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Women Must Balance Education and Employment to Engage in Sports

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“Women athletes need to focus on education and secure employment alongside their sports training to sustain long-term participation,” said Manmati Bist, the national kabaddi team captain. She emphasized that athletes who combine good training with attention to education and job opportunities find it easier to maintain their sporting careers. “Wealthy families generally do not involve themselves in kabaddi. Children from poorer backgrounds, who have worked in the fields, tend to be physically strong and perform well in sports. Since financial support is essential for various needs, continuing education and gaining employment are beneficial,” explained Captain Manmati Bist.

Recently, the Nepali team won a bronze medal at the Asian Beach Games held in China. How did Captain Manmati Bist’s journey in kabaddi begin, and what kinds of challenges did she face while being involved in this sport? Watch this video prepared by Srijana Shrestha to learn more.

Nepali Congress Dissident Group Holds Gathering in Biratnagar: Who Will Participate?

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30 Jestha, Biratnagar – The dissident faction of the Nepali Congress is organizing a large-scale gathering in Biratnagar on Sunday to exert pressure for party unity. Bhupendra Rai, General Secretary of the Nepali Congress Koshi Province Committee, informed that this assembly will take place in the presence of senior party leaders aimed at consolidating the party.

Rai emphasized that the weakening of Congress is raising questions about national identity and sovereignty, and thus the gathering is intended to create the necessary pressure to unify the party.

Dr. Shekhar Koirala is expected to attend as the chief guest. Other prominent leaders from the party including former Deputy Speaker Vijay Kumar Gachhadar, former General Secretaries Krishna Prasad Sitaula, and Dr. Shashank Koirala will also participate. The dissident faction considers this gathering a rallying point for leaders and cadres from across the province who align neither with outgoing Chairperson Sher Bahadur Deuba, the Koirala faction, nor the Sitaula group.

The dissident group claims that broad unity within the party can only be achieved through regular general conventions and accuses the committee formed during the special general convention of failing to create an environment of assurance. Province General Secretary Rai asserts that this gathering is a program for the entire Congress party and not for any single group. “This event is organized not by any one faction or pressure group, but for the entire Congress,” he stated.

He criticizes the use of the special general convention as a platform for disrespecting senior leaders who have dedicated their blood and sweat since the party’s foundation. “Senior leaders who have sacrificed from the founding days of the party are being sidelined in a humiliating manner. Anyone dreaming of leading a small faction alone is a threat to both the Congress and the country. Therefore, we aim to pressure for full party unity,” Rai remarked.

Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Koshi Province, Kedar Karki, shared that efforts are underway to prevent division within the party. He commented, “We had said Congress must move forward in a new way, but there was laxity in the leadership we chose, and it couldn’t bear the party’s heavy responsibility. That leadership only claims to represent 54 percent.” He also critiqued Chairperson Gagan Thapa for not being able to lead the entire Congress, saying, “We chose leadership for the entire Nepali Congress, aiming to select a chairperson for 100 percent, but since the leadership said ‘I won’t shoulder the burden,’ we responded with a campaign insisting the chairperson must represent 100 percent.”

Iran and US Near Agreement to End Conflict; Israel–Lebanon Issues Remain Unresolved

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May 13, Kathmandu. Since February, the markets in Tehran have been unusually quiet. As oil prices soared, truck drivers hesitated to take to the roads. Ships lined up at Gulf ports, waiting due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Although the strait has seen intermittent openings and closings, it has yet to regain its normal flow. Ceasefires during this period were punctuated by sporadic attacks.

Amidst this, yesterday’s international media reports confirmed that preliminary agreements to end the ongoing war between the United States and Iran have entered the final stages. Senior officials from both sides confirmed this on Friday. Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi and high-ranking US administration officials stated that the deal is now “closer than ever before.”

Under the agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will be reopened, US sanctions will be lifted, and a 60-day negotiation period concerning Iran’s nuclear program will commence. However, a source informed Reuters that US forces shot down Iranian drones heading toward the Strait of Hormuz just yesterday. These drones posed a threat to commercial shipping. The US Central Command later confirmed the action and emphasized that the strait remains open for navigation.

Iranian news agencies reported sounds of explosions near Iran’s Sirik port and Qeshm Island by the strait. Local residents and officials said these blasts were warning shots fired by the Revolutionary Guard Navy against ships attempting to cross the strait without authorization.

The draft of this agreement has been shared with multiple outlets, including Reuters, Politico, BBC, and Axios. While some details vary, the overall framework is clear. The initial and most urgent points include reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports. Both measures are expected to be implemented almost simultaneously. After reopening, the goal is to return shipping traffic to pre-conflict levels within 30 days. This would be followed by a 60-day negotiation period focused on Iran’s nuclear program, specifically managing its stockpile of enriched uranium.

US officials have indicated that the agreement will commit Iran to never acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran had pledged such a commitment over five decades ago under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, though recent advances in its nuclear program raised doubts about this pledge. The US demands dismantling the nuclear program and the destruction of highly enriched uranium stockpiles.

Economic provisions are also significant. The agreement outlines a gradual lifting of sanctions on Iran and phased release of “frozen assets” — funds currently restricted. However, these benefits will only be enacted once Iran proves compliance with its obligations. The deal also includes Iran’s commitment to cease financial support for proxy groups in the Middle East, particularly Hezbollah and other Iranian-backed forces, a longstanding US demand.

Qatar and Pakistan have played key mediator roles in constructing the deal. According to Axios, the Wednesday night talks were especially decisive, involving hours-long discussions in Tehran between Qatar’s mediator Ali Al-Thawadi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Al-Thawadi also engaged in multiple phone calls with US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed on Friday that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) had been agreed upon between the US and Iran, pending final signatures. If signed, the document will be known as the “Islamabad Agreement.”

Leading US negotiators include Vice President JD Vance, Chief of Staff Suzy Wills, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Inside sources reveal President Trump was highly involved in drafting language concerning the destruction and removal of enriched nuclear material. Four US Air Force C-17 aircraft carrying materials for a potential signing ceremony in Geneva departed for Europe on Thursday. According to a Western source, Vice President Vance and Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf could sign the agreement in Geneva as soon as Sunday.

President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he had canceled “planned strikes” against Iran, citing negotiators’ progress toward a “big deal.” He anticipated imminent signing of the agreement. However, Iranian media published details of a supposed 14-point agreement on Friday. Trump dismissed these as unrelated to the pact’s agreed terms and called them “falsehoods,” also criticizing Iranian leadership as “dishonorable.”

A senior US administration official stated that renewed confidence stems from Iran’s firm commitment to removing enriched nuclear material, a development pleasing to the president. The likelihood of the deal’s success is estimated between 80 and 85 percent.

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi declared on television outside the negotiations, “Iran is the winner in the war with the US.” This statement has raised concerns among US officials. He also claimed, “The administration of the Strait of Hormuz will no longer be the same as before. Iran will share control of the strait’s navigation with Oman. Our sword will always hang over the Strait of Hormuz.”

Since the closure of Hormuz, Iran had been charging fees to vessels seeking passage. The US has insisted on free navigation for all ships.

Regarding nuclear issues, Araghchi expressed Iran’s preference for “down-blending” highly enriched uranium stockpiles to less dangerous forms. He said, “For Tehran, the only viable solution is the down-blending of highly enriched uranium stockpiles.” In contrast, US officials expect the nuclear material to be destroyed and removed from the country, although exact methods remain undetermined, marking a significant divergence of views.

Araghchi further stated on television, “As soon as final phases of negotiations conclude, the agreement will be signed and announced. It may happen in the coming days. I am very optimistic.” However, he acknowledged divisions within Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, with both supporters and opponents of the deal. He added, “For now, we must wait. If approved, the signing will take place remotely.”

The most complex and contentious aspect of the agreement centers on Iran’s nuclear program. Despite US and Israeli attacks, Iran has secured some nuclear materials in underground facilities. Sources indicate that President Trump has agreed to allow Iran to down-blend its enriched uranium under UN inspectors’ supervision, but only after the secondary agreement is finalized. The initial MoU signing will mark the start of a 60-day period designated for intensive negotiations on this issue.

An official remarked, “Technical details remain to be worked out, but there is commitment to dismantle the nuclear weapons program, deactivate nuclear sites, and determine methods through subsequent technical talks.”

Arab officials remain skeptical. During negotiations, officials from Arab countries have expressed difficulty in believing that Iran intends to make any significant nuclear concessions.

Israel remains entirely excluded from this agreement process. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear his country will not support the deal. Axios reported that Trump’s announcement of the finalized agreement surprised Netanyahu, who reportedly felt left in the dark and sought updates by calling aides close to the Trump administration.

Israel’s Defense Minister asserted that the country will not cede any territory. Another Israeli official emphasized Israel’s capacity to act independently: “If Iran maintains the capability to acquire nuclear weapons, necessary measures will be taken,” he stated.

The US appears to confine the agreement strictly to interactions between the US and Iran. However, Iran wants the war between Israel and Hezbollah also addressed within the terms. Foreign Minister Araghchi has signaled that this issue needs inclusion, yet Israel remains opposed.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed to continue attacks against Hezbollah, which targets Israel’s northern territories, showing resolve on this front. The US has indicated Lebanon will not be part of the agreement, despite Iranian insistence. This remains another area of uncertainty.

Ronak and Swastika Clinch Titles at National Sport Climbing Championship 2026

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Ronak Upreti and Swastika Chaudhary have won the men’s and women’s titles respectively at the National Sport Climbing Championship 2026. The winners were awarded NPR 30,000 in cash, medals, and sports equipment valued at approximately NPR 100,000 each. Organized by the Nepal Climbing Sport Association, the one-day event saw participation from 35 male and 7 female climbers. The competition took place on June 14 in Kathmandu.

Ronak Upreti secured the men’s championship while Swastika Chaudhary was crowned the women’s champion in the tournament conducted by the Nepal Climbing Sport Association (NCSA) on Saturday. Both champions received NPR 30,000 in cash along with medals and certificates. In the men’s category, Pemba Chewang Tamang finished second, and Sulabh Rai took third place. Among women, Manisha Budha Magar secured second place, with Rabika Maharjan in third. Second-place finishers were awarded NPR 20,000 each, and third-place climbers received NPR 10,000 each.

Moreover, all top three finishers in both men’s and women’s categories received sports gear worth roughly NPR 100,000 from gear partner Pellet Nepal. The competition was held at the Kathmandu Sports Climbing Center, featuring 35 male and 7 female participants. Ram Charitra Maheta, Member Secretary of the National Sports Council, inaugurated the event.

Eight male climbers qualified for the final round after the qualification stages, where the championship winners were decided. Last year, the NCSA resumed the National Sport Climbing Championship after a six-year hiatus. Continuing that momentum, this year’s event focused on the bouldering discipline. NCSA President Ramesh Paudel announced plans to establish an annual calendar for the championship and hold it regularly every year. Highlighting the sport’s tremendous potential in Nepal and an increased number of participants this year, he also assured opportunities for new climbers to compete at the national level in the future.

Medals, awards, and certificates were presented to the champions by Ramji Bahadur Shrestha, Vice General Secretary of the Nepal Olympic Committee, and Ramesh Paudel, President of NCSA. The competition was supported by Pellet Nepal, Elite Xped, ATK Expeditions, Altipro Adventure, Satori Adventure, Seven Summit Treks, 14 Peaks Expedition, Bill, Pioneer Adventure, and Black Diamond. Black Diamond also announced gear sponsorships for one male and one female climber selected to represent Nepal in international events. The Nepal National Mountain Guide Association served as the technical partner, with technical support from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.

‘I Will Return Home Safely’: Final Words of Indian Navy Personnel Suresh to His Wife Before Dying in U.S. Attack

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“He assured me he would return home soon. I never imagined he would come back this way,” said Bhargavi Patnala. Her husband, Suresh Patnala, a member of the Indian maritime crew, was killed this week in a U.S. attack near the Gulf of Oman. The couple had been preparing to celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary this month. Now, Bhargavi is left to contemplate a future without Suresh.

On Wednesday, Suresh was one of three Indians killed when the U.S. military launched an attack on an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. According to the U.S. military, the attack was part of Washington’s efforts to enforce a blockade against vessels linked to Iran. The U.S. stated that the tanker was carrying Iranian oil and had repeatedly ignored warnings. However, the ship’s management denied these allegations, asserting the vessel had no connections to Iran and had received no prior warnings before the attack. Twenty-one other crew members were rescued.

The news of the deaths has deeply saddened people across India—from Bhargavi’s home in the coastal city of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, to cities and villages hundreds of kilometers away. In many of these places, family members who have lost loved ones working at sea are mourning. Many are seeking answers about the circumstances of the attack and awaiting the return of the crew members’ bodies.

In a post on social media platform X, Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated efforts are underway to recover the deceased and described their deaths as a “profound loss” to India’s maritime community. India has strongly protested the attack to the Washington government and called for an end to attacks on commercial vessels.

India Prepares to Establish ‘Theater Commands’ to Face Pressure from China and Pakistan

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India is making final preparations to establish ‘Integrated Theater Commands,’ marking the largest military restructuring since its independence. Under this new scheme, the existing 17 commands will be replaced by three joint commands focused on China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean region. Given the limited air force resources that would be divided across different geographical areas, the Indian Air Force has expressed concerns and reservations regarding the proposed reorganization. Kathmandu, June 13.

India is moving forward with its most significant post-independence military structural refinement. This process will bring the Army, Navy, and Air Force under commanders responsible for specific conflict-prone regions. However, there are concerns and doubts about whether this coordination will be effective enough to simultaneously face China and Pakistan. Analysts suggest that the debate around the proposed ‘Integrated Theater Commands’ extends beyond mere military structural reform; it reflects the larger question of whether the Indian Armed Forces can operate more cohesively to address border disputes and evolving security threats.

After long anticipation, this plan was presented to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh last month. It is currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Defence and the security-related Cabinet Committee. The plan will dissolve India’s existing 17 land, naval, and air commands and implement a new structure. Currently, these commands mostly operate independently; the new system will establish joint commands based on geographic location and security threats. The Northern Theater Command, focused on China, will be headquartered in Lucknow, while the Western Theater Command, tasked with Pakistan, will be based in Jaipur. Additionally, a Maritime Theater Command to safeguard India’s interests in the Indian Ocean region will be located in Thiruvananthapuram.

Leadership of these three commands is expected to be held respectively by senior officers from the Army, Air Force, and Navy. According to Gaurav Kumar, a researcher at the United Services Institute of India specializing in defence studies, the accelerated momentum behind this plan is largely due to the clear coordination observed between Islamabad and Beijing during Operation Sindhur. Last year, India launched a military strike against Pakistan in response to the killing of 26 civilians in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, an operation known as Operation Sindhur.

‘Arogya Khana’ Campaign Launched at Star Hotels to Promote Health Tourism

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News Summary

Reviewed.

  • Following the Nepal government’s declaration of 2027 as the ‘Year of Health,’ the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) has initiated the ‘Arogya Khana’ campaign at star hotels.
  • The campaign aims to include nutritious traditional health foods on the menus of star hotels to attract tourists visiting for health tourism.
  • HAN continues training and collaboration to promote health foods and has formed an expert task force to position Nepal as an international health tourism destination.

May 12, Kathmandu – A campaign targeting the institutionalization of health tourism and the ‘Arogya Khana’ (health food) initiative has been launched across star hotels in Nepal.

With the approval of the National Tourism Strategy 2026–2035 and its Action Plan 2026–2030, the Nepal government has declared 2027 as the ‘Year of Health.’ In this context, the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN), in collaboration with Nepal in Business, organized the Nepal Health Food Orientation and Promotion Program to institutionalize health tourism promotion and the health food campaign at star hotels.

HAN President Vinayak Shah highlighted the vast potential for health tourism in Nepal during the event held on Friday. He emphasized that star hotels must take a leading role in this campaign.

President Shah stressed that including health foods in hotel menus to meet the needs of tourists arriving for health tourism is a timely necessity.

He further explained that the program was organized to provide chefs working in star hotels with practical knowledge regarding the importance of health foods, preparation methods, nutritional aspects, and their inclusion in regular hotel menus.

Shah expressed confidence that this program will play an inspiring and crucial role in further strengthening the health tourism promotion campaign.

According to him, considering diet and lifestyle, and analyzing factors like timing, season, Nepali culture, and nutrition, the aim is to develop and expand more refined, specialized, and internationally competitive health foods using the integration of Ayurveda and modern physiology in the coming days.

This initiative is expected to result in qualitative growth in the number of tourists visiting Nepal for health tourism, their length of stay, and their spending, positively impacting the overall tourism industry.

Executive Director of Nepal Tourism, Hotel and Mountaineering Institution, Divyaraj Pokharel, remarked that skilled manpower, research, and innovation are essential for developing health tourism, and that the hotel industry should take a leadership role in this sector.

Similarly, Indu Ghimire, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, noted that the Nepal government has prioritized health tourism as a focal area for tourism development and stressed that collaboration between public and private sectors will be vital to the success of this campaign.

LP Bhanu Sharma, a guru of life sciences, detailed the relationship between human health, lifestyle, and nutrition, stating that health foods significantly contribute to physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. He added that there is potential to integrate Nepal’s indigenous food culture and Ayurvedic knowledge with modern tourism to gain global recognition.

Following the training, the participating chefs and trainers presented a variety of health food dishes in an exhibition program designed to enhance the effectiveness and experiential learning of the campaign.

HAN has committed to continuing various programs, training, research, and collaborations to promote health tourism and health foods, aiming to establish Nepal as an international health tourism destination. An expert task force has also been formed to support this mission.

Railway Development Progresses Slowly Due to Insufficient Budget

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News Summary

  • The government has allocated NPR 307.68 crore for railway, metro rail, and monorail development projects for the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84.
  • The initial cost of the railway line project was NPR 7.062 billion, but the revised total cost has escalated to NPR 955.22 billion.
  • Under the Nepal-China interregional Kerung-Kathmandu railway feasibility study, nearly 90% of the geological survey has been completed as of Falgun (mid-February).

May 12, Kathmandu – The government has allocated only NPR 3 billion for railway, metro rail, and monorail development projects in the fiscal year 2083/84.

According to the Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s annual development program, a total of NPR 307.68 crore has been earmarked for railway development next fiscal year.

Of this amount, NPR 279 crore is dedicated to the national pride projects of rail, metro rail, and monorail development in Kathmandu. The Railway Planning Office in Jhapa has been allocated NPR 5 crore and the office in Sarlahi has been granted NPR 23 crore.

The government had allocated NPR 269.36 crore to these projects in the current fiscal year and has made only a nominal increase in the upcoming budget.

During the budget speech, the government mentioned advancing the construction of the railway line from Bardibas to the starting point of the Kathmandu-Tarai-Madhes fast track. Additionally, it has set aside funds to complete ongoing works on the Bathnaha–Biratnagar and Janakpur–Jaynagar–Bardibas railway lines.

The policy of the upcoming fiscal year retains the continuation of the East-West railway line and includes studies on the investment modalities for the Kerung-Kathmandu and Raxaul-Kathmandu railway lines. However, substantial progress in railway projects in Nepal remains limited.

Nepal is marking a century since the inauguration of its first rail service. The 48-kilometer Amlekhgunj-Raxaul railway, launched in 1927, is regarded as Nepal’s first rail line. This service was discontinued in the 1960s. Later, in 1937, the second railway service began between Jaynagar, India, and Janakpur-Bijalpura, Nepal, stretching 51 kilometers and operated for a significant period.

According to plans started in 2021, the previously suspended rail service has been reconstructed and resumed. However, due to lack of efficient management, the service has not generated satisfactory revenue, and other railway projects are progressing slowly.

Recent Progress in Railway Development

According to the Economic Survey 2082/83, under the East-West electrified railway, by Falgun 2082, 68.6 kilometers of track bed and 16 railway bridges have been completed on the Bardibas–Nijgadh section (52 kilometers) of Bardibas-Chocha segment.

The Nepal-India interregional railway Jaynagar-Janakpur-Bardibas (69 kilometers) line currently operates 52 kilometers of passenger railway service.

Moreover, on the 17-kilometer Bhangaha (Bijalpura)-Bardibas section, land acquisition for the railway construction is nearing completion. The Bathnaha–Biratnagar railway (18 kilometers) has completed the Bathnaha–Biratnagar (10 kilometers) section, and cargo railway service is in its initial phase between Bathnaha, India, and the Nepal Customs Yard (8 kilometers).

Regarding the Nepal-China interregional Kerung-Kathmandu railway line, nearly 90% of the geological exploration under the feasibility study is completed as of this fiscal year’s Falgun.

Revised Cost of NPR 955 Billion But Budget Does Not Reflect Progress

The railway and metro development project is a national pride initiative that the government launched in 2008/09 and plans to complete by 2030/31 according to the National Planning Commission.

The initial project cost was NPR 7.062 billion but now the revised cost has soared to NPR 955.22 billion. According to the commission, the cost increase is mainly due to the expanded scope of the East-West electrified railway.

Despite the enormous cost estimates, the government’s annual budget allocations do not indicate the expected pace of progress in railway development.

The government is promoting this project with the aim of developing an environmentally friendly railway system across the Terai region from Mechi in the east to Mahakali in the west, powered by domestic hydropower-based electricity.

Rail transport is cost-effective, significantly reducing transportation expenses for cargo and passengers. Plans under the East-West railway include track beds, bridges, stations, and capacity enhancements.

However, delays in land acquisition, unresolved compensation disputes, difficulties constructing in forest areas, limited funds and resources, shortage of river sand and gravel, and issues with encroached or public land have hindered progress.

Update on Kerung–Kathmandu and Raxaul–Kathmandu Railways

Nepal prioritizes two interregional railway lines in its budgets and plans each year. The final feasibility report for the Kathmandu–Kerung (China) railway is still under preparation.

Fieldwork for this study is complete, and paperwork is ongoing. The report will finalize technical parameters such as distance, time, and cost. The preliminary cost estimate is approximately NPR 300 billion.

During Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Nepal in March 2022, the two countries agreed to conduct this feasibility study.

The detailed project report for the Raxaul–Kathmandu railway has been prepared by the Indian side. This 140-kilometer project was agreed upon by Nepal and India in 2018. Its cost estimate exceeds NPR 400 billion.

Demand for Effective Youth Participation in Policy Decisions

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The Koshi Province-level Youth Conference held in Biratnagar has called for ensuring effective youth participation in policy decision-making processes. The conference requested at least 20 percent representation of youth civic society in planning processes and the formulation of youth-friendly budgets. Additionally, it demanded collateral-free loans for young entrepreneurs and allocation of 5 percent of the total health budget to mental health.

The provincial youth conference, organized on Jestha 28 and 29 in Biratnagar with participation from youth across 14 districts of Koshi Province, also passed a resolution affirming that youth participation is the cornerstone of a prosperous province. The conference urged strengthening the Youth Council by enhancing its capabilities and resource base.

The conference emphasized the need to ensure at least 20 percent effective representation of youth civic society in local and provincial planning processes and incorporating youth priorities in budget creation. Furthermore, it called for establishing Provincial Indigenous Knowledge and Innovation Centers to preserve traditional skills of communities including Kirat, Dhimal, Rajbanshi, Santhal, Rai, and Limbu.

To promote young entrepreneurs, the conference demanded tax exemptions, unsecured youth innovation loans, and facilitation for patent registration of domestic products. It also urged allocating 5 percent of the total health budget for mental health and appointing counselors at the local government level. The conference elected new leadership for the Koshi Province CSO Youth Forum, appointing Yuva Timsina as coordinator and Neha Agrahari as co-coordinator.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Draw 1–1 with Canada After Failing to Maintain Lead

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In the third match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 held at Toronto Stadium, the host team Canada played to a 1–1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Summary

  • Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina played to a 1–1 draw in the third match of FIFA World Cup 2026.
  • Bosnia’s Jovo Lukić scored with a header in the 21st minute, while Canada’s Kyle Larin equalized in the 79th minute.
  • The fourth match of the World Cup will feature hosts USA against Paraguay, starting at 6:45 AM Nepal time.

May 30, Kathmandu. In an exciting third game of FIFA World Cup 2026 at Toronto Stadium, the host nation Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina shared points as the match ended in a 1-1 draw.

In the 21st minute, Bosnia’s Jovo Lukić opened the scoring with a powerful header, giving his team the lead. However, Bosnia was unable to maintain this advantage until the final whistle.

Canada’s Kyle Larin responded impressively in the 79th minute with a well-controlled goal, leveling the score. Neither team managed to score again, resulting in both sides earning one point each.

The next World Cup game will be contested between hosts USA and Paraguay, kicking off at 6:45 AM Nepal time.

Photo: IMAGO / Nordphoto

Gandaki Province’s Upcoming Budget Allocates NPR 40 Million for Directly Elected MPs and NPR 28 Million for Proportional MPs

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May 12, Pokhara – The Gandaki Province government is preparing to allocate its upcoming fiscal year’s budget equally between directly elected and proportional representation Members of Parliament (MPs) who have submitted project proposals. All party MPs will receive the same budget allocations to submit their development plans. A political consensus has been reached between the Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) to include MPs’ projects in the forthcoming budget.

Despite nearing the end of its second term, the provincial government has yet to establish an effective mechanism or criteria for budget formulation and project selection. Following trends of previous years, the budget continues to prioritize MPs’ preferences over the province’s broader priorities and needs.

According to Dr. Krishnachandra Devkota, Vice-Chairman of the Policy and Planning Commission, the current fiscal year’s budget for Gandaki Province stands at NPR 3.197 billion, and preparations suggest the next budget will be at a similar scale. Although ministries have been given ceilings of around NPR 2.9 billion, political leaders indicate the final budget size will hover close to the current year’s figure. The government’s policy and program have already been approved, with the budget presentation scheduled for mid-June. While it is expected that long-term and resource-secured projects will be prioritized, it appears that projects aligned with MPs’ interests will again be incorporated.

Last year, budget allocation amounts varied between directly elected and proportional MPs as well as between ruling and opposition parties. However, the upcoming budget plans to allocate an equal amount to all MPs. Each of the 36 directly elected MPs from constituencies in Gandaki will be assigned projects worth NPR 10 million that can potentially be contracted over multiple years. Other proportional representation MPs are set to submit projects valued up to NPR 28 million.

MP Rajiv Gurung, known as ‘Deepak Manange’ from Manang, was dismissed following his conviction in a murder case, but ministers have confirmed that projects in his constituency will still be included.

In the current budget, directly elected MPs in eight constituencies received projects worth NPR 10 million each, although proportional MPs were allocated different amounts. For the upcoming budget, each constituency is requested to submit road or bridge projects equivalent to NPR 10 million, and a total of 59 MPs are instructed to propose projects up to NPR 28 million within their respective ministries’ sectors. Specifically, the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure has been asked to accept projects worth NPR 15 million, the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Drinking Water NPR 5 million, the Ministry of Tourism NPR 4 million, the Ministry of Social Development NPR 3 million, and the Ministry of Forests NPR 1 million.

MPs will select projects aligned with their preferences within the prescribed ceilings and submit them to the relevant ministries for inclusion in the annual development program. Of the province’s 60-member assembly, only 59 seats are currently filled, following the dismissal of Rajiv Gurung.

When calculated, allocating NPR 10 million per directly elected MP would result in a total of approximately NPR 1.368 billion in projects. The 24 proportional MPs, allotted up to NPR 28 million each, are expected to be assigned a combined total of NPR 672 million. Last year, MPs voiced objections in parliament over disparities between the allocations to direct and proportional MPs, asserting that despite being elected through different systems, MPs should have equal standing within the assembly. The ruling Communist Party (Unified Marxist–Leninist) Chief Whip, Devka Pahari, confirmed that all MPs except for one project per electoral area have been assigned equal budget caps in the upcoming budget.

Pahari further explained that proportional MPs advocated for equal budget allocations on projects other than constituency-based ones, prompting the decision to ensure uniform allocations. She remarked, “There had been repeated demands to ensure equal status, and this time, the agreement to allocate equal budget projects to proportional MPs has been reached.” Finance Minister Jeet Sherchan also affirmed that all MPs in the assembly have equal rights, denying any discrimination between directly elected and proportional MPs. “No distinction has been made in terms of rights or status between the two groups,” Sherchan said. “The Chief Whip and I have agreed on the distribution of projects; I have not participated in many meetings on this matter.” He also pledged the introduction of new long-term priority programs in the upcoming budget.

While the largest portion of the budget will be directed toward physical infrastructure, agriculture and tourism remain provincial priorities. Finance Minister Sherchan stated, “Most of the budget will go to infrastructure. Subsequently, there will be new programs in agriculture and tourism sectors.” He added plans are underway to focus on production and marketing initiatives in agriculture. The upcoming budget will also allocate significant funds for clearing liabilities, completing unfinished projects, and improving existing schemes.

Many projects under the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Drinking Water are currently stalled, and substantial budgetary support is expected to complete them. Although the province organizes annual discussions and programs related to project implementation, criticism remains that most of these efforts are limited to paperwork without actual government commitment.

Monitoring Report on the House of Representatives Election Released

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May 12, Kathmandu – The monitoring report on the House of Representatives election has been published. Released by Democracy Resource Centre Nepal (DRCN), the report covers observations from the election held on February 21. It includes analysis of the pre-election environment, preparations by the Election Commission, election campaigning, adherence to the code of conduct, voting procedures, direct observation of vote counting, interactions with stakeholders, and collected data.

The report highlights that despite complex political and security challenges, the peaceful and secure conduct of the election helped ease the constitutional and political crisis that emerged after the people’s movement, according to DRCN.

Although the Election Commission successfully conducted the election amid structural dependencies and legal complexities, inconsistencies in manpower management and weaknesses in training posed challenges to its performance, the report states. Legally, overlapping and ambiguous election laws complicated implementation. Issues such as voter registration management, unauthorized voting, voting rights of Nepalis abroad, and the implementation of the ‘NOTA’ system remain unresolved. The report calls for further initiatives to ensure an inclusive and fully participatory electoral system.

At the report launch, Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari acknowledged that conducting the election under extraordinary circumstances was no small achievement. He attributed the election’s success to hard work and dedication, advising monitoring organizations to highlight not only negative findings but also positive efforts and initiatives. Vidushi Dhungel, Country Representative of the National Democratic Institute, while providing a critical review, noted that organizations like DRCN consistently offer constructive suggestions during elections, which the Election Commission should take seriously.

Alok Pokhrel, President of DRCN, explained that the organization’s core themes are elections, good governance, democracy, and federalism, and this report reflects thorough study and analysis on these topics. A team of 94 observers from DRCN monitored 204 wards across 64 local units in 34 districts. The report includes observations from 452 polling stations within 413 polling locations.

Buffalo Herding and Goatherding Thrive in Thakur, Dhorpatan

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With the onset of the monsoon season, herders from Dhorpatan have brought their buffaloes to Thakur, located in Putha Uttarganga Rural Municipality-5 of Eastern Rukum. Situated at an elevation of 4,000 meters above sea level, this expansive meadow continues to foster the traditional buffalo grazing lifestyle. Alongside its natural beauty, Thakur reflects an ancient, authentic way of life and stands as a prominent tourist destination in Eastern Rukum. (May 29, Eastern Rukum)

Perched at 4,000 meters above sea level in Putha Uttarganga Rural Municipality-5 of Eastern Rukum, Thakur is an exceptionally attractive locale. Its vast, lush green pasturelands are currently teeming with herds of buffaloes. With the beginning of the rainy season, herders from the Dhorpatan region have made their way to Thakur bringing their buffaloes. Nestled amidst dense forests and towering Himalayan peaks, this meadow also serves as a temporary settlement for buffalo and goatherders.

Despite the growing influence of modern lifestyles, the ancient herders of Dhorpatan have remained steadfast in preserving their traditions. As a result, buffaloes continue to graze freely across the broad meadows of Thakur. The environment, the daily lives of the herders, and the green hills shrouded by the Himalayan backdrop create an incomparable scenic vista. This area not only showcases natural beauty but also offers a glimpse into a traditional indigenous way of life, making it one of Eastern Rukum’s key tourist attractions.

Prime Minister’s Office Orders Investigation into Kavre Bus Accident

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May 12, Kathmandu – The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has expressed deep condolences over the bus accident in Kavre. On Friday evening, Hemraj Acharya, Spokesperson and Joint Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, stated in a press release that the concerned authorities have been directed to determine the cause of the incident.

“Immediately following the accident, rescue and treatment efforts for the injured were promptly initiated with active participation and coordination from the District Administration Office Kavrepalanchok, the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force Nepal, local government bodies, and healthcare institutions,” the release said.

The release also informed that the injured are receiving treatment at Dhulikhel Hospital. “The Nepal government has instructed the relevant bodies to investigate and identify the cause of this incident,” the statement added. “Additionally, authorities have been directed to provide effective medical care to the injured and essential support to the affected families.”

North Korean Hackers Linked to Cyberattacks on US Technology Firms

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News Summary

Redesigned by OK AI. Editorial review completed.

  • According to a CrowdStrike report, 47 percent of state-sponsored cyberattacks against US technology companies have been linked to North Korean hackers.
  • These hackers gained entry into companies by using AI-generated deepfake photos and forged identity documents to secure employment.
  • The report states that North Korea stole nearly $200 million in cryptocurrency in 2025, funneling the proceeds into its nuclear weapons program and government expenses.

May 12, Kathmandu — North Korean hackers have actively engaged in state-sponsored cyberattacks targeting American technology companies.

The multinational cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike revealed in its June 9, 2026 “2026 Technology Threat Landscape Report” that about 47 percent of major government-level cyberattacks on the US technology sector last year were attributed to North Korean hackers.

This type of cyber intrusion is known in cybersecurity as “hands-on-keyboard intrusion,” which differs from automated virus or malware attacks because hackers personally control the computers.

During these attacks, hackers behave like legitimate employees — typing on computers, opening folders, and stealing information in ways that evade detection by security systems.

Once inside, the hackers conceal their presence and remain active for extended periods. According to the report, these hackers gain access by posing as fake IT staff or online job recruiters.

They adopt a strategy of seeking “remote jobs” in American, European, and Asian technology companies.

After obtaining employment, they access internal systems to steal confidential data.

To convince companies of their legitimacy, they use AI-generated deepfake photos and videos portraying themselves as familiar developers, coders, or IT specialists.

They also utilize stolen or forged passports and driver’s licenses that verify citizenship in the US or other countries.

Previously, the extensive Sunr network was exposed for stealing US citizens’ identities to secure remote jobs for North Koreans in tech firms, resulting in the imprisonment of American citizen Christina Chipman in 2025.

CrowdStrike’s report highlights that this method has evolved to incorporate AI technologies.

The report covers activity from April 2025 to March 2026 and notes that among North Korean hacking groups, “Famous Chollima” has been the most active.

The government-sponsored and funded Famous Chollima group primarily targets the technology sector.

These hackers operate in two stages: first, stealing employee passwords or confidential information through phishing emails, fake websites, or social media; second, using those credentials to access systems and exploit authorized software and tools.

Once inside, they typically steal valuable business assets and sensitive information, often using intimidation and handcuffing tactics.

CrowdStrike indicated that these hackers particularly focus on blockchain developers who create cryptocurrency software.

In 2025, North Korean-linked groups stole approximately $200 million in cryptocurrency, with a significant theft of about $146 million occurring in February alone.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly instructed the government to avoid using Western banking systems, and the stolen assets allegedly fund nuclear weapons and other government spending.

Reports on the financial sector from CrowdStrike show a 43 percent increase over two years in hands-on-keyboard cyberattacks on financial institutions.

Experts assert that North Korea is accelerating state-level cybercrime by providing hackers with training, infrastructure, and authorization, resulting in increasingly sophisticated and high-risk attacks.

To mitigate this threat, CrowdStrike recommends that companies thoroughly verify applicants’ documents and backgrounds. The report advises conducting live video interviews, restricting employee access, implementing comprehensive security measures, and utilizing tools capable of detecting deepfakes.

CrowdStrike is among the world’s leading cybersecurity firms. In July 2024, a minor software update glitch from the company affected 8.5 million computers worldwide, temporarily disrupting services at airports, banks, and hospitals for several hours.

The company’s report confirms that North Korean hackers are involved in nearly half of the state-related cyberattacks on the US technology sector.