Author: space4knews

Kathmandu, March 26 – Sovita Gautam has been assigned the responsibility of the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah, who was recently appointed, has expanded his cabinet today and finalized the names of the ministers.

Accordingly, the charge of the Ministry of Law has been given to Sovita Gautam.

Similarly, Sudhan Gurung has been assigned to the Ministry of Home Affairs; Shisir Khanal to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Biraj Bhakta Shrestha to the Ministry of Energy; Amresh Kumar Singh to the Ministry of Industry; and Pratibha Rawal to the Ministry of General Administration.

Image source, Reuters

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Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reports that Trump is considering deploying an additional 10,000 troops to the Middle East.

Oil Prices Experience Slight Drop

Image source, Bloomberg via Getty Images

After Trump extended the deadline to attack Iranian energy facilities from five days to two weeks, global oil prices fell slightly during Asian morning trading on Friday.

In Asian markets, the crude oil benchmark Brent Crude dropped by 1.2 percent to $106.76 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate decreased by 1.1 percent to $93.41.

Following the worst day seen on Wall Street since the outbreak of war, Asian equity markets also reflected the American losses.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell by 1.6%, and South Korea’s KOSPI dropped by 4.2%.

Both Japan and South Korea heavily depend on oil and gas, which are largely transported through the narrow Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has frequently disrupted this critical waterway.

Warning Signs for Trump

Image source, EPA

Since returning to the White House last January, President Trump’s popularity among Americans has steadily declined.

Three weeks into the Iran war, average gas prices have reached $4 per gallon. Meanwhile, Trump’s economic approval rating has dropped to 29%.

At the conflict’s onset, by February 28 only 42% of Americans viewed Trump positively; this week that number fell to 40%.

However, there has not been a significant drop in overall presidential approval. According to Pew Research Center data, although most Americans opposed early military intervention, Trump’s political base has continued to support him.

A recent Quinnipiac University poll shows that 86% of Republicans support U.S. military action against Iran, and 80% approve of Trump’s handling of the situation.

13 Chaitra, Kathmandu — On Chaitra 11, Lokeshkumar Ayadi from Triveni Municipality-7, Bajura, dressed in a black jeans jacket and pants, was seen hurrying within the Kathmandu District Court premises. Following him was Punam Kunwar from Gaumul-4 of the same district, wearing a green kurta suruwal.

They had not come for any legal dispute or administrative issue but to get married through a court marriage, also known as registered marriage. After completing the necessary procedures, the groom Ayadi and bride Kunwar received their marriage registration certificate that very day.

Ayadi, who is on a short leave from his job in Japan, arranged the court marriage with the consent of his family. He said, ‘As it was the month of Chaitra, I was unable to find a suitable traditional date, so with my family’s approval, I chose to have a court marriage. It was less costly and faster than a traditional ceremony, and I couldn’t return home for a conventional wedding.’

Traditionally, weddings are associated with elaborate outfits, jewelry, and decorations. However, the growing number of court marriages is bringing more diversity to these conventional perceptions.

Ayadi and Kunwar are not alone; on Chaitra 10, Kasam Pant from Bhanumunipality-12, Tanahun, and Bhawana Giri from Tripura Sundari Rural Municipality-1, Dhading, also registered their marriage at the same court.

The couple, wearing simple attire and carrying schoolbags, were seen taking pictures with their newly obtained marriage certificate in front of the court signboard. Groom Pant stated, ‘I learned through self-study that court marriage is reliable and trustworthy. This legal marriage option, when both parties and their families agree, is quicker, less expensive, easier, and reduces the financial burden on families.’

Factors such as increasing urbanization, foreign employment, busy lifestyles, and changing social customs have fueled public interest in court marriages. These marriages are also proving effective in combating social evils such as child marriage, polygamy, and false marriages, and have helped reduce dowry practices, leading to positive social responses.

27 Couples Registered Court Marriage in Kathmandu This Falgun

According to data from Kathmandu District Court, 27 couples registered their marriages on a single day last Falgun. Public Information Officer Deepak Kumar Shrestha stated that while the maximum number of registrations on auspicious days can reach 27, the daily average on other days is about 10. In the current fiscal year, as of Chaitra 11, a total of 1,755 court marriages have been registered there.

Last fiscal year, the court received 2,843 marriage registration applications, but the overall record of court marriages is unavailable as it was destroyed during the Jana Andolan movement.

In Nepali tradition, certain months are considered auspicious for marriage. However, many court marriages have been registered in months traditionally considered less favorable, including 67 until Chaitra 9, 226 in Poush, 159 in Kartik, and 194 in Saun.

Legal Encouragement for Court Marriages

Sociologist Tikaram Gautam described court marriage as a hallmark of modern society and an indicator of social change. He said, ‘All cultural practices in society are interpreted according to social structures and needs. Due to significant changes in Nepal’s religious, political, cultural, and social structures compared to the past, the number of court marriages has also increased.’

The state has consistently promoted court marriages since they are legally validated.

Couples opting for court marriage often reside in Kathmandu due to study, business, or employment and may not be able to return to their permanent residences.

Senior Advocate Sunita Regmi Pokharel explained that earlier, court marriages were registered through the Chief District Officer’s office, but now they are conducted at the district courts.

She added, ‘With the increasing trend of youth going abroad for foreign employment, the number of court marriages has risen. Registered marriages are considered official. Many young people are favoring court marriage after recognizing flaws in the traditional marriage process.’

She clarified the difference between marriage registration and court marriage: marriage registration is handled by the government registrar’s office, whereas court marriage is conducted by the court.

Marriage Registration Fees Set at NPR 500

To register a court marriage, couples must submit an application with photocopies of their citizenship certificates and educational credentials along with photos. The court charges a fee of NPR 500 for marriage registration.

Vinod Bisht from Lamki, Kailali, who planned to go to Serbia for employment, actively chose the court marriage route to complete the process quickly. He said, ‘It is a privilege to have a legal marriage through an official body; it is not only less expensive but also essential for obtaining necessary documents for foreign travel.’ He married Rashmi Budhwal from Kailali on Chaitra 10.

According to Information Officer Shrestha, the court can issue the marriage certificate on the same day if all required documents are submitted, even before the legally mandated seven-day waiting period.

However, the lack of a dedicated building or premises for court marriages causes inconvenience to couples who come to celebrate their union.

Since residents from all 77 districts of Nepal come to Kathmandu District Court for marriages, and some have urgent needs like traveling abroad, the court provides a ‘fast-track service’ to issue certificates within two hours.

Dalit rights activists have noted that court marriages have helped reduce caste discrimination as well.

Occasionally, couples dressed up and accompanied by family celebrate joyfully while collecting their marriage certificates.

Nepali law requires both parties to be unmarried and provides that a recommendation from the ward office of the permanent residence is mandatory. For foreign nationals, a minimum of 15 days’ residence proof in Nepal is required.

Foreign nationals must also provide a ‘No Objection Letter’ and certification of marriage eligibility from their respective embassies. The minimum age criteria are determined by the foreign national’s home country, and the documents must be translated into Nepali. If an embassy is not present in Nepal, recommendations from the embassy in India are accepted.

Astrological Arrangements Before Court Marriages

Recently, more couples have been consulting astrologers to select auspicious timings for court marriages. The court also prepares in advance and manages manpower accordingly for marriages planned for the following day.

Inside the court premises, many couples exchange flower garlands, rings, apply vermilion, and celebrate their unions daily. Busy lifestyles have contributed to the increasing appeal of court marriages. Some couples still perform traditional rites and ceremonies even after marrying in court.

Need for Separate Facilities for Court Marriages

Since the court lacks a dedicated building and space for court marriages, couples coming to celebrate often find the environment unsuitable. Coexistence of traditional plaintiffs and family members in the same area also creates discomfort. Hence, a demand for separate venues for marriages has been raised. A legally recognized marriage is fundamental for organizing social and family life.

Although marriages are registered at district courts nationwide, the frequency is comparatively higher in Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Kaski, Rupandehi, Sunsari, Parsa, Chitwan, and Makwanpur. The courts consistently encourage these marriages, conducted under legal frameworks and witnessed by relatives.

Chaitra 13, Kathmandu – Today on Chaitra Shukla Navami, the festival of Ram Navami is being celebrated across the country with solemn worship and devotion in remembrance of Lord Ramachandra, the epitome of honor and virtue.

On this occasion, the government has declared a public holiday throughout the nation.

Worship ceremonies are held at Ram temples across the country, including the Ram Janaki Temple in Janakpur, which is crowded with devotees.

It is a religious belief that observing a fast and performing worship on Ram Navami brings happiness and peace.

Religious scriptures mention that in the Treta Yuga, on this very day, Lord Ram was born in Ayodhya as the eldest son of King Dasharath and Queen Kaushalyavati, taking incarnation as Lord Vishnu.

According to the Valmiki Ramayana, Ram married Sita, the daughter of King Janak of Mithila, and vanquished evil forces.

Chaitra 13, Kathmandu – The country is set to welcome a new Prime Minister today. At the President’s Office in Sheetal Niwas this afternoon, President Ramchandra Paudel is scheduled to administer the oath of office to senior leader Balendra Shah (Balen) of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP).

The oath-taking ceremony is set for 12:34 PM. The program will include the blowing of conch shells by seven players, auspicious readings by 108 youths, and the recitation of Ashtamangala by sixteen Buddhist monks.

Following the oath ceremony, Balen will formally assume his position at the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers’ Office at Singha Durbar at 2:15 PM.

Prior to the oath, it will be officially announced that Leader Shah has been appointed as Prime Minister. According to Article 76, Clause 1 of the Nepalese Constitution, a single-party government is being formed.

The President’s Office has invited representatives from various political parties, diplomatic missions, civil society, and senior government officials to attend the ceremony.

Alongside the Prime Minister’s oath, ministers will also be sworn in. In the recent House of Representatives election held on Falgun 21, the Rastriya Swatantra Party won 182 seats. On Thursday, the party appointed Leader Shah as the parliamentary party leader.

In the election, Leader Shah won from Jhapa Constituency No. 5 with 68,348 votes. Also on Thursday, senior member Arjun Narasingh KC administered the oath of office and secrecy to the members of parliament.

13 Chaitra, Kathmandu – Today, the exchange rates of most foreign currencies have decreased. According to the foreign exchange rates set by Nepal Rastra Bank for today, the value of most currencies has declined compared to the previous day.

The buying rate of the US Dollar is fixed at NPR 150.07 and the selling rate at NPR 150.67.

Similarly, the European Euro’s buying rate is NPR 173.24 and selling rate NPR 173.93, while the UK Pound Sterling’s buying rate is NPR 200.30 with a selling rate of NPR 201.10.

The Swiss Franc’s buying rate is NPR 189.30 and selling rate NPR 190.06.

The Australian Dollar’s buying rate is NPR 103.93 and selling rate NPR 104.35, whereas the Canadian Dollar’s buying rate is NPR 108.40 and selling rate NPR 108.83.

The Singapore Dollar’s buying rate is set at NPR 116.86 and selling rate at NPR 117.33.

The Japanese Yen (per 10 units) has a buying rate of NPR 9.41 and a selling rate of NPR 9.44, the Chinese Yuan buying rate is NPR 21.72 and selling rate NPR 21.81, the Saudi Arabian Riyal’s buying rate is NPR 40.00 and selling rate NPR 40.16, and the Qatari Riyal is priced at NPR 41.06 for buying and NPR 41.22 for selling.

According to the central bank, the Thai Baht’s buying rate is NPR 4.57 and selling rate NPR 4.59, UAE Dirham’s buying rate is NPR 40.86 and selling rate NPR 41.03, Malaysian Ringgit’s buying rate is NPR 37.57 and selling rate NPR 37.72, South Korean Won (per 100 units) buying rate is NPR 9.96 and selling rate NPR 10.00. Additionally, the Swedish Krona buying rate is NPR 15.99 and selling rate NPR 16.06, while Danish Krona’s buying and selling rates are NPR 23.19 and NPR 23.28 respectively.

The Rastra Bank has fixed the Hong Kong Dollar’s buying rate at NPR 19.18 and selling rate at NPR 19.26, Kuwaiti Dinar at NPR 489.39 for buying and NPR 491.34 for selling, Bahraini Dinar at NPR 397.48 buying and NPR 399.07 selling, and Omani Rial at NPR 389.84 buying and NPR 391.40 selling. The Indian Rupee (per 100 units) buying rate is NPR 160 and selling rate NPR 160.15.

Nepal Rastra Bank has stated that these exchange rates may be revised at any time as per necessity. Commercial banks’ exchange rates may differ and the updated rates will be available on the central bank’s official website.

March 25, Kathmandu – The full-scale military operation launched against Iran by Israel and the United States on February 28, 2026, dubbed ‘Operation Epic Fury,’ has plunged the lands of West Asia into a brutal war.

Iran has adopted a ‘Horizontal Escalation’ strategy in retaliation, targeting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

From Riyadh to Dubai and Doha to Muscat, sirens blare loudly across the skies. Hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones sent by Iran are aimed at oil facilities, airports, and civilian areas in the Gulf.

The bilateral war among these three nations has inevitably drawn others into the conflict. With no signs of the war easing, indications suggest not only GCC countries but other nations may become involved.

However, an unusual and significant aspect of this conflict is that although GCC nations are involved, they have not engaged directly in offensive actions. Their focus remains entirely on ‘self-defense.’

Recent military data reveals that the integrated air defense systems of the Gulf countries have achieved an interception rate exceeding 90%, limiting the damage caused by Iran’s large-scale assaults.

Context of the War and Rising Risks

Following strikes targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and high-ranking military commanders by the U.S. and Israel, Iran began attacks on Gulf nations using its proxy forces as well as its own military. Thousands of missiles and drones have been launched so far.

The most severe assault has been on the United Arab Emirates (UAE), yet its defense system successfully destroyed 94% of incoming drones and 92% of ballistic and cruise missiles mid-air.

Missiles targeting Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil refinery have mostly been intercepted. Although Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, hosting an American military presence, has suffered some attacks, damage remains minimal. Civilian areas in Bahrain and Kuwait have been affected, but layered defense systems have limited human casualties.

In this crisis, GCC leadership has condemned Iranian aggression as a treacherous act. The military exercise ‘Gulf Shield 2026’ held in January has proven vital in preparedness for the ongoing war.

Experts warn that the stock of expensive Patriot and THAAD missiles is rapidly depleting. If the conflict endures, Gulf states may be forced not only to defend but also to conduct counterstrikes.

Saudi Arabia: The Military Powerhouse of the Gulf

Saudi Arabia stands as a dominant military and air defense force in West Asia. According to Global Firepower 2026 rankings, it holds 5th place regionally and 25th worldwide.

With a defense budget allocation of approximately $78 billion for 2025–26, Saudi Arabia is among the top seven military spenders globally. Boasting over 230,000 active troops, the country currently channels significant resources into air defense.

The Saudi Air Force operates 917 aircraft, with 596 on constant readiness. Its core strength lies in 283 modern fighter jets, including 84 F-15SA Eagles, 68 F-15SRs, and 72 Eurofighter Typhoons.

Saudi Arabia has equipped its F-15 fleet with the Harpoon Block II anti-ship missile system, successfully tested at the end of 2025.

The most formidable element of Saudi defense is its air defense system, which combines THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) batteries with powerful Patriot PAC-3 MSE missiles. In January 2026 alone, the U.S. approved the sale of 730 PAC-3 MSE missiles to Saudi Arabia worth $900 million.

This system effectively neutralizes Iranian ballistic missiles at upper atmospheric levels. For smaller drones, Saudi Arabia relies on point-defense systems like the Russian Pantsir-S1.

Saudi Arabia fields 1,085 tanks, primarily American M1A2 Abrams, alongside 22,370 armed vehicles and modern artillery, making its ground forces robust. Under ‘Vision 2030,’ through Saudi Arabian Military Industries, the kingdom aims to domestically produce 50% of its weaponry.

United Arab Emirates: Advanced Technology and ‘Rafale-Patriot’ Integration

UAE’s military strategy emphasizes quality over quantity. With a defense budget nearing $27 billion in 2026, it sources military equipment from the United States, France, and South Korea.

UAE’s air force operates unique aircraft such as the F-16E/F Block 60. Recently acquired 80 Rafale F4 jets from France have significantly enhanced UAE’s strike capabilities. However, the UAE’s most notable achievement remains its high missile interception rate.

Combining South Korean Chungung-2 medium-range systems with American THAAD missiles, the UAE has prevented Iranian missiles from reaching Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports. While minor damage occurred at Jebel Ali port, their layered defense strategy has been highly effective.

In March 2026, the U.S. authorized an additional $560 million in Patriot missile systems and CH-47F Chinook helicopters for the UAE. Advanced drones produced by local company AGS Group also play a vital role in border security.

Qatar: Three-Dimensional Air Power

Though a small nation, Qatar’s military is highly modernized. Recently, Qatar has added Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, and F-15 fighters to its arsenal.

Qatar’s air defenses rely mainly on Patriot PAC-3 missile systems and Norwegian NASAMS-3. In early March, Qatar claimed to have successfully intercepted 63 missiles and 11 drones.

According to Qatar’s Ministry of Defense, they have downed two unauthorized Iranian Su-24 jets near their border. At the Doha-held ‘DIMDEX 2026’ defense exhibition, Qatar unveiled new ‘Skywarden’ anti-drone systems and ‘Acron’ missiles.

Kuwait and Bahrain: American Strategic Strongholds

Kuwait has upgraded its Patriot missile systems with an $800 million investment, adding new sensors.

During the heavy missile attack on March 24, Kuwaiti forces intercepted 17 missiles and 13 drones, successfully protecting oil refineries. Their new M1A2K Abrams tanks provide solid ground security.

Bahrain, home to the U.S. Fifth Fleet’s headquarters, was Iran’s initial target. Despite its smaller budget, Bahrain’s recently acquired Patriot PAC-3 MSE system saved the capital Manama from extensive destruction. Though Bahrain’s airspace is limited, its strategic importance is considerable.

Oman: Balanced Defense Policy

Oman pursues a neutral, balanced defense approach. Having good relations with Iran, it has experienced fewer direct attacks than other Gulf countries. Nevertheless, Oman keeps its Eurofighter Typhoon and F-16 jets on high alert.

The Omani navy plays a decisive role in securing the Strait of Hormuz. In this war, Oman has kept diplomatic channels open, using its defense systems mostly as a backup.

Integrated Defense and the Future Path

One key achievement revealed by the ‘Gulf Shield 2026’ exercise is intelligence sharing among GCC nations. As soon as a missile is launched from Iran, all six states and the U.S. command receive simultaneous alerts. This system is known as the ‘Gulf Missile Defense Shield.’

Yet, the conflict also exposes challenges, primarily economic. An Iranian drone costs only a few thousand dollars, but intercepting it requires a Patriot missile costing millions. This economic asymmetry could prove costly for Gulf nations. Additionally, continual attacks are depleting the number of interceptors.

The 2026 West Asia conflict has transformed Gulf countries from oil-rich states into highly technologically advanced military powers. Their cutting-edge weaponry and strategic restraint have prevented Middle Eastern cities from becoming ruins.

However, if diplomatic efforts fail and Iran intensifies its saturated attacks, the Gulf’s defensive shield could soon be forced into offensive action. For global economic and energy security, the military strength of the Gulf remains the last beacon of hope. –With agency inputs