KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ Evening Briefing, your essential daily summary of key developments from local to global. Covering politics, economy, sports, entertainment, culture, and international affairs, today we bring you 47 sharp updates in 50-word insights. Here’s what shaped Nepal on Tuesday, February 25, 2025—all in one place.

Nepal Rastra Bank Tightens Loan Policy for Electric Vehicles: Nepal Rastra Bank has tightened loan investment rules for electric vehicles. In its mid-term monetary policy review, the central bank reduced the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for all electric and personal vehicles to 60%. Previously, banks could finance up to 80%, requiring buyers to make only a 20% down payment—now increased to 40%.

Energy Minister Seeks Clarification from Kulman Ghising Within 24 Hours: Energy Minister Deepak Khadka has issued a 24-hour clarification notice to Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) Executive Director Kulman Ghising, asking why he should not be removed from his position. The Ministry took this step after the Cabinet did not act on a previous removal proposal. This is the third such clarification request, following two previous, which were deemed unsatisfactory.

Nepal Has Entered a Prosperous Era: PM Oli: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli assured youths that Nepal has entered a prosperous era. Speaking at Nepal Medical College’s silver jubilee, he dismissed claims of inaction, emphasized the government’s responsibility toward the needy, supported self-funded medical education, and opposed bringing private schools under Guthi, stressing education’s stability.

Prachanda Claims Growing Public Support for Maoist Party: CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ asserted that public support has institutionalized the party. Speaking at the “Maoist Terai Madhesh Awakening Campaign” in Morang, he cited by-election results as proof of rising support and vowed to contest future elections without repeating past alliance “mistakes.”

TU Offers Credit Transfer for Students Returning from Abroad: Tribhuvan University (TU) announced that students returning from abroad without completing their studies can continue under its credit transfer policy. Rector Khadga KC urged interested students and parents to contact TU. Similar provisions have been made by Purbanchal and Kathmandu Universities for affected students.

Six Retired Indian Army Chiefs Arrive in Kathmandu for NA Anniversary Celebrations: The Nepal Army has confirmed the arrival of six retired Indian Army Chiefs in Kathmandu. Retired Generals Joginder Jaswant Singh, Deepak Kapoor, Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh, Dalbir Singh Suhag, Dr. Manoj Mukund Naravane, and Manoj Pande have arrived to attend the ceremony of 262nd anniversary of the Nepali Army’s establishment.

Lawmaker Rekha Sharma Accuses Government of Undermining Parliament: CPN (Maoist Centre) MP Rekha Sharma criticized the government for bypassing parliament through ordinances and ministerial interference. She condemned PM Oli’s derogatory remarks about her and urged action on Nepal’s FATF grey list status. Sharma also challenged ex-King Gyanendra to enter politics or remain silent.

Four Arrested for Social Media Protest Against PM Oli’s Event: Police Range arrested four individuals for campaigning on social media against PM KP Sharma Oli’s participation in Nepal Medical College’s silver jubilee event. Those detained are Kiran KC, Raju Sunuwar, Rajesh Dahal, and Mohan Singh. Police cited potential security risks as the reason for their detention, said SP Apilraj Bohara.

Prohibitory Order Lifted in Taplejung After Cable Car Protests: Taplejung’s prohibitory order, imposed after clashes over the controversial cable car led by businessman Chandra Dhakal, was lifted Tuesday night. The protests in Pathibhara and Fungling injured 24 people, leading to 17 arrests. Authorities lifted the order following a security committee meeting on February 25.

Nepal and China Sign Agreement on Indigenous Communities’ Development: Nepal’s Indigenous Nationalities Commission and China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission signed an agreement in Kathmandu to promote indigenous communities’ development. The deal focuses on education, culture, and youth cooperation, aiming to strengthen bilateral ethnic ties and long-term strategic collaboration between the two nations.

Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung Calls for Careful Review of Foreign Aid: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, emphasized the need for thorough study before Nepal accepts foreign aid. Speaking at a press conference on cabinet decisions, he stated that while global political shifts have had minimal impact on Nepal, the U.S. decision to cancel USAID and suspend MCC has prompted serious reassessment. He stressed that Nepal must carefully evaluate which foreign aid to accept or reject.

PM Oli Visits Pashupatinath on Mahashivaratri Eve: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli visited Pashupatinath Temple on the eve of Mahashivaratri 2081, offering prayers and inspecting festival preparations. He directed officials to ensure a safe, disciplined, and organized celebration. Culture Minister Badri Prasad Pandey and other officials accompanied him. Devotees expressed joy at his presence.

Preparations Complete for Mahashivaratri at Pashupatinath: Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) has completed all preparations for Mahashivaratri, expecting record devotees. Thousands of saints from India’s Maha Kumbh are anticipated. A 201-member main committee, led by Minister Badri Prasad Pandey, oversees the festival. Security, healthcare, accommodations, and volunteer support are arranged for a smooth celebration.

HoR Endorses Mass Communications Council Bill: The House of Representatives unanimously endorsed the ‘Mass Communications Council Bill, 2081’. Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said the proposed council would enhance press regulation. Further discussions will refine its authority, code of conduct, and actions. The bill replaces the Media Council Bill to implement the National Mass Communications Policy.

Bills to Split CAAN Tabled in HoR: Two bills to split the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) were presented in the House of Representatives. Tourism Minister Badri Prasad Pandey tabled the long-delayed bills to establish separate aviation entities, aiming to address sectoral issues and facilitate Nepal’s removal from the EU aviation blacklist.

Lawmakers Seek Government’s Response on FATF Grey List: Lawmakers have demanded the government’s plan to remove Nepal from FATF’s grey list. Udaya Shumsher JBR cited weak cooperative sector regulation as a key reason. He urged transparency on financial reforms and highlighted delays in reconstructing Kanti Highway and BP Highway, damaged by last year’s floods and landslides.

PM Oli Claims Major Changes During His Tenure: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli asserted that Nepal underwent extraordinary changes during his three-year previous tenure. Speaking at an event in Kathmandu, he dismissed claims that no progress was made, blaming subsequent governments for stalled development. Oli emphasized the need for governance and development, stressing that technological advancements should benefit all Nepalese, especially the 20% still below the poverty line.

Government Invites Pathibhara Cable Car Protestors for Talks Again: The Home Ministry has again invited the group protesting the Businessman Chandra Dhakal led Pathibhara cable car project for talks. Joint Secretary Prem Prasad Bhattarai confirmed the call for negotiations to address social and cultural concerns. Previous talks ended inconclusively, with clashes reported between supporters and opponents of the project.

Nepal Police Collects Rs 524.7 Million in a Month: Nepal Police generated Rs 524.7 million in a month, mainly from enforcing court decisions. Rs 239.2 million came from arresting fugitives, Rs 162.7 million from customs seizures, and Rs 95.9 million from traffic operations. Other sources included illegal gold, hundi transactions, and riverine material extraction, highlighting intensified law enforcement efforts.

Chinese Delegation Arrives for International Cybercrime Conference in Kathmandu: A six-member Chinese delegation, led by Sichuan Province’s Chief Prosecutor Wang Lin, arrived in Kathmandu for an international conference on digital crimes starting soon. The delegation was welcomed by Chinese Ambassador Chen Song. The event, organized by Nepal’s Attorney General’s Office, will host representatives from 12 countries.

Major General Premdhwaj Adhikari’s Tenure Extended by Six Months: The government has extended Major General Premdhwaj Adhikari’s tenure by six months on CoAS Ashok Raj Sigdel’s recommendation. Adhikari, promoted in 2022, must be promoted to Lieutenant General within this period or retire. His local promotion for a UN role is pending a final decision.

E-Governance Blueprint Unveiled to Digitize Public Services: The E-Governance Board under OPMCM has launched the ‘E-Governance Blueprint’ to digitize government services and eliminate paperwork. Prepared on January 27, the document emphasizes transparency, accountability, and efficiency. It outlines infrastructure development, policy reforms, and digital governance innovation to enhance service delivery and reduce physical presence requirements.

Nepal’s Petroleum Imports Reach Rs 104.76 Billion in Seven Months: Nepal imported petroleum products worth Rs 104.76 billion through the Birgunj border in the first seven months of FY 2024/25, up by Rs 840 million from last year. The Birgunj Customs Office attributes the rise to infrastructure projects, with Rs 43.11 billion collected in revenue.

Commercial Banks’ Base Rate Drops to Three-Year Low: Commercial banks’ base rate has fallen to a three-year low due to continuous deposit interest rate cuts since November 2023, reducing loan costs. The average base rate for February stands at 6.62%, down from 8.77% last year. After peaking at 10.78% in December 2022, rates have steadily declined.

Nepal Rastra Bank Lowers Loan Provisioning to 1%: Nepal Rastra Bank, in its mid-term monetary policy review, has reduced the good loan provisioning rate from 1.10% to 1%. This move aims to boost bank profits and ease bad loan management. The Nepal Bankers’ Association had requested the reduction, citing rising non-performing loans.

NEPSE Rises by 7.13 Points, Closes at 2,765.88: NEPSE gained 7.13 points on Tuesday, closing at 2,765.88. Six sectors declined, with trading losing 109.29 points, while life insurance gained 111.36. Turnover fell to Rs 9.90 billion. Guardian Micro Life surged 10%, while Wean Nepal Laghubitta lost 8.97%. Himalayan Reinsurance led in transactions at Rs 1.02 billion.

Nepal Rastra Bank Enforces Money Laundering Rules for Three Funds: Nepal Rastra Bank has introduced new money laundering regulations for the Employees Provident Fund, Citizens Investment Trust, and Social Security Fund. These funds must now comply with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws. The central bank has directed them to implement additional measures as per a cabinet decision.

NRB Makes KYC Mandatory for Hire Purchase Loans: Nepal Rastra Bank has mandated KYC compliance for obtaining hire purchase loans. It directed licensed lending companies to verify customer identity per legal provisions. Companies must follow regulatory guidelines, ensuring identity verification through citizenship or national ID records before establishing financial relationships. This aims to strengthen financial transparency and security.

Nepal’s Life Insurance Premiums Near Rs 100 Billion: Nepal’s life insurers collected Rs 95.38 billion in premiums over seven months, up 9.79% from last year. Nepal Life led with NPR 26.54 billion. Citizen Life posted the highest growth at 22%. Despite economic challenges, the sector continues expanding, driven by rising financial security awareness.

Poor Limestone Selection Pushes Huaxin Narayani Cement Into Crisis: Huaxin Narayani Cement, a major Chinese-invested cement plant in Nepal, is facing a financial crisis just two years after operations began. Due to poor site selection, the factory in Dhading’s Benighat Rorang now relies on expensive limestone from distant sources, causing rising costs and losses exceeding NPR 2 billion.

UAE Tops as Nepali Youths’ Preferred Job Destination: In December 2024 alone, 84,226 Nepali youths left for foreign employment, with the UAE as the top choice. Of the 465,508 workers approved in seven months, 149,833 (32.86%) opted for the UAE. Notably, 92,224 workers reached the UAE via manpower agencies, highlighting a growing employment trend.

New Insurance Authority Chief Emphasizes Discipline Over Punishment: Newly appointed Nepal Insurance Authority Chairman Sharad Ojha stressed the need for discipline, not just enforcement, in the insurance sector. Taking charge on Tuesday, he acknowledged regulatory challenges and emphasized easing operations. He vowed to prioritize industry reforms, ensuring both insurers’ financial stability and policyholders’ best interests.

Madhes Farmers to Receive Rs 2 Billion in Grants: Madhes province farmers involved in animal husbandry will receive Rs 2 billion in grants. The Economic Corridor Project Office confirmed the process is in its final phase. Funded by the World Bank, the grants aim to boost agriculture. Farmer groups must invest 55%, with the government covering 45%.

‘Chhaki Chhaina Manjuri’ Trends on YouTube, Crosses 169K Views: The song “Chhaki Chhaina Manjuri,” sung by Rajan Raj Siwakoti and Bhoomika Giri, has quickly trended on YouTube, ranking 20th in Nepal’s music category. Written by Rajendra Thapa and composed by Siwakoti, the video features Raj Acharya and Sunisha Bajgain. Released on February 18, so far it has over 169,000 views.

Lalitpur Triumphs Over Kathmandu in PM Cup Cricket Bagmati Selection: Lalitpur defeated Kathmandu by 59 runs in the PM Cup National Men’s Cricket Bagmati selection. Chasing 228, Kathmandu was all out for 168 in 42.3 overs. Adil Khan (62) and Nandan Yadav (54) starred with the bat, while captain Pratish G.C. took five wickets for Kathmandu.

Machhindra Advances to Semifinals with Hard-Fought Victory: Machhindra Football Club secured a spot in the semifinals of the KP Oli Cup. In Tuesday’s match at ANFA Complex, Lalitpur, Machhindra defeated FC Transport United 1-0. Stephan Jolly scored the decisive goal in the 80th minute, converting a cross from Sanish Shrestha to seal the victory.

Dhangadhi FC Appoints UEFA Pro-Licensed Juan Manuel Martínez as Head Coach: Nepal Super League (NSL) franchise Dhangadhi FC has appointed UEFA Pro-Licensed coach Juan Manuel Martínez as its head coach for the third edition. Martínez brings extensive coaching experience, having previously worked in Spain, Panama, Thailand, Oman, the Maldives, and Bangladesh.

Kathmandu Rays Appoints Belgian Patrick De Wilde as Head Coach: Kathmandu Rays FC has appointed Belgian coach Patrick De Wilde for the third edition of the Nepal Super League (NSL). The 60-year-old previously coached Somalia and Rwanda’s national teams. The club has also signed Rohan Karki as a marquee player and strengthened its squad through the mini-auction.

SAOC Confirms Dates for 14th South Asian Games in Pakistan: The South Asian Olympic Council (SAOC) has set the 14th South Asian Games (SAG) for January 23-31, 2026, in Pakistan. The event will take place in Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad. Of 29 sports, 27 are confirmed, with the host nation allowed to add two more.

Mahakumbh: Devotees Gather at Triveni Sangam Ahead of Mahashivratri: Thousands of devotees are arriving at Triveni Sangam for the Mahakumbh ahead of Mahashivratri, seeking spiritual blessings and taking holy dips. The sacred confluence in Prayagraj is witnessing a surge in pilgrims as preparations intensify for the grand religious event, marking one of the holiest occasions in Hinduism.

‘One Nation, One Election’ Gains Momentum, Says JPC Chairman: JPC Chairman PP Chaudhary stated that panel members showed a “positive attitude” and worked as a team on the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal. The initiative aims to streamline India’s electoral process, with discussions progressing constructively. The committee is evaluating legal and logistical challenges for nationwide implementation.

Bangladesh Army Chief Warns Sovereignty at Risk Amid Political Infighting: Bangladesh’s Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, warned that the country’s sovereignty could be at risk if political divisions persist. Speaking at an event in Dhaka marking the 2009 BDR carnage, he urged unity, cautioning against internal conflicts and mudslinging. He also highlighted rising lawlessness amid ongoing instability.

Kremlin Welcomes U.S. Resolution on Ukraine as ‘More Balanced’: The Kremlin praised a U.S.-led U.N. Security Council resolution on Ukraine, calling it a “more balanced” approach. The measure, which urges a swift end to the conflict, passed with 10 votes, including support from Russia and China. European allies abstained, criticizing the resolution’s lack of stronger language.

NATO Faces Renewed Uncertainty Amid Trump’s Return: NATO’s unity, bolstered after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, faces new challenges as Trump resumes criticism of the alliance. With growing European concerns, the U.S. is shifting its focus to peace talks with Russia. Analysts warn this could weaken Kyiv’s position, straining transatlantic trust and security cooperation.

U.S. Transfers ‘High Threat’ Migrants to Guantanamo Bay: The U.S. has begun transferring “high threat” criminal migrants to Guantanamo Bay, days after clearing its migrant facilities. A military plane carrying 17 detainees arrived from Texas on Sunday. The move comes ahead of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s visit to review deportation operations at the naval base.

China’s NPC Standing Committee Concludes 14th Session: China’s NPC Standing Committee wrapped up its 14th session in Beijing on Tuesday, approving key legislative reports and personnel decisions. Chairman Zhao Leji urged improvements to the draft private economy promotion law and called for efficient preparations for the upcoming NPC session, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and effective publicity.