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.

Supreme Court Refuses to Release UML VP Bishnu Paudel; Demands Case Files

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to release CPN (UML) Vice Chairman and former Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, ordering the retrieval of his original case files from the Department of Money Laundering Investigation. A joint bench of Justices Tek Prasad Dhungana and Meghraj Pokharel ordered the acquisition of relevant files pushing the next hearing to Thursday. Paudel was arrested in Surkhet on June 22 on money laundering charges, and Special Court recently extended his remand until July 1.

Oli Rules Out Party Unity, Demands Joint Struggle Against Government

Addressing a party event in Chyasal, CPN (UML) Chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stated that there is currently no possibility of institutional party unity and urged workers not to be misled by such rumors. Instead, he emphasized the urgent need for a joint struggle and functional unity among all democrats, leftists, and patriots to restore what he termed “hijacked democracy” and counter the ongoing chaos in the country.

Nepal Government Backs Off Immediate Cancellation of German E-Passport Contracts, Sets July 15 Deadline

Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Secretariat has stepped back from its push to immediately terminate e-passport contracts with two German companies, agreeing instead to allow the project to continue until July 15, when passport production is expected to begin. The decision followed a high-level meeting between Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal and the Prime Minister’s advisers in Kathmandu. Officials said ending the contracts prematurely could expose Nepal to international arbitration and financial liabilities. The Department of Passports and German firms Muehlbauer ID Services GmbH and Veridos GmbH have assured timely delivery. The dispute remains under investigation by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority.

Speaker Aryal Calls for Prosperous Nepal to Bring Back Citizens Abroad

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal has said Nepal must be transformed into a prosperous nation to create conditions for millions of citizens living abroad to return home. Speaking at a Parliament Day program in Kathmandu on Tuesday, he emphasized the need to end corruption, strengthen good governance, and build a development-friendly environment. Aryal also stressed the importance of combining the experience of older generations with the knowledge of youth to drive national progress. He urged coordination among the executive, judiciary, and legislature while ensuring strict adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law to accelerate development and address citizens’ livelihoods.

RSP to Swear in Newly Elected Central Committee, Begin Leadership Formation Process

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is set to administer the oath of office and secrecy to its newly elected Central Working Committee on Wednesday, formally constituting its leadership after the party’s first national convention in Bharatpur, Chitwan. According to General Secretary Bipin Acharya, the oath-taking ceremony for six office bearers and 99 Central Committee members will be held at 11 a.m. at the party’s central office in Ghantighar, Kathmandu. Following the ceremony, the committee will hold its first meeting, during which Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane is expected to nominate additional members and complete the remaining leadership appointments as per the party statute.

Foreign Minister Pushes Economic Diplomacy as Nepal Adapts to Shifting Global Power Balance

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has emphasized that Nepal’s foreign policy must directly support economic transformation through stronger economic diplomacy. Speaking at the “Fifth Edition of the Prof. Yadunath Khanal Lecture Series” organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kathmandu on Monday, he said diplomacy should focus on trade, investment, tourism, technology, and market access. Khanal highlighted shifting global geopolitics, supply chain changes, and the rise of artificial intelligence as key factors reshaping international relations. He stressed Nepal’s commitment to non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and national interest, while urging a more proactive and results-oriented diplomatic approach to ensure tangible development outcomes.

Makwanpur DAO Bans Night Travel on Kanti Lokpath Amid Heavy Rainfall Warning

The District Administration Office, Makwanpur, has issued an urgent advisory halting all travel on the Kanti Lokpath (Hetauda–Kathmandu road section) between 5:00 PM and 5:00 AM on June 30 and July 1. Chief District Officer Basanta Raj Adhikari stated that the decision follows a safety warning from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority predicting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, which poses risks of landslides, floods, debris flows, and road blockages in hilly and mountainous regions.

Federal-Provincial Coordination Push Intensifies as Nepal Tackles Local Governance Bottlenecks

Amid ongoing efforts to strengthen Nepal’s federal system and improve service delivery, Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives, Federal Affairs and General Administration Pratibha Rawal and Madhesh Province Chief Minister Krishna Prasad Yadav held talks in Kathmandu on resolving key governance challenges. The discussion focused on employee management, staff adjustment, and timely budget formulation in local governments facing administrative and resource constraints. Minister Rawal said federal teams have been deployed to assess on-ground needs, while CM Yadav pledged provincial support. Both sides stressed stronger coordination among federal, provincial, and local governments to improve efficiency and enhance citizen services delivery.

Saudi Arabia Grants Pardon to 33 Nepali Inmates

The Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has granted a royal pardon to 33 Nepali inmates serving sentences in various Saudi prisons. The amnesty was issued on the auspicious occasion of Ramadan 1447 AH (2026). According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the royal pardon was granted following a formal request made by the Government of Nepal through the Embassy of Nepal in Riyadh.

Minister Timilsina Backs Tech-Driven Postal Reform

As Nepal accelerates its digital governance reforms, Minister for Communications and Information Technology Bikram Timilsina has said the country’s traditional postal system has been transformed into a technology-enabled Government Courier Service aimed at improving public service delivery. Speaking at a High-Level Dialogue on Modernization of Postal Service organized by the Department of Postal Services, he said government documents such as passports and driving licenses are increasingly being delivered directly to citizens’ doorsteps, reducing time, cost, and inconvenience. Timilsina stressed that digital expansion has not reduced the relevance of postal services but has instead reshaped them, calling for stronger public-private partnerships and inter-agency coordination.

Speaker Aryal Urges Timely Completion of Nagdhunga Tunnel Project

Speaker of the House of Representatives Dol Prasad Aryal inspected the Nagdhunga Tunnel Project, reviewing construction progress and existing challenges. During the visit, he held discussions with project-affected residents regarding compensation, rehabilitation, and local impacts, assuring coordination with authorities to address their concerns. Aryal also received briefings from officials on the project status and implementation issues. Emphasizing timely completion of the national pride project, he directed concerned bodies to prioritize public interest and resolve local grievances effectively. The tunnel is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the Kathmandu Valley.

NC Leader Angdembe Defends Federal System, Warns Against Criticism of Governance Model

Bhishma Raj Angdembe, leader of the parliamentary party of the main opposition Nepali Congress, has objected to growing criticism of Nepal’s governance framework and federal structure, calling it “political immaturity.” Speaking at an event in Singha Durbar marking the 68th Parliament Day, he said it is inappropriate to blame the system for the shortcomings of political leadership. Angdembe warned against attempts to challenge the federal structure, emphasizing that Nepal’s seven-province system and three-tier governance model should be protected. He urged political actors to focus on effective implementation of the constitution and delivering development and democratic benefits rather than questioning the system itself.

Oli Rules Out UML Merger, Calls for Joint Struggle to ‘Restore Democracy’

CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli has ruled out any immediate party merger, urging leaders and cadres not to harbor expectations of unification. Addressing a party program in Chyasal, Kathmandu, he said UML will not pursue institutional mergers but will welcome individuals and groups willing to join. Oli, however, called for a joint struggle with democratic, leftist, and patriotic forces to “restore abducted democracy.” He criticized past unity attempts, saying they were driven by self-interest. Oli also dismissed recent elections as a “staged drama” and questioned the findings of a commission report on incidents in 2025, calling for stronger internal party unity.

Deuba-Led Congress Faction Holds Lumbini Provincial Gathering in Dang

A Lumbini provincial-level gathering of the Nepali Congress faction led by former President Sher Bahadur Deuba has begun in Lamahi, Dang. The meeting is focusing on strengthening party organization, future political strategy, and coordination at the local level. Led by former central committee member Gehendra Giri, the event features former Joint General Secretary Kishor Rathore as chief guest, along with other senior leaders. However, several influential leaders from the province aligned with the Deuba faction are absent. The gathering is expected to deliberate on intra-party unity, organizational reforms, and preparations for upcoming elections across Lumbini Province.

Sitaula Says State Institutions Have Lost Independence

Nepali Congress leader Krishna Sitaula has said that all state organs in Nepal have lost their independence and are failing to operate in line with the Constitution. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu, he expressed concern that the administration, judiciary, police, and other constitutional bodies have compromised their autonomy, making it unclear who is governing the state. He also warned of rising retaliatory politics and growing mistrust among political parties. On constitutional reform, Sitaula said the Constitution should evolve through amendments while preserving its core values, stressing the need to strengthen federalism and correct implementation gaps.

Government Mobilizes 1,000 Staff to Stabilize Power Supply Amid Monsoon Disruptions

The government has said continuous efforts are underway to balance electricity flow, strengthen distribution networks, and carry out technical upgrades nationwide. The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation has placed equipment and workforce on standby to reduce disruptions during the monsoon season. Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha said nearly 1,000 employees have been deployed to monitor power imbalances and respond to complaints through ‘No-Light’ emergency centers. Priority measures include replacing old transformers, installing high-capacity units, and upgrading breaker systems. The ministry has also warned of strict legal action against negligence and urged consumers to report unresolved issues through hotline 1151.

NTNC Governing Board Expanded with Three International Conservation Experts

The government has nominated three internationally acclaimed experts to the Governing Board of Trustees of the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). Minister for Agriculture, Forests and Environment Geeta Chaudhary, who also serves as NTNC Chairperson, made the appointments in line with the NTNC Act. The newly nominated members are Lord Camoys of the UK House of Lords, conservationist Dr. Eric Dinerstein, and Australian academic Professor Wendy Wright. Officials said the appointments aim to strengthen NTNC’s international profile and accelerate scientific conservation efforts in Nepal. The experts bring long-standing experience in biodiversity research, landscape conservation, and academic collaboration in Nepal.

Nepal Envoy in Canada Urges Diaspora to Boost Exports and Investment

Nepal’s Ambassador to Canada, Bharat Raj Paudyal, has urged the Nepali diaspora to help promote Nepal’s exports to Canada and contribute to the country’s economic development through their skills, professional networks, and investment. Speaking as the chief guest at the 19th Annual General Meeting of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Canada in Ottawa, he emphasized the diaspora’s role in strengthening Nepal-Canada economic relations and supporting national development efforts. Paudyal called for greater engagement from Nepalis abroad in expanding trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.

Germany Highlights Progress in Nepal Health Cooperation, Expands Support for Healthcare System

The German Embassy in Kathmandu has highlighted progress in Nepal-Germany health cooperation, saying German Development Cooperation continues to support Nepal in building an inclusive, better-equipped, and more responsive healthcare system. According to the embassy, the partnership has expanded public health insurance coverage to 9.45 million people, rebuilt earthquake-damaged district hospitals in Ramechhap, Jiri, and Gorkha, supported a 2025 HPV vaccination campaign that achieved over 90 percent coverage, and improved healthcare waste management in more than 13 hospitals. Future cooperation will focus on health governance, digitalization, and quality assurance in laboratories and pharmaceuticals.

Susta Residents Arrive in Kathmandu Demanding Land Ownership Certificates and Nepali Citizenship

Residents of Susta have arrived in Kathmandu to demand land ownership certificates (Lalpuja) and Nepali citizenship.  They stated that they traveled to the capital to voice their demands after facing harassment from Indian security personnel following the Prime Minister’s recent statements regarding the border.  The residents announced that they will stage a peaceful sit-in protest at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu starting today. A short while ago in parliament, Prime Minister Balendra Shah had claimed that it was not only India that had encroached on Nepali territory, but Nepal had also encroached on Indian land.

Visually Impaired Protest in Kathmandu Enters 9th Day Over Livelihood Rights

Visually impaired citizens continued their protest at Maitighar in Kathmandu for the ninth consecutive day on Tuesday, demanding the right to earn a livelihood in public spaces. The protesters said they have been demonstrating against Kathmandu Metropolitan City after being barred from working on sidewalks, near temples, and other public areas. They also alleged repeated detention by municipal police and claimed mistreatment of women protesters. The group is calling for the right to work with dignity in public spaces and urging the government to create employment opportunities suited to their qualifications.

Landslide Displaces 28 Households, Threatens Health Center in Sankhuwasabha

Continuous rainfall has triggered a landslide in Silichong Rural Municipality-1 of Sankhuwasabha, displacing 28 households and putting a local health center at risk. Authorities said families from both Lower and Upper Tenchong have been forced to relocate as cracks continue to widen in the settlement area. A Community Health Post has also come under threat from the sliding land. Rescue teams, including police and local officials, have moved residents to safer locations and are monitoring high-risk zones. The landslide has also damaged micro-hydropower projects, leaving more than 600 households without electricity and disrupting local schools and essential services.

Koshi Province Assembly Delayed Again Amid Ongoing Budget Dispute

The Koshi Province Assembly meeting scheduled for Tuesday has been postponed for a second time after the ruling coalition failed to resolve a budget dispute with dissatisfied lawmakers. According to the Provincial Assembly Secretariat, the sitting—previously deferred from June 25—has now been rescheduled for July 2 at 1 p.m. Lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties have raised objections, alleging that budget allocations were imbalanced and introduced without proper consultation. Talks between Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki and dissenting lawmakers failed to produce a breakthrough, with protesters demanding revisions be included in the Appropriation Bill before its introduction.

UNESCO–Shequal Hackathon Develops Nepal’s First School Carbon Footprint Calculator

Shequal Foundation, in partnership with UNESCO, has concluded “Hacking for a Carbon-Neutral Future,” Nepal’s first youth-led hackathon focused on developing a school-level Carbon Footprint Calculator. Aligned with the Green School Quality Standard 2024, the initiative marks a step toward a climate-smart education system. The three-day event brought together 28 youth teams from across the country to design a bilingual, offline-capable tool to help schools measure carbon emissions. The project is part of a broader UNESCO–UNICEF initiative funded by the Royal Norwegian Embassy. Officials said the innovation reflects strong youth potential in creating practical solutions for a greener, resilient education system.

Shaligram Sculpture in Jomsom Emerging as Religious Tourism Attraction

A 22-foot Shaligram Sheela sculpture carved on the banks of the Kaligandaki River in Jomsom, Mustang, is emerging as a new religious tourism attraction with potential economic benefits for the region. The artwork was created during a 15-day workshop organized by Gharapjhong Rural Municipality in collaboration with the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts and co-financed by the Integrated Service Office Mustang. More than 36 sculptors transformed river boulders into Hindu and Buddhist cultural symbols. Officials say the site is expected to boost religious tourism, strengthen local business activity, and create new community-based income opportunities in the Himalayan region.

‘Lalibazar’ Crosses Rs 93.18 Million, ‘Roll No. 1’ Earns Rs 16.90 Million at Box Office

The Nepali film “Lalibazar” has crossed the Rs 93.18 million mark at the box office, earning a gross collection of Rs 93.18 million and selling 316,939 tickets, according to the Film Development Board. Directed by Yam Thapa and starring Swastima Khadka, the film continues its strong theatrical run. Meanwhile, “Roll No. 1” has collected Rs 16.90 million with 65,305 admissions. Produced by Binod Paudel, the film explores the impact of the education system on child psychology and long-term life outcomes, featuring Mukun Bhusal, Sushanka Mainali, Renu Yogi, and Sirjana Adhikari in key roles.

Salina Tamang to Make Debut Opposite Mukun Bhusal in ‘Kangal Karodpati’

Newcomer Salina Tamang has been signed to play the female lead opposite actor Mukun Bhusal in the upcoming Nepali film “Kangal Karodpati.” The production team recently finalized her casting, marking her official debut in the Nepali film industry. Directed by Raju Shrestha, the film is being produced under Cinema Pathshala Pvt. Ltd. Tamang, who trained in acting at Saurabh Sachdeva’s The Actor’s Truth in Mumbai, said she chose the project as her career launchpad. The film is presented by Prabin Acharya and produced by Anil Kumar Budhathoki, with multiple co-producers and line producers attached to the project.

Asare Song Celebrates Monsoon Farming Culture with Traditional Nepali Instruments

Singer and composer Sahan Pradhan has released a new Asare song marking the monsoon planting season, featuring vocals by Ramchandra Kafle. The track highlights Nepal’s agricultural culture and farmers’ hard work, blending traditional sounds with indigenous instruments such as Panchebaja, Narsingha, Dhime, Bhusya, and Sarangi. Arranged by Bishaal Gurung, the song is accompanied by a music video starring Sandeep Lohani and Bina Raut. Directed by Shubham Bhujel, the production team includes choreographer Poonam Shrestha, cinematographer Dev Dorje Lama, and editor Subash Bhatta. The release celebrates the deep cultural connection between farming, monsoon rains, and rural life.

Bidhan Shrestha Returns to Paleti After Nine Years, Delivers 18-Song Set

Singer Bidhan Shrestha made a celebrated return to Nepalaya’s Paleti music series after a nine-year gap, earning a standing ovation for a nearly 18-song performance at r-sala, Kalikasthan. The set included romantic, folk, and patriotic compositions, many written and composed by his father Bijay Shrestha, featuring songs such as Ma Pattharko Devata Hoina and Ekata Nai Bal Ho. The performance concluded with Machhi Marna Jaun Na Dajai Kalapanima. Organizers announced that veteran artist Madan Krishna Shrestha and Yaman Shrestha will headline the next edition of the long-running 21-year Paleti series.

Martinelli’s 95th-Minute Winner Sends Brazil Past Japan into World Cup Round of 16

Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner as Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 and book a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Japan shocked the five-time champions in the first half when Kaishu Sano scored a brilliant solo goal after a 40-yard run. Brazil responded after the break, with Casemiro heading in the equalizer from a Gabriel Magalhães cross. With the match heading toward extra time, Martinelli finished a late counterattack set up by Bruno Guimarães to seal victory. Brazil will next face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16.

Paraguay Stun Germany in Penalty Shootout to Pull Off Historic World Cup Upset

Paraguay delivered one of the biggest shocks in modern FIFA World Cup history by eliminating Germany in a 4-3 penalty shootout win after a 1-1 draw in the Round of 32. Germany suffered their first-ever World Cup shootout defeat, having previously won all four of their penalty deciders in the tournament. The four-time champions also missed three penalties in the shootout, while a VAR review ruled out a potential extra-time winner for Germany’s Jonathan Tah. Paraguay, ranked 41st in the world compared to Germany’s 10th, held their nerve to advance in a match marked by controversy, missed chances, and defensive resilience.

Morocco Stuns Netherlands in Penalty Shootout to Reach World Cup Round of 16

Morocco advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time. Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch a 72nd-minute lead, but Issa Diop scored a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer to send the match into extra time. Neither side found a winner before penalties, where Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save and Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot kick. Morocco will face Canada in the Round of 16 after eliminating one of the tournament favorites.

Trump Urges Gasoline Retailers to Cut Prices Immediately, Warns of “Big Problems”

US president Donald Trump has called on gasoline retailers to immediately reduce fuel prices, urging them to “drop your price” and warning of “big problems” if costs remain high. The statement reflects his renewed pressure on energy pricing as fuel affordability remains a key economic concern. Trump did not specify policy measures but stressed that retailers should act quickly to bring down prices for consumers. His remarks add to ongoing political debate in the United States over inflation, energy costs, and consumer relief.

NASA Launches “50-50” Space Rescue Mission to Save Aging Swift Telescope

NASA is set to launch a bold robotic rescue mission on Tuesday to save its aging Swift space telescope from burning up in Earth’s atmosphere. The 30 million US dollar mission, developed with US startup Katalyst, will deploy a robotic spacecraft named LINK aboard a Pegasus rocket released from a jet over the Pacific. The robot will attempt to locate, dock with, and raise the 250 million US dollar telescope into a higher, stable orbit. If successful, the mission could extend satellite lifespans and open new opportunities in space servicing, including refueling, repair, and orbital repositioning.

Thai Airline Crew Member Detained in Australia After Over 1 Kg of Heroin Seized

Thai aviation authorities are cooperating with Australian officials after a Thai Airways crew member was detained in Melbourne and more than one kilogram of heroin was allegedly found in her luggage. Australian Border Force officers discovered the concealed drugs during an X-ray inspection after the flight landed at Melbourne Airport. Thai Airways said it is assisting investigations and stressed its strict anti-drug policies, stating the case appears to involve individual misconduct. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand is also reviewing procedures and coordinating with relevant agencies. Authorities in both countries emphasized adherence to aviation security standards and ongoing legal proceedings in Australia.