Summary: The government has extended the deadline for the committee tasked with preparing the constitution amendment discussion paper, led by the Prime Minister’s political advisor, Asim Sah. Kathmandu, 29 Jestha — The government has prolonged the timeframe for the committee responsible for preparing the constitution amendment discussion paper. The committee, formed under the leadership of Prime Minister’s political advisor Asim Sah, continues its consultations with former presidents, top leaders of various parties, constitutional experts, and others.
According to reports, a bus traveling from Sankhuwasabha to Dharan met with an accident in Chyangchyangbari, Dhankuta district, resulting in injuries to 11 passengers. Following the accident, the Koshi Highway section between Dhankuta and Mulghat has been operating on a one-way basis. The injured passengers were rescued and sent to the local medical facility for treatment, informed Police Deputy Superintendent Hemant Bhandari Kshetri. The incident occurred on 29 Jestha in Dhankuta.
The bus overturned in Dhankuta, causing injuries to 11 passengers. The accident took place near Mulghat in Dhankuta Municipality-9, Chyangchyangbari, part of the Koshi Highway. The bus, numbered Ko 1 Kha 7788, en route from Sankhuwasabha to Dharan in Sunsari, lost control and flipped on the road, according to police reports. As a result, the Koshi Highway section between Dhankuta and Mulghat, which was blocked due to the overturned bus, has been operating in one-way traffic. Police Deputy Superintendent Hemant Bhandari Kshetri stated that there were 15 passengers on board. The injured were rescued and taken to the local medical center for treatment.
Russian Ambassador to the United States Alexander Darchiev has stated that American President Donald Trump is capable of making fundamental changes in the relationship between the two countries. Speaking at the ‘Russia Day’ event organized at the Russian Embassy in Washington, he described Trump’s two and a half years in office as extremely significant. The ceremony was attended by personnel from the White House, the US State Department, and diplomats from various countries.
According to Ambassador Darchiev, Trump’s two and a half years in office represent a decisive period. Given the current circumstances, it is difficult to predict the future direction of American domestic politics and foreign policy. However, he noted that this time span is sufficient to accomplish a major and grand task, which requires political will.
He added that President Trump is an influential politician capable of making remarkable decisions and introducing new dimensions to bilateral relations. Alongside officials from the White House and the State Department, the grand event also included diplomats from various countries based in Washington, expert groups, representatives of civil society, and Russian citizens residing in the United States.
Many believed that red cards had become rare occurrences in World Cup matches. However, in the opening game of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday, the referee issued three red cards. Hosted in Mexico City, the Group A match saw the host nation Mexico defeat South Africa 2-0. The referee first sent off South African players Yaya Sithole and Temba Zwane, and then, in the final moments of the match, Mexico’s César Montes was also shown a red card.
Fans may have grown accustomed to referees exhibiting lenient behavior and temperament. In the previous two World Cups held in Russia and Qatar, only four red cards were issued across the entire tournaments. Yet, after two decades, this single match witnessed three players being dismissed. In the 2006 World Cup, a total of 28 players received red cards throughout the competition. In that tournament, three separate matches featured three red cards each, while the Portugal vs Netherlands match remains the record for the highest with four players shown red cards.
In 2017, FIFA appointed Pierluigi Collina as the new head referee, marking the beginning of a new era. Collina emphasized that referees’ decisions must aim to be fair to both teams. Players should remain on the field unless they commit an offense warranting a red card. For instance, during his tenure, the rules around denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) through a foul were relaxed. Now, referees award a penalty but do not immediately issue a red card in such cases.
Early decisions by referees often set a precedent for matches that follow. How fitting is it to conclude that this opening match signals a tougher approach? Prior to the tournament, during the briefing, Collina highlighted that he would focus particularly on curbing time-wasting and player behavior.
Image caption, South Africa’s Sithole (yellow jersey) received the first red card of this World CupArticle Information
Many anticipated a decline in red cards during World Cup matches, but in the opening game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday, the referee issued three red cards.
In the Group ‘A’ match held in Mexico City, host nation Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0.
The referee first sent off South African players Yaya Sithole and Temba Zwane, followed by Mexico’s César Montes near the final moments of the game.
Fans may have become accustomed to a moderate refereeing approach in recent World Cups, as only four red cards were issued throughout the entire tournaments held in Russia and Qatar.
This time, three players were sent off in a single match for the first time in twenty years. In 2006, a total of 28 players received red cards during the entire World Cup.
In that tournament, three matches had three players each sent off, while the Portugal vs Netherlands match saw a record four red cards.
Sometimes the Reason for a Red Card is Justified
Image source, Getty Images
Image caption, Referee shows red card to South Africa’s Sithole for fouling Brian Gutierrez and sends him off the field
FIFA appointed Pierluigi Collina as the chief referee in 2017, marking the start of a new era.
Collina has emphasized fairness for both teams, stating that players who do not commit offenses justifying a red card should remain on the field.
For example, the rule regarding denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) was relaxed during his tenure. Now, when a penalty is awarded in such situations, the referee does not immediately show a red card.
Consequently, only four red cards were given in each of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups under his leadership.
The style of refereeing in the early stages of the tournament often sets the tone for subsequent matches. How appropriate is it to interpret this game as signaling stricter refereeing?
Prior to the tournament’s start, Collina mentioned that referees were focusing on wasting time and players’ behavior during briefings. There was no discussion of adopting a strict policy that would abruptly increase red card numbers.
Still, there are occasions when issuing a red card is fully justified.
Image source, Reuters
Image caption, Other players reacting after referee Wilton Sampaio showed red card to Mexico’s César Montes
Sending off Sithole for fouling Brian Gutierrez was an easy decision for referee Wilton Sampaio.
The Mexican attacking midfielder Gutierrez was advancing into a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
Although Sithole may not have intended to deliberately foul, he committed one to stop Gutierrez, thereby denying a clear goal chance. There is no doubt about the legitimacy of this red card.
However, the second red card sparked controversy. It was given to Zwane after the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviewed his aggressive behavior.
A tussle between South Africa’s Zwane and Mexico’s Roberto Alvarado caused Alvarado to hold his head and fall to the ground.
To the viewer, it appeared to be a typical physical challenge, but Colombian VAR official Nicola Gallo urged the referee to review the footage again on the pitchside monitor.
Image source, Reuters
Image caption, Referee Wilton Sampaio issuing a red card to South Africa’s Temba Zwane
Although the referee reviewed the replay, it was difficult to determine what exactly transpired.
Did Zwane’s head get hit by a hand? If so, was it accidental or intentional?
When assessing aggressive actions, VAR officials look for clenched fists, which indicate intent to attack. Although not always required, a clenched fist signals aggression.
Zwane was seen touching Alvarado’s head with an open hand, and his fist was not clenched.
Issuing a red card to him appeared quite harsh. Even with VAR assistance, the decision was not clear-cut nor definitive.
Collina has instructed referees and VAR teams to closely monitor player misconduct, so this decision might be part of that directive.
Players who hide their face or leave the pitch in protest often receive red cards from Collina.
He also appears aligned against allowing goals scored from free kicks or corners where attacking players are impeded by opposition players.
Zwane’s behavior likely falls into this category and the red card could be a step toward reducing such infractions on the field.
No Need to Panic Over Referee Decisions
Image source, Reuters
Image caption, Football fans dressed as referees holding red cards outside the stadium in good spirits
The third red card was also for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) by foul play. Initially, this decision was controversial.
South Africa’s Khuliso Mudau was rushing toward the penalty area, and Montes tried to stop him with a reckless tackle.
Mudau was somewhat open and unmarked. Hence, Montes was expected to receive a yellow card only, but referee Wilton Sampaio gave him a red card. This decision will be reviewed by VAR.
Video footage showed Mudau had a good chance to control the ball in the penalty box and could have taken a shot. No defenders were close enough to challenge him.
Mudau could have touched the ball once and attempted a goal. VAR involvement is unlikely to overturn this decision as a mistake.
A similar incident took place in a Premier League match in October between Crystal Palace and Bournemouth that ended 3-3.
Referee Jarred Gillett issued only a yellow card, though VAR recommended reviewing the incident for a possible red card.
Gillett declined to review, but the Premier League’s ‘Key Match Incidents Panel’ later ruled his decision a mistake, stating a red card should have been given.
This supports the likelihood that Sampaio’s decision was correct and logically sound.
Collina is not an administrator who would push for excessive harsh punishments against DOGSO violations; his objectives were clear before the World Cup began.
Judging that referees are going to dilute the appeal of the World Cup by handing out red cards indiscriminately would be premature.
Among the total 104 matches in the competition, this game might be just an exception.
The two red cards given on the field were likely balanced and correct decisions.
So, there is no need to be overly concerned about refereeing at this stage.
In the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 match held at the Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico, South Korea has taken the lead against the Czech Republic. OH Hyo-kyun scored a crucial goal for South Korea in the 80th minute, giving his team the advantage. Kathmandu, June 12 – In the second match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, South Korea advanced against the Czech Republic. The team secured the lead in the 80th minute at the Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico.
Entrepreneur Sita Paudel has launched a thrift store named ‘Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya’ in Kathmandu’s Durbar Marg with the aim of promoting sustainable fashion. She also runs the ‘Aurora Foundation,’ which supports the health and education of children under 16 years old using profits from Soraya and donations from Pre-Loved Luxe. At Durbar Marg in Kathmandu, you will find an outlet called Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya. At first glance, the store’s decor and displayed clothing might appear as a branded shop. However, it is a thrift store where used or second-hand items are sold. Most of the items here were once tucked away in someone’s drawer and previously used, but they remain in good condition. Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya works to offer these items a new value and bring them to new users.
Thrifting is not a new concept in Nepal. The practice of selling used thrift items through social media has been growing in recent years. However, efforts to systematically and reliably reintroduce branded fashion items back into the market have been limited. Recognizing this gap, entrepreneur Sita Paudel started Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya. According to her, Pre-Loved Luxe is not merely a commercial platform but also a campaign for sustainable fashion and responsible consumption. “The items we buy, use, and discard directly impact the environment. If items that can still be used are repurposed, it can reduce environmental burdens,” she says.
One of Pre-Loved Luxe’s key features is its quality control system. People wishing to sell items must bring branded and authentic products in good condition. Heavily used items are not accepted. Each item undergoes thorough inspection, and often Sita herself inspects goods during night hours. “People entrust us with items worth millions of rupees. Customers also trust us when purchasing. Therefore, trust is our greatest asset,” she explains. Currently, Pre-Loved Luxe carries international brands like Zara, H&M, Coach, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, among others. Some items are priced below a thousand rupees, while luxury goods can cost between 50,000 to 80,000 rupees. According to Sita, the success of Pre-Loved Luxe is not limited to business. This model benefits four parties simultaneously: first, sellers who earn by selling unused items; second, customers who acquire quality branded items at lower prices; third, the team running the business who gain employment and income; and fourth, the culture of reuse which contributes to environmental protection. “What makes me happiest is that all sides win here,” she says.
Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle made controversial remarks during a House of Representatives session, criticizing MPs for reportedly not thoroughly reading the Appropriation Bill before listening to discussions. Addressing the parliamentarians, he stated, “Only with an advanced theoretical understanding can one grasp the philosophy of the budget.” These sharp comments were made while responding to questions raised by MPs during the bill’s deliberation. The session took place on May 12 in Kathmandu.
Dr. Wagle questioned the capacity and intellectual level of the MPs asking questions, stating, “I believe that a deeper theoretical grasp is necessary to truly understand the budget’s essence.” He reiterated this pointed critique on Friday, adding, “There is a small booklet on the Appropriation Bill, which it seems many MPs have not received. Even those who have obtained it appeared to focus more on the general budget and discussions rather than providing comments specific to the booklet’s content.”
During Friday’s debate on the Appropriation Bill in the House of Representatives, the Finance Minister stood at the rostrum to answer MPs’ inquiries and expressed these remarks. He emphasized, “Had they reviewed the booklet, the dialogue would have been more focused.” While MPs may raise broad questions in theoretical discussions of the Appropriation Bill, the minister responded with pointed and somewhat dismissive comments toward the questioners. The parliamentary sectoral budget discussions are still ongoing, where detailed deliberations will cover allocated amounts by category and expected outcomes from various programs.
A South Korean court has sentenced former President Yoon Suk-yeol to 30 years in prison on charges of sending drones to North Korea. In the same case, former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun was also given a 30-year sentence, while the former head of the military intelligence agency received 15 years in prison. Yoon is already serving a life sentence for alleged rebellion linked to a failed military law enforcement attempt. Kathmandu, June 12.
The Seoul District Court found Yoon, along with former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, former Defense Counterintelligence Command chief Yo In-hyung, and former Drone Operation Command head Kim Yong-dae guilty of treason and abuse of power. The court handed Kim Yong-hyun a 30-year sentence, Yo In-hyung received 15 years, and Kim Yong-dae was sentenced to five years suspended alongside a three-year prison term. According to the court, they used the pretext of military operations with the intent to provoke North Korea, heightening the risk of military conflict.
Yoon’s lawyers argued that these measures were a ‘legal’ response to the ‘filthy’ propaganda balloons sent from North Korea. In 2024, North Korea had been protesting against hundreds of propaganda balloons launched from South Korea carrying messages. However, in the same year, tensions escalated when North Korea accused South Korea of flying drones over its capital. The court noted that Yoon ordered the drone dispatch hoping to provoke a retaliatory strike from North Korea.
As Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal embarks on his first official visit to China on Sunday, experts anticipate challenges in implementing previous agreements to create a trustworthy environment. Analysis is also focused on how Nepal will sensitively address China’s role in the border dispute with India. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Khanal’s four-day visit will commence on May 14 and will include talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. The visit was scheduled less than a week after Khanal’s return from India.
A prominent China-Nepal expert expects the visit to result in agreements on the implementation of collaborative accords between the two countries. “Trust increases when a nationalist government is in office, so China has positive expectations,” said Gao Liang, Deputy Director at Sichuan University. Former Ambassador Bishnu Pukar Shrestha also emphasized the continuation of cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework. “Failure to implement previous agreements could cool relations. Cooperation under BRI between China and Nepal is essential,” he noted.
The border dispute has intensified following China’s decision to allow Indian pilgrims traveling to Kailash Mansarovar to use the Lipulekh Pass. Nepal has sent diplomatic notes to both Delhi and Beijing opposing this decision. Former Ambassador Bishnu Pukar Shrestha commented, “There appears to have been no dialogue with India on the border issue, but raising the sovereignty matter is crucial.” Mahendra Bahadur Pandey stressed the need for Nepal’s explicit consent regarding the Kalapani area. “This discussion must be clarified bilaterally by the government, not just in the media,” he stated.
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal embarks on his first official visit to China on Sunday, with experts highlighting challenges in implementing and leveraging existing agreements to build a trustworthy partnership.
Analysts note particular attention will be on how Nepal raises China’s role concerning the ongoing border dispute with India.
The Foreign Ministry has announced that Khanal’s four-day visit begins on May 14 (Jestha 31 in Nepali calendar), including scheduled talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing.
This trip follows just one week after Khanal’s visit to India.
A Chinese expert on Nepal expects the visit will focus on agreeing to implement prior cooperation agreements.
“China has optimistic expectations now that a nationalist administration is in place, creating a more reliable environment,” noted Gao Liang, deputy director at Sichuan University’s Nepal Studies Center.
BRI Infrastructure Projects
Former Chinese Ambassador Vishnu Pukar Shrestha emphasized the need for continuity under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework, which both countries have signed.
“Failing to honor previous agreements risks chilling relations. China and Nepal must collaborate under the BRI framework,” he said.
“China is also expected to provide grants for certain projects.”
Photo credit, Getty Images
BRI projects include the Tokha–Chhahare tunnel, Hilsa–Simikot road, among others.
However, disagreement among previous government factions over loans versus grants has stalled these projects.
“Some priority projects must move forward, and some like the Rasuwa-Gadhi road need urgent completion,” said former Ambassador Shrestha.
Addressing China’s ‘Doubts’
Another former ambassador, Mahendra Bahadur Pandey, pointed to the government’s commitment to prevent misuse of Nepalese land against China but noted some groups’ activism has weakened official efforts.
“Doubts must be transformed into trust,” Pandey emphasized.
Pandey referred to protesters during the Janajati movement who wore T-shirts labeled ‘TOB’.
The Chinese side has also raised concerns about the poor implementation of agreements between the two countries.
Though a memorandum of understanding for the BRI was signed in 2017, a decade of delays in implementation has posed challenges.
Photo credit, Nepali Embassy China
Caption: Former Ambassadors Vishnu Pukar Shrestha and Mahendra Bahadur Pandey stress the importance of implementing existing agreements during this visit
During KP Sharma Oli’s term, nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with China.
Pandey, who also served as Foreign Minister, calls for “serious and transparent” discussions on loans and grants.
He expressed concerns that Minister Khanal has not consulted with predecessors, which could disrupt ongoing projects.
Border Issue Requires Careful Attention
Following China’s decision to allow Indian pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar to use the Lipulekh pass, tensions over border disputes with India have escalated.
Nepal had sent diplomatic notes to New Delhi and Beijing expressing concerns over this decision.
Former Ambassador Shrestha remarked, “It appears there was no consultation with India on this border matter, but raising the issue of sovereignty is crucial. A re-examination of territorial encroachment should be demanded.”
Mahendra Bahadur Pandey emphasized Nepal’s clear endorsement of the Kalapani area.
“This must be stated explicitly, not only through media but through bilateral government channels.”
Discussions on Investment Models
Former Ambassador Pandey underlined the need for transparent and serious discussions on loans and grants.
“Nepal must avoid falling into debt traps. It can obtain concessional loans in a trustworthy environment,” he added.
Former Ambassador Vishnu Pukar Shrestha stressed the importance of geopolitical balance.
“The interests of neighbors require hard work, but our national interest must take precedence,” he remarked.
Shrestha identified the BRI as a joint endeavor, necessitating groundwork due to involvement in road networks and transmission lines.
Tourism, Technology Transfer, and Other Topics
Photo credit, Getty Images
Pandey highlighted the necessity of infrastructure development to attract Chinese tourists to Nepal.
“Infrastructure must be ensured to facilitate tourism,” he said.
While Nepal aims to mark 2025 as the Chinese Tourism Year, regular flights by Chinese airlines to Pokhara Airport have yet to materialize.
Pandey also pointed out China’s capabilities in science and technology, suggesting potential for technology transfer and student exchange programs.
“The Chinese are leaders in AI; their knowledge and cooperation are needed,” he stated.
He further recommended enhancing collaboration in agricultural and medicinal herb processing sectors.
Economic and Trade Issues to Lead the Agenda: Chinese Expert
Gao Liang, deputy director of the Nepal Studies Center at Sichuan University, outlined China’s interest in Nepal’s economic development and the election promises of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP).
“Economic and trade cooperation should be the main focus of the visit, especially concerning investment and staff exchanges,” he said.
“As this is the first high-level visit, it holds significant importance. China is eager to strengthen bilateral relations.”
Photo credit, Courtesy of Gao Liang
Caption, Chinese Nepal expert Gao Liang stated economic issues will be the priority during this visit
There are ongoing discussions about the railway project, including track length and related details, though progress has been slow due to procedural issues.
Chinese technicians have informed that the final feasibility study report is being prepared.
During Chinese President Xi Jinping’s 2019 visit to Nepal, both sides agreed to develop a comprehensive report on the Kathmandu-Kerung railway.
Preliminary studies propose a 72-kilometer railway line within Nepal.
China maintains it will not take a firm stance on Nepal-India geopolitical disputes and believes resolution will come through bilateral dialogue.
“China hopes for friendly dialogue and consultations from both parties,” the expert stated.
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The United States, host of the FIFA World Cup 2026, is set to play its opening match against Paraguay on Saturday morning. Marking their first World Cup meeting in 96 years, the USA and Paraguay are ranked 17th and 41st respectively. US coach Mauricio Pochettino has noted that the match will be highly challenging due to Paraguay’s outstanding players and coaching staff.
This Group B fixture will take place at the Los Angeles Stadium, kicking off at 6:45 a.m. US time Saturday, which corresponds to Nepal Time. Hosting the World Cup for the first time in 32 years, the US team aims to start strong by securing a win on home soil. This will be the second World Cup encounter between the two teams; their inaugural meeting was at the very first World Cup in 1930, where the US triumphed 3–0.
Paraguay has participated in nine World Cups so far. They qualified for this tournament after finishing sixth in the South American qualifiers, marking their first World Cup appearance since 2010. Paraguayan coach Gustavo Alfaro expressed that securing a World Cup spot has been a long-awaited moment and a great source of pride for the nation.
Match details are as follows: Match: USA vs Paraguay, Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, Time: 6:45 a.m. US time, Referee: Danny Makkelie. Recent form shows the USA with 2 wins and 3 losses in their last 5 games, while Paraguay has recorded 3 wins and 2 losses in their last 5 matches.
Summary: Hark Sampang, Chairman of the Labor Culture Party, emphasized the importance of building a self-reliant economy during the budget discussion. He stated that developing labor culture alongside providing education is essential for achieving economic self-reliance. Describing the budget as a process of development and management, he said, “The budget means development. Development means method and management.” Kathmandu, 12 June.
Hark Sampang, Chairman of the Labor Culture Party and leader of its parliamentary group, highlighted the focus on developing a self-reliant economy. During the budget debate, he remarked that the government’s success or failure should be measured by how effectively it has established a self-reliant economy. He noted, “Development has not reached anyone yet. It has not even reached countries like the United States, Japan, or China. Therefore, management is necessary.”
He emphasized that alongside providing quality education for a self-reliant economy, the development of a work culture is essential. Sampang suggested prioritizing internal production and economic self-sufficiency. He also stressed that planning solely based on foreign loans is inappropriate. Addressing Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle, he stated, “Our evaluation of success or failure will be based on whether foreign debt has been reduced or increased.” He urged the government to work towards minimizing foreign debt as much as possible.
Hark Sampang, Chairman of the Labour Culture Party, emphasized the development of a self-reliant economy during budget discussions.
He highlighted the need to provide education and cultivate a labour culture to promote economic self-reliance.
The budget was interpreted both as a tool for development and its management.
May 12 (Jestha 29), Kathmandu: Hark Sampang, Chairman of the Labour Culture Party and leader of its parliamentary group, stressed the importance of fostering a self-reliant economy.
During the budget debate, he stated that the government’s success or failure should be measured by how well it achieves the goal of building a self-sufficient economy.
“The budget represents development. Development is about methodology and management,” he said. “Development has not reached everyone yet. Even countries like the United States, Japan, or China have not fully attained development. Therefore, management is essential.”
He suggested that promoting a self-reliant economy requires not only providing education but also developing a labour culture. He emphasized the importance of focusing on domestic production and self-sufficiency.
He also pointed out that planning cannot rely solely on taking foreign loans.
Addressing Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle, he said, “Our success or failure will be assessed based on whether foreign debt has decreased or increased.”
He urged the government to prioritize reducing foreign debt wherever possible.
Despite the government’s claim that there is no obstacle to Starlink entering Nepal as long as it operates within the existing legal framework, Starlink has reiterated its condition. Starlink, one of the ambitious projects by Elon Musk, one of the richest individuals globally, has made repeated attempts to enter the Nepalese internet service market. However, reports indicate that it has yet to gain entry due to its conditions.
Last week, a senior Starlink official met with Minister for Information and Communications, Bikram Timilsina. At this meeting, the company’s director, Rebecca Sleek Hunter, reiterated Starlink’s condition on behalf of the company. According to a statement issued by the minister, although the government can allow Starlink to operate internet services in Nepal, permission has not yet been granted due to policy and legal complexities.
Hunter stated that the company’s stance is that the license must be 100 percent owned by Starlink to grant permission. However, Nepal’s current telecommunications policy does not permit 100 percent foreign ownership. “We informed them that they must proceed based on Nepal’s existing policies and laws,” Minister Timilsina explained on Thursday. “Our policy requires at least 20 percent domestic investment,” he added.
The Telecommunications Policy of 2060 (Nepali calendar) encourages private sector participation and aims to attract investments to the telecom sector. It also permits foreign investment but clearly stipulates a minimum 20 percent shareholding by domestic investors. Starlink appears hesitant regarding this point. “Policy changes about where to steer the entire telecom sector is one matter. But we are not going to change rules just so that any company can invest 100 percent here,” the minister expressed.
During the meeting, it was also disclosed that Starlink is in discussions with some local service providers for potential business partnerships. Subash Khadka, CEO of the Internet Service Providers Association of Nepal (ISPAN), said the association is collectively interested in negotiating with Starlink on such matters.
What is Starlink? Starlink is operated by Elon Musk’s company, SpaceX. It claims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet service worldwide via a network of over 10,000 satellites. Its service is said to be particularly significant in rural and underserved areas.
In South Asia, Starlink’s service is available in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, while it is awaiting regulatory approval in Pakistan and India. Starlink has not yet specified the service launch date for Nepal. Experts note that Starlink’s satellite internet technology differs technically from traditional providers.
Pradeep Paudyal, Assistant Spokesperson for the Nepal Telecommunications Authority, explained, “Satellite internet has existed before. We use VSAT technology here. Satellites working in higher Earth orbit operate differently, while Starlink satellites orbit closer, which enables faster signal transmission and results in lower latency. The signal quality is also expected to be better.”
Subash Khadka of ISPAN noted that most providers currently use fiber technology, which has expanded to remote areas of Nepal. Khadka said, “Introducing technology is not a challenge for us, but managing operating costs, investment recovery, and customer access to ensure good service is very important.” Reports suggest Starlink’s service is generally more expensive than traditional internet services. It remains unclear how affordable Starlink will be in Nepal.
“Today, Nepal ranks among the top 10 countries with cheap internet service,” Khadka pointed out. Although there are over 100 internet service providers in Nepal, only about 38 to 41 are active. Since 2023, Starlink has shown interest in expanding services in Nepal. Later in 2024, Elon Musk also engaged in a virtual dialogue with then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli regarding this matter.
