Gulf energy hubs. During a press conference on Thursday, the minister asserted that the precision of recent strikes indicates they were pre-planned and organized. While avoiding specifics on defensive measures, he emphasized that the Kingdom and its partners possess high capabilities that can be mobilized if necessary. The statement follows several drone and missile incidents targeting regional oil infrastructure, which Saudi Arabia attributes to Iranian strategy despite official denials from Tehran’s diplomats.