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Decisions on Hosting the 10th National Sports Competition in Karnali

October 5, Kathmandu – To accelerate preparations for the 10th National Sports Competition, the main organizing committee has decided to delegate the responsibilities of event management, coordination, and preparation to the executive committee. The competition, set to be held in districts including Surkhet of Karnali Province, will be conducted in a grand, dignified, and organized manner, with the main organizing committee empowering the executive committee with the necessary authority.

The meeting held on Sunday at the auditorium of the Rangashala located in Birendranagar Municipality-8 resolved to include participation from 21 teams, comprising seven provincial teams, three departmental teams, three other teams, and relevant Nepalese sports associations. The competition will be held across 32 sporting disciplines. The meeting was chaired by Education and Sports Minister and National Sports Council Chairman Sasmita Pokharel, with Karnali Province Chief Minister Mangal Bahadur Shahi attending as the chief guest.

The meeting also adopted a proposal to express gratitude towards the federal government for its decision to host the 10th National Sports Competition. Appreciating the support, the main organizing committee acknowledged the government’s initiative to hold this biennial event in Karnali with the aim of identifying and nurturing local talent, and promoting the development and expansion of sports from the grassroots level.

In accordance with the provisions of the National Sports Competition Operational Directive, 2083 BS, the executive committee has been tasked with providing the necessary guidance related to preparation, management, and organization of the event. Responsibilities assigned to the executive committee include the formation and mobilization of various committees, managing the budget and expenses as per established standards, and overseeing the overall operation and management of the first phase of the National Sports Competition.

US Auto Industry Plans to Expand Production and Investment

October 5, Washington (RASS/AFP) – US President Donald Trump stated that his trade policies have helped increase production and investment in the American automobile industry. Industry experts note that while some positive changes have been observed in certain areas, uncertainties within trade policies have heightened the challenges companies face. During the final term of the Trump administration, major car manufacturers such as General Motors, Toyota, and Ford announced plans to expand their factories in the US and relocate some production previously done abroad back to the country.

Following the imposition of a 25 percent tariff on imported vehicles, several companies have opted to better utilize the production capacity of their domestic plants. According to automotive analyst Stephanie Brinley, the import tariff appears to have benefited the US auto industry to some extent. However, the ongoing shifts in trade policies have led companies to exercise increased caution when making long-term investment decisions. Trade negotiations between the US and Canada have also introduced some uncertainty within the auto sector.

Honda has reported operating its North American factories at high capacity and is considering the possibility of building new plants in the future. Additionally, changes in import tariffs and government policies related to electric vehicles have impacted companies producing automotive parts. Approximately 930,000 people are employed in this sector in the US. According to US labor statistics, about 1.8 million people worked in the auto industry as of September 2026. While there have been some improvements in employment, future developments in trade policy, investment climate, and market conditions are expected to play a crucial role in the industry’s growth.

Tenth National Sports Festival Officially Begins Today: Sports Minister Pokharel

October 5, Kathmandu – Sports and Education Minister Sasmit Pokharel has expressed confidence that the tenth National Sports Competition will definitely be held. Speaking at a meeting of the main organizing committee of the tenth National Sports held in Surkhet on Sunday, Minister Pokharel announced that the festival had effectively begun today. “There is still some doubt about whether the tenth National Sports will take place, which is understandable given the multiple date changes,” he said. “However, the festival has officially started today, and the competitions will commence from December 1. Therefore, no one should have any uncertainty about whether the event will be held.”

Minister Pokharel also expressed hope that this edition of the national games would be more impactful and better organized compared to previous ones. “Nine national sports events have been successfully held so far. This time, all stakeholders and various levels of government must collaborate to conduct the event in a distinct and effective manner,” he added.

Private Organizations to Play Key Role in the 10th National Games

October 4, Kathmandu – To ensure the 10th National Games are conducted in a grand and organized manner, the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model will be adopted. The main organizing committee of the 10th National Games decided to emphasize the PPP approach during a meeting held on Sunday in Surkhet. “To host the competition in a grand and well-organized way, the involvement of all stakeholders including private associations will be emphasized by adopting the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, formalizing agreements (MOUs) with sponsors and implementing them,” stated Ramcharitra Mehta, member secretary of the organizing committee.

The 10th National Games are scheduled to take place from December 2 to 12 across various districts of Karnali Province. According to member secretary Mehta, a total of 11 teams will participate, representing 7 provinces, 3 departmental teams, and the Non-Resident Nepali Association. The competition will feature 32 sporting events. Due to infrastructural limitations, preparations are underway to hold some events outside Karnali Province.

How Many North Poles Are There on Earth?

Polar bear

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We are all familiar with the North Pole. Its characteristic features include the frozen sea, polar bears, the northern lights, and the midnight sun.

But did you know that the definition of the North Pole is not so simple? And in fact, there is more than one North Pole.

According to British climate scientist and explorer Felicity Aston, “There are many North Poles on Earth.”

She told the BBC podcast ‘The Infinite Monkey Cage,’ “There are two types of North Poles we can define: the magnetic North Pole and the geographic North Pole.”

Geographic North Pole

According to Aston, the one most people think of as the North Pole—the true one—is the geographic North Pole.

Police Accused of Sexual Harassment Against Female Journalists and Protesters at Jantar Mantar

Kathmandu, October 4 – During a protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Saturday against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, two female journalists and a female protester accused the police of sexual harassment. One female journalist reported that while detaining CIK Chairperson Neha Bora, ACP Vivek Bhagat placed his hand on her chest and pushed her. Similarly, a senior female journalist and a young female protester alleged sexual harassment by Delhi police.

In a statement issued via X (formerly Twitter), Delhi police confirmed that the matter has been forwarded to the Crime Branch for investigation. The police stated, “On October 3, 2026, during a protest in New Delhi, three female journalists filed complaints of sexual harassment against police officials in the interest of maintaining peace and security.” They added, “The New Delhi district has received their complaints and referred the cases to the Crime Branch for a fair investigation.”

Abhijit Deepak, founder of the Kakroch Janata Party (KJP), shared a video on social media featuring one female journalist recounting her experience. In the video, she expressed frustration that despite waiting for over three and a half hours, an FIR had not been registered. The complainants had approached the Parliament Street police station in Delhi to file their complaints. One female journalist stated that many journalists and social activists stood in solidarity both inside and outside the police station, but no action had been taken by the police to date.

The KJP has called for journalists to gather at the Parliament Street police station at 11 a.m. on Sunday to show support. Regarding the sexual harassment allegations, a senior female journalist shared that while Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan were being taken into custody, she was attempting to get their reactions when she suddenly felt someone touch her back. On turning around, she realized that a police officer had touched her private parts. She also mentioned that photographic evidence of the incident is included in her complaint.

In the video shared by Abhijit Deepak, the female journalist’s footage captures the moment Neha Bora was being taken into custody. She stated in the post, “Male officers detained her, and no female officers were accompanying them.”

China Tops Asian Games with 341 Medals, Nepal Limited to Two Bronze Medals

October 5, Kathmandu – At the conclusion of the 20th Asian Games held in Japan, China secured first place with a total of 341 medals. The games, which began on September 20, ended on Sunday. China maintained its dominance by winning 169 gold, 89 silver, and 83 bronze medals. The host nation Japan finished second, claiming 39 gold, 95 silver, and 91 bronze medals. South Korea secured third place with 39 golds among a total of 150 medals, while India stood fourth with 21 gold and a total of 85 medals.
Nepal managed to earn only two bronze medals. The Nepalese women’s kabaddi team won the bronze medal for the second consecutive Asian Games, and karate athlete Tenzing Sherpa also succeeded in winning a bronze medal. Of the 135 Nepalese athletes participating in the event, these two bronze medals were the sole podium finishes for the nation. View the full medal tally here.

Flydubai Captain Recalls Attack on Netanyahu During Critical Flight Incident (Includes Conversation)

October 5, Kathmandu – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Flydubai Captain Smith Machhar to participate in a special event commemorating the upcoming Israeli Independence Day.

Prime Minister Netanyahu extended the invitation to Captain Machhar during a telephone conversation, asking him to light the celebratory flame on Independence Day.

Netanyahu noted that such an honor is typically reserved for Israeli citizens, but extended the invitation to Machhar in recognition of his bravery and the critical role he played in saving the lives of passengers aboard the aircraft.

“I wish to invite you and my dear friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light the celebratory flame on our upcoming Independence Day. You are a true hero to the brave people of India and Israel, and a hero to the entire world,” Netanyahu said.

He also invited Captain Machhar along with his wife and children to visit Israel.

Smith Machhar, an Indian pilot flying Flydubai’s aircraft from Dubai, UAE, to Tel Aviv, Israel, faced a violent attack from co-pilot Hamam Al Hamami of Oman using an emergency tool known as a ‘crash axe.’ Despite the violent incident, the injured pilot managed to divert the plane towards Saudi Arabia and execute a safe landing.

Flight FZ-1073, operating a Boeing 737 Max 8, carried 174 passengers whose lives were saved due to Captain Machhar’s heroic actions, earning him worldwide acclaim.

During the phone call, Netanyahu wished Captain Machhar a full recovery from his injuries.

Captain Machhar recounted to Netanyahu how the co-pilot attacked him from behind during the flight, after which he opened the cockpit door and enabled other crew members to take control of the plane.

This conversation was uploaded to the official Facebook page of the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office. Below is an edited excerpt of their dialogue:

Smith: How are you?

Netanyahu: I’m fine, but how are you feeling?

Smith: I am gradually recovering. Getting better.

Netanyahu: Captain, I want to invite you and my dear friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light the celebratory flame at our upcoming Independence Day. You are a true hero to the brave people of India and Israel, and a hero to the whole world. I wish you a speedy and full recovery.

Can you tell me how the incident began?

Smith: It was a routine flight. The co-pilot said he wanted to pray. Many locals pray, so that was not unusual. While he prayed, I was looking forward and not behind.

Suddenly, about four or five minutes later, I felt a strong blow to the back of my head. My first thought was that something serious and destructive had happened to the plane. Then, more blows followed one after another.

That’s when I realized the problem wasn’t with the plane, but with the other person in the cockpit with me.

I tried to stop him, but due to the earlier strikes, my vision was nearly lost, and everything was blurry. At that moment, I sensed the plane sharply descending.

My memory is fragmented, but I recall trying once to open the cockpit door, though I think he closed it again. I remember falling to the cockpit floor.

I heard the noise of the plane, the strong wind, and people screaming.

I still had some strength left for one last effort. Whether for personal reasons or the people on board, I thought—if I do nothing now, I will die.

Then I gathered all my strength, went to the door, and opened it.

Fortunately, the people outside were ready and waiting to take control of the plane. What happened next, you know very well, sir.

Netanyahu: I am truly amazed at your courage and composure to make decisions under such unimaginable circumstances.

But tell me—how did you pull the pin to open the cockpit door?

Smith: Actually, the door opens by turning from the inside. From the outside, it can only be unlocked using a code. My colleagues outside were trying to enter the code, but the attacker wouldn’t allow it.

So the only way to open the door was to reach it and turn the knob as if rotating a regular door knob, which would cause it to open. There was no pin. The key was to reach the knob. When my hand touched it, I think I turned it and opened the door.

Netanyahu: What you describe reflects both a twist of fate and an act of faith. What you did is extraordinary.

I have heard from Israeli passengers what happened afterward. You are a great hero, and the people with you are heroes as well. Together you saved many lives that day.

I believe you also saved something even greater—the spirit of trust and courage.

This incident showed the world that fearless pilots and passengers can overcome even the most dangerous and violent threats.

You have been rightfully honored as a hero worldwide. You are a hero of Israel, India, and the entire world. The people here will welcome you with open hearts.

You and your team saved many lives. Please also convey my and my wife’s warm regards to your wife. I am aware you have a family.

Smith: Thank you.

Netanyahu: You are now part of our nations’ family, a courageous member of that family. Please recover fully as soon as possible.

Smith: I will recover, sir. Definitely will recover.

Netanyahu: Again, I want to say that Captain Smith and Prime Minister Modi are great friends. I sincerely hope they will light the celebratory flame on our Independence Day.

This is one of the highest honors given on our Independence Day, usually reserved only for Israeli citizens.

But I believe all Israeli citizens will embrace you. They consider you a hero now and will continue to do so. We look forward to seeing you in Israel very soon.

Smith: I am eager to meet you too, sir. Although under these circumstances, this visit will certainly be a memorable and historic one.

Netanyahu: Thank you, sir, for everything you have done.

Smith: Thank you very much, sir. It is an honor to speak with you.

Netanyahu: Thank you.

Tenth National Games Main Organizing Committee Meeting Begins in Surkhet

October 4, Kathmandu. The main organizing committee meeting for the Tenth National Games has commenced in Surkhet. The meeting started on Sunday in Birendranagar, Surkhet, under the chairmanship of the Minister of Education and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel. The Tenth National Games are scheduled to be held from December 1 to 12 across various districts of Karnali Province. This meeting of the main organizing committee has been convened to prepare for the event.

Why Are Foods Like Samosas and Pakoras Still Served on Newspapers?

In various regions of Nepal and India, it remains a common practice to serve fried foods such as samosas and pakoras wrapped in newspapers. Although growing public awareness has reduced this tradition in recent years, it has not been entirely eradicated. Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued special guidelines for street food vendors, hotels, and traders regarding this practice. FSSAI has warned that serving food on newspapers or other printed materials can pose serious health risks.

Printing inks used on newspapers contain lead and other chemicals that can leach into hot foods or oils. When samosas, pakoras, or other snacks are served on newspapers, these harmful substances can contaminate the food and cause digestive illnesses. In India, the use of newspapers or similar paper materials to package or serve food is strictly prohibited. According to physician Dr. Shyam Prasad, lead entering the body through contaminated food can damage the liver and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting other organs and the brain.

Dr. Prasad also highlighted that some households use old newspapers to wrap bread or puris, a practice especially harmful to children. He explained, “This can severely impact the mental and physical development of children and may also have negative effects on pregnant women.” FSSAI has reiterated its directive that food service providers should use only safe and officially approved food-grade packaging materials. Consumers have also been advised to remain vigilant about this issue.

Toronto Sixers Win Canada Super 60 Women’s Cricket Title with Indu Barma in Squad

October 5, Kathmandu — The Toronto Sixers, featuring captain of the Nepalese women’s cricket team Indu Barma, have clinched the title in the Canada Super 60 Women’s Cricket Tournament. In the final held on Sunday morning, Toronto defeated the Vancouver Warriors by 6 wickets to secure the championship. Chasing a target of 86 runs, Toronto reached it with 3 balls to spare. Indu remained unbeaten on 15 runs, striking the winning runs. She also contributed with the ball by taking 1 wicket and effecting a run-out. Over the course of the tournament, Indu took 4 wickets in 4 matches. Despite losing their opening match against the Vancouver Warriors, Toronto bounced back by defeating the Vancouver Anchors twice, including in the eliminator match, to advance to and ultimately win the final.

Australia Advances Clocks by One Hour, Increasing Time Difference with Nepal

October 5, Canberra – Daylight Saving Time began in Australia on Sunday. In New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory, clocks were set forward by one hour at 2:00 AM, becoming 3:00 AM. This adjustment extends daylight hours in the evening during the summer months across these regions. It provides more daylight after work or study for activities such as exercise, recreation, and outdoor pursuits. However, the first day after the clock change may feel disruptive, with up to one hour less sleep for those maintaining regular waking and sleeping times. According to government advisories, the time change may affect sleep patterns and daily routines for several days, and it is recommended to gradually adjust sleep schedules and spend some time in morning daylight.

What does this mean for Nepalese? The most practical effect of Daylight Saving Time impacts Nepalese people living in Australia and those who maintain regular communication with Australia from Nepal. For example, when it is 7:00 PM in Sydney today, it will be 1:45 PM the same day in Kathmandu. Thus, with the time shift in Australia, not only the local clocks change but also the timings for conversations, work, and online meetings with Nepal change accordingly. Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Hobart will now be 5 hours and 15 minutes ahead of Nepal, compared to 4 hours and 15 minutes before the clock change. In South Australia’s Adelaide, the time difference will be 4 hours and 45 minutes ahead of Nepal. This means when scheduling calls, online classes, office meetings, or family chats between Nepal and Australia, the one-hour time difference adjustment must be accounted for.

This time difference is based on the Eastern and Central Australian Daylight Saving zones relative to Nepal’s fixed UTC+5:45 time zone. Brisbane will not observe the time change, so the time difference between Brisbane and Canberra, Sydney, or Melbourne will now be one hour. Perth also does not observe Daylight Saving Time, further increasing the time gap with Eastern Australia.

Not all of Australia changes clocks. Daylight Saving is not uniformly observed across the country. New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the ACT move clocks forward by one hour on the first Sunday of October and set them back on the first Sunday of April the following year. Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia do not participate in Daylight Saving. Therefore, time differences between cities in Australia vary depending on the season.

How is the clock changed? At 2:00 AM on Sunday morning, the time in participating states and territories jumps directly to 3:00 AM, effectively skipping one hour between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM. Many devices linked to smartphones, computers, and the internet update automatically. However, wall clocks, some watches, and manual devices may not adjust by themselves. Consequently, government departments advised checking and adjusting such clocks on Saturday night. Daylight Saving Time will remain in effect until April 4, 2027, when clocks will be turned back one hour from 3:00 AM to 2:00 AM.

Nepal Police Club Wins Madan Bhandari International Volleyball Cup Title

October 5, Butwal – The Nepal Police Club, a departmental team, clinched the title in the second edition of the Madan Bhandari International Invitational Running Shield Men’s Volleyball Tournament. In the final held on Saturday at the BICC Conference Center in Butwal, Nepal Police defeated Sabhapokhari Volleyball Club from Sankhuwasabha in straight sets 3–0 to claim the championship. The Police secured victory with scores of 25–23, 25–23, and 25–22.

Despite having Indian players and a strong performance during the league stage, Sabhapokhari fell short in the final against the Police, who demonstrated excellent pressure play throughout the match.

Along with the title, Nepal Police received a prize of NPR 700,000. The runner-up, Sabhapokhari, was awarded NPR 350,000. Departmental team Armed Police Force (APF) Club finished in third place. In the third-place playoff held on Saturday, APF defeated Khaira Volleyball Club from Punjab in a 3–1 set win, taking the match 18–25, 25–19, 25–13, 25–11.

For securing third place, APF received NPR 175,000, while fourth-placed Khaira Volleyball Club was awarded NPR 75,000 as a consolation prize.

The tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) was Police’s attacker Gahatraj, who received NPR 15,000. In departmental awards, Saroj Bardewa of APF was named Best Spiker; Balram Gurung of Police was Best Setter; Resham Chhantyal of Police was Best Server; Sibansen Bhi of Sabhapokhari was Best Blocker; Santosh Rai of Sabhapokhari was Best Defender; and Chandra Kunwar of Police was selected as Best Coach. Each outstanding player was awarded NPR 8,000.

Prizes were presented by Lumbini Province Minister for Youth and Sports Ramji Ghimire, former minister and CPN-UML leader Chhabilal Bishwakarma, Provincial Assembly members Bhoj Prasad Shrestha and Bishnu Panthi, Butwal Sub-Metropolitan Deputy Mayor Savitra Aryal, and Madan Bhandari Sports Academy President Dhruv Acharya. The tournament began on September 28 and featured seven teams in total, including three from abroad and four from Nepal.

Ukraine Warns of Intensified Attacks on Russian Oil Refineries

October 2, Kathmandu – In response to Russia’s new aerial assault strategy, Ukraine has warned of intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries. Ukraine has announced that it is developing long-range missiles for this purpose. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a special interview with Reuters, alleged that Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a “new doctrine” aimed at expanding attacks on civilian infrastructure targeting the upcoming winter season. According to Zelensky, documents obtained by Ukraine’s intelligence agencies show Russia has authorized targeting infrastructure including transportation and logistics, roads, schools, and hospitals. “The goal of this operation is to pressure people to leave the capital and other cities,” Zelensky said.

Russia has emphasized that it will continue retaliatory actions in response to Ukrainian attacks within its territory. The Russian Foreign Ministry has urged foreign nationals in Kyiv to leave and stated that Russia will systematically continue strikes against its declared targets. Regarding anticipated Ukrainian assaults on Russian energy infrastructure, Zelensky stated, “If they attack our energy sources, we will target their energy infrastructure,” with a particular focus on oil refineries. However, Ukraine claims it does not intend to indiscriminately target civilian structures as Russia reportedly does.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously urged Ukraine to cease attacks on Russian oil facilities, stating such strikes have driven up diesel prices in global markets. Zelensky has indicated that he has seen no signs of Russia showing sincerity in peace talks. Ukrainian officials have formally claimed that Russia has stored hundreds of ballistic missiles in preparation for major attacks on electricity and water supply infrastructure in the upcoming winter.