KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News as we bring you the most essential updates from local to global. Our evening briefing delivers a concise summary of the day’s key developments, spanning politics, economics, sports, entertainment, culture, and world affairs.

Today, we present nearly four dozen key updates in sharp 50-word insights. Here’s what shaped Nepal on Monday, February 24, 2025—all the news that matters, in one place. Here’s today’s news summary:

Sharad Ojha Appointed as Chairman of Nepal Insurance Authority: The government has appointed Sharad Ojha as the chairman of the Nepal Insurance Authority. The Cabinet made the decision on Monday evening. Ojha, a lawyer and journalist, has held senior management roles in corporate sectors. He has also served as an expert for FNCCI and CNI and is considered close to Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Maoists Will Fight Elections Independently, Not in Alliance: Prachanda: CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” stated that despite receiving suggestions to not to join the government, his focus remains on the people. Speaking at the launch of the “Maoist Terai Madhes Awakening Campaign,” he emphasized that Maoists will contest elections independently.

Controversial Pathibhara Cable Car Construction Paused Amid Protests: Businessman Chandra Dhakal’s controversial Pathibhara cable car project has been temporarily halted. The government suspended construction to address social, religious, and local concerns raised by ‘no cable car’ protesters. Heavy security deployment and forceful measures have escalated tensions, with ongoing protests destabilizing eastern Nepal. Home Ministry urge the “No Cable Car” group to negotiate.

Gagan Thapa Threatens to Exit Government if Mistreats by UML: Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Thapa stated that his party would leave the government if UML mistreats them. He emphasized that Congress and UML are equal parties, demanding fair treatment at all levels. Thapa also reaffirmed that Congress would not compromise on the rule of law or democratic rights.

House Unanimously Approves Armed Police Force Bill: The House of Representatives unanimously approved the proposal to discuss the Armed Police Force, Nepal Bill 2081. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak assured improvements based on lawmakers’ feedback. The bill includes provisions for arms supply, recruitment, promotions, transfers, a special court, and APF participation in international peacekeeping missions.

Pokharel Dismisses ‘Magical Number’ Theory: CPN (UML) senior vice president Ishwar Pokharel dismissed the Maoists’ “magical number” claim, asserting that the Congress-UML coalition will last until 2084 despite conspiracies. He stressed the need for political stability and urged UML leaders to work toward a single-party majority in 2084, calling Congress their key electoral rival.

ANNFSU Leaders “Who Beat Police” Released on Bail: Kathmandu district court granted bail to five ANNFSU student leaders involved in beating police at Amrit Marga, Thamel on February 7. Ramesh Fular was released on NPR 15,000 bail, while Kamal Raj Joshi, Dinesh Sigdel, Navin Singh Airi, and Gopal Bahadur Shai received NPR 10,000 bail each, confirming their release.

Supreme Court Dismisses 46 Employees’ Petitions in Single Ruling: The Supreme Court of Nepal has rejected petitions from 46 Madhes Province employees demanding retirement at 60. Justices Hari Prasad Phuyal and Sunil Kumar Pokharel ruled that civil service law mandates retirement at 58. The decision upholds prior rulings, confirming that provincial laws cannot override federal civil service regulations.

Nepal Bar Association Election Schedule Announced: The Nepal Bar Association has announced the election schedule for its 27th Central Committee. The election will be held on April 5, 2025. Positions include President, eight Vice Presidents, General Secretary, Treasurer, and 14 members. The voter list will be published on February 27, with objections allowed until March 2.

Communications Minister Promises to Supports Amendment of Working Journalists Act: Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung expressed support for amending the Working Journalists Act to align with current needs. At a multi-stakeholder event, he emphasized addressing challenges faced by media owners in implementing the Act and pledged government cooperation. He also discussed the ongoing social media regulation bill.

Nepali Parliament Discusses Trump’s Remarks on Federal Program ‘Fraud’: Nepal’s Parliament addressed U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement calling Nepal’s federal strengthening program a “fraud.” Lawmaker Purna Bahadur Gharti demanded a parliamentary investigation if the claim holds truth. He criticized Trump’s unilateral suspension of programs like MCC and biodiversity conservation, calling it a breach of diplomatic norms.

MPs Push for Prime Minister or Home Minister to Present Gallantry Insignia to Police Chiefs: A debate in Parliament has arisen over whether the Prime Minister or Home Minister should present the gallantry insignia to the Inspector General (IG) of Nepal Police and Armed Police Force. Several MPs, including from the ruling party, have argued for this change in the proposed bill, citing consistency with the appointment process of the army chief.

USAID Halts Seven Additional Programs in Nepal: The Ministry of Finance announced the suspension of seven more USAID-supported programs, including education, health, agriculture, and statistics, for 90 days under a U.S. executive order. Previously halted programs include federalism and biodiversity conservation. Three new initiatives, still in the design phase, have also been paused without funding agreements.

Pashupati Area Ready for Mahashivaratri Celebrations: The Pashupati Area Development Trust announced that preparations for Mahashivaratri are in the final stages. A main committee chaired by Tourism Minister Badriprasad Pandey and 10 sub-committees oversee arrangements, including sanitation, temple access, and security. Over 500,000 devotees are expected, with international saints already arriving for the February 26 festival.

Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung Presents CIAA’s 34th Annual Report to HoR: The Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, presented the CIAA’s 34th Annual Report on behalf of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in the House of Representatives session today. The report highlights the authority’s efforts in combating corruption and promoting transparency in governance.

Maoist Deputy General Secretary Pun Challenges Former King Gyanendra: Maoist Deputy General Secretary Barshaman Pun criticized former King Gyanendra Shah for attempting to revive an authoritarian regime. Speaking at a campaign in Jhapa, Pun warned against exploiting public dissatisfaction. He reaffirmed the people’s rejection of dictatorship, highlighted sacrifices for democratic republics, and pledged readiness for reforms to safeguard the current system.

Lawmaker Singh Calls for Transparency on NGO, INGO Funds: In the House of Representatives, Dr. Amaresh Kumar Singh urged the government to disclose details of funds entering Nepal through NGOs and INGOs and their utility. He demanded a White Paper on the matter and questioned Nepal’s inclusion in the FATF grey list, emphasizing the need for accountability.

Work is Underway to Reform Health Insurance with Policy Changes: Minister Paudel: Health and Population Minister Pradeep Paudel stated that efforts are underway to eliminate corruption in the health insurance program. He confirmed that reforms are being implemented in two phases, with policy adjustments already made. Paudel urged media to view the full video to understand his statements accurately.

PM Oli Meets NCC Delegations from India, Bhutan, Maldives: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli met National Cadet Corps (NCC) delegations from India, Bhutan, and Maldives participating in the Youth Exchange Program 2025. He emphasized the program’s role in fostering cultural and skill exchange, strengthening ties, and promoting global unity. The visit coincides with Mahashivaratri and Nepal Army Day.

Mahato Criticizes Government as Protector of Corruption: Rajendra Mahato, chair of Rashtriya Mukti Party Nepal, criticized the government over controversial cable car project, claiming it exists to conceal corruption rather than build the nation. Speaking at his party’s central committee meeting, he accused major parties of destroying the country and urged identity-based groups to unite for inclusive rights and representation.

Bilateral Meeting Held Between Nepal and Azerbaijan Foreign Ministers in Geneva: A bilateral meeting was held in Geneva between Nepal’s Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba and Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov during the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council. They discussed bilateral welfare, mutual interests, and climate change issues, with Deuba inviting Azerbaijan to Nepal’s Sagarmatha Sambat in May.

Unified Socialist Accuses Government of Protecting Corrupt Individuals: The CPN (Unified Socialist) has accused the government of shielding corrupt individuals. Concluding its central committee meeting, the party blamed rising corruption for hardships faced by the poor. It demanded strict action against financial fraud, online scams, and cooperative fraud while urging the government to prioritize sustainable, employment-driven economic policies.

Congress MP Bajgain Proposes Measure for Monkey and Wild Boar Control in Parliament: Congress MP Rajendra Bajgain presented a proposal in Parliament addressing the destruction of crops and security threats caused by monkeys and wild boars. The proposal calls for long-term solutions, policy formulation, and implementation to ensure agricultural security, wildlife management, and environmental balance. MP Uday Shamsher Jabara supported the motion.

EASA Technical Team Arrives in Nepal for Evaluation: A European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) technical team has arrived in Nepal to assess improvements and implementation of previous audit recommendations. The team, working from February 24 to 26, will evaluate the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), Nepal Airlines, and Shree Airlines, determining potential removal from the EU blacklist.

Money Laundering Case Filed Against Indian Nationals in Nepal: The Department of Money Laundering Investigation has filed a charge sheet against Indian citizen Ashok Kumar Sinha and his daughter Nivedika Sinha. They are accused of laundering revenue-evaded funds through financial institutions in Nepal. The department’s investigation revealed evidence of financial misconduct and illicit transactions.

Nepal-China Meeting Discusses Strengthening Trade, Commerce, and Relations: Director General of China’s Xinjiang Commerce Department, Chen Jung, and Nepal’s Consul General in Lhasa, Laxmi Prasad Niraula, met to discuss enhancing Nepal-China trade, commerce, and transit relations. Both sides agreed on initiatives for agro exports, infrastructure development, and addressing checkpoint issues for mutual benefit.

NEPSE Index Rises by 3.15 Points, Share Trading Reaches NPR 11.08 Billion: The NEPSE index climbed by 3.15 points, reaching 2758.75, with share transactions totaling NPR 11.08 billion. The market saw growth driven by banking, investment, production, and other sectors. 90 companies reported share price increases, while 145 companies experienced losses. Guardian Micro Life Insurance saw a positive circuit.

Three Names Recommended for Nepal Insurance Authority Chair: The recommendation committee for the Nepal Insurance Authority chair has shortlisted three candidates—Sharad Ojha, Ramsharan Pudasaini, and Damodar Basnet—from five finalists. The committee, led by National Planning Commission Vice Chairman Dr. Shivraj Adhikari, submitted their names to the Cabinet, which may make the final appointment.

New Auto Association Formed Amid Discontent in Nepal’s Automobile Sector: Amid economic challenges and internal disputes within the NADA Automobiles Association, large vehicle importers have formed a new association named the ‘Nepal Automobiles Imports and Manufacturers Association’. The new body aims to unite vehicle importers and limit political interference, with prominent companies like Toyota, Hyundai, and Mahindra involved.

Government Allocates Rs 18.88 Billion for Road and Bridge Reconstruction: The government has allocated Rs 18.88 billion to rebuild 26 roads and bridges damaged by floods and landslides. Major projects include BP Highway, Mechi Highway, and key bridges. Reconstruction efforts will commence soon, with Japan expressing interest in assisting.

NRB Nears Final Stage of Mid-Year Monetary Policy Review: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) is finalizing the mid-year review of the current fiscal year’s monetary policy. The draft is ready and will be published after board approval. As per regulations, NRB must release it by March 1. This will be Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari’s last review before his tenure ends.

Non-Life Insurers Report 7.8% Premium Growth: In the first seven months of the current fiscal year, 14 non-life insurers issued 1,621,679 policies, generating total premiums of NPR 24.27 billion, according to the Nepal Insurance Authority. This marks a 7.80% increase over last year’s NPR 22.52 billion, indicating strong momentum. Industry performance clearly shows promising upward trend.

Tribhuvan Army Marches Into KP Oli Cup Semifinals: Tribhuvan Army Club secured a spot in the KP Oli Cup semifinals by defeating Nepal Police Club 2-0 in a departmental derby at ANFA Complex, Satdobato. Nawayug Shrestha and Dinesh Hemjan scored for Army, ensuring a dominant victory and keeping their title hopes alive.

Ahmad Hijazi Returns to Dhankhadi FC Ahead of NSL Third Edition: Ahmad Hijazi has rejoined Nepal Super League franchise Dhankhadi FC after his stint at Beirut’s Bourj FC. The forward scored four goals in the previous NSL season, including one in the final as Dhankhadi lost 3–2 to Lalitpur City FC. Dhankhadi has also retained several key players for future success.

Dhankhadi FC Appoints Deependra Singh Airi as NSL Brand Ambassador: Dhankhadi FC, the Nepal Super League franchise team, has named national men’s cricket all-rounder Deependra Singh Airi as its brand ambassador for the third NSL season. The appointment comes ahead of the league’s third edition, with Dhankhadi having finished as runners-up in both previous seasons, aiming to boost their standing.

Comedian Shailendra Simkhada to Receive Samde Sherpa Memorial National Award: Comedian and poet Shailendra Simkhada will be honored with the Samde Sherpa Memorial National Award for his contributions to Nepali comedy and cultural promotion. Presented annually by the Himalayan Sherpa Cultural Center, the award will be handed over by Nepali Congress President & former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba in Fagun.

Comedian Sajan Shrestha Files Cyber Bureau Complaint Over Threats: Comedian Sajan Shrestha has filed a complaint with the Cyber Bureau, citing threats to himself and his family. He reported receiving rape and death threats from a Facebook account named Riday Tamrakar. Sharing the complaint publicly, he demanded legal action under the Electronic Transactions Act, Section 47.

PM Modi Defends Mahakumbh: Indian PM Narendra Modi strongly defended the Mahakumbh event, emphasizing its cultural and spiritual significance. Speaking in Bihar, he criticized those opposing it, referring to them as “Jungle Raj people.” He highlighted the event’s importance in preserving India’s traditions and uniting people in faith and devotion.

PM Modi Promotes ‘Makhana’ as Global Superfood in Bihar: During his visit to Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted ‘Makhana’ (foxnut) as a global superfood, emphasizing its nutritional value and economic potential. He was honored with a garland made of foxnuts, symbolizing local pride and support for promoting Bihar’s renowned agricultural product on the international stage.

Putin, Xi Discuss Russia-U.S. Dialogue and Ukraine Crisis: Russian President Vladimir Putin briefed Chinese President Xi Jinping on Moscow’s latest talks with Washington. Beijing expressed support for renewed dialogue and potential solutions to the Ukraine crisis. Both leaders emphasized their strategic partnership as a stabilizing force in global affairs, unaffected by external pressures or third-party influence.

UN to Vote on U.S. and Ukraine-Backed Resolutions on War: The U.N. General Assembly will vote Monday on resolutions by the U.S. and Ukraine, backed by the EU, calling for an end to the Ukraine war. The U.S. resolution urges a swift, lasting peace but does not mention Russia’s invasion. The Security Council will vote later on the measure.

Trump Administration Cuts USAID Staff, Moves to Dismantle Agency: The Trump administration is placing most USAID staff on leave and cutting 2,000 U.S.-based positions. A federal judge allowed the move despite legal challenges. Trump and Elon Musk aim to shrink the agency, calling its work wasteful. Critics argue this undermines U.S. foreign policy and global stability efforts.