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Iran’s Champion Style Shines in Volleyball (Photos)

News Summary

Reviewed in editing.

  • Iran defeated Kazakhstan 3–1 sets to claim the title at the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Championship.
  • The final match was held at the Dashrath Rangashala Covered Hall in Tripureshwor on Friday, where Iran remained undefeated.
  • By winning the title undefeated for the second consecutive edition, Iran has maintained its dominance in Central Asia.

May 29, Kathmandu – Iran has claimed the title of the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Championship while remaining undefeated throughout the competition.

In the final match held at Dashrath Rangashala Covered Hall in Tripureshwor on Friday, Iran defeated Kazakhstan 3-1 in sets to secure consecutive championships.

The tournament, which began in Kathmandu in 2024, saw Iran finish in third place in its inaugural edition.

However, in the subsequent two editions, Iran remained unbeaten and secured the championship, reinforcing its supremacy in Central Asia.

Photos

 

 

 

 

स्रोत दबाबले विकास बजेट स्थिर, साधारण खर्च र ऋण भुक्तानी चाप

Development Budget Remains Steady Amid Resource Pressures, Focus on Routine Expenses and Debt Repayment

Summary

Reviewed and edited.

  • Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle presented a budget of NPR 2,124.34 billion (Rs 21.24 trillion) for the fiscal year 2083/84 to the Federal Parliament.
  • The government allocated NPR 431.10 billion (Rs 4.31 trillion) for capital expenditure within the total budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
  • The budget includes plans to abolish 31 unnecessary government agencies to reduce administrative expenses.

May 29, Kathmandu – The government has unveiled the budget for fiscal year 2083/84, maintaining a stable share of capital expenditure within the total budget amid various resource constraints.

Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle tabled a budget of NPR 2,124.34 billion before the joint session of the Federal Parliament.

This represents a 25.2% increase in budget size compared to the revised estimate of the current fiscal year 2082/83. However, despite the growth in overall budget size, the share allocated to capital expenditure did not increase.

For the next fiscal year, the government has earmarked NPR 431.10 billion, equivalent to 20.3% of the total budget, for capital expenditure.

In the current fiscal year, capital expenditure accounted for 20.8% of the budget. While the budget includes appealing reform programs, structural challenges remain evident.

This is largely because 79.7% of total resources must be directed toward routine expenses and debt servicing. Consequently, economists express understandable dissatisfaction with the budget brought forth by the Finance Minister.

Economist Prof. Dr. Resham Thapa pointed out that the trend of expanding the budget by borrowing internally is unsustainable in the long term.

According to him, government expenditures are generally non-productive. When the government taps internal loans competing with funds the private sector could employ, it does not benefit the economy.

Finance Minister Dr. Wagle has estimated current expenditures of NPR 1,270 billion (Rs 12.7 trillion) for the upcoming fiscal year, which is NPR 9 billion higher than this year’s allocation. Routine expenses account for 59.8% of the total budget this year.

The government has increased employee salaries and doubled some social allowances, though steps to reduce social security costs have not been significant.

Former Finance Minister Dr. Prakasharan Mahat expressed skepticism about the revenue and foreign loan targets being realistic. He acknowledged salary hikes as positive, but underlined challenges in resource management.

This year, the government has presented a budget with a deficit exceeding NPR 600 billion. Despite attractive programs and slogans overshadowing challenges, the former minister predicts implementation difficulties. He remarked, “It is hard to raise revenue, and although spending capacity needs improvement, it remains limited. Even with a two-thirds government, this might not be feasible.”

The government anticipates collecting only NPR 1,405 billion in revenue for the budget of NPR 2,124 billion. Foreign grants are estimated at NPR 6.17 billion, which surpasses the NPR 5.34 billion received in the current year.

The Finance Minister dismissed these targets as unrealistic amid criticism. The government aims to raise NPR 410 billion through internal borrowings and NPR 247 billion externally next fiscal year.

The National Planning Commission had proposed a ceiling of NPR 1,890 billion for next year. Economist and former Deputy Chairman of the Commission Dr. Prakash Shrestha emphasized the need for a realistic, implementable budget.

He noted that the new government has increased the budget size with a fresh mandate and policy platform. He believes that if this budget is executed effectively, its targets are achievable.

He cautioned, “Repeating the previous pattern of expanding budgets but failing to implement and then making cuts only during mid-term reviews will create problems.”

Optimistic Budget Focused on Reforms

The government has prioritized reforms in this budget. Former Finance Minister Rameshwar Khanal summarized the budget review stating, “Programs for reform are the hallmark of this budget.”

In line with its promise to expand the middle class, the government has removed the lower threshold for income tax, benefiting the majority of taxpayers. Experts view the employee salary increases as a positive step.

The government has reduced customs duties on industrial raw materials by at least one level, leading to reduced rates on 273 items. Additionally, excise duties on 360 items have been eliminated.

Taxes collected at customs points have been consolidated under a green tax system. Capital gains tax has been finalized and the process for automatic VAT refunds has been announced.

Emphasizing that tax compliance should be a partner in development rather than a punishment, the Finance Minister promised to resolve long-standing tax disputes caused by legal ambiguities and taxpayer ignorance.

The government plans to abolish unnecessary government organizational structures and streamline operations. This includes eliminating 31 agencies, six mergers, six transfers, and restructuring 18 entities.

Additionally, the government will pursue institutional reforms for cost reduction and efficiency improvements, encourage investment, and establish policy and legal frameworks for economic reforms and smooth service delivery. The Finance Minister is committed to accelerating and streamlining capital expenditures through these operational reforms.

Entrepreneur Ambika Prasad Paudel urged the Finance Minister to ensure that allocated capital expenditures are fully utilized. He expressed greater enthusiasm than ever before, stating, “My sole wish is that capital expenditures are fully executed, the tax law is clear, and past tax arrears reduction from 70% to 7% is sustained.”

Former Finance State Minister Uday Shamsher Rana expressed dissatisfaction, noting that despite the addition of NPR 657 billion in debt, only NPR 431 billion has been allocated for capital expenditure.

He indicated that public debt increased by 22.41% and that the budget is weak in reducing production, employment, and trade deficits.

While economists find the 22% budget growth ambitious, they raise concerns about implementation capacity.

Prime Minister Writes ‘Rest Assured!’ Following Budget Presentation

Prime Minister Balen Shah posted a brief message on social media on Friday saying, “Rest assured.” The opposition has been persistently questioning Prime Minister Shah, accusing him of not addressing the parliament and being unaccountable. He neither spoke at the joint sitting of the federal parliament where the budget was presented nor at the Republic Day ceremony. Kathmandu, 15 Jestha – Since assuming office, Prime Minister Balen Shah has not addressed any public ceremonies. He has also yet to speak at parliamentary sessions. He primarily communicates through social media posts, which is his preferred style of presentation. The opposition continues to criticize him for avoiding parliamentary addresses, evading questions, and lacking accountability. Meanwhile, on Friday evening, he posted a status saying, “Rest assured.” Before posting this, Shah spent the day at Singha Durbar. Earlier that day, the federal parliament’s joint session saw the budget presentation, during which Shah was present. His social media post quickly garnered thousands of likes and comments within minutes. Additionally, he did not speak at the Republic Day ceremony held that morning.

Ronak Upreti and Swastika Chaudhary Crowned Champions at Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Open Lead Climbing Competition

Summary: Ronak Upreti and Swastika Chaudhary emerged as champions in the third edition of the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Open Lead Climbing competition. This year, the event was held in the technically challenging lead climbing format instead of the traditional top-rope method. Organized in memory of the first successful ascent of Mount Everest, the competition aims to promote adventure climbing sports in Nepal. (May 29, Kathmandu)

In the third installment of the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Open Lead Climbing competition held Friday at Astrek, Kathmandu, Ronak Upreti and Swastika Chaudhary claimed the titles in the men’s and women’s categories respectively. The event was jointly organized by the Nepal National Mountain Guiding Association (NNMGA) and the US Nepal Climbers Association, featuring competition in both men’s and women’s divisions.

In the men’s category, Ronak Upreti secured first place, followed by Mirko Leros in second and Tenzing Bartin Rai in third. Swastika Chaudhary won the women’s category, with Yankila Sherpa finishing second and Panchmaya Tamang taking third place. The winners in both categories received cash prizes of NPR 50,000, with NPR 30,000 awarded to runners-up and NPR 20,000 to third place finishers. The final round included 12 climbers—6 men and 6 women—with one foreign climber among the finalists in the men’s division.

Member of Parliament Mingma Gyabu Sherpa attended the finals as chief guest, while Jamling Tenzing Norgay, son of legendary climber Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, was present as a special guest. Other dignitaries present included Ram Krishna Lamichhane, Director General of the Department of Tourism; Phur Gelje Sherpa, President of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA); Laxuman Tamang, Chapter Coordinator of the US Nepal Climbers Association; and Santosh Maden, General Secretary of the Nepal Climbing Sports Association.

Tulasing Gurung, President of the Nepal National Mountain Guiding Association, noted that this edition was special as it was the first time the competition was held in the lead climbing format, which is more technically demanding. The previous two editions featured the top-rope climbing method.

The organizers stated that the competition’s primary goal is to promote adventure climbing in Nepal while honoring the contributions of world-renowned climbers Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary. The event commemorates the historic first ascent of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. According to Gurung, the competition was specially organized this year to coincide with May 29, a day traditionally observed with rallies, certificate ceremonies, and formal events. “This year, for the first time, we have organized a technically challenging lead climbing competition, which will play a positive role in developing Nepal’s climbing sector,” he explained. He added that holding the competition on such a significant historical day reflects deep respect for Tenzing Norgay’s courage and his contributions to mountaineering.

Organizers hope that this competition will further encourage the growth of Nepal’s adventurous climbing culture and inspire younger generations to engage in adventure sports and mountaineering.

ह्विस्की, रम र ब्रान्डीमा भन्सार र अन्त:शुल्क स्थिर

Customs and Excise Duty Rates on Whiskey, Rum, and Brandy Remain Unchanged

The government has decided to maintain most of the customs and excise duty rates on alcoholic beverages without significant changes for the upcoming fiscal year. According to the Fiscal Bill 2083, the excise duty for beer has been set at NPR 255 per liter, while wine is now liable for NPR 490 per liter. The excise duties on brandy, whiskey, and rum remain unchanged. Imported liquors will be subject to an 80% customs duty. (May 29, Kathmandu)

The government has opted not to make substantial changes to the customs and excise duty rates on alcoholic beverages for the next fiscal year. Through the Fiscal Bill 2083, there has been a slight increase in the excise duty on beer, but rates for other alcoholic products have been maintained. Specifically, excise duty on beer made from malt up to five percent alcohol content has been fixed at NPR 255 per liter.

Likewise, the same rate applies to beer with alcohol content exceeding five percent. Currently, the excise duty on such beer stands at NPR 240 per liter. For sparkling wine containing up to 12 percent alcohol, the excise duty is set at NPR 490 per liter, with the same rate applied to wine containing 12 to 17 percent alcohol. The government has increased the excise duty on wine by NPR 30, compared to NPR 460 in the current fiscal year.

Energy Budget Priorities: Discussions on Transmission Lines and Authority Restructuring

Summary: The government has announced plans to prioritize the energy and irrigation sectors in the upcoming fiscal year budget, including the division of Nepal Electricity Authority into three separate companies. The Independent Power Producers’ Association Nepal (IPPAN) has responded positively to the budget but highlighted a lack of clarity on reopening new power purchase agreements. Former Deputy Executive Director of the Authority, Prabal Adhikari, expressed optimism about the transmission line budget but raised concerns regarding the division of the authority and the cancellation of permits.

On May 28, in Kathmandu, the government declared a significant investment and structural reforms in the energy and irrigation sectors for the fiscal year 2083/84 (2026/27). An allocation of NPR 8.554 billion has been set aside for energy production, transmission, and distribution, with priority given to implementing the Hetauda–Dhalkebar–Inaruwa 400 kV transmission line and expanding various cross-border transmission lines. Rapid progress will be pursued for hydroelectric projects such as Rahughat, Tanahu, and Upper Trishuli-3B, alongside advancing reservoir-based projects like Budhigandaki and Dudhkoshi.

The budget also includes a declaration to restructure Nepal Electricity Authority into three companies focusing on production, transmission, and distribution/trading. Policies have been formulated to engage the private sector in international electricity trade and transmission line construction. Furthermore, the budget emphasizes promoting green hydrogen, battery storage, electric vehicles, and clean energy-based industries. The government aims to add 670 MW of hydropower and 370 MW of solar energy capacity in the coming year.

In the irrigation sector, the plan sets a target to expand irrigation facilities across an additional 15,800 hectares of land. Significant budget allocations have been made for water resource projects such as Sikta, Babai, Sun Koshi-Mareni, Mahakali, and Rani-Jamara-Kulriya, alongside river control and both underground and lift irrigation expansions.

IPPAN Vice President Uttam Bhulon described the energy budget as a positive step, marking a policy reform and transformative milestone by incorporating forestry-related issues under the energy and hydropower sectors. He characterized the budget as a ‘course correction and transformation.’

However, Bhulon pointed out ambiguity regarding the government’s plan to reopen new power purchase agreements (PPAs), noting that although a 30,000 MW PPA was proposed, no specific timeline was provided. He also highlighted the lack of clarity on how the private sector would be integrated into international electricity trade, calling for further clarification.

Former Deputy Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, Prabal Adhikari, presented a mixed review of the energy and electricity management in the 2083/84 budget. He termed the transmission line budget as ‘extremely positive’ but expressed concerns about the decisions on the authority’s fragmentation and the cancellation of project permits. While some aspects were encouraging, he warned that implementation could be challenging and some policies potentially contentious.

Adhikari identified the budget’s strongest element as the investment in transmission lines. Of the total NPR 8.5 billion energy budget, NPR 7 billion has been earmarked for ongoing transmission line and substation construction, a move he described as ‘highly commendable.’ He emphasized that the transmission line has been Nepal’s biggest energy challenge and that the government’s allocation aligns closely with its energy roadmap target through 2035, which estimates annual needs of NPR 8.5 billion. This budget allocation is expected to significantly aid the private sector and the flow of generated electricity.

Regarding the budget’s proposal to cancel electricity project permits and initiate a new process for power purchase agreements, Adhikari raised concerns. The Nepal Electricity Authority reportedly currently oversees about 134 projects with a combined capacity of approximately 2,900 MW. Adhikari cautioned against revoking permits without analyzing why projects failed to proceed or struggled financially, warning that such actions might waste time. The new permits and PPA procedures could hinder the government’s goal to produce 30,000 MW within ten years. He advocated government support to help projects reach construction.

On the announcement to split the electricity authority into production, transmission, and distribution entities, Adhikari noted that although this idea has surfaced before, dividing a profitable institution—having achieved 97 percent electrification—without proper studies or employee benefit arrangements could cause practical challenges.

For the first time, the budget invites private sector investment for 100 percent ownership in reservoir-based projects, with an arrangement to offer 40 percent shares to the general public. Adhikari welcomed this as a positive start but stressed that without guarantees on who will purchase electricity and at what price, it will be difficult to attract private investment in large reservoir projects.

He also expressed concern that while the budget supports competitive PPAs for dry season electricity, it remains silent on policies regarding monsoon season power. Although the NPR 7 billion allocation for transmission lines raises hope for the energy sector, uncertainties created by the permit cancellation policy and restructuring of the authority remain an issue. For major projects like Budhigandaki, clear modalities for both administrative structure and investment are essential.

3% Health Equity Fee to Be Charged on Patients at Private Hospitals

The government has announced the imposition of a three percent tax labeled as the ‘Health Equity Fee’ on patients attending private hospitals in the fiscal year 2083/084. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle stated during the budget presentation in Parliament that this tax will be applied to all service fees charged by private healthcare institutions.

On 15th Jestha, Kathmandu, the government decided to levy a three percent tax on patients receiving treatment at private hospitals. The announcement was made in the fiscal year 2083/084 budget presented to Parliament on Friday, introducing the health equity fee at three percent. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle explained in his budget speech, “Private sector-run health institutions will charge a three percent health equity fee on all types of service fees collected from patients.”

Sadbhav and Tara Win Titles at 12th Nepal International Amateur Golf Championship

Nepal’s Sadbhav Acharya defended his title at the 12th Nepal International Amateur Golf Championship by defeating India’s Bhibhan Ubhayakar. In the women’s category, Nepal’s Tara Karki Chitrakar secured the gold medal with a total score of 241. Nepal dominated the competition, winning a total of five medals: three golds, one silver, and one bronze. Kathmandu, June 15.

Defending champion Sadbhav Acharya successfully retained the 12th Nepal International Amateur Golf Championship title. Acharya finished with an even-par score of 72 and a total of 9-under 207, defeating India’s Bhibhan Ubhayakar by four strokes. Sadbhav earned two gold medals – one for the team and one individual – matching his achievement from the previous edition.

Today, Bhibhan shot 2-under 70, finishing second with a 5-under 211 total. Nepal’s Rahul Bishwakarma secured third place with a 3-under 213 score. In the women’s division, Nepal’s Tara Karki Chitrakar won gold by defeating Samjhana Khatri by 14 strokes with an overall score of 25-over 241.

The competition featured 52 players from five South Asian nations: Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. Various associations and organizations contributed to the successful organization of the event.

निजी विद्यालयमा पढ्ने विद्यार्थीलाई तीन प्रतिशत कर

Three Percent Education Equality Fee to Be Collected from Private School Students

The government has decided to impose a three percent education equality fee on students enrolled in private schools starting from the upcoming fiscal year. The budget statement reads, “A three percent education equality fee will be added to all types of fees collected by educational institutions operated by the private sector.” May 29, Kathmandu.

The government has announced plans to collect a three percent tax from students attending private schools beginning the new fiscal year. This has been referred to as the ‘education equality fee’ in the budget. This means that an additional three percent charge will be levied on the fees paid by students. The budget statement explicitly states, ‘All types of fees collected from students by educational institutions operated by the private sector will include a three percent education equality fee.’

Government Announces Amendments to Provisions Related to Non-Residential Nepalese Citizenship

News Summary

  • The government has amended provisions related to Non-Residential Nepalese citizenship to implement the principle of “Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali.”
  • Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle stated that Non-Residential Nepalese will be granted extensive economic, social, and cultural rights and included in the country’s major development initiatives.
  • The budget aims to empower Nepalese delegations to promote exports, attract investment, and boost tourism.

May 29, Kathmandu – The government has announced plans to amend constitutional provisions related to Non-Residential Nepalese citizenship (NRNA), effectively putting into practice the slogan “Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali.”

During the presentation of the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle emphasized that Non-Residential Nepalese will be fully granted economic, social, and cultural rights and will be actively involved in the country’s key development initiatives.

Furthermore, the budget includes measures to strengthen and empower Nepali delegations operating abroad.

There is also a plan to bolster the diplomatic efforts of these delegations to enhance Nepal’s export capacity, attract bilateral trade and investment, and promote tourism.

The government has proposed legal amendments within the budget to allow Non-Residential Nepalese to participate in the securities market to encourage investment. Additionally, changes will be made to the legal framework concerning foreign investment approvals, investment auditing, profit repatriation provisions, and capital gains taxation.

Constitutional Expert Officer’s Analysis: The Cheetah Budget

15 Jestha, Kathmandu – Constitutional expert Dr. Bipin Adhikari has labeled the budget presented by Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle as the “Cheetah Budget.” He described this budget as swift, agile, bold, and embodying an aspiration for significant progress. Dr. Adhikari wrote on social media platform Facebook, “The budget is an aggressive attempt aimed at reform, technology orientation, and assuring the private sector.”

He further added, “The strong aspects of this budget include simplification of the tax system, administrative restructuring, reduction in public expenditure, facilitation of investment, focus on energy, AI technology, agricultural revival, health insurance, education reform, and infrastructure, all presented as a unified ‘reform package.'” Given the budget’s commitment to substantial spending, he also pointed out the need to fulfill this through debt and deficits.

Dr. Adhikari concluded that for the budget to succeed, revenue projections must be realistic, capital expenditure must be implemented on time, and the declared legal and institutional reforms must be meaningfully enforced within this year. He stated, “In terms of implementation, resource management, and expenditure discipline, this budget appears challenging. There is no lack of direction. This budget pursues an ambitious reformist course.” However, he cautioned, “Due to our weak administrative capacity, there is the risk that this budget may remain merely declarative.” According to him, the budget, characterized by rapid pace, aggressive reforms, and the aspiration for major progress, requires strict discipline in execution to be successful.

Iran Secures Consecutive Championship Title in CABA Women’s Volleyball Championship

Iran claimed the championship title for the second consecutive time by defeating Kazakhstan 3-1 in the final held at the Dasarath Rangasala Covered Hall in Tripureshwor on Friday. Iran emerged victorious in the CABA Women’s Volleyball Championship. In the third-place match, the host nation Nepal lost 3-1 to India, finishing the tournament without a medal. Iran maintained its dominance by conceding only one set throughout the final, successfully defending their crown. The event took place on 29 May in Kathmandu.

Remaining undefeated, Iran defended its title in the CABA Women’s Volleyball Championship. In the final at Dasarath Rangasala Covered Hall on Friday, Iran defeated Kazakhstan by 3-1 sets to secure the championship for a consecutive time. Iran took the lead by winning the first set 25-18. Kazakhstan responded by winning the second set 25-19. However, Iran dominated the third set 25-15 to regain the lead 2-1, and then sealed the championship by winning the fourth set 25-21.

Iran had previously won the tournament held in October 2025 in Uzbekistan. In the inaugural edition of this competition, which began in Kathmandu in 2024, Iran finished in third place. Since then, Iran has established its supremacy in Central Asia by winning the title consecutively in two editions. This time, Iran remained unbeaten through five matches, winning 15 sets in total and losing only one set in the final.

This victory marked the second time Iran defeated Kazakhstan in the same tournament, having also beaten them in straight sets during the group stage. In the semifinals, Iran defeated the host Nepal, while Kazakhstan overcame the 2024 champions India with identical 3-0 set scores, advancing both teams to the final. Kazakhstan entered the final aiming to avenge their earlier group stage loss, but Iran upheld their champion form to retain the title.

The tournament carries FIVB world ranking points, so Iran’s triumph will boost their ranking position. Both Iran and Kazakhstan are preparing to compete in the AVC Cup, with this championship serving as preparation. Coincidentally, both teams are in the same group for the AVC Cup tournament scheduled from June 6 to 14 in Candon, Philippines. They are joined in Group B by Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Lebanon. Group A includes Philippines, Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Australia, and Uzbekistan. Although Nepal aimed to secure a medal on home soil, they finished without one. In the third-place match held on Friday, Nepal lost 3-1 against their familiar rival India, who took third place while Nepal finished fourth. India defeated Nepal with set scores of 25-22, 25-23, 15-25, and 25-22. Nepal’s head coach Jagdish Bhatt described the tournament as a valuable learning experience for the team, which included several new players, competing against more experienced sides.

लक्जरी विद्युतीय गाडीको मूल्य बढ्ने – Online Khabar

Luxury Electric Vehicle Prices Set to Rise

The government has decided to increase customs duties and clean infrastructure investment fees on electric vehicles in the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, leading to a hike in the prices of luxury vehicles. Under the new regulations, electric vehicles priced above NPR 5 million will incur an additional clean infrastructure investment fee of up to 110%. Previously, customs duties were levied solely based on engine capacity, but now taxes will be determined based on the commercial value of the vehicles.

May 29, Kathmandu – Starting from the next fiscal year, the prices of luxury electric vehicles will increase. The government has raised customs duties and clean investment contribution fees based on vehicle prices, which will drive up vehicle costs. According to the new budget, electric vehicles will attract a 20% customs duty and a clean investment contribution fee of up to 110%, depending on their value.

Until now, electric vehicles were subject to customs duties based on engine capacity. The government has stipulated that for imported electric vehicles with a declared commercial value up to NPR 2 million, only a 2.5% clean infrastructure investment fee will be applied. For vehicles valued between NPR 3 million and NPR 4 million, an additional 15% clean infrastructure investment fee will be charged.

Vehicles with a commercial value between NPR 4 million and NPR 5 million will be subject to an added 70% clean infrastructure investment fee. For vehicles priced above NPR 5 million, an additional 110% clean infrastructure investment fee will apply. The government has clarified that the customs duty will be calculated on the declared value plus the applicable customs revenue, and on top of that, the clean infrastructure investment fee will be levied.

Triumphant Cheers for the Republic

With the faint crowing of the morning rooster, the dark veil of night was torn apart as the dawn’s rosy light softly whispered from the east. The first touch of sunlight saluted the martyrs while the Himalayan peaks smiled, dusted in white. At that moment, greeting the crimson young rays of the sun, grandmother softly proclaimed, “Long live the Republic, Long live the Republic.” Holding a plate and gathering drops of faith in her heart, early in the morning she went to the temple to offer the water of revolution, praying and worshipping the deities and remembering the martyrs. As the temple bells tolled, symbolizing the toll of faith, grandmother echoed in unison, “Long live the Republic, Long live the Republic.”

Breaking down the forts of tyranny and piercing through the barbed wires of conspiracy, uprooting the deep-rooted ideas that had become rotten, the exposure of the misdeeds of feudalism continues unabated. “To bring an era, my sisters, brothers, and comrades, raising the banner of new awareness, breaking through the walls of dictatorship, raising sky-high slogans, fist to fist, voice to voice, together with the roaring waves of the people’s ocean, we loudly proclaimed, Long live the Republic, Long live the Republic.”

The milk-fed infant, gently rocking in the warmth of a mother’s embrace, with sleepy eyes filled with maternal tenderness, when he dreamed the beautiful dream of a new Nepal, stopped suckling and in a baby’s babble said, “Long live the Republic, Long live the Republic.”

According to Vishnu Rizal, Budget is Balanced but Average

May 28, Kathmandu – Nepali Congress leader Vishnu Rizal described the budget as balanced yet average. He stated, “There is a lack of resources, and there are few major announcements. The debt level is high, both internally and externally.” On Facebook, Rizal wrote, “The budget’s implementation will only be possible if foreign investors provide funding.” He commented that allocating 20 percent of the budget to development projects and targeting a 7 percent economic growth rate is unrealistic. He added, “The budget is focused on the middle class, with significant expectations placed on remittances.”