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Nepal Oil Corporation and Industrialists Misled Prime Minister by Denying Gas Shortage

News Summary

Automatically generated. Editorially reviewed.

  • Nepal Oil Corporation denied any gas shortage in the market and blamed consumer behavior of stockpiling gas cylinders and issues in the distribution system.
  • Executive Director Dipak Baral accused artificial market pressure and the tendency of people lining up for media coverage as reasons for the problem.
  • However, ordinary consumers face difficulties obtaining gas from local dealers, and consumer rights activists allege the corporation is shifting blame to the public to cover its managerial failures.

August 5, Kathmandu – On Tuesday, during the meeting of the House of Representatives’ Industry, Commerce, Labor and Consumer Welfare Committee, Nepal Oil Corporation’s Executive Director Dipak Baral denied circulating rumors of a shortage of cooking LPG gas in the market.

Baral stated there is no shortfall in gas imports and shifted the blame for shortages onto consumer behavior of hoarding and flaws in the distribution system.

“Previously, when half cylinders of 7.1 kg were distributed, consumers would keep empty cylinders at home. But now that full 14.2 kg cylinders are being supplied, attempts to fill all empty cylinders at once have artificially increased market pressure,” he explained to the parliamentarians.

Baral also accused individuals in Teku area of making multiple trips by bicycle to purchase gas cylinders.

He sarcastically commented on common people queuing for media attention, calling reports of acute gas shortages misleading.

He presented data showing that only 2,100 cylinders were sold in the last three days from the corporation’s Teku office.

“There is talk of many problems in the market, but selling just 2,100 cylinders in three days is not excessive,” he accepted.

Although the corporation claims responsibility for the supply chain, the reality of the zero-level crisis indicates the problem lies within their management despite blaming consumers and media.

Consumers Continue to Suffer

Despite claims from the Nepal Oil Corporation that there is no gas shortage and that imports exceed demand, Bharat Magar, a resident of Khusibu, Kathmandu, has been struggling with a dysfunctional kitchen for about 18-19 days.

After his ‘Rajdhani’ brand gas ran out, he repeatedly requested local dealers, but was sent back with promises like ‘it will come next week’ or ‘on Monday.’

Without gas, he had to manage by heating water and cooking lentils, rice, and vegetables minimally for his family.

“I cooked using an electric pot as a temporary solution, but gas never arrived at the dealer,” he recounted.

Upon hearing about gas distribution from the temporary center at Nepal Oil Corporation’s Teku office, Bharat stood in line at the scheduled time carrying an empty cylinder.

“I came yesterday hoping to get gas here; they said it was finished last time, but hopefully it will come again,” Bharath said.

Those queuing at Teku share a common question: “If the corporation can arrange distribution at Teku, why can’t they supply gas to the dealers?”

The fact that ordinary consumers cannot get gas from dealers but see it available at the corporation’s center has led to suspicions of black-market trading among dealers.

“Dealers say they have no gas, but since it’s available in Teku, black marketing might be happening,” the consumers suggest.

Vishwamaya Parajuli from Shankhamul stood in line from 7 a.m. carrying an empty cylinder. The ‘Triveni’ brand gas she used at home ran out yesterday.

Unable to get gas from dealers, she came to Teku by vehicle and waited in line, adding that the shortage has increased her financial burden.

“Just the taxi fare to come here was 300 rupees; going back and forth cost me 600,” she said. The total expense for the gas cylinder reached 2,660 rupees.

She complains that dealers are not providing gas to the general public and accuses them of black marketing.

The hunger and long waiting for gas have also affected her health.

“I have health issues and have not been able to take medicine,” she revealed.

Vishwamaya and Bharat’s stories reflect just a fraction of the hardships that ordinary people endure due to the gas shortage.

About 500–600 consumers queued from 6 a.m. at Teku today, hoping to receive gas.

Nirajan Kunwar, a student from Bagbazar, also ran out of gas and is facing a long struggle to find some.

“Dealers didn’t give us gas, but only to people they know, which is unfair,” he said.

He pointed out dealers’ biased behavior and lawmakers’ failure to understand their true predicament as primary reasons for the shortage.

Student Challenges: Missing Classes and Going Hungry

Pradeep Bhatt from Kirtipur queued early morning at the Teku distribution center carrying a gas cylinder. Due to the gas shortage, he missed his classes.

He and his friends worry about how to return home carrying gas, as no vehicle or taxi is willing to transport cylinders.

Despite assurances from the new government, Pradeep is frustrated by the need to wander in search of gas.

Manoj Achhami also reported repeatedly asking various dealers at Teku but getting no gas, witnessing severe black marketing at some locations.

“While the government remains silent, consumers are forced to endure deception,” he stated.

The gas shortage compels consumers across Kathmandu Valley and other cities nationally to stand in long lines.

Most consumers have to queue at various industries and dealers to obtain gas.

Nepal Oil Corporation’s Ineffective Decisions Deepen the Crisis

Nepal Oil Corporation’s failure to analyze the market led to widespread gas shortages across the country. Supply capacity is sufficient but distribution is problematic.

Last January, when gas demand suddenly increased, the corporation implemented a policy selling only half cylinders from Magh 29, 2079 (mid-February 2023).

Using half-filled cylinders doubled the number of cylinders in circulation, making it easier to manage shortages.

However, from Ashar 31 (mid-July 2023), the corporation abruptly switched to supplying only full cylinders, doubling demand and triggering a crisis.

After the shortage emerged, since Shrawan 16 (early August), direct gas distribution has started from the Teku office.

At this center, industrial suppliers distribute Nepal, HP, Everest, Sugam, and Shriram brand gas.

Not a Supply Issue, But Distribution: Nepal Oil Corporation

Company spokesman Manoj Thakur reported distributing about 3,000 cylinders in four days, from Saturday to Tuesday, a total of 2,996 cylinders.

On Saturday, only 175 cylinders were distributed; the figure rose to 1,100 on Sunday and 950 on Monday.

According to Thakur, the number decreased to 861 on Tuesday. He stated, “Gas supply from India is continuous; the main problem is the distribution system.”

The Nepal LPG Industry Association accused government policies of causing the gas shortage.

Association President Diwan Chand said the half-cylinder sales policy was supposed to last only 15 days but was extended, worsening the shortage.

He explained that limitations on gas transportation controlled by India and restricted quotas have prevented immediate supply increases but predicted relief within 10-15 days.

Consumer Rights Activists Alleged Attempts to Shift Blame for Gas Shortage

Consumer rights activist Madhav Timalsina criticized Nepal Oil Corporation for blaming consumers to hide managerial shortcomings.

Timalsina said consumers queuing outside during the shortage are being insulted by the corporation.

“It is unacceptable that the corporation attempts to blame consumers to conceal its own incompetence,” he stated.

False Information Presented to the Prime Minister’s Office

The Ministry of Industry, various departments, industrialists, and gas traders reportedly briefed the Prime Minister’s office falsely, claiming the shortage to be mere rumor.

Timalsina exposed that the corporation presented inaccurate facts to the Prime Minister’s office in this unexpected situation.

Though the corporation insists there is no shortage, Timalsina said it ignored consumer complaints.

He described the shift to direct distribution from the Teku office, bypassing dealers, as impractical and a last resort.

“Having to take time off work and pay taxi fare to come to Teku and line up for a 2,000-rupee gas cylinder reflects state failure,” Timalsina questioned.

He called for a parliamentary inquiry committee to investigate the corporation’s managerial capacity.

After parliament members acknowledged the gas shortage, Timalsina accused the corporation of misleading the public with false information.

Photos and videos: Chandrabahadur Ale

Erika Gurung and Dipendra Singh Airee Named Athletes of the Year

Karate star Erika Gurung and T20 cricket team captain Dipendra Singh Airee have been declared the best athletes of the year. On the occasion of the 11th anniversary of Hamro Khelkud Dot Com, both athletes were honored with a prize of NPR 25,000 each. The event also featured a conclave involving stakeholders discussing the development, infrastructure investment, and commercialization of Nepali sports. (19 Shrawan, Kathmandu)

Erika Gurung was named the best female athlete, while Dipendra Singh Airee was recognized as the best male athlete. The awards were presented today at the 11th anniversary celebration of Hamro Khelkud Dot Com. The prize on Dipendra’s behalf was received by the captain of the national women’s cricket team, Indu Burma. Vice-chairman of the National Sports Council (Rakhap), Vishal Shrestha, and Khet Bhutaney Holdings Director Kalyan Gurung honored both athletes. Erika was felicitated by Rakhap Secretary Ram Charitra Mehta and Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC) President Jeevan Ram Shrestha. Each award consisted of NPR 25,000.

The Hamro Khelkud Conclave was held prior to the awards ceremony. The session on infrastructure, investment, protection, women’s sports, and para-sports was moderated by Sarita Shrestha and featured perspectives from NOC President Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Karnali Province Sports Council Secretary Ravindra Chand, Paralympic bronze medalist Palesha Govardhan, and South Asian Games gold medalist Santoshi Shrestha. Another session on the realities, challenges, and prospects of sports commercialization in Nepal was led by Prakash Timalsina and included Nepal Cricket Association Secretary Paras Khadka, Nepal Volleyball Association President Jitendra Bahadur Chand, Lalitpur City FC Managing Director Alok Jung Joshi, and Lumbini Lions chairman Ishwar Jishi.

Hamro Khelkud has been honoring athletes since its seventh anniversary and has organized the Hamro Khelkud Conclave since last year.

Who Are the Six Nepali Climbers Lost on Broad Peak and How to Recognize Them?

News Summary

  • During an expedition to Pakistan’s Broad Peak, six Nepali climbers including world-renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja lost their lives.
  • The tragic accident claimed the lives of Nirmal Purja, Purbahadur Gurung, Kilipemba Sherpa, Nima Sherpa, Nawangthendu Sherpa, and Gyalu Sherpa.
  • These Nepali mountaineering icons had significantly elevated Nepal’s name by successfully summiting some of the world’s most challenging peaks.

19th Saun, Kathmandu – Nepal mourns the loss of its legendary climbers during an expedition on Broad Peak, which towers 8,047 meters high in Pakistan.

Among those who perished in the accident were Nirmal Purja (Nims Dai), Purbahadur Gurung (Yukta), Kilipemba Sherpa (Kilu), Nima Sherpa, Nawangthendu Sherpa, and Gyalu Sherpa—all of whom had made profound contributions to Nepali mountaineering.

Purbahadur Gurung (Yukta) – Ten-time Everest Summiteer

Born in Laprak of Dharche Rural Municipality-4, Northern Gorkha, Yukta’s childhood was surrounded by mountains. Born in 1989, he dreamed of joining the British Army but abandoned the dream due to the armed conflict, starting work in a hotel in Manang in his early years. His interactions with trekking guides increased thereafter, and he eventually moved to Kathmandu intending to become a guide.

His colleague Tulsing Gurung said, ‘He started as a porter in 2009 and gradually worked in camping groups as a kitchen helper.’

Yukta advanced from assistant guide to trekking guide, and then planning guide. He earned an International Mountain Guide certification just last December, Tulsing added.

Born in Laprak, Tulsing is also the president of their association. Yukta holds the record for the most Everest ascents within the Gurung community, having summited ten times.

His first Everest climb was in 2011. He had successfully summited 12 peaks over 8,000 meters. Tulsing noted, ‘There are 14 peaks in the world above 8,000 meters, of which eight are in Nepal. Yukta had climbed all except two.’

He set a new record by ascending Pakistan’s Mount Ketu within 24 hours and was active in rescuing stranded tourists. He lost his life in the mountains that nurtured him at age 37.

Yukta had traveled from Nepal to Pakistan three weeks before the Broad Peak expedition and, sadly, never returned.

Kilipemba Sherpa (Kilu) – Climber of All 14 Peaks Over 8,000 Meters

A native of Beding, Dolakha Gaurishankar Rural Municipality-9, Kilipemba had been familiar with the mountains since his youth. He participated in numerous expeditions alongside Nims Dai.

He was part of a successful 10-member winter expedition in 2021. Kilipemba set a record by placing his footsteps on Everest’s summit 15 times. Born in 1981 (2038 BS), he began his climbing career in 1996 on Manaslu and first summited Everest in 2003.

Kilipemba was a daring and resilient climber whose support enabled climbers to achieve seemingly impossible ascents. Notably, in 2018, he played an inspirational role in assisting a double-leg amputee Shia boy to summit Everest successfully.

Diligent Mountaineer Nima Sherpa

Recognized as a hardworking climber in the mountaineering community, 36-year-old Nima from Sankhuwasabha Makalu Rural Municipality successfully summited four peaks over 8,000 meters just this year. Though primarily a hiking assistant, his focus remained firmly on mountaineering.

Continuing Family Legacy: Nawangthendu Sherpa

Broad Peak also claimed the promising journey of young climber Nawangthendu, whose family is deeply connected to mountaineering. His father and elder brother were also engaged in the field, providing him a supportive environment.

Born in 1997 in Sankhuwasabha Makalu, his father Pasangyalje Sherpa was also a mountaineer. During this time, Nawangthendu worked with the Seven Summit climbing team and began his climbing career in 2019 with an ascent of Iceland Peak as part of an international climbing team.

He had successfully completed 15 ascents, first summiting Everest in 2022 and reaching the fourth camp in both 2021 and 2023. Additionally, he successfully climbed Ama Dablam twice in 2023.

Supportive Climber Gyalu Sherpa

Born in 1978 (2035 BS) in Okhaldhunga Patne, Gyalu Sherpa had been working in the Seven Summit Trek. He had prior experience summiting Everest and had climbed over 19 peaks. Dedicated to ensuring climbers reached summits safely and comfortably, Gyalu was an invaluable team member.

According to the Nepal Mountaineering Association records, his first climb was Lenin Peak in 2015. In the same year, he also summited Mera Peak and Lobuche. After climbing Kanchenjunga in 2019, he reached Everest’s summit last season.

In 2025, he joined the rope-fixing team for Kanchenjunga, summiting the peak three times that year.

Nims Dai (Nirmal Purja) – Redefining Mountaineering

Born in Myagdi, Nirmal Purja (Nims Dai) was a British Army soldier. While he was active as a Gurkha soldier, he wasn’t internationally renowned as a climber at that time.

Nims Dai served 16 years in the military — six years as a Gurkha and ten years in the UK Special Forces (SBS). He joined as a Gurkha soldier in 2003 at age 18. Although raised in Chitwan, he initially had limited connection to mountains.

In 2009, he became the first Gurkha soldier to join the Special Boat Service. He began mountaineering in 2012.

His mountaineering journey began after trekking to Everest Base Camp. His first climb was Lobuche East, a peak at 6,119 meters, before returning to military service.

According to nimsdai.com, he developed skills to rapidly assess difficult situations and ensure others’ safety—qualities that aided his climbing career.

He emphasized rescue and support during climbs, setting a record in 2019 by summiting all 14 world peaks above 8,000 meters in six months.

Nims Dai set a record for climbing Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu within just five days. He was awarded the MBE by Queen Elizabeth II and promoted adventure tourism by skydiving on Everest.

He achieved a record 57 ascents of peaks above 8,000 meters, including 29 without supplemental oxygen. Just last week, he completed his 57th ascent by climbing Gasherbrum II in Pakistan.

AI Could Bring Revolutionary Changes to Developing Countries Like Nepal

The news has been collected and editorially reviewed. According to a World Bank report, the proper use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) could enable developing countries like Nepal to achieve 100 years’ worth of development goals in just one decade. In emerging economies, AI is more likely to enhance and strengthen worker productivity rather than replace employment. Indermit Gill, Chief Economist at the World Bank, stated that benefiting from AI does not require large models or expensive data centers. Kathmandu, 19 Shrawan.

The World Bank’s “World Development Report 2026” highlights AI as a potential lifeline for emerging economies. The report suggests that development targets typically taking a century to achieve can be met within ten years through the effective use of AI. It emphasizes that if governments promptly improve electricity, internet access, skill development, and institutional weaknesses, AI could significantly accelerate development progress.

Released on Tuesday, the report presents intriguing facts regarding AI’s impact on employment. In developed countries, 14.2 percent of jobs are at risk due to generative AI, compared to only 4.5 percent in low- and middle-income developing countries. Instead, the report notes AI presents a greater opportunity to enhance the capabilities of most workers.

The report identifies that AI could substantially increase productivity in 16.2 percent of jobs in developing countries, whereas that figure stands at 18.7 percent in developed nations. “In emerging economies, AI is more likely to expand and strengthen workers’ productivity rather than replace them,” the report states.

Indermit Gill, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist of the World Bank Group, said, “Harnessing AI’s benefits does not require large models or costly data centers. By utilizing locally available small-scale, low-cost AI tools adapted to local contexts, significant improvements can be made in health services, education, justice systems, and agriculture.” He added that AI development is advancing faster than electricity and internet infrastructure, urging countries to act quickly in adopting it.

The report proposes a clear three-stage roadmap for AI adoption in developing countries: first, optimal use of existing AI tools; second, customization of these tools to local languages and needs; and finally, progressive advancement in AI development.

Gaurav Nayar, Director of the World Development Report 2026, noted that AI offers opportunities to address longstanding challenges across generations within our lifetimes. However, the report highlights the need for substantial investment in infrastructure to achieve good outcomes from AI.

The report points out that nearly one-third of rural schools in Sub-Saharan Africa still lack electricity, and two-thirds do not have reliable internet service. Without addressing such fundamental deficiencies, inequality may deepen among countries like Nepal.

Additionally, the World Bank warns about issues related to data privacy and potential biases in AI-driven decision-making processes. The report cautions that if AI induces discrimination in governmental decisions or undermines public trust, compensating for such damage will be difficult.

Nepal Teachers’ Federation States Upcoming Movement in Bhadra Will Be Larger Than Before

The Nepal Teachers’ Federation has decided to launch a protest movement starting from Bhadra (August-September) due to unimplemented previous agreements and disagreements over provisions of the Education Regulations. Federation President Laxmikishor Subedi has warned that if their demands remain unaddressed, the street protests will see participation larger than ever before. Citing interference in teacher promotions, service benefits, and trade union rights, the federation expects immediate dialogue with the government.

The Nepal Teachers’ Federation has organized street protests in 2075, 2078, 2080, and 2081-82 (Nepali calendar years). Several agreements were made with the government following those protests. However, due to the lack of implementation of those agreements, the federation has again declared plans to initiate protests from Bhadra.

The federation’s council meeting has finalized the decision to proceed with the movement. During the meeting, amendments were also made to the federation’s bylaws following the 10th amendment of the Education Regulations. According to the revised bylaws, all members of the Teachers’ Federation will now be eligible to participate and vote in elections. Although the constitution was promulgated in 2072 BS (2015 AD), even after nearly 11 years, the federal education act as per the constitution has not yet been enacted. Furthermore, the nine-point decision made by the Council of Ministers on 17th Baishakh 2082 (May 2025) remains unimplemented.

The exact date for the upcoming movement has not been finalized. However, the president stated, “Our National Council is the highest authority. The council, through an extended office meeting, will decide the movement’s schedule and specific date.” The government will determine the nature of the protest. If demands are not met, we will take to the streets as we did previously.

The federation president remarked, “The conduct of yesterday’s rulers was similar to that of today’s; from a teacher’s perspective, their behavior remains unchanged.” He added, “The government has not prioritized education and is pushing teachers onto the streets.” He also requested the government not to underestimate or undervalue teachers’ and staff’s protest movements.

Two Arrested by Police Following Incident in Queensland Underground Car Park

Authorities in Queensland, Australia, have arrested two individuals following an incident in an underground car park. Initially, police helicopters spotted a man driving a vehicle with a woman as a passenger. Officers then attempted to stop the car by deploying road spikes.

When the man abandoned the vehicle and tried to flee on foot, police moved in to apprehend him. Meanwhile, the woman remained in the car and later was taken into custody. The man faces nine confirmed charges, including driving illegally and operating a vehicle without a valid license. The woman has been charged with dangerous driving.

US State Department Plans to Close Five Diplomatic Missions

The US State Department has decided to close five diplomatic missions located in Canada, Japan, Cameroon, Indonesia, and Grenada. The department has informed the US Congress about the plan to shut down embassies deemed costly and unnecessary. Concerns have been raised by the Democratic Party and national security sources that this reduction in diplomatic presence could weaken US influence across various regions.

According to reports citing international news agency Reuters, the US State Department is preparing to close five of its diplomatic missions. Sources have indicated to TASS that Congress has already been notified. The missions slated for closure are located in Winnipeg, Canada; Nagoya, Japan; Douala, Cameroon; Medan, Indonesia; and St. George’s, Grenada.

Originally, the White House aimed to shut down up to 30 foreign missions, concluding that many were expensive and unnecessary. However, the current plan involves closing only five missions. The Democratic Party and national security officials have voiced apprehension that reducing the number of diplomatic posts could diminish Washington’s influence in various sectors internationally.

Finance Minister Engages CEOs of 20 Banks to Set Direction for Economic Reforms

19th Shrawan, Kathmandu – Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle held an extensive discussion with the chief executive officers of 20 commercial banks focusing on building entrepreneurs’ trust, expanding investment, and increasing production. The minister emphasized that such dialogue would usher the country’s economic growth and productivity into a new phase. He suggested taking Tuesday’s meeting as the next step in a joint campaign to revitalize the economy.

Following consultations with private industrialists, Minister Wagle addressed financial sector leaders, stating, “At the core of production, investment, savings, financial confidence, and economic activity lies the banking system. Banks serve savers, entrepreneurs, farmers, investors, and young people aspiring to start new businesses, enabling banks to understand the economy’s true psychology, market confidence, investors’ mindset, and future expectations.”

Claiming that the government has set a clear direction for Nepal’s economic transformation through the budget, Wagle confirmed that efforts are now focused on its implementation. He said, “Alongside budget implementation, I am seeking experience and suggestions to resolve prevailing economic challenges.” Highlighting the shared goal of reenergizing the economy, he urged active initiatives to boost investment, expand production, create employment, and restore private sector confidence.

Providing an update on ongoing regulatory, legal, and institutional reforms, the Finance Minister questioned the banks on whether the initiatives taken so far are adequate. He presented about half a dozen questions and requested the discussion to focus on these issues. The questions included: What is the current economic psychology? Why are businesses hesitant to expand investments? Despite historically low interest rates, why has loan demand not increased? Why has liquidity in the banking system not translated into production and investment? Does the solution lie in monetary policy, financial policy, or private sector confidence? What structural reforms are necessary to increase credit flow to productive sectors? What new approaches are needed in monetary policy, regulation, and supervision? How can coordination among the Ministry of Finance, Nepal Rastra Bank, and the banking sector be made more effective?

Minister Wagle emphasized that the discussion should progress beyond identifying problems to implementing solutions with defined timelines and responsibilities. He stated, “Where legal reform is needed, we will amend the laws. If procedural issues exist, we will change the processes. Institutional coordination will be ensured wherever necessary. The government will not back down if decisive actions are required. We want the economy to be driven not by reaction but by confidence and optimism. Therefore, let us advance today’s meeting as a workshop making the financial system a partner in economic transformation.” According to Minister Wagle, the relationship between government and the banking sector is not only regulatory but also a shared national responsibility and duty. Economic growth, investment expansion, job creation, and financial stability are common goals of both the government and banks. The minister expressed commitment to convert the bankers’ suggestions from Tuesday into an actionable roadmap.

Drone Attack on Busy Russian Coastal Area Kills Seven Including Children

Russian officials have reported that a Ukrainian drone attack on Monday in the coastal area of Galyazhik, Russia, resulted in the deaths of at least seven people, including three children. The drone is believed to have targeted a Russian naval camp. This area is known among Russian citizens as a favored holiday destination, with the camp located approximately 40 kilometers away.

Twenty-Five U.S. States File Lawsuit Against Trump Administration’s New Tariffs

Twenty-five U.S. states have filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s imposition of tariffs ranging from 10 to 12.5 percent. The states contend that these tariffs are arbitrary and unlawful, demanding their removal. White House spokesperson Kush Desai stated that the U.S. is exercising its rights to take action against forced labor.

The states are disputing tariffs imposed on imports from 60 trade partner countries, ranging between 10 and 12.5 percent. They described the decision as “arbitrary, irrational, and unlawful.” The Trump administration implemented these tariffs in July. The impact has been felt across multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, China, and the European Union.

The U.S. government claims that these countries have not taken adequate measures to prevent the import of goods produced through forced labor. White House spokesperson Kush Desai said, “The United States is acting within its legal rights.” He added, “It is necessary to take appropriate steps against countries whose goods made with forced labor enter the U.S., causing losses to American companies.”

The Trump administration levied these tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. Under this law, the U.S. is authorized to take measures against countries involved in practices such as forced labor. Many countries affected by the tariffs have expressed dissatisfaction with the U.S. decision. Brazil and Japan have called the actions “unfair,” while Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, labeled it a “pretext for political manipulation.”

Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen Joins Ajax on Season-Long Loan

Dutch club Ajax has secured the services of 34-year-old German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen on a season-long loan. Ter Stegen, who arrives from Spanish club Barcelona, will remain at Ajax until June 30, 2027. Barcelona announced the details of the agreement.

Ter Stegen has played 423 matches for Barcelona, winning 21 trophies during his tenure. Notably, he was part of the squad that won the UEFA Champions League in 2015 while at Barcelona. Prior to this move, he spent a loan spell at Spanish club Girona, where injuries limited him to just two appearances.

Ter Stegen began his professional career at German club Borussia Mönchengladbach before signing with Barcelona in 2014. He has also earned 44 caps with the German national team.

Let Us Remain Nepali

Do not confine us within the narrow walls of any label. We are the very air that carries the coldness of the mountains and spreads the greenery of affection across the golden plains of the Terai. Do not imprison us within the walls of any religion. Do not divide Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Kirantis into narrow groups. Because we have seen—smoke rising from the Pashupatinath Aarti and the call to prayer from the mosque both ascending into the same blue sky. We have witnessed the prayer wheels of the monastery turning in an endless rhythm of compassion. We have heard the church bells ringing hopeful tunes with time. Yet, light has never risen through a single door alone.

Do not inscribe us with the letters of caste. For the rhododendron blooming on the mountains and the ripening rice grains in the terai do not ask each other’s lineage. The Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali rivers bear no pride of origin. Our identity is older than our surnames. Our history is grander than our caste. The first letter this soil taught us was not hatred, but love. On this very soil, Lumbini gave birth to compassion, Janakpur to dignity, Pashupatinath initiated silent tolerance, and Mount Everest reminded the sky that human pride must rise higher than the mountain’s peak.

This same soil gave the world Sita’s patience, Buddha’s compassion, Bhrikuti’s friendship, Arniko’s creativity, Prithvi Narayan’s unity, and the courageous spirit of the Gorkhalis. That light still spreads, shining like the snow on the Himalayas, echoing through the waves of rivers, and sparkling as hope in the pure eyes of children. Yet, why do we tear apart our own sky? We are all children of the same soil. Our blood holds the cold of the mountains, the fragrance of the hills, and the warmth of the Terai.

Wherever we stand, there stands Nepal. Wherever we breathe, Nepali-ness breathes with us. Therefore—do not take religion away from us, for humanity transcends religion. Do not take language from us, for intimacy is deeper than language. Do not take history from us, because beyond history lies a shared dream of the future. And in the name of religion, language, caste, or color—may our country never be lost. For once the country is lost, there remains no identity, no memory, no future. When someone asks for our identity, let us proudly say—We are Nepali. Let us stand tall as Nepalese, as if we ourselves are the mountains. When our eyes close for the last time, let our resting place be our Nepal.

Drone Attack in Moscow Region Leaves Five Dead

Overnight drone strikes in the Moscow region have resulted in the deaths of five people and injuries to six others. Andrei Vorobyov, the governor of the Moscow region, reported that the air defense forces successfully thwarted the drone attack.

Governor Vorobyov stated on the Max Platform, “This morning, the air defense forces successfully repelled a drone strike in the Moscow region. Unfortunately, casualties were sustained during the incident. Preliminary information confirms that five people have died and six others were injured. All the affected individuals are receiving necessary medical assistance. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased.”

Minister Pokharel Maintains Ongoing Dialogue with FIFA to Lift ANFA Suspension

Minister of Education and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel, stated that continuous communication is underway with FIFA to lift the suspension of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). During a discussion with journalists on Tuesday, Minister Pokharel said, “We are preparing to ensure there are no issues in the upcoming SAFF Championship football tournament.” He also announced that the government has declared a cash reward of 10 million rupees for the players and arranged additional expenses for those participating in the Asian Games.

Minister Pokharel mentioned that discussions are taking place via email with FIFA and said, “From an outside perspective, it may seem like the government has done nothing, but as the minister, I am continuously engaging in dialogue, and we are moving forward on a path.” He emphasized the necessity of having leadership in ANFA comprised of individuals who understand football and players.

Claiming that the previous administration delayed necessary actions which his government has completed in a short period, Minister Pokharel stated, “It has been four months since we took office, and we have announced a cash reward of 10 million rupees for the players. We have successfully accomplished in four months what was left undone for years. The players are happy about this.” He further informed that arrangements have been made to provide additional support for the expenses of players attending the Asian Games.

NAS-IT to Host ‘Nepal Tech Roadshow Europe 2026’ in the UK and Switzerland

The Nepal Association of Software and IT Services Companies (NAS-IT) is set to organize the ‘Nepal Tech Roadshow Europe 2026’ from September 6 to October 21 in the United Kingdom and Switzerland. The event aims to connect Nepali IT companies with European investors and the technology community, establishing Nepal as a reliable global partner.

Gaurav Pandey, Chairman of NAS-IT, stated, “This roadshow will offer Nepali companies the opportunity to explore new markets, form partnerships, and build enduring business relationships.” Similar roadshows were conducted in Australia in 2025 and in the United States in 2026.

The first phase of the roadshow will take place in the UK from September 6 to 12, with the main event on September 9 starting at 5 PM at the Radisson Blu Hotel London Heathrow. The second phase is scheduled for September 13 to 21 in Switzerland, featuring the main event on September 16 at 5 PM at the Hotel Saint Gothard in Zurich.

More than 17 member companies of NAS-IT will showcase their services and technologies during the program. Nepal’s IT sector is rapidly expanding, currently employing over 100,000 skilled professionals.