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Author: space4knews

सय रुपैयाँ बढीको सामानमा भन्सार शुल्क लिने निर्णयमा सर्वोच्चको रोक

Supreme Court Issues Interim Ban on Customs Duty for Goods Priced Over 100 Rupees

May 15, Kathmandu – The Supreme Court has issued an interim order halting the government’s plan to impose customs duty on daily consumer goods priced over 100 rupees. This decision temporarily suspends the collection of customs tax on goods exceeding 100 rupees brought by the general public through border points between Nepal and India.

On Friday, a bench comprising Justices Hariprasad Phuyal and Tekprasad Dhungana directed the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Finance, and related agencies not to impose customs duties on daily consumer goods through this interim order.

This move came after lawyers Amitesh Pandit, Akash Mahto, Suyogya Singh, and Prashant Bikram Shah filed a petition at the Supreme Court on April 27 opposing the Finance Ministry’s decision. According to advocate Mahto, the order references Section 13(2) of the Customs Duty Act 2081 (2024), which exempts certain items from customs duty. “Section 13(2) of the Customs Duty Act 2081 grants customs exemptions. However, the Gazette notification dated May 28, 2028 (2025) imposes customs tax on goods priced over 100 rupees, a directive that conflicts with the Act. Based on this, we petitioned invoking Section 13(2) and the court issued the present order,” he explained.

Earlier, the Ministry of Finance mandated customs duty on goods priced above 100 rupees, leading to stricter enforcement at border points in the Terai-Madhesh region. This generated public discontent among local residents. The lawyers’ petition argued that the practice of levying customs on daily consumer goods over 100 rupees across the Nepal-India border contravenes existing provisions and requested immediate cessation of such charges.

With the Supreme Court’s interim order in place, the government is restrained from collecting customs duty on daily consumer goods until the final verdict on the case is delivered.

Supreme Court Orders Release of Nepal Investment Mega Bank CEO Jyoti Pandey on Bail

The Supreme Court has ordered the release of Jyoti Pandey, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nepal Investment Mega Bank, on bail. A bench comprising Justices Saranga Subedi and Shanti Singh Thapa permitted an investigation to proceed with Pandey under the supervision of a senior advocate. The court ruled that there was no need to keep him in custody for the investigation and issued an order for his release on bail.

On May 15, in Kathmandu, the Supreme Court directed that Jyoti Pandey be released on bail and continue the investigation while appearing regularly before the court. The bench instructed that Pandey be released on bail to appear under the supervision of a designated senior advocate. The court also stipulated that Pandey cannot leave the country without prior court approval.

The court noted that there was no justification for keeping him in custody during the investigation and therefore issued an order for release on bail. Jyoti Pandey’s wife, Niru Dahal, had petitioned the Supreme Court for bail, arguing that he was being held unlawfully. The Criminal Investigation Bureau had arrested Pandey on charges including criminal breach of trust related to the auction and sale of Smart Telecom’s assets. Various banking and financial institutions protested, claiming that his arrest was fueled by political bias.

India Announces First Fuel Price Hike in Four Years as Nepal Raises Prices Six Times

News Summary

Following the conflict involving the US and Israel attacking Iran, India has implemented its first fuel price increase in four years. Meanwhile, Nepal has raised petroleum prices six times, with petrol currently priced at NPR 217 per liter. The Indian government has introduced a frugality plan to reduce fuel consumption, and Prime Minister Modi has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel.

May 15, Kathmandu – Citing the ongoing war triggered by US and Israeli attacks on Iran, India has implemented its first fuel price hike in four years to offset losses caused by rising crude oil prices in the international market, according to Reuters citing Indian dealers. In contrast, Nepal, which relies on India for fuel supplies, has increased fuel prices at least six times during this period. Currently, petrol costs NPR 217 per liter in Nepal, diesel and kerosene are priced at NPR 225 per liter, and LPG cylinders are NPR 2,160 each.

Previously, on April 15, Nepal Oil Corporation set fuel prices at NPR 219 per liter for petrol, NPR 237 per liter for diesel and kerosene, and NPR 2,010 per LPG cylinder. In India, government oil companies have raised retail prices of petrol and diesel by 3 rupees per liter (approximately 3%). India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer, has been the last major economy to raise fuel prices due to the conflict that began with the US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

The Indian government has also launched a frugality campaign aimed at reducing fuel consumption, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on the public to avoid unnecessary travel to manage demand.

Suspension of ANFA Leadership Lifted

The National Sports Council has lifted the suspension imposed on the leadership of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). The decision to revoke the suspension came after ANFA officials, including the General Secretary, held discussions with the Minister of Education and Sports, Susmit Pokharel. The suspension had originally been imposed by the Council on March 24, based on Section 29(2) of the Sports Development Act, 2020.

May 15, Kathmandu – The National Sports Council (NSC) has officially lifted the suspension placed on ANFA’s leadership. The agreement to revoke the suspension was reached following a meeting on Friday between ANFA’s General Secretary and other officials with Education and Sports Minister Susmit Pokharel. ANFA spokesperson Suresh Shah confirmed that the suspension has been lifted unconditionally. “The suspension has been revoked without any conditions. We have informed FIFA about this development and will provide further details soon. Following the lifting of the suspension, the likelihood of the women’s team participating in the SAFF Women’s Championship has increased,” Shah stated. Prior to this, the NSC had repeatedly cited non-compliance with directives, which led to the suspension decision on March 24, based on Section 29(2) of the Sports Development Act, 2020.

सरकार स्क्रिनिङमै व्यस्त, अन्योलमा सुकुमवासी – Online Khabar

Government Preoccupied with Screening Amid Uncertainty for Squatters

News Summary

Reviewed by Journalists.

  • Kathmandu administration committed on April 23 to provide proper housing arrangements for squatters within 15 days.
  • Squatter Geeta Thapa complained of an uncertain future and loss of livelihood at the Kirtipur holding center.
  • The government is preparing to screen squatters and provide a monthly rent of NPR 15,000 until land ownership documents are distributed.

April 31, Kathmandu – “Within the next 10 to 15 days, preparations are underway to provide appropriate housing arrangements for verified landless people. We request your cooperation in this effort,” said the District Administration Office, Kathmandu, on April 23.

This assurance came before the administration planned to deploy bulldozers to the settlements along the river banks where squatters resided. On April 25 at 6 a.m., the administration notified residents about demolitions and warned of strict actions against any obstructions.

Moreover, the administration promised, “All individuals and families relocated from this area will be provided with minimum basic amenities at government-designated resettlement sites.”

Thus, the administration’s notice, with its specified deadlines, kindled hope among the squatters. The Prime Minister’s Facebook post further raised expectations: “We are in government. We will distinguish between encroachers and squatters,” wrote Prime Minister Balen. “We will expedite the land distribution process to genuine squatters across the country. This government will bring a permanent solution to this decades-old problem.”

However, after 19 days, Geeta Lama remains unsettled. Currently residing in the Kirtipur holding center, she has access to adequate food but remains deeply worried about an uncertain future. Her daughter has passed the SEE exams but has limited opportunities for further education. Additionally, medical treatment for her disabled husband is causing stress. A doctor prescribed surgery costing NPR 700,000, so her husband is currently confined at home due to a neck vein ailment.

Three days ago, her grandson developed a fever and had to be taken to Bir Hospital with government assistance. That night, the child showed symptoms of jaundice, reflecting the health challenges faced by the family, Geeta shared.

Geeta Thapa was formerly a squatter living in Thapathali East. She supported her family through daily wage labor. After relocating to Kirtipur, she found no such work. “Money is more important than entertainment now. The government allowance is helpful but insufficient for daily laborers like us,” she lamented.

Despite the assurances to provide proper arrangements within 15 days and her loss of livelihood at the Kirtipur holding center, Geeta remains anxious as no concrete plans have emerged even after 19 days.

She said, “We were told we would be relocated and arrangements made within 15 days, but 19 days have passed with no information. In the meantime, some have already been moved to the holding center in Banepa.”

Currently, 172 squatters live in the Kirtipur holding center managed by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City. Others have been moved to holding centers in Banepa, Balaju Guest House, Kharipati in Bhaktapur, and the Urban Development Building in Chandragiri.

“Discussion Underway to Provide Three Months’ Rent to Enable Return Home”

According to sources from the Ministry, discussions are ongoing on various options to manage the squatters brought from the settlements into holding centers. A verification team has been formed, and subsequent plans to accommodate individuals and families are under review.

Initially, the government is considering providing squatters with funds equivalent to three months’ rent to facilitate their temporary return to their respective locations. Plans to develop other forms of management after this period are also being discussed.

“Discussions are ongoing to provide three months of rent so squatters can prepare to return to their destinations,” said a ministry source. “Keeping many people in holding centers tends to cause disputes, so alternative options are being explored.”

However, no final decision has been made yet regarding those who lack temporary addresses. The ministry is actively working on solutions.

Despite the government’s promise to manage the situation within 15 days through screening, the delay beyond 19 days has increased uncertainty for those at the holding centers. The source also mentioned ongoing discussions about allocating land in respective districts to resettle those without options.

“Given limited alternatives, discussions include the possibility of settling displaced people by providing land in their home districts. However, no conclusions have been reached yet,” an official remarked.

Government Struggles with Screening Process

Although bulldozers have been deployed with a promise of immediate arrangements, after 19 days the government has yet to deliver concrete solutions. The administration is still engrossed in the screening process to discern between fake and genuine squatters.

Hari Dhakal, Chairperson of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, stated that screening of landless individuals in various Kathmandu holding centers is ongoing, with an aim to expedite the distribution of land ownership documents.

According to Dhakal, the government is preparing to provide a monthly housing allowance of NPR 15,000 to genuine squatters until land ownership certificates are issued. The Ministry of Urban Development has assured the committee regarding this plan and its funding.

In addition, arrangements have been made for school buses for children residing in the holding centers, and nutrition support for pregnant women has also been provided.

“Screening of landless people at Kathmandu holding centers is ongoing,” Dhakal said. “A monthly housing allowance of NPR 15,000 is ready for distribution until land ownership certificates are issued, and the sources have been secured.”

The parliamentary committee has also decided to conduct on-site monitoring to gain an accurate understanding of the government’s presented information and progress.

Review Underway for Permanent Deposit Facility to Banks and Financial Institutions

News Summary

Review Completed.

  • The Nepal Rastra Bank is preparing to review the arrangement for providing permanent deposit facilities to banks and financial institutions to make the interest rate corridor more effective.
  • Although inflation remains below the bank’s target, the central bank has warned that global geopolitical tensions could pose inflationary risks.
  • According to the third quarterly review of the current fiscal year 2082/83, despite excess liquidity in the financial system, collective vigilance by banks has maintained financial stability amid managed macroeconomic indicators.

May 15, Kathmandu – The Nepal Rastra Bank is set to review the provision that offers permanent deposit facilities to banks and financial institutions, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of the interest rate corridor.

This move was disclosed in the third quarterly monetary policy review report of the current fiscal year 2082/83, where the central bank announced plans for this policy adjustment.

The central bank reported that it has maintained a flexible monetary policy since the start of the fiscal year, considering low economic growth projections while aiming to keep foreign exchange reserves and inflation within targeted stability.

Existing regulations regarding the interest rate corridor, bank rates, mandatory cash reserves, and statutory liquidity ratios have been kept unchanged, said the Nepal Rastra Bank.

The ongoing monetary policy for the current fiscal year is expected to support the expansion of economic activities while maintaining price stability, external sector strength, and financial sector resilience.

Inflation below Bank’s Target

According to the Nepal Rastra Bank, inflation currently remains below its target. However, it has cautioned that inflationary pressures may rise due to geopolitical tensions worldwide.

Since the outbreak of conflict in West Asia, prices of petroleum products have surged, and the supply chains for raw materials and some consumer goods have been disrupted. During this period, petrol prices in Nepal increased by 35 percent and diesel by 58 percent.

The central bank described the external sector of the economy as stable. Remittance inflows have notably increased, and the current account, secondary savings, and foreign exchange reserves have all recorded growth.

Nearly 40 percent of remittances to Nepal originate from West Asia, and ongoing regional tensions pose risks of increased trade deficits due to rising remittance and imported goods prices. This could also pressure foreign currency reserves, the central bank warned.

The level of non-performing loans in banks and financial institutions has generally increased. However, the central bank expects improvement in these loans as economic activity picks up.

As of the end of Chaitra 2082, the primary capital and capital fund to risk-weighted asset ratios of banks and financial institutions remained within regulatory standards, ensuring overall financial stability, the Nepal Rastra Bank reported. The financial system has experienced excess liquidity for the past three years.

The review report noted that banks have remained vigilant in managing the potential impacts of prolonged excess liquidity on macroeconomic indicators.

Experts Recommend Increasing Education Budget to Enhance Contribution to Academic Research

At the second international conference, experts emphasized the need for universities to expand their budgets for academic research. Dr. Dilliraj Sharma of Tribhuvan University highlighted the importance of promoting research through collaboration with the private sector. Participating economists at the conference stressed prioritizing academic research in Nepal and providing intellectual support to the government in policy formulation. Kathmandu, 1 Jestha.
Experts underscored that universities must be allocated adequate education budgets to significantly contribute to academic research. The second international conference, held at Mega College in Kumari Pati, Lalitpur, called for increased government investment to ensure quality higher education. Economists from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, and other countries participated in the program.
Former Dean of the Faculty of Management at Tribhuvan University, Professor Dr. Dilliraj Sharma, emphasized fostering academic research through partnerships with the private sector. Dr. Sharma expressed concern that while theoretical education receives investment in Nepal, research and innovation are not prioritized. He stated, ‘To achieve sustainable development goals, efficient management capacity is essential. Global perspectives must be extended locally. For this, the government must prioritize academic research.’
He added that only by increasing the education sector’s budget can the country produce a workforce capable of competing in the global market. Dr. Harendra Kumar Singh, Head of the Faculty of Management at Banaras Hindu University in India, pointed out that management is the most crucial tool for effective governance. Citing examples from the global economy, Dr. Singh argued that investments made by powerful nations in research yield positive economic results.
He also noted that educational collaboration between Nepal and India remains insufficient and stressed the need to strengthen educational ties, akin to the strong political and cultural relations between the two countries. Dr. Anjay Kumar Mishra, Dean of the Faculty of Management at Madhes University, stated that Nepalese economists can overcome the challenges faced in the research sector alongside technological advancements. Padma Prasad Pandey, Secretary General of the Federal Parliament, described economists as a supportive force for any nation.
He claimed that the international conference held in Nepal will assist in the development of national laws and policies. Dr. Ghanshyam Prasad Sah, Principal of Mega College, Kumari Pati, mentioned that the papers presented, research findings, and discussions at the second international conference would significantly contribute to national policy-making. Dr. Dipendra Kumar Chaudhary, President of Nepal Commerce Association, affirmed that Nepali academic researchers’ studies on the global economy and contemporary issues meet international standards. Chaudhary stated that the conference’s conclusions would intellectually assist the government in policy formulation. The conference, continuing until Saturday, is attended by professors of management faculties from most Nepali universities, researchers, and students from business, commerce, technology, and law disciplines.

Pakistan Docked 8 Points in World Test Championship for Slow Over Rate

News Summary

Prepared by AI and editorially reviewed.

  • Pakistan cricket team penalized for slow over rate during the first Test against Bangladesh.
  • ICC imposes 5% match fee fine per slow over and deducts 1 point in the World Test Championship for each delayed over.
  • Pakistan captain Shan Masood admits to the charge.

May 15, Kathmandu – The Pakistan cricket team has been fined for maintaining a slow over rate during the first Test match against Bangladesh.

The ICC imposed a fine of 40% of the match fee on Pakistan and deducted 8 points from their World Test Championship (WTC) tally.

The team was found to be 8 overs behind the prescribed over rate within the allocated time. After adjusting for allowances, the side still lagged behind the required target.

According to ICC regulations, players are fined 5% of their match fee for each slow over incurred.

Additionally, one WTC point is deducted for each slow over bowled during the match.

This sanction was enacted by Emirates ICC Elite Panel match referee Jeff Crowe. Pakistan captain Shan Masood acknowledged the charge, eliminating the need for further hearings.

The charge was lodged jointly by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Kumar Dharmasena, third umpire Allaudin Palekar, and fourth umpire Ghazi Sohel.

With this penalty, Pakistan’s WTC points have dropped from 38 to 30.

मार्शको आक्रामक ब्याटिङमा लखनउले चेन्नईलाई हरायो

Mitchell Marsh’s Aggressive Batting Leads Lucknow to Victory over Chennai

Mitchell Marsh scored 90 runs off 38 balls as Lucknow Super Giants defeated Chennai Super Kings. Chennai posted a total of 187 runs for 5 wickets in 20 overs, with Kartik Sharma top-scoring with 71 runs. Marsh’s aggressive innings helped Lucknow comfortably chase down the target. Kathmandu, May 15.

After Marsh’s 90, Lucknow reached the target of 188 runs in 16.4 overs, losing only 3 wickets during the IPL 2026 clash. Following Marsh’s dismissal for 90, Nicholas Pooran remained unbeaten with 32 runs off 17 balls. Josh Inglis was dismissed for 36, but he and Marsh put together a 135-run partnership for the opening wicket in 11.4 overs. This partnership was crucial for Lucknow’s victory.

For Chennai, Mukesh Chaudhary and Spencer Johnson took one wicket apiece. Marsh was unfortunately run out while at the non-striker’s end. Chennai lost the toss and opted to bat first, finishing with 187 for 5 in their 20 overs. Kartik Sharma scored the highest for Chennai with 71 runs off 42 balls, including 6 fours and 5 sixes. Akash Singh took 3 wickets for Lucknow, while Mohammed Shami and Shahbaz Ahmad took one wicket each. With this win, Lucknow has 8 points from 12 matches, while Chennai remains fifth with 12 points from 12 games.

Labour Ministry Takes Firm Measures Against Outsourced Workers’ Exploitation, Issues Regulatory Correspondence

Summary of the Report

  • The government has issued strict directives to Nepal Rastra Bank and labour supply companies to prevent labour exploitation of outsourced workers in accordance with the Labour Act.
  • Following complaints of security guards in banks and financial institutions being denied minimum wage and benefits, the Labour Department has written to Nepal Rastra Bank to regulate the matter.
  • The Supreme Court has issued directive orders addressing labour supply at lower bids under the Public Procurement Act, which violates the Labour Act.

May 15, Kathmandu – The government has taken a firm stand against the exploitation of workers outsourced through various agencies.

Official letters have been sent to Nepal Rastra Bank, labour supply companies, and related agencies, instructing them to safeguard workers’ rights in line with the Labour Act.

The Labour and Occupational Safety Department under the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security has requested Nepal Rastra Bank to issue directions to banks and financial institutions, ensuring the protection of workers’ rights supplied through labour agencies.

Following findings of labour exploitation against security guards, cleaning staff, frontline workers, and office support staff working in banks and financial institutions, the department has appealed for control measures as per labour laws.

There has been a rise in complaints about labour exploitation against outsourced workers in banks and financial institutions reported recently to the government Help Desk, the Labour Ministry, and the Labour Department.

Department spokesperson Engineer Maninath Gopal reported receiving recurring complaints regarding non-payment of minimum wage and excessive workload. Due to the volume of grievances, a formal correspondence has been sent to Nepal Rastra Bank urging tighter regulation.

According to Section 59 of the Labour Act 2074, labour supply companies are permitted to employ workers under security services, facilitation services, business assistance services, and domestic help services.

However, numerous complaints have surfaced stating that banks and financial institutions (primary employers) and labour supply companies (employers) fail to pay security personnel and others the government-mandated minimum wage, and do not provide service benefits as required under the Labour Act 2074 and Labour Rules 2075.

The department disclosed it had previously sent a letter dated March 11, 2026, to Nepal Rastra Bank requesting enforcement of the Labour Act, but due to inadequate implementation, the ministry has now reiterated the request with strong directives.

Rule 56 of Labour Rules 2075 mandates establishments to conduct labour audits annually by the end of January. Sub-rule (4) stipulates that banks and financial institutions must submit labour audit reports to Nepal Rastra Bank.

The department has once again written to Nepal Rastra Bank, instructing it to strictly enforce these provisions among banks and financial institutions.

Additionally, all labour supply companies, the Nepal Labour Suppliers Association, and the Security Professionals’ Organizations Nepal have been directed to ensure provision of all rights and service benefits due to workers under the Labour Act and other applicable laws.

The department has issued a stern warning of action against entities failing to provide such services and benefits to workers.

Complaints alleging that security guards working in banks and financial institutions are paid below the minimum wage, forced to work excessive hours, given inadequate festival allowances, and denied labour benefits as per the Labour Act have prompted the department to issue strict instructions to labour suppliers, warning of penalties.

The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security has intensified enforcement of labour rights due to recurring complaints of non-payment of minimum wages and overwork.

This move follows complaints filed at the Prime Minister’s Office and the government Help Desk. The Outsourcing Workers’ Organisation Nepal had submitted a petition to the Labour Department on December 9, 2025, demanding regulation and legal action against labour supply violations.

After prolonged inaction, Outsourcing Workers’ Organisation Chairperson Narayan Prasad Kharel took the matter to the Prime Minister’s Office, the government Help Desk, and the National Vigilance Centre in order to escalate the issue.

Due to lack of response at the department, pressure from these bodies was directed towards the Labour Ministry.

According to Chairperson Kharel, labour supply companies initially expected to comply with the Labour Act have begun underbidding contracts under the Public Procurement Act, which affects tender approvals adversely.

“Whereas the Labour Act requires certain conditions, supply companies are offering lower bids following the Public Procurement Act. We filed a complaint with the National Vigilance Centre against this tender approval irregularity,” said Kharel. “When our written petitions were not addressed promptly by the department, I, along with administrative officials, filed complaints at the National Vigilance Centre, which eventually led to action.”

The practice of assigning security guards and other outsourced workers according to the Public Procurement Act at lower costs instead of following the Labour Act has led to a writ petition lodged at the Supreme Court. On May 8, a directive order was issued in the government’s name addressing the issue.

Increasingly, labour offices are receiving complaints where a single labour supplier has allegedly exploited between 232 and 300 workers.

The Labour Department has set the minimum monthly wage for security guards at NPR 27,737, yet some employers continue paying only NPR 19,550.

52 Kilograms of Opium and Three Firearms Seized in Dhading

Dhading police have confiscated 51.98 kilograms of opium and three firearms from Hovang, Ward No. 2, Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality. A 35-year-old man named Birbahadur Tamang has been arrested along with the drugs and weapons and a case filed at the Gajuri Police Station. Additionally, two other individuals were apprehended with firearms, and further investigation and legal action are underway. Report dated 1 Jestha from Malekhu, Dhading.

The Dhading police made a significant seizure of illicit drugs and weapons. From Hovang in southern Dhading’s Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality, they recovered 51.98 kilograms of pure opium. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Prakash Dahal of the Dhading District Police Office, a search of Tamang’s home uncovered a firearm hidden inside a goatshed, along with two digital scales.

Near Tamang’s sleeping area, five plastic buckets containing a black sticky substance resembling opium were found. Under the supervision of local representatives, the substance was weighed and confirmed to be exactly 51.98 kilograms. Tamang was previously involved in a narcotics case and was evading arrest. He is currently in custody, with charges registered for narcotics possession and possession of illegal firearms.

Police also arrested 28-year-old Viraj Tamang and Sanokanchha Tamang, each found with a firearm at their respective homes in Hovang. Deputy Superintendent Dahal confirmed both arrests were made at their residences, and further legal action is being pursued.

Arambha School Honors International Table Tennis Medalist Nischal Thapa Kshetri

Arambha Sanskar School, located in Golkupakha, has honored Nischal Thapa Kshetri for winning silver and bronze medals at the South Asian Youth Table Tennis Championship. The event, held in Shimla, India, from April 8 to 11, saw Nischal claim a silver medal in the U-15 Boys Doubles and a bronze medal in the U-15 Boys Team event. Arambha’s Principal Naresh Prasad Shrestha and Vice Principal Dinesh Shrestha presented Nischal with a certificate of appreciation and a token of affection.

During the same occasion, Prajña Maharjan was also bid farewell as she prepared to participate in the International Christian Table Tennis Championship taking place in Incheon, South Korea. Nischal is currently in grade 9 and Prajña in grade 7 at Arambha, where both students receive full scholarships. A total of six players from Nepal, including Prajña, will compete in the May 27 tournament.

Other team members are Himal Bista, Yonggi Paudel, Suramya Shakya, Rijan Shakya, and Rivanmuni Bajracharya. Prior to the competition, the players will attend the Yang Yongja Table Tennis Mission International Camp in Incheon from May 16 to 26. The team is scheduled to depart this Saturday. Speaking at the event, Principal Shrestha stated that Nischal’s achievements have enhanced the reputation of not only the school but the nation as well. He also noted that Arambha has been providing scholarships to support talented athletes in pursuing their sporting careers. Principal Shrestha extended his best wishes to Prajña for success in her upcoming competition. Vice Principal Dinesh Shrestha added that Arambha emphasizes holistic development by giving special importance to sports and extracurricular activities alongside academics.

निरुता महिला भलिबल टोलीको नयाँ कप्तान नियुक्त – Online Khabar

Niruta Thagunna Appointed New Captain of Nepal Women’s National Volleyball Team

Niruta Thagunna has been selected as the new captain of the Nepal Women’s National Volleyball Team. The 69th executive committee meeting of the Nepal Volleyball Association officially announced Niruta as the team captain. She will lead Nepal in the upcoming Kavha Women’s Volleyball Championship starting from Jestha 8.

The 28-year-old Niruta plays domestic volleyball for the Nepal APF Club. She also brings captaincy experience from franchise volleyball, having served as the captain of Madhesh United for two consecutive seasons in the Everest Women’s Volleyball League. Niruta made her national team debut in 2019 at the AVC Asian Women Central Zone Championship held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, where she won a gold medal in her first tournament.

The previous captain, Aruna Shahi, was in Australia and therefore was not included in the closed training camp of 20 players called by the Nepal Volleyball Association for the Kavha Women’s Volleyball Championship. This opened the way for a new captain to be appointed. Since 2019, Niruta has been a key contributor in continuing the golden journey of the Nepal women’s volleyball team. She has helped the national team secure one gold, two silver, and one bronze medal during her tenure.

Originally from Darchula, Niruta moved to Kathmandu and began playing volleyball with the Tribhuvan Army Club. Although she was interested in various sports during school, she initially did not have a special passion for volleyball. However, she was inspired to pursue the sport following encouragement from player Nil Awasthi. After being selected for the district-level Presidential Running Shield in 2072 BS and completing her SLC exams the same year, she started competing at the provincial level in volleyball.

‘Factional Meetings Have No Meaning for Power Sharing’ – Pradeep Paudel

News Summary

  • Pradeep Paudel, General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, accused the Prime Minister of lacking seriousness toward the policy and program and neglecting the Parliament.
  • General Secretary Paudel criticized parallel activities and factional gatherings within the Congress and urged all dissatisfied leaders to discuss their concerns within the party committees.
  • Paudel emphasized that the upcoming budget should be designed to meet public expectations, ensuring reforms and good governance.

Pradeep Paudel, General Secretary of the main opposition party Nepali Congress, expressed dissatisfaction over the government’s policy and program, stating that the Prime Minister lacks seriousness. He also accused the Prime Minister of extreme neglect toward Parliament.

While parallel activities and factional meetings are occurring within Congress, General Secretary Paudel strongly criticized the tendency to create power centers to seek power sharing in the party. He asserted that the recent appointments to the central working committee comply with party rules and urged all dissatisfied leaders to come forward and discuss issues within the committee.

Given that the current government is strong and enjoys popular support, Paudel emphasized there is no allowance for excuses in the next fiscal year’s budget. Below is the interview with General Secretary Paudel:

The government has just introduced its policy and program. How does the Nepali Congress perceive this?

Many questions arise in the context in which the policy and program was introduced. However, the Prime Minister did not show seriousness toward it. The Prime Minister was absent when the President presented the government’s policy and program in Parliament, indicating a lack of commitment from the Prime Minister.

Discussions on the policy and program should be conducted by the Prime Minister in Parliament, answering questions, but this seriousness has not been seen. The Prime Minister seems to treat it as a mere formality each year and has shown significant neglect toward Parliament.

Parliament was again adjourned prematurely, key issues were introduced through ordinances, and the government did not consider it necessary to bring them to Parliament. The President read the policy and program, but respect for both the President and Parliament was not shown in these procedures.

The content of the policy and program does not show progress according to public support and expectations. There are no plans to bring hope or change the country; rather, controversies arise more from the presentation and the Prime Minister’s behavior.

Why have the opposition parties launched such strong protests even though the government’s 100 days are not over?

The government’s work and conduct generate opposition. Even before completing 100 days, the government has given many reasons for protest. Opposition reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the government’s work. Neglect of Parliament and the Prime Minister’s disregard toward Parliament are extremely troubling.

The government must perform its duties according to established procedures. Opposition highlights the government’s weaknesses. Both supporters and critics should be treated fairly. Now is the time to work maturely and responsibly.

What kind of budget should be presented for the upcoming fiscal year?

This government is powerful and enjoys great public trust. Based on this, the next budget should maintain reforms and good governance aligned with public expectations. It must clearly outline plans for reforms covering all sectors including education, health, infrastructure, and security.

Good governance does not mean merely low expenditure but depends on implementation and commitment. Clear programs are needed to manage petroleum price increases and control inflation. Health insurance should also be prioritized and must be advanced by the government.

The budget should propose long-term reforms, reduce inequality, and improve people’s living standards. With a stable government for five years, continuity of programs must be ensured, and excuses should not be made.

Is there tension in the alliances between Congress and UML at the provincial level?

Provincial and local governments are formed by alliances which are inevitable. Certain aspects require balance and improvement in governance. Within a year, the government is preparing strategies to perform well and send positive messages.

Various disputes occur, but the main focus remains on preserving the alliance. The priority is working in government and being accountable to the people.

What is your view on dissatisfaction and factional meetings within Nepali Congress?

Factions and groups are not new in politics, but the main work of the party is to serve the country and the people. Factionalism weakens the party. Therefore, efforts are underway to include all dissatisfied leaders and resolve these issues within the party.

We are working to incorporate both experienced and senior leaders in the new committees. Discussions are ongoing at all levels to prevent division and strengthen the party.

The tendency to form power centers to seek power sharing must be corrected. Everyone is ready to come together, discuss, and resolve problems. The party is for development and leadership, not street-fighting politics.

What about the appointments within the party?

Qualified and active leaders have been appointed to the committees. Responsibility is assigned based on individuals’ capabilities and contributions. Party decisions are made on consensus, so disputes should be avoided.

Power centers and power-sharing tendencies are harmful to the party. Our efforts focus on bringing dissatisfied leaders and groups back into the party structure.

What is the situation regarding the recent Bagmati Province level rally from the Deuba faction and preparations for the general convention?

Consensus building and collective mechanisms are crucial to ensure a fair and successful general convention. Instead of forcibly creating new committees, the policy is to seek consensus within the current central committee. Senior leaders are actively engaged in building consensus and preparing for the convention.

Members must renew their memberships within the deadline to participate in the convention. Efforts are ongoing to digitally update old member records, not to add new members. This will enhance transparency and strengthen party organization.

Are there efforts to bring back main dissatisfied leaders?

Efforts are ongoing to engage these leaders and invite them to collaborate within the committee. A nationwide campaign is underway to unite and keep the party dynamic and active.

Priority is on advancing the party rather than internal conflicts. Due to limited time, plans are in place to prepare for the convention swiftly and effectively.

How is participation and sentiment in provincial-level trainings and meetings?

Due to past electoral defeat and internal disputes, members are not very enthusiastic. But now the party is moving toward working unitedly. A sentiment is developing for members to actively represent and support the public.

What about the dissolution of 13 affiliated organizations and appointing new leadership?

The affiliated organizations’ terms expired due to inactivity, so no extensions have been granted. While the Women’s Association has new leadership, discussions for new leadership in other organizations are ongoing. Necessary support and facilitation will be provided.

If conventions are not completed, the process of dissolving organizations may be enforced.

Simultaneous Transfer of 149 Deputy Superintendent of Police Officers in Nepal Police

The Nepal Police has transferred 149 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) all at once. The Human Resource Development Branch of the Nepal Police Headquarters announced the transfers on Friday. Kathmandu, 1 Jestha. However, the details of which DSP has been transferred to which location have not been made public.