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Deficiency of Vitamin B7 Inhibits Cancer Cell Growth, Study Finds

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Researchers at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland have discovered that a deficiency of vitamin B7 blocks alternative energy pathways in cancer cells, thereby inhibiting their growth. This study, published in the journal Molecular Cell, reveals new insights into how the metabolic flexibility of cancer cells can be diminished. Malfunction in the gene FBXW7 forces cancer cells to rely solely on glutamine, making drugs that inhibit glutamine potentially more effective. Kathmandu, 7 Baisakh.

Scientists have achieved a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment. According to researchers from the University of Lausanne, the lack of vitamin B7 (biotin) prevents cancer cells from activating alternative energy pathways, effectively halting their proliferation. This new finding published in Molecular Cell sheds light on ways to reduce the metabolic adaptability of cancer cells.

Typically, many cancer cells depend heavily on the amino acid glutamine, a phenomenon known as “glutamine addiction.” When glutamine supply is cut off during cancer therapy, these cells often survive and continue to grow by utilizing other nutrients such as pyruvate as fuel. For this alternative metabolic route, cancer cells require activation of the enzyme pyruvate carboxylase, which necessitates vitamin B7.

The study shows that in the absence of vitamin B7, pyruvate carboxylase activity ceases, preventing cancer cells from accessing alternative energy sources, which leads to cell death. This investigation also elucidated the role of the gene FBXW7, which is frequently mutated in many cancer patients. Mutation in this gene reduces pyruvate enzyme levels, rendering cancer cells entirely dependent on glutamine. In such cases, drugs that inhibit glutamine metabolism are likely to be more effective. This discovery not only explains why some cancer drugs fail in certain cases but also paves the way for developing new and targeted treatments aimed at exploiting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer cells.

Machhindra Clinches Thrilling Victory Over Malaysia in Tiebreaker, Advances to Semifinals

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Machhindra Club, Kathmandu secured a spot in the semifinals of the third NRNA Ilam Gold Cup by defeating Malaysia’s N Penang FC 3–2 in a tiebreaker. After a goalless draw in regular time, Machhindra’s Sanis Shrestha, Milan Chamling Rai, and captain Devendra Tamang successfully converted their penalties. Goalkeeper Pradeep Bhandari was named ‘Man of the Match’ for his outstanding performance. The match took place on 7 Baisakh in Ilam.

In the quarterfinal clash of the third NRNA Ilam Gold Cup, Machhindra Club overcame Malaysia’s N Penang FC 3–2 in a high-stakes penalty shootout to advance to the semifinals. The tightly contested match remained scoreless through regular time, with the winner decided by penalties. Machhindra’s scorers in the tiebreaker were Sanis Shrestha, Milan Chamling Rai, and captain Devendra Tamang.

Meanwhile, Deepesh Gurung’s shot was saved by Malaysia’s goalkeeper Priso, and Divakar Chaudhary’s effort narrowly missed, hitting outside the post. The Malaysian side managed goals only through David and Paul Femi. Machhindra’s goalkeeper Pradeep Bhandari made excellent saves against attempts from Lahang Subba and Nishan Limbu. After goalkeeper Priso’s saved penalty attempt bounced off the post, Malaysia found themselves under heavy pressure. Pradeep Bhandari’s stellar performance earned him the ‘Man of the Match’ award. Tomorrow, the final quarterfinal match of the tournament will be contested between New Road Team (NRT), Kathmandu and Chitlang Football Club.

Has Iran Gained the Upper Hand?

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News Summary

  • A 10-day ceasefire between Iran and Lebanon has been implemented, seen as a successful step in Iran’s regional influence expansion.
  • In Lebanon, the ceasefire opens a path for direct talks between Israel and Hezbollah, though significant obstacles remain in border demarcation and disarmament.
  • Iran emphasizes the necessity for serious talks regarding its nuclear program and the future of the Strait of Hormuz, making it clear it will not transfer uranium.

April 20, Kathmandu – Multiple ceasefires are currently in place across West Asia, resulting in notable peace in two key areas. Does this increase the possibility of achieving two historic successes? Both ceasefires in Iran and Lebanon remain fragile. Although there has been some reduction in conflict, both opportunities and risks have emerged.

At first glance, the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, initiated Thursday night, is considered a success for Iran. The Iranian government had demanded a ceasefire in Lebanon, making it a precondition for negotiations with the United States.

Last week, after extensive discussions in Islamabad, it became clear that negotiations could not move forward as long as conflict persisted in Lebanon. During this period, Israel refrained from further attacks on Beirut. Both Iran and Pakistan insisted on involving Lebanon in the talks, which has now been accomplished, although this has displeased many residents living near the northern border of Israel.

It is understood that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leaned toward the ceasefire under American pressure, requiring assurances that Hezbollah would not launch missiles again. Some Israelis view the ceasefire as benefiting Iran, giving it the opportunity to influence the course of events involving its largest adversary.

Shirit Avitan Cohen of the right-wing publication “Israel Hayom” wrote, “This ceasefire legitimizes Israel’s recognition that a military relationship between Iran and Lebanon exists and must be acknowledged, something Israel had sought to avoid.”

Hezbollah has also recognized that it and its patron Iran maintain control over the region and will dictate future developments themselves.

As a result, all parties involved in the dispute have gained something from this agreement.

Major Obstacles on the Path to Agreement

This ceasefire is seen as a victory for both U.S. President Donald Trump and the Iranian leadership.

Netanyahu can demonstrate that Israeli forces remain in southern Lebanon, while Lebanon, after prolonged efforts, has secured an opportunity for direct talks with Israel.

Hezbollah has committed to adhering to the ceasefire, yet continues to issue warnings about being “ready to pull the trigger.” It neither admits defeat nor is willing to disarm.

Senior Hezbollah leader Wafiq Safa said, “There will be no proper ceasefire until the Israeli army withdraws, prisoners are released, displaced persons return, and reconstruction is completed. Until then, weapons discussions cannot proceed.”

Lina Khatib of the London-based Chatham House research center explained, “This ceasefire opens a path for direct talks between Israel and Lebanon, but many challenges remain on the road to a peace agreement.”

She added, “The issues involve border demarcation, Hezbollah’s disarmament, and Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory.” Israel and Lebanon have been in a state of war since 1948 and have no diplomatic relations.

According to Khatib, this week’s direct talks between Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors in Washington have initiated Lebanon’s process of moving away from Iranian influence.

In her words, “The regional power balance is shifting away from Iran; Lebanon can no longer be used as a bargaining chip.”

However, much remains dependent on diplomatic processes between the U.S. and Iran. Should another round of talks occur in Islamabad, U.S. efforts to curb Iran’s regional behavior will continue. Both the U.S. and Israel consider this a serious threat.

For Israel in particular, it is essential to reduce Iranian support to Hezbollah, Hamas, and Yemen’s Houthis, as this “axis of resistance” has posed a persistent challenge to the Jewish state for decades.

What Does Iran Want?

Iran aims to maintain its regional influence and is unlikely to relinquish it quickly. However, it faces substantial challenges, notably concerning its nuclear program and the future of the Strait of Hormuz, both requiring serious negotiations.

Trump has consistently claimed to be in control of the situation and asserted that a deal with Iran was imminent. He stated that Iran had already agreed to transfer about 440 kilograms of “highly enriched uranium,” which he calls “nuclear dust.” This uranium was reportedly destroyed in a bombing last year in Isfahan.

However, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Ismail Bakai, rejected this claim, stating, “There is no plan to hand over uranium to America.”

“For us, uranium is as sacred as our land, and we will never send it abroad.”

Iran will have to pledge never to develop nuclear weapons and determine the duration of uranium enrichment allowed under any agreement.

Another critical weapon is Iran’s threat to close the Strait of Hormuz. Iran seeks new legal regulations governing this waterway, which would formalize control beyond the current status.

In cooperation with Oman, Iran wants to recognize the rights of ships navigating the Gulf.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon and stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open throughout the ceasefire period.

However, he also stipulated that vessels must adhere to the coordinated route announced by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization.

This route suggests a path north of the previously used routes and closer to Iran’s mainland.

What’s the Benefit of a Hasty Agreement?

It remains to be seen whether the ceasefire will lead to the quick release of ships trapped in the Gulf. Trump has declared the Strait of Hormuz “fully open and ready for all kinds of navigation.” The market has reacted positively, but ship captains may remain cautious.

Trump has also confirmed that U.S. sanctions on Iran will continue. Despite these positive developments, the road ahead for negotiators remains long.

The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreement with Iran took nearly 20 months to finalize and focused solely on the nuclear issue. This deal collapsed after Trump withdrew the U.S. in 2018.

Trump aims to portray himself as a dealmaker, but questions remain on what has been achieved through such agreements. Meetings with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in 2018-19 also failed to yield concrete results, with North Korea continuing its nuclear program.

Nevertheless, after six weeks of stalemate, the diplomatic process has resumed, and the ceasefire in Lebanon has reinforced it.
Will this be enough to prevent future wars? Even Trump cannot say for sure.

निरुता सिंह र उत्तम प्रधानलाई लिएर फिल्म ‘सारथी’ बन्ने

New Film ‘Sarathi’ Features Niruta Singh and Uttam Pradhan in Lead Roles

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Directed by Kumar Gajurel, the narrative film ‘Sarathi’ is currently in production, with its auspicious ceremony held at Bhadrakali Temple. The filming will take place over approximately 40 days in Gurja Khani village, Magdi district. Actor Uttam Pradhan will join the shoot starting from the 15th of Baisakh. The film is being produced by editor Tara Thapa under the Kimbe Production banner, marking the return of the Niruta Singh and Uttam Pradhan pairing on screen after two decades in Bollywood.

Following the auspicious ceremony on Monday, the film crew departed for Gurja Khani village in Magdi district, nestled in the lap of the Dhaulagiri Himalayas, where the shooting will be conducted. Tara Thapa expressed her commitment to presenting an excellent story through this film. The production is a collaboration between Kimbe Production and Dheeraj Infinity Films, reviving the on-screen pairing of Niruta Singh and Uttam Pradhan.

Actress Niruta Singh participated in the inauguration ceremony, while Uttam Pradhan is preparing to join the shoot after arriving from India to Nepal. The ceremony was attended by film professionals Lakshminath Sharma, Prakash Sayami, Manjunath Shrestha, and Deepp Bahadur Chhantyal, advisor of Chhantyal Association, as honored guests. The cast also includes Mukund Shrestha, Samranta Thapa, Giri Bishwakarma, Gayatri Joshi, Madan Thapa, Milan Khadka, Rashmi Gurung, Tulsi Rai, and Asha Bishwakarma. Sauryal Thapa is the producer, with Radip Shrestha and Pradeep Rai Maji serving as executive producers.

A Call to Account for the History of Communists

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O Communists, it is time for you to reform! Dust off the feet and reach the grassroots, for mountains of injustice and layers of exploitation remain. Rally now for equality, justice, and prosperity. You were once a fierce, fiery force whose roar ushered in a new dawn; it was through your sacrifice and dedication that the constitution was built—embodying republic, freedom, and popular rights. But look, where is your pride now? One sowed the seeds, another harvested the crop!

O young socialists, do not forget the price of history’s blood and sacrifice. Though you may have lagged behind amid the whirlwinds of ‘algorithms,’ ‘AI,’ and ‘globalization,’ your ideals have not died. Follow the footsteps of time and rise, take hold of the reins of leadership. O true revolutionaries, do not tire now. Do not sell your principles in the cheap market of populism. Do not let bourgeois glitter blind your consciousness. Write a new sociological commentary in the pace of science, break the shackles of stagnation, and lead the charge of dynamism.

O progressive minds, you have not been defeated, but rather confused. Rise above the ‘classical’ dogma of Marxism. Reinterpret it by incorporating the fusion of capital and technology. Feel the new pulse of the economy and the changing rhythm of society. Break the stagnant pond of the status quo and swim in the river of time. O torches of revolution, there is no room now to extinguish. Combine ego, satisfaction, pretense, prejudice, and frustration to ignite a new flame of unity, struggle, and transformation. Carry Sagarmatha [Mount Everest] on your head and sovereignty in your heart; awaken, rise, and march against modern enemies for the reconstruction of a sovereign nation!

When you fracture and split among yourselves, your pride falters, public opinion wavers, and the palace of arrogance collapses. O scattered red drops, now unify. Classes have changed, so has the form of struggle. Transform from being the ‘river of blood’ into the root of ‘development and creation.’ O leftists, reform and resolve! Pour oil of trust into the dying lamp of revolution. You now stand at the dock of history. Imperialist fascists are gaining dominance. Face the trial by fire and seek forgiveness from the people. Unite and advance to bring the dawn of socialism.

Prime Minister Directs Vice Chancellors to Remove Political Student and Staff Organizations

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April 20, Kathmandu – Prime Minister Balendra Shah has instructed vice chancellors of universities and health-related educational institutions nationwide to immediately dismantle all political student and staff organization structures within their institutions under any circumstances. This directive came during an extensive discussion lasting approximately three and a half hours held on Monday at the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers’ office with vice chancellors from across the country.

Prime Minister Shah emphasized that political activities should not be conducted within educational institutions under any pretext and affirmed that no legal provisions should obstruct the removal of political organizational structures. He stated that hospitals, campuses, and schools are sacred spaces where no political party’s flag, influence, or organization should be allowed. If individuals wish to engage in politics, he suggested they separate themselves entirely from their professional duties and devote themselves fully to political activities.

During the discussion, Professor Dr. Dhaneshwar Nepal, Vice Chancellor of Nepal Sanskrit University, voiced concerns about facing threats and attacks when attempting to remove student organizations. In response, Prime Minister Shah instructed that if any security issues arise while dismantling political organizations, the relevant ministry or his secretariat must be immediately informed.

Prime Minister Shah assured that the government remains committed to providing the necessary support, including security arrangements, and that police administration will fully perform its duties. He also urged vice chancellors to confidently fulfill their responsibilities. Furthermore, he issued strict instructions to adhere completely to the academic calendar and to publish examination results within one month.

Similarly, Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Sasmit Pokharel, noted that the ministry has already directed the abolition of organizations affiliated with political parties and clarified that legislation does not impede this process.

During the discussion, Professor Dr. Deepak Aryal, Vice Chancellor of Tribhuvan University, reported that student and staff organizations have gradually become inactive following the JNU protests and subsequent elections. However, Vice Chancellors Dr. Dhruv Kumar Gautam of Mid-Western University, Dr. Biju Kumar Thapaliya of Eastern University, and Dr. Hem Raj Pant of Sudurpaschim University stated that tension related to student politics persists in some constituent campuses. Vice chancellors from other universities and institutions expressed that political activities are minimal in their establishments and expressed confidence that strict administration can end politics in educational environments.

गृहमन्त्री गुरुङले लुकाए सेयर, स्पष्टीकरणमा पनि बोले झुट

Home Minister Gurung Concealed Shares and Provided False Explanations

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Despite Home Minister Sudhan Gurung declaring hundreds of ropanis of land and 89 tolas of gold in his public asset declaration, the source of funding lacks transparency. He failed to mention founder shares worth NPR 5 million in two microinsurance companies, raising legal questions. Although he claims the shares were purchased using loans, these shares are not publicly traded since they are not part of an IPO.

Kathmandu, 7 Baisakh – The assets declared by Home Minister Sudhan Gurung have come under scrutiny. He has shown ownership of hundreds of ropanis of land, exceeding legal limits, prompting questions as to why the government has not acquired this land. The minister’s declaration includes 89 tolas of gold, 6 kilograms of silver, and shares worth crores of rupees in various companies, but the sources for these assets remain unclear. Gurung claims to have acquired these through his business, ancestral property, and investments, describing the source as “lumpsum,” but has failed to clarify further.

Moreover, he concealed founder shares worth NPR 5 million, equivalent to 50,000 shares, in two microinsurance companies. He did not include 25,000 shares each in Liberty Microlife Insurance and Star Microinsurance in his asset declaration, raising questions about adherence to the code of conduct and legal norms. While he declared shares worth NPR 27.4 million traded in the securities market, he did not disclose the companies that issued these shares.

The ministry and government have not issued any formal response regarding the undisclosed shares. Government spokesperson Sasmita Pokharel, Raswap’s general secretary Kabindra Burlakoti, and spokesperson Manish Jha have all refrained from commenting. Meanwhile, following the controversy surrounding the appointment of his wife as a member of the Health Insurance Board leading to the removal of then Labor Minister Deepak Sah by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, discussions continue on how the Prime Minister will handle Gurung’s shareholding case.

Purchasing, owning, or selling shares is not illegal, but the source must be transparent and the legal process properly followed. Public officials are required to disclose their entire asset holdings according to the law. The microinsurance shares were not included when Gurung registered his assets after becoming Home Minister. He declared 57,000 founder shares in Lagum Premium Apartments, 30,000 in Hope Holdings, and 70,000 in Adventure Villa Pvt. Ltd., but the shares in Liberty Microlife and Star Microinsurance were omitted.

According to records from the Company Registrar, Gurung owns 25,000 founder shares in each of these companies, with a par value of NPR 100 per share. However, he did not specify any company names in his asset declaration.

Gurung began his political career during the Janabhiyog movement on 23 and 24 Bhadra 2082 BS. He is the founder of ‘Hami Nepal’, elected from Gorkha Constituency No. 1 as a member of Raswap, and was appointed Home Minister.

Minister Provided False Information in Explanation

Following questions regarding his investments in microinsurance companies, Gurung responded on social media claiming he purchased shares using loans. He stated that over NPR 20 million of his investments are accounted for in his asset declaration and included shares in two microfinance companies as part of that, but discrepancies exist between his declaration and his explanation.

In his asset report, he declared shares worth NPR 27,456,200 traded in the securities market, reportedly acquired through business, ancestral property, and investments. However, on social media, he claimed the source was a loan backed by a promissory note dated 29th Shrawan 2080 BS. He stated that the promissory note payments were made through banking channels and used for investment.

Nonetheless, his assertion that shares in two microinsurance companies are publicly traded is inaccurate as neither company has yet conducted an IPO, thus their shares are not listed on the market. This shows that Gurung has twice presented false information, attempting to portray non-IPO shares as being traded on the securities market.

Meanwhile, some media outlets and social media users have raised questions about the microinsurance investments. Remi Capfin Pvt. Ltd. has invested in founder shares totaling 335,000 in Liberty Microlife and Star Microinsurance, holding 6.19 percent shares in both companies.

According to Executive Director Suresh Bhusal, the investment was made using legally earned profits that have paid taxes, with no illegal funds involved. Company Registrar records indicate that the investments made by Remi Capfin, related to this matter, do not include any investment from Dipak Bhatt, who is currently under investigation for asset laundering.

OpenAI Unveils GPT-Rosalind, a New AI Model for Accelerating Drug Discovery

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OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has introduced a specialized artificial intelligence model named GPT-Rosalind, designed to fast-track drug discovery and biomedical research. Announced on Thursday, this AI model is tailored specifically for biological science investigations. Competition among technology firms to expand AI applications in the medical field is intensifying.

This new model from OpenAI is expected to provide fresh directions for scientific research in pharmaceuticals. It is believed to significantly contribute to developing treatments for diseases that have long been under investigation. GPT-Rosalind will assist in extracting critical insights from vast datasets and help translate scientific studies into practical health solutions. The initial version of the model has been launched and will be made available to select commercial clients on a trial basis.

Early adopters of GPT-Rosalind include pharmaceutical company Amgen Inc., vaccine developer Moderna, and bioscience research organization the Allen Institute. It is noteworthy that OpenAI and its competitor Anthropic are intensifying their rivalry in developing advanced AI models in fields such as coding, science, and cybersecurity. The overarching goal of these models is to convince companies that AI can reduce both time and costs effectively.

Hemant Dhami Makes T20I Cricket Debut

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Twenty-year-old bowler Hemant Dhami has made his T20 International (T20I) cricket debut against the UAE at the Tribhuvan University (Trivi) Cricket Ground. Hemant was recently honored as the best bowler in the recently concluded Prime Minister’s Cup One-Day Cricket Tournament. Kathmandu, April 20. The fast bowler, Hemant Dhami, stepped onto the field for his first T20I match against the UAE at the Trivi Cricket Ground. His exceptional performance in the recent Prime Minister’s (PM) Cup One-Day Cricket earned him the title of best bowler.

Family Claims Nepali Detained in Iran Has Not Been Released Yet, Government States ‘Process Underway’

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Although Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal announced that Nepali youth Amrit Jha, detained in Iran, had been released, his family insists he remains in jail. Amrit’s sister, Pooja, informed on Monday afternoon that her brother recently called her to confirm he is still imprisoned. “My brother just phoned me,” she said. “He asked, ‘What is being done to secure my release from Nepal?’ I replied, ‘We heard you have been released.'” Recounting her conversation with Amrit, Pooja added, “But that is not true. Only this morning, we received a letter from the court stating our case is still under investigation, which is why he is being held.”

The Foreign Ministry spokesman has confirmed that the process for Amrit Jha’s release has begun. Amrit was part of the crew of a vessel owned by Black Sea Marine LLC, based in the UAE, and was detained while heading to Iran from Dubai to collect oil. Officials had previously stated that Amrit had been released and was in contact with the Nepali embassy in Qatar. They reported that Jha was held on Qeshm Island. However, Pooja claims that Amrit informed her he is still in Bandar Abbas prison, located in Hormozgan province, known among human rights activists as a detention center of concern in Iran.

“I was shocked when he called,” Pooja said. “We were happy upon hearing my brother had been released, but the next day, learning he remains jailed has left us with doubts.” Foreign Minister Khanal had announced on Wednesday afternoon that confirmation of release had been received. On Monday, attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudel Kshetri confirmed that appeals for Amrit’s release have begun but cautioned it might take some time. “The release process has started, but court procedures may take a while,” he said. “The embassy is covering the safe return expenses, and the ministry is actively involved in the efforts.”

Basanta Kumar Basnet, chief of Triyuga Municipality in Udayapur, stated he has written to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consular Service Department urging them to act to rescue Amrit but has yet to receive a reply. “I tried to meet with the minister but was unsuccessful. I sent a letter but got no response. Only the family was informed about the release; we don’t know what happened afterward,” Basnet explained. Amrit’s mother has said that her son has worked for a maritime company for nearly a decade.

The Foreign Ministry has yet to disclose details of other Nepalis stranded in Iran. It confirmed that diplomatic efforts are underway to repatriate a total of 11 Nepalis, including Amrit, stuck in Iran. With no commercial flights available due to the conflict sparked by attacks from the US and Israel, these individuals are unable to return home. According to the ministry, 10 Nepalis remain in Tehran, with a total of 11 including Amrit. Following India’s evacuation of its citizens and those from neighboring countries, Nepal has intensified efforts to rescue its nationals. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated on Friday, “Since the conflict began in Iran, we have evacuated 2,361 people—2,060 via Armenia and 301 via Azerbaijan.”

Many Nepalis had traveled to Iran seeking employment. Following Israel’s attack on Iran in June last year, India assisted in evacuating 11 Nepalis. At that time, diplomatic officials urged Nepalis in Iran to reach out, revealing 17 Nepalis were present, five of whom were detained on immigration violation charges. This time too, news had emerged of a Nepali detained in Iran even before the recent US and Israeli attacks.

What is the government’s plan? Efforts are underway to bring Jha from Qeshm Island, near the Hormuz Strait, the conflict’s hotspot, outside Iran, according to the Foreign Ministry spokesperson. Lok Bahadur Paudel Kshetri emphasized ongoing attempts to rescue Jha along with 10 other Nepalis. “We are working on various options to evacuate all 11 individuals,” he said. “The Nepalis in Tehran are willing to return. We are pursuing diplomatic channels to ensure their safe return.” Despite a ceasefire, the absence of commercial flights and closure of the Hormuz maritime route make evacuation by air or sea difficult. Nepal has requested India’s assistance for the rescue operation and urged that other stranded Nepalis also be brought home.

Nepali officials have noted that many Nepalis in Iran work primarily as chefs or cooks.

Amrit Jha Detained in Iran: Family Claims He Remains Imprisoned Despite Government Assurances of Release

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Photo of Amrit Jha with Tehran, Iran’s capital in the background

Image source, Reuters/Supplied

Despite Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal’s announcement that Nepali youth Amrit Jha, detained in Iran, has been released, his family insists he remains in prison.

Amrit Jha’s sister, Pooja, revealed on Monday afternoon that her brother had just informed her he is still incarcerated. “My brother called me recently,” she stated.

“He asked, ‘What is happening regarding my release from Nepal?’ I told him, ‘There’s news that you have been released already.’” She conveyed her conversation with Amrit.

“But that is not the case. They informed me this morning via a court letter that your case is still under investigation, which is why you have to remain here,” she added.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed to BBC that the process for Jha’s release has commenced.

रास्वपा संघीय नेतृत्व मञ्चमा ६ सदस्य मनोनीत – Online Khabar

Rastriya Swatantra Party Nominates Six Members for Federal Leadership Panel

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April 20, Kathmandu – The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has nominated six members to its Federal Leadership Panel. A decision was made during the central committee meeting held on Monday at the party’s central office in Bansthali, according to party spokesperson Manish Jha.

According to Manish Jha, the six members nominated to the panel are Tulsi Prasad Chaudhary, Ram Sih Tharu, Jeevan Dhami, Prema Chaudhary, Navaraj Rana, and Ekaraj Chaudhary. Earlier, members who initially came from the Ujyalo Party and later rejoined after Kulman Ghising left the party were also included in this panel within the RSP.

Two Immigration Officials Removed After Imposing Work Ban on Passports for Dubai Visitors

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The Immigration Department has removed two officials from their duties after they reportedly imposed a work prohibition stamp on the passports of travelers heading to Dubai on a visit visa. These two officials have been relieved from their responsibilities at Tribhuvan International Airport’s immigration section and are currently under investigation. They had stamped the passports with the phrase ‘EMPLOYMENT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.’ Kathmandu, April 20: Two immigration officials have been relieved of their duties for marking a work ban on the passports of Dubai-bound visitors holding visit visas. According to Immigration Department spokesperson Tikaram Dhakal, these officials have been removed from their posts at Tribhuvan International Airport’s immigration desk and subjected to an inquiry. The officials had stamped ‘EMPLOYMENT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED’ on the passports of travelers going to Dubai on visit visas.

Two Immigration Officers Removed After Imposing Work Ban on Dubai Visit Visa Passports

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News Summary

  • The Department of Immigration has removed two officers responsible for stamping a work prohibition on passports of travelers heading to Dubai on visit visas.
  • These two officers were relieved from their immigration duties at Tribhuvan International Airport, pending investigation.
  • They had stamped passports with the phrase “Employment is strictly prohibited.”

April 20, Kathmandu – Two immigration officers have been removed from their duties after they imposed a work ban annotation on the passports of travelers going to Dubai on visit visas.

According to Immigration Department spokesperson Tikaram Dhakal, the officers were relieved of their responsibilities at Tribhuvan International Airport and are currently under investigation.

They had stamped the words “Employment is strictly prohibited” on the passports of these visitors holding visit visas to Dubai.

Increasing Risk of Heatwave (‘Lu’): What Are the Precautions?

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Summary

Reviewed Content.

  • Many parts of the country are experiencing rising temperatures and extreme heat, with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology forecasting hot winds (‘Lu’) in the Terai districts.
  • In Dipayal, Sudurpashchim Province, temperatures reached 40 degrees Celsius, prompting the National Disaster Risk Reduction Authority to formulate procedures to mitigate the effects of heatwaves.
  • According to public health expert Dr. Sameer Adhikari, heatwaves can cause rapid heart rate, reduced breathing and blood pressure, and other serious health issues.

April 20, Kathmandu – In recent days, most parts of the country have seen increasing temperatures leading to intense heat. Along with this, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has indicated a likelihood of hot winds, known locally as ‘Lu’, blowing in the Terai districts.

According to the data released by the department this afternoon, the temperature reached 41 degrees Celsius in Kapilvastu and 39 degrees Celsius in Banke. Daytime heat has increased in the Terai areas of Madhesh Province, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Sudurpashchim Provinces, as well as in valleys and lowlands. The department reported a possibility of hot winds blowing in the western Terai of Sudurpashchim and Lumbini Provinces. They have urged the public to stay updated with the latest information and to take necessary precautions.

Meteorologist Sanjiv Adhikari from the department shared that extreme heat will persist especially in the Terai districts until Wednesday. He stated, “From today through Wednesday, particularly in Terai, valleys, and lowlands, hot wind waves are likely. However, in Koshi Province, due to cloud cover, the immediate risk of ‘Lu’ is low.” He emphasized that the risk of hot winds is higher in western Lumbini Province, Dhangadhi, other Terai districts of Sudurpashchim, and Nepalgunj.

The temperature in Dipayal, Sudurpashchim Province, reached about 40 degrees Celsius this afternoon, which meteorologists say is abnormal. Rajendra Sharma, Senior Hydrologist at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, warned that the frequency of ‘Lu’ events is increasing with climate change, highlighting the need for timely preparedness and awareness.

“We have developed guidelines to mitigate the impact of hot winds, which have been shared with relevant inter-agency bodies, and discussions for effective implementation are ongoing,” he said.

“It is essential to maintain cool environments, ensure access to clean drinking water, and provide special care for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and patients,” Sharma added. “Preemptive measures should be enforced at hospitals, schools, and public places.”

Health Impacts of Heatwaves

Public health specialist Dr. Sameer Adhikari explained that exposure to ‘Lu’ can cause rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, severe headaches, burning eyes, dizziness, and even fainting. “Heatwaves can also cause long-term effects, affecting the brain and circulatory system,” he said. “Children and elderly people are particularly vulnerable. It is important to drink sufficient water, stay in shade, and avoid alcohol and smoking.”

Similarly, the Ministry of Health and Population has warned that symptoms such as body temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit, dry, red, and hot skin may occur during heatwaves. Pediatric specialist Dr. Ramhari Chapagain has also recommended heightened vigilance as children are especially susceptible to the effects of hot winds.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has observed that heatwaves and related health risks in Nepal are increasing due to climate change. Rapid urbanization and air pollution also contribute to rising temperatures and negatively impact public health.

Analysis of data from 33 meteorological stations across Nepal from 1987 to 2016 indicates an increase in hot days, especially in southern regions and during pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, with changes in rainfall patterns. WHO highlights the need for increased public awareness, health protection, and adaptive strategies at local levels to cope with rising temperatures.

Agricultural Risks and Production Decline

Excessive heat and hot winds also adversely affect agriculture and animal husbandry. Agricultural expert Dilliram Sharma explained that extreme heat causes crops to wither, flowers to fall prematurely, and fruits to develop poorly, risking economic loss for farmers.

“If crops are exposed to heat during flowering or fruiting stages, growth halts and production declines. In some areas, maize has formed grains but these do not mature properly, leading to lower yields,” he said.

He suggested that farming under plastic tunnels (polyhouses) can reduce the risk. Experts urge the formulation of long-term plans to mitigate climate change-related risks. Recommendations include improving irrigation, providing shade and adequate water supply, safeguarding animal health, and adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices.

How to Protect Yourself from Heatwaves

The authority advises avoiding going outdoors during peak daytime heat, drinking plenty of water and fruit juices, and consuming electrolyte solutions if excessive sweating occurs. If going outside is necessary, wearing a hat or using an umbrella, bathing with cool water, and working in fields early in the morning or late in the evening are recommended.

The Ministry of Health and Population requests abstaining from alcohol, limiting caffeine intake (tea, coffee, soda), and avoiding sugary drinks during heatwaves.

What is ‘Lu’?

A ‘Lu’ refers to a heatwave or extremely hot wind, which typically occurs from mid-March to mid-September depending on temperature. The federal and provincial disaster management laws of Nepal refer to it as a ‘heatwave.’ According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, a ‘hot day’ is when the temperature exceeds the 90th percentile of the last 30 years of data. A heatwave is classified as mild if it lasts three or more consecutive hot days, moderate if prolonged, and severe in the case of extreme heat waves.