Skip to main content

Author: space4knews

Industry Minister Gaurikumar Yadav Resigns Amid Cooking Gas Shortage; What Is the Current Supply Situation?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Over the past three days, Nepal Oil Corporation, gas industries, and retailers have reported that gas cylinders filled under normal conditions have entered the Kathmandu Valley. However, it is estimated that it will take a few more weeks for the shortage situation to normalize. Meanwhile, during the ongoing cooking gas shortage in Kathmandu Valley and other areas, Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Gaurikumar Yadav has resigned from her position. Dipakkumar Sah has been appointed in her place.

After the flood in Rasuwa on September 25 on the Krishna Bhir section of the Prithvi Highway—the main route for transportation and supply in Kathmandu—followed by the Trishuli River washing away part of the road on September 29, the movement of bullet trucks carrying large quantities of gas was halted. As an alternative, gas cylinders have started being transported via trucks from the Terai region. According to Manoj Kumar Thakur, spokesperson for Nepal Oil Corporation, from October 3 alternative routes have been used to bring cylinders from outside, leading to a significant increase in supply.

On October 3 alone, approximately 24,500 cylinders were brought in. In the last three days, daily deliveries of over 40,000 cylinders have been reported. On Wednesday, over 50,000 cylinders were transported, Thakur said. The average daily demand in the valley ranges between 35,000 to 40,000 cylinders. Currently, cylinders are being filled and dispatched from gas industries in Chitwan, Hetauda, Bara, Parsa, Bhairahawa, Nawalparasi, and other locations. “Now daily deliveries vary between 40,000 to 53,000 cylinders, while the demand remains at 40,000 to 45,000,” stated Amit Agrawal, General Secretary of the Nepal LPG Gas Industry Association.

Vinod Kafle, General Secretary of the Gas Sellers Federation, also confirmed increased cylinder inflow but noted complexities due to the need to return empty cylinders for refilling. “When cylinders are loaded, manufacturers report the same number has arrived, but it takes time for those to come. There is limited availability of roads and transportation means. However, since Wednesday, industries have increased their transportation resources,” Kafle explained. Yet, why does the severe shortage persist? Due to obstruction at Krishna Bhir, bullet trucks cannot enter from outside, and many trucks are stranded in Kathmandu. “Cylinders take empties away and bring filled ones, which causes instability in the supply system,” Kafle added.

Between September 29 and October 3, supply was completely halted, resulting in the failure to distribute nearly 200,000 cylinders in the valley, which continues to affect availability, according to Agrawal. With the monsoon and festive season approaching, customers have been stocking up on gas continuously, intensifying the shortage. Both Agrawal and Kafle attribute the government’s policy of selling only half-filled cylinders as a key cause. During the period when half cylinders were controlled, customer interest waned, but demand surged suddenly when full cylinders were sold again. The flood-induced disruption of the main route further worsened the imbalance between demand and supply. The Prime Minister’s Secretariat has informed that construction work is accelerating to reopen traffic on the blocked Krishna Bhir road by the end of October. “Even after the road opens, it could take at least 15 days for the supply system to stabilize,” Agrawal said.

Minister Yadav faced widespread criticism after she reportedly told gas business people to “turn their backs” on Wednesday. The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry issued a statement on Thursday calling her remarks “highly objectionable, irresponsible, and unfortunate,” emphasizing the need to resolve gas supply issues and ensure regular consumer supply rather than blaming all industrialists and businesspeople. The Confederation of Nepalese Industries expressed that her statement disappointed the private sector. Amid the criticism, Dipakkumar Sah was sworn in as the new minister on Thursday, replacing Yadav. The Shangha-led cabinet formed on March 26 has seen three ministerial changes within six months. Two weeks after its formation, then Labor Minister Dipak Sah was dismissed after National Independent Party chairman Ravi Lamichhane recommended action against him for abusing his ministerial position by involving his wife in regular work under the Health Insurance Board despite being inactive. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the dismissal was based on this misconduct report. Lamichhane had presented the commission’s report to the Prime Minister, indicating conclusive evidence of abuse. Similarly, Home Minister Sudhan Gurung resigned on April 22 amid questions regarding undisclosed sources of stock investment. Following an investigative committee report submission to the government, Prime Minister Shah re-recommended Gurung for Home Minister on June 9. Minister Gaurikumar Yadav is the first to be removed from non-Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s cabinet.

5 Easy and Elegant Hairstyles to Complement Sarees and Lehengas

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Summary

Editorially reviewed.

  • Presented are five elegant hairstyles that perfectly complement sarees, kurtas, Anarkalis, and lehengas for festivals, weddings, religious ceremonies, and family gatherings.

What hairstyle should you choose when wearing sarees, kurtas, Anarkalis, or lehengas for festivals, weddings, pujas, family gatherings, or special occasions? This is a frequently asked question by many.

Many women face this dilemma especially during special family events.

A good hairstyle not only enhances the beauty of the outfit but also accentuates facial features. There is no need to visit a salon every time for styling. Simple hairstyles that can be done at home within minutes can make ethnic wear look attractive and well-organized. Adding accessories like gajras, flowers, pearl hairpins, or other simple embellishments can transform a basic hairstyle into a special one.

Currently, trends are leaning towards simple, natural, and effortless hairstyles. Such hairstyles that last long and easily pair with various ethnic outfits can be very useful for festive occasions.

Classic Low Bun

A low bun pairs beautifully with sarees, silk kurtas, or lehengas. The hair can be parted either in the middle or to the side and tied neatly at the nape. To make it more appealing, adorn it with gajras, fresh flowers, or pearl hairpins. This style gives the face a clean and stylish appearance. It looks royal and elegant with traditional attire.

Side Braid

If you want to add a slight twist to your traditional look, a side braid or plait on one side is a great choice. The hair can be swept to one side and loosely braided.

Decorating the braid with small flowers, ribbons, or decorative pins enhances the charm of the hairstyle. This style especially shines on long hair and goes well with kurtas, Anarkalis, and lehengas.

Half-Up Half-Down

For those who prefer open hair, the half-up half-down style—where some hair is tied back and the rest left flowing—is an ideal option. The front portion is pinned back and the rest hangs loose. Adding slight waves creates an even more attractive look. This style suits almost all face shapes and ethnic outfits, making it a convenient choice for festivals.

Loose Hair with Soft Waves

For those who do not want to spend much time on hairstyling, lightly waved loose hair is a good option. The hair can be parted centrally or to one side and gently waved, complemented with pretty hair clips, flowers, or a maang tikka. This hairstyle looks especially attractive with georgette, chiffon, and floral printed ethnic wear. It is perfect for those who want a simple, natural look.

Twisted Low Ponytail

Even a simple ponytail can be styled differently to look elegant. Separate small sections of hair from both sides, twist them lightly, bring them to the back, and collect all hair into a low ponytail. Adding pearl hairpins, metallic clips, or other simple adornments enhances the style. This hairstyle is great for those who want a simple yet stylish look and can be adopted easily for pujas, family gatherings, and office celebrations during festivals.

Tips to Make Hairstyles More Attractive

When styling hair, it is important to detangle it thoroughly. If the hair is dry or messy, applying a small amount of hair serum can soften it. Using a light-hold hairspray helps maintain the style for longer periods.

Fresh flowers, pearl pins, or simple hair accessories add extra charm to the ethnic look. However, when choosing hairstyles and accessories, it is best to coordinate them with your outfit, face shape, and the occasion rather than overloading with too many elements.

Impact of Bhotekoshi-Trishuli Floods on Children and Government Response Measures

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Children being rescued

Image source, Reuters

Published

Reading time: 4 minutes

Children affected by the floods along the banks of the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers, currently residing in various holding centers, are being supported to return to normalcy. Authorities have emphasized special attention to their nutrition, shelter, and psychosocial counseling.

Representatives from governmental and non-governmental organizations in the affected region are conducting preliminary assessments. They report that many children exhibit reluctance to interact or engage openly, prompting ongoing counseling efforts.

According to an initial study by the National Child Rights Council, 102 children lost both parents in the severe floods of September 10, including 49 girls and 53 boys.

The Council further reports that approximately 692 children with at least one parent alive remain in around 30 holding centers spread across 15 rural municipalities in the affected area.

The total number of affected children identified in the preliminary study is 1,233 – comprising 632 girls and 601 boys, of whom 21 have disabilities.

Republicans Pledge $5,000 to Every Adult If They Win Midterm Elections

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

News Summary

Reviewed and compiled.

  • President Donald Trump announced that if Republicans win both chambers of Congress, every adult American will receive $5,000.
  • Trump stated that the money must be spent within the United States but has not provided clear details on how the funds would be managed or sourced.
  • Democrats and some experts have criticized Trump’s announcement as an empty promise and raised legal questions about its feasibility.

September 11, Kathmandu – US President Donald Trump has pledged to give every adult American $5,000 if the Republican Party wins both chambers of Congress in the upcoming November midterm elections.

President Trump proposed this plan during the party’s first national convention. He did not provide clear specifics regarding how the funds would be managed or where the money would come from. Estimates suggest that implementing this plan would cost more than one trillion dollars. Trump stipulated that the money must be spent inside the United States.

Democrats have dismissed Trump’s announcement as an ‘empty promise.’ Other critics have questioned the legal viability of the proposal. The United States has about 270 million adult citizens; distributing $5,000 to each would impose an additional burden of approximately $1.3 trillion on the economy. Discussions are ongoing about the feasibility of this plan amid rising inflation.

The ongoing conflict initiated in February between the US and Israel against Iran has also contributed to inflation. Iran’s retaliatory attacks have targeted US bases and allies in the Gulf region. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial route accounting for nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and LPG supply—causing fluctuations in oil prices. Trump is facing pressure from within his own party to end the war.

On Wednesday, President Trump warned his supporters that the war would only end after the midterm elections, noting that oil prices would also decrease only afterward. Speaking at a conference in Texas, he justified the need to endure short-term economic hardship to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.

At the Dallas conference, Trump promised to improve Americans’ living standards and purchasing power. He said, ‘If Republicans win both the House of Representatives and the Senate, I will give every American adult a $5,000 dividend.’

Trump added, ‘We do not want you to spend this money in Canada. Nor should you lose it in China or Germany; you must spend this money within the United States.’ However, it remains unclear how this expenditure would be monitored.

Trump had made similar promises in the past, including a proposal to issue $2,000 checks funded by customs revenue. Previously, US politicians have pledged financial benefits to secure electoral success. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Democrats in Georgia promised $2,000 relief checks if they won the Senate.

In the US, budget approval authority resides solely with Congress. Trump has not indicated plans to seek permission for this payment. He has dubbed this proposal the ‘Trump Dividend.’ The plan raises legal questions since federal law prohibits payments intended to influence voting behavior.

Some experts suggest Trump’s promise can be viewed similarly to a tax cut pledge, which is legally permissible. Election law experts note that Trump’s promise falls under the First Amendment’s protection of free speech rights.

New Minister of Industry Deepak Kumar Sah to Take Oath at 5:30 PM on Friday

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Summary of the News

Dipak Kumar Sah, a Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswap) lawmaker elected from Sunsari-4, has been recommended as the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies. Prime Minister Balen Shah has proposed his name to fill the vacant ministerial position. The oath-taking ceremony is scheduled to take place today at 5:30 PM at the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas.

25 Bhadra, Kathmandu: Dipak Kumar Sah, elected from Sunsari-4 representing the Rastriya Swatantra Party, has been officially recommended for the post of Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies. His recommendation letter has been submitted to the President’s Office at Sheetal Niwas. Following the Prime Minister’s recommendation, the President will make the official appointment. In this context, Prime Minister Balen Shah proposed his name today to fill the currently vacant ministry post. Gauri Yadav resigned from this ministerial position earlier the same day. According to the President’s Office, Dipak Kumar Sah will take the oath of office and secrecy at 5:30 PM today.

Rescue Operations Underway After Fire Breaks Out on Philippine Ferry

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Rescue efforts are ongoing after a fire broke out on a ferry in Palawan, Philippines. On Wednesday, the ferry named ‘MV Jun Easter,’ carrying 134 passengers en route to the tourist destination Coron, caught fire. Following the blaze, a rescue operation was launched. The incident has so far claimed five lives, with dozens more still reported missing.

Devyani International, the Operator of KFC, Donates NPR 3.1 Million to Disaster Relief Fund

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Devyani International Nepal Pvt Ltd, the franchise operator of KFC in Nepal, has contributed NPR 3.1 million to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund to support those affected by the Bhotekoshi flood. The company collected NPR 1 million from each of its 31 KFC stores, which has been allocated for relief and rehabilitation efforts. Devyani International stated that the funds will be utilized to support flood-affected families in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts.

Operating 31 KFC outlets across Nepal, Devyani International Nepal Pvt Ltd made the donation to assist communities impacted by the Bhotekoshi floods. The total amount of NPR 3.1 million, pooled from contributions of NPR 1 million from each store, is earmarked for rescue, relief, and rehabilitation of affected families in Rasuwa and Nuwakot.

The floods caused not only human casualties but also damage to homes, roads, bridges, and other local infrastructure in these districts. Devyani International Nepal has a history of supporting the Nepali community through various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company reaffirmed its commitment to stand united with communities during times of need, expressed condolences for the lives lost, and extended heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families. Additionally, it wished for the swift recovery of those injured. Devyani International Nepal Pvt Ltd is the franchise operator of KFC Nepal and continues to expand its business operations within the country.

Why Did Apple Launch the iPhone ‘Duo’ That Folds Twice?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Apple has made the most significant design change to the iPhone in its 20-year history. Under the leadership of new CEO John Ternus, the company unveiled its first foldable smartphone, capable of folding twice. Named the ‘iPhone Duo,’ this smartphone resembles a book and is the largest iPhone ever released. Its price ranges from $1,999 to $3,200, making it the most expensive iPhone to date. According to Ternus, the Duo was developed “inspired by the iPad.”

Trump Calls Iran Nuclear Deal One of the Worst Agreements in History

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

U.S. President Donald Trump has described the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran as one of the worst deals in history. The deal was signed to resolve issues surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. Speaking at the Republican Midterm Convention in Texas, Trump said, “Barack Obama signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). It was one of the worst deals in history.” According to Trump, the agreement paved the way for Iran to develop nuclear weapons.

In 2015, Germany and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council — the United Kingdom, China, Russia, the United States, and France — signed the agreement with Iran. The deal was intended to end long-standing disputes over Iran’s potential nuclear weapons development. However, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement during his first presidential term in 2018 and subsequently reinstated all sanctions against Iran that had been lifted under the deal.

“If I had not canceled the JCPOA and if our B-2 bombers had not struck them, they would already have nuclear weapons,” he said. Trump also claimed that B-2 bombers had been used against Iranian nuclear sites in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow. He expressed confidence that the conflict with Iran would end in the days following the midterm elections, stating that Iranians are working hard towards a new deal. On February 28, the United States and Israel reportedly initiated a war against Iran. That same month, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum agreeing to an immediate ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon. However, the U.S. resumed large-scale attacks on Iran on the night of July 8. Prior to this, the U.S. accused Iran of violating existing agreements related to the Strait of Hormuz.

Nepal Secures Impressive Victory Over Oman Backed by Spin Bowling Brilliance

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Summary

  • Thanks to outstanding performances from spin bowlers, Nepal secured an 88-run win against Oman in the ACC Premier Cup semifinals held in Malaysia.
  • Chasing a target of 148, Oman was bowled out for 60 runs in 28.1 overs, setting up a final clash between Nepal and UAE.
  • Deependra Singh Airee scored 51 runs and Basir Ahmad contributed 47 as Nepal was all out for 147 in 45.4 overs.

September 10, Kathmandu – Nepal registered a splendid victory over Oman in the semifinals of the ACC Premier Cup currently underway in Malaysia, powered mainly by the brilliance of its spin bowlers.

Nepal defeated Oman by 87 runs. Oman, set a target of 148 runs, was dismissed for 60 runs in 28.1 overs.

For Oman, Jatinder Singh top-scored with 25 runs, while Jeeten Ramanandi added 13; no other batsman managed double-digit runs.

Nepal’s captain Sandeep Lamichhane and Deependra Singh Airee each took 3 wickets, while Rohit Paudel and Lalit Rajbanshi claimed 2 wickets apiece.

After losing the toss and batting first, Nepal was all out for 147 runs in 45.4 overs.

Deependra Singh Airee scored a resilient 51 runs, with Basir Ahmad contributing 47. Nepal was in trouble early at 36 for 4, but the duo built a vital 93-run partnership.

Dev Khanal scored 13 and Asif Sheikh made 11 runs, while other batsmen failed to reach double figures. Nepal lost the first wicket at 23 runs, fell to 36 for 4, and eventually was bowled out for 147.

For Oman, Jai Odedra took 3 wickets conceding 26 runs in 10 overs, Hasnain Shah also returned figures of 3 wickets for 28 runs in 8.4 overs. Muhammad Imran took 2 wickets, while Shakeel Ahmad and Mujibur Ali claimed one wicket each.

Nepal will now face the UAE in the final, scheduled for Saturday. The winner will earn qualification for the Asia Cup.

With this semifinal win, Nepal has also secured a spot in the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup.

Akshay Golyani Expresses Respect for the Families of Janjhi Martyrs

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Akshay Golyani, Chairman of the Golyani Group, expressed his heartfelt respect for the families of the Janjhi martyrs through an emotional message posted on LinkedIn. The Janjhi Martyrs’ Welfare Society honored him on Tuesday, during which he also met with members of the martyr families. The Golyani Foundation provides educational scholarships up to Grade 12 for 31 children of 22 martyrs and health insurance for 43 parents of 22 martyrs. Kathmandu, 25 Bhadra.

On the occasion of Janjhi Martyrs’ Memorial Day, Golyani noted that the pain of the participating martyr families remains vivid. He wrote, “The faces of everyone gathered bore fresh pain, as if the incident had occurred only yesterday.” He shared that the meeting with the martyr families after the formal program left a profound impact on him. “In that room, amidst tears, there was warmth and affection,” he said.

The Golyani Group, through its social cooperative organization, the Golyani Foundation, has been providing educational scholarships up to Grade 12 for the children of martyrs. Currently, 31 children of 22 martyrs receive these scholarships. The foundation spends 40,000 rupees monthly, totaling 480,000 rupees annually, on their support. Golyani remarked that the collaboration with the martyr families has made them feel like an integral part of the Golyani family.

Anthropic Researcher Warns AI Could Endanger All Humans Within a Decade

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

A security researcher affiliated with Anthropic, a leading company in the AI sector, has warned that there is more than a 10 percent risk that AI could “annihilate all humans” within the next decade. Researcher Evan Hubinger acknowledged that while current models pose lower risks, the rapid advancement of the technology could threaten the very existence of humanity.

Annapurna Spiker Kings Reach NVL Final as Sagarmatha Eliminated

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

News Summary

Reviewed with verified facts.

  • Annapurna Spiker Kings defeated Sagarmatha Smashers 3–1 to advance to the final of the inaugural Nepal Volleyball League (NVL).
  • After losing the first set 25–21, Annapurna made a strong comeback winning the next three sets 25–21, 25–14, and 25–20, finishing the league phase at the top with 12 points.
  • Sagarmatha’s third loss ended their playoff hopes, while Karnali Shivraj and Kathmandu Reds have also secured playoff spots.

26 Bhadra, Kathmandu – Annapurna Spiker Kings have become the first team to qualify for the final of the inaugural Nepal Volleyball League (NVL).

In the final league phase match held on Thursday at Dashrath Rangashala’s covered hall in Tripureshwor, Annapurna defeated Sagarmatha Smashers 3–1 to seal their direct spot in the final.

Despite losing the first set 25–21, Annapurna bounced back impressively, winning the next three sets 25–21, 25–14, and 25–20 consecutively.

After an initial loss to Karnali Shivraj in the competition, Annapurna secured four consecutive wins, finishing top of the league phase with 12 points.

Meanwhile, Sagarmatha’s chances of reaching the playoffs ended with their third defeat in the league phase. Karnali Shivraj and Kathmandu Reds have also confirmed their playoff qualifications following this result.

The remaining two group stage matches are scheduled for today, while the final match will be decided on 27 Bhadra.

Photos: Vikas Shrestha

All Stock Market Indices Decline; NEPSE Drops to 2531 Points

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

News Summary

Shared after editorial review.

  • On Thursday, the NEPSE index dropped by 13.85 points to settle at 2531, with the turnover decreasing to NPR 399 crore.
  • Today, 69 companies saw their share prices increase, while 201 companies’ prices fell; the Production and Processing sector declined the most by 1.14%.
  • Liberty Energy’s shares surged by 15%, whereas Sindhu Development Bank’s shares dropped by 15%.

September 10, Kathmandu – On Thursday, all stock market indices declined. The main market index, NEPSE, fell by 13.85 points. In the previous session, NEPSE had declined by 15.43 points. After today’s trading, NEPSE closed at 2531 points.

The total turnover also fell. Compared to NPR 419 crore traded the previous day, today’s turnover was NPR 399 crore. While 69 companies experienced a rise in share price, 201 companies saw a decrease, and 8 companies remained unchanged. The Production and Processing sector experienced the largest fall of 1.14%, whereas other sectors recorded declines below 1%.

The sectoral performances were as follows: Banking declined by 0.47%, Development Banks by 0.34%, Finance by 0.66%, Hotels and Tourism by 0.50%, Hydropower by 0.55%, Investment by 0.41%, Life Insurance by 0.17%, Microfinance by 0.56%, Non-life Insurance by 0.78%, Others by 0.64%, and Trading by 0.27%.

Liberty Energy led the day’s gainers with a 15% increase in share price. Other notable gainers included Dolti Power (8.22%), Upper Lohorekhola (7.02%), Emerging Nepal (5.46%), Shivshree Hydro (4.92%), Central Finance (4.46%), and Janaki Finance (4.28%).

Sindhu Development Bank experienced the largest loss at 15%. Corporate Development Bank dropped by 5.24%, Shubham Power by 5.19%, Dhaulagiri Microfinance by 4.50%, and Barahi Hydropower by 4.40%.

The most actively traded companies today included Liberty Energy, Reliance Spinning Mills, NRN Infrastructure, Nepal SBI Bank, Ridi Power, Solu Hydropower, Garima Development Bank, and Sanima Middle Tamor.

Nepal ACC Emerging Team Qualifies for Asia Cup

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Nepal’s ACC Emerging Team has secured qualification for the Asia Cup. By defeating Oman in the semifinal of the ACC Premier Cup held on Thursday, Nepal advanced to the final, which also guarantees their spot in the Emerging Teams Asia Cup. According to the tournament rules, the two teams reaching the Premier Cup final along with the third-place team qualify for the Emerging Asia Cup. Kathmandu, 26 Bhadra. Nepal will face UAE in the final on Saturday, where a victory is required to confirm their Asia Cup qualification.