In FIFA World Cup history, Johan Neeskens of the Netherlands set the record for the fastest goal in a World Cup final by scoring just 88 seconds into the 1974 final. In the 1954 World Cup final, West Germany overcame a two-goal deficit to secure a remarkable comeback victory against Hungary, becoming the first team to win the title after trailing in the final. France’s Kylian Mbappé holds the record for the most goals scored in World Cup finals, netting four goals across two finals. 2nd Shrawan, Kathmandu.
The FIFA World Cup final, the pinnacle of international football, is always filled with historic moments, records, and unforgettable memories. From 1930 to 2022, 22 World Cup finals have produced numerous remarkable facts. Ahead of the upcoming final between Argentina and Spain this Sunday, here are some intriguing facts.
The fastest goal in a World Cup final was scored by Johan Neeskens of the Netherlands in 1974 against West Germany; he scored from a penalty just 88 seconds after kick-off. Sixty years later, in 1990, West Germany secured their first goalless clean sheet victory in a World Cup final by defeating Argentina 1–0. Spain became the first team to win a World Cup final wearing their second-choice jerseys in 2010. In 1982, when Italy won the World Cup, the youngest player on the winning team, Giuseppe Bergomi, was only 18 years old, marking the largest age gap of 22 years on a champion squad.
Brazil’s Cafu remains the only player to have appeared in three World Cup finals. Lionel Messi of Argentina is set to equal Cafu’s record by playing in his third final in 2026, having previously reached the finals in 2014 and 2022. Kylian Mbappé is the all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals with four goals. Should Argentina win the upcoming final, Messi will become the first captain to win the World Cup twice.
Hyderabad-based space company Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched India’s first private orbital rocket, ‘Vikram-1’, on Saturday. The rocket was launched from the Sriharikota launch center in Andhra Pradesh at 12:05 PM. Initially, the launch was scheduled for 11:30 AM but the countdown was halted about five minutes before lift-off. After a brief pause, the countdown resumed and the rocket was successfully sent into space.
According to news agency PTI, this test flight has been named ‘Mission Agniban’. Under this mission, Vikram-1 carried various payloads for technical testing. Among them were a postcard from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and an artwork titled ‘Cosmic Bloom’. Previously, Skyroot Aerospace had launched a suborbital rocket named ‘Vikram-S’ in 2022.
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The Nepal Women’s U-19 cricket team secured third place in the ACC U-19 Women Premier Cup by defeating Indonesia by 9 wickets.
Nepal chased down the target of 69 runs set by Indonesia within 14.2 overs for the loss of only 1 wicket.
Manisha Upadhyaya took 4 wickets conceding just 7 runs in 4 overs, containing Indonesia to 68 runs.
July 18, Kathmandu: The Nepal Women’s U-19 cricket team claimed third place in the ACC U-19 Women Premier Cup.
In the match held on Saturday, Nepal defeated Indonesia by 9 wickets to secure the third position. Nepal successfully chased down the target of 69 runs set by Indonesia, reaching the total in 14.2 overs with the loss of only one wicket.
Sana Praveen remained unbeaten with 25 runs. Sabitri Dhami scored 24 runs and Karuna Bisht added an unbeaten 16 runs.
Indonesia, having won the toss and elected to bat first, managed only 68 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 20 overs.
Derani Rambule remained not out with 34 runs while Ni Putu Elin scored 11 runs. None of the other players reached double digits.
For Nepal, Manisha Upadhyaya was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for just 7 runs in 4 overs. Anu Kadayat claimed 2 wickets, while Tirsana Bik, Soni Pakhri, and Rachana Chaudhary took one wicket each.
Earlier on Friday, Nepal had been defeated by the UAE in the semifinals via a Super Over. The UAE and Thailand will compete for the championship title today.
Nepal has already qualified for the U-19 Asia Cup.
The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France is regarded as one of the greatest finals in football history, fulfilling Lionel Messi’s dream of winning the World Cup. In 1970, Brazil defeated Italy to become the first nation to win the World Cup three times, securing the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently under Pelé’s leadership. In 1986, Argentina, captained by Diego Maradona, defeated West Germany to claim their second World Cup title, cementing Maradona’s status as one of football’s all-time greats. 2nd of Shrawan, Kathmandu. The World Cup finals are not just about winning the trophy but represent pivotal moments in football history. Some finals have shifted the course of the sport itself. Legendary players have immortalized their legacies in certain finals, while others witnessed improbable comebacks that made history. Controversial goals sparked debates for decades, and penalty shootouts moved millions of fans emotionally. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, let us review the most memorable finals in history.
2022: Argentina 3-3 France (4-2 on penalties) Football analysts and FIFA consider this the greatest final ever. Lionel Messi finally realized his dream of winning the World Cup, while Kylian Mbappé became only the second player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. France came back from a 2-0 deficit at 80 minutes to equalize within two minutes. In extra time, both Messi and Mbappé scored, sending the match to penalties. Gonzalo Montiel scored the decisive penalty, securing Argentina’s first World Cup title in 36 years. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez saved a penalty. This was the first World Cup final in history where both teams scored in extra time.
1970: Brazil 4-1 Italy Many regard this Brazilian team as the greatest football team ever. Both Brazil and Italy had already won twice each. By winning the final in Mexico City, Brazil became the first nation to win three World Cups, permanently securing the Jules Rimet Trophy. Goals came from Pelé, Jairzinho, Gérson, and Carlos Alberto. Carlos Alberto’s goal is particularly celebrated as one of the best team goals in football history.
1986: Argentina 3-2 West Germany Under Diego Maradona’s captaincy, Argentina won their second World Cup. Though they were leading 2-0, West Germany equalized with two quick goals. In extra time, Jorge Burruchaga scored the winning goal, assisted by Maradona’s brilliant pass. Maradona didn’t score in the final but showcased his control over the game throughout the tournament, earning his place among world football’s greatest players.
1966: England 4-2 West Germany (after extra time) England’s only World Cup final victory to date. After a 2-2 draw in 90 minutes at Wembley, Jeff Hurst scored twice in extra time, becoming the first and only player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. His second goal, which crossed the goal line controversially, remains one of world football’s most debated moments.
1954: West Germany 3-2 Hungary Known as the “Miracle of Bern.” Hungary had been unbeaten for 31 matches and had defeated West Germany 8-3 in the group stage. In the final, Hungary quickly took a 2-0 lead within eight minutes, but West Germany mounted an incredible comeback to win 3-2. This victory marked the beginning of a new era for German football and stands as one of the greatest comebacks in world football history.
2014: Germany 1-0 Argentina (after extra time) The 2014 World Cup final in Brazil was highly strategic and fiercely competitive. After a goalless 90 minutes, extra time decided the match. In the 113th minute, substitute Mario Götze expertly controlled André Schürrle’s cross and scored the winning goal, giving Germany its fourth World Cup title. It was the first time a European team won the World Cup on South American soil.
What’s next? The final between Argentina and Spain underway this Monday morning is poised to become historic. Argentina aims to win consecutive World Cups for the second time, while Spain seeks to reclaim the title after 16 years. The potential final appearance of 39-year-old Lionel Messi in his likely last World Cup, emerging talents like Laimn Yamal, and a clash of contrasting football philosophies all contribute to the strong possibility that this final will also be remembered among the greatest in World Cup history.
Government data reveals a significant decline in the number of Nepali students traveling to the United States prior to the announcement of stricter foreign student visa regulations by the US. In 2026, approximately 66,000 Nepali students studied abroad, but only 1,671 arrived in the US, according to the Immigration Department.
This week, the US Department of Homeland Security announced additional stringent visa rules targeting students, which may discourage many aspiring international students seeking higher education. A government official stated that Nepali students have been adapting to immigration policies and efforts are ongoing to address the challenges they face through diplomatic education initiatives.
In the academic year 2024/25, Nepal ranked sixth among countries sending international students to the US, as confirmed by the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Open Doors report. That year, 24,890 Nepali students were enrolled in American universities and colleges. However, recent data highlights a sharp decrease in the number of Nepali students traveling to the US in recent months.
According to information released Thursday by the Department of Homeland Security, foreign students will no longer be allowed to stay in the US for more than four years without federal government approval. This rule, which restricts changes in course and transfers between universities or colleges, provides only a 30-day window for students to return home after graduation or to obtain another visa.
Government statistics reveal a significant decrease in the number of Nepali students traveling to the United States even prior to the announcement of stricter US student visa regulations.
In 2026, nearly 66,000 Nepalis went abroad for studies, but only 1,671 traveled to the United States, according to the Immigration Department.
This week, the US Department of Homeland Security unveiled more stringent visa rules targeting students, which could further discourage many aspiring higher education seekers.
A government official noted that Nepali students have been adapting to immigration policies, and efforts are underway to strengthen educational diplomacy to address the challenges faced by students.
What the Data Shows
In the academic year 2024/25, Nepal ranked sixth among countries sending international students to the US, according to the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors report.
During the same year, 24,890 Nepali students were enrolled in American colleges and universities. However, recent months have seen a significant decline in the number of Nepali students traveling to the US.
In 2024, 14,205 Nepali students went to the US for studies, whereas only 8,123 did so in 2025.
The number of Nepali students going to the US further dropped in 2026. By mid-July, around 66,000 Nepalis had gone abroad, but only 1,673 arrived in the US.
During President Trump’s administration, immigration policies were tightened, leading to an increased rejection rate of student visa applications from Nepali applicants.
A report by Sorrelight, which works in the education sector, noted that in 2025, the rejection rate for Nepali student visa applications reached 81 percent.
The Institute of International Education indicated a 59 percent decline in international student applications in 2026/27.
According to the July 2026 Department of Homeland Security data, 32,852 Nepali students are currently active in the US, comprising approximately 18,300 men and 14,500 women.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System shows Nepali students are enrolled in the following academic programs:
Associate (Undergraduate): 6,942
Bachelors: 11,581
Doctorate: 4,239
Masters: 9,563
Potential Impact of the New Regulations
Image Source, Getty Images
The Department of Homeland Security announced on Thursday that foreign students will no longer be allowed to stay in the US for more than four years without federal government approval.
The new rules will make changing courses or transferring between universities or colleges difficult and allow only 30 days after graduation to return home or obtain another visa.
The US government aims to implement these regulations from September 2026 to prevent visa misuse and reinforce national security.
These rules will apply to students holding ‘F’ and ‘J’ visas, restricting their stay in the US to a maximum of four years.
Currently, students could stay up to three years beyond their study period for Optional Practical Training, which provided employment opportunities and pathways to long-term visas.
New York-based immigration attorney Basu Phular explained that these changes will primarily affect new students.
He said, “Newly enrolled students will be allowed to stay a maximum of four years. Current students will be allowed to remain until they complete their course, but limited time will be granted upon travel or reentry.”
He interpreted the new policy as the government’s rationale to limit the length of stay of student visa holders and encourage return to their home countries.
He also noted a decline in visa acceptance rates and cancellations of visas for those found abusing the system. The drop in Nepali students traveling to the US started even before the new rules were announced.
Since January, the US government has required Nepali applicants for tourist and business visas to pay a bond of between $5,000 and $15,000.
Recently, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has requested US officials to remove Nepal from the list of countries required to post bonds.
Higher Education Consultants’ Perspectives
Sheshnarayan Bhattarai, former president of the Nepal Educational Consultancy Association, said the US remains the top choice for Nepali students pursuing higher education and that the government’s decision will impact Nepal significantly.
He said, “For those who genuinely want to study, the US is always the first choice. The number of Nepalis going to America has remained high for the past three decades.”
“This decision will pose a big challenge to students preparing for SAT or GRE exams and hoping to secure scholarships to study in the US.”
As director of Orbit International Education, he affirmed that fluctuations in international immigration policies directly affect Nepali students.
He stated, “We must improve communications and advance diplomatic initiatives. Although many students go to the US and Australia, we have not demonstrated the diplomatic skills necessary.”
Former Nepali ambassador to Washington Shankar Sharma also noted that the Trump administration adopted stringent immigration policies and emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to address student visa rejections.
Comments from Education Ministry Officials
According to Education Ministry officials, the US remains a primary destination for Nepali students.
As per data up to Falgun 2081 (around February 2025), the highest number of ‘No Objection Letters’ for study purposes were issued for the US, following Australia, Japan, the UK, and Canada.
This fiscal year, around 114,000 Nepalis have obtained prior approval letters to study abroad, nearly 4,500 less than the previous year.
Image Source, EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
The Education Ministry states that Nepali students travel abroad for higher education after complying with the destination countries’ immigration regulations, and efforts are underway to promote educational diplomacy to resolve challenges faced by students.
Ministry spokesperson Shivkumar Sapkota shared that a framework for educational diplomacy has been in development for two years and that educational cooperation offices could be established in relevant countries. This will help address issues faced by universities and students.
Sapkota added that discussions with the Foreign Ministry and other ministries are ongoing but no definitive results have been achieved yet.
“Dialogue is still underway. Our government needs to be able to reach students wherever they are. The Education Ministry is sensitive to this issue, yet a shared understanding among stakeholders has not yet been established for formalization.”
In the first 11 months of this fiscal year, Nepal has spent NPR 13.223 billion on foreign education expenses, compared to NPR 12.475 billion in the previous fiscal year.
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2nd Shrawan, Kathmandu – Abhijeet Deep, the founder of the Kakaroch Janata Party (CJP), has started an indefinite hunger strike. The party announced this through its official X handle on Saturday morning. This decision was taken after the Delhi police forcibly took environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk from a protest site to a hospital.
The CJP’s X handle stated, “Abhijeet Deep is on an indefinite hunger strike. The previously scheduled ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20 will proceed as planned.” Abhijeet Deep also confirmed this through an X post.
The match scheduled for Sunday morning is not just a contest for third place but also an opportunity to honor a dream left unfulfilled with dignity. France and England, defeated in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026, will face each other Sunday morning to compete for the third place. Historically, these two teams have met 32 times, with England winning 17 matches and France 15. Both teams, led by key players including Golden Boot contender Kylian Mbappé, aim to end the tournament on a positive note. Kathmandu, 19 July. France and England, two dominant teams in the FIFA World Cup 2026, were eliminated in the semifinals. They now face off to claim third place on Sunday. Although out of the title race, both teams are eager to finish the tournament honorably by winning this important match, which many view as a significant battle to fulfill an unfinished dream.
England began their campaign impressively by defeating Croatia 4–2 in the group stage. They then drew 0–0 with Ghana and beat Panama 2–0 to top their group. In the knockout rounds, Thomas Tuchel’s team faced tough competition. They defeated DR Congo 2–1 in the round of 32 and overcame co-host Mexico 3–2 in extra time in the round of 16. After a 2–1 win against Norway in the quarterfinals, they were defeated 2–1 by Argentina in the semifinals. France also delivered consistent performances throughout the group stages, advancing to the knockout rounds with strong form. They maintained momentum in the knockout phase, reaching the semifinals before being eliminated 2–0 by Spain, ending their title aspirations.
In recent years, these two football powerhouses have exhibited a fierce rivalry, challenging each other in both the World Cup and European Championship tournaments. To date, they have contested 32 matches: England has won 17, France 15, with five draws. In World Cup history, England has won two matches against France, who has won one. While the third-place match is often seen as a consolation game, it holds significant importance for both sides. England, dreaming of winning their second World Cup title since 1966, fell short of the final despite reaching the semifinals for the second consecutive time. They now aim to finish the tournament with a medal. France, hoping to reach their third consecutive World Cup final, saw that dream shattered by Spain. For Didier Deschamps’ squad, third place represents a chance to conclude their campaign on a positive note.
This match also holds personal significance for players. France’s Kylian Mbappé remains in the Golden Boot race and will strive to add more goals. England’s captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have performed admirably, with Bellingham notably scoring decisive knockout goals. Coaches may consider some changes in the squad lineup after a long tournament, resting key players and giving chances to reserves. England may start with Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, Marcus Rashford, or Cole Palmer, while France might include Michael Olise, Barloti Barcola, Eduardo Camavinga, or Randal Kolo Muani in the starting eleven.
Key players to watch include Kylian Mbappé for France, who will attempt to score against England to strengthen his Golden Boot bid. Osman Dembélé will be instrumental on the right flank both in providing assists and scoring. England captain Harry Kane is expected to play a decisive role despite currently trailing Lionel Messi and Mbappé in the Golden Boot race. Jude Bellingham is also projected to deliver a strong performance. The partnership between Bellingham and Kane will be crucial in securing a medal for England.
Probable starting lineups:
France: Mike Maignan; Jules Koundé, Ibrahima Konaté, Maxence Lacroix, Theo Hernandez; Manu Koné; Michael Olise, Osman Dembélé, Rayan Cherki; Kylian Mbappé
England: Jordan Pickford; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Niko O’Reilly; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane
Match: England vs. France for Third Place
Date and time: 3 July, 2:45 AM
Venue: Miami Stadium
Live broadcast: Himalaya Sports
Article Information
Following President Donald Trump’s declaration of the ceasefire agreement as “failed,” the US military has launched attacks on Iran for the seventh consecutive night. The US Central Command stated in a release on social media platform X that targets included “Iranian surveillance centers, military infrastructure, underground weapons storage facilities, and naval capabilities.”
The Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) reported explosions on two oil tankers traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, a claim rejected by the US Central Command. The Jordanian military also reported intercepting and destroying 10 Iranian missiles that were launched into their airspace overnight, with no human casualties or physical damage reported. According to the US Central Command, the hours-long assault was halted at 2:30 a.m. BST on Friday. “The US military employed fighter jets, drones, and warships in this operation,” the statement said.
Shipping Disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian state news agency Fars reported that “two oil tankers exploded and caught fire while passing near an ammunition tunnel south of the Strait of Hormuz.” The US Central Command later stated on X that “like many IRGC claims, this one is incorrect.” The ongoing strikes and counterstrikes between US and Iranian forces have disrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage that facilitates roughly one-fifth of the world’s total oil and LPG supplies.
According to Iranian state media, explosions were heard near the central city of Yazd on Qeshm Island and close to Abbas Port near the strait. Iran’s military claimed that on Friday it attacked multiple US military bases in the Gulf region, including in Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and, for the first time, Syria. However, the US has denied all these claims. Earlier, Kuwaiti officials reported that several soldiers sustained injuries from Iranian drone attacks, which also caused damage to an electricity and water treatment facility.
US Soldiers Reported Injured
Sources indicated CBS News reported many US soldiers were wounded in Iranian assaults on two American military bases located in Jordan last week. The US military has denied Tehran’s claims of attacks on public infrastructure, such as bridges, railway stations, and airports. Officials in Hormozgan Province reported that seven casualties resulted from US attacks. The BBC Verified and BBC Persian confirmed damage to the Gariveh Bridge, with nighttime footage showing smoke rising from the bridge, and daytime images revealing a collapsed section of road and scattered debris around the damaged structure. A White House spokesperson told the BBC that the US struck “only military infrastructure.” Since peace talks failed, the US military has maintained continuous nighttime attacks for seven days. Rising tensions over the future of the Strait of Hormuz continue to obstruct efforts for a lasting ceasefire.
July 18, Kathmandu – At least three people have died in various areas of Iran’s southern Hormozgan province following a US attack. According to the Tasnim news agency, citing local officials, eight others have sustained injuries in the strike. Emergency services, security forces, and other relevant agencies are currently engaged in rescue operations at the scene.
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike in India’s capital Delhi, was taken to a hospital by police on Saturday, authorities confirmed.
According to news agency PTI, Wangchuk, who has been on a fast-unto-death at Jantar Mantar in Delhi for 20 days, was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital.
His hunger strike reached its 21st day, protesting alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
A large deployment of security personnel has been reported at Jantar Mantar.
The founder of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), Abhijeet Dipke, has also been taken into police custody.
“Delhi police have assaulted me and taken me into custody,” Dipke wrote on the social media platform X.
Why Was Wangchuk Taken to Hospital?
CJP spokesperson Saurabh Das informed via X that Delhi police took Abhijeet Dipke into custody from his location.
“Sonam Wangchuk is being removed from the protest site. I have been informed that police are using lathi charge (baton charge) against students,” said spokesperson Das.
In an update shared on social media, Delhi police stated: “Following the order of the Delhi High Court and the advice of specialist doctors, as Sonam Wangchuk’s health condition was deteriorating, he was taken to hospital for necessary treatment.”
“While implementing the High Court’s order, there were some transient moments of disruption caused by protesters, but the police exercised restraint and carried out the procedure safely. All protesters present at Jantar Mantar are requested to vacate the area peacefully and immediately,” the police added.
Image source, Abhijeet Dipke
What Is the High Court Order?
The Delhi High Court had directed the government to monitor Sonam Wangchuk’s health condition. This marks the first time the court has intervened in this protest.
Under the court’s directive, arrangements were made to shift Wangchuk to hospital if his health worsened.
Before Wangchuk became critically ill, the bench of two judges had issued orders to responsible authorities to take necessary measures based on medical advice, following a plea demanding that the activist be compulsorily given essential care.
This order came a few days before the protest planned by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on July 20. The CJP has called for a demonstration from the hunger strike site to the Indian Parliament.
The planned protest aims to intensify demands for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and improvements in the examination system, according to CJP.
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According to the new ODI World Cup format announced by the ICC, the winner of the qualifier tournament will secure direct entry into the main stage. The teams finishing second, third, and fourth in the qualifier will need to progress through the ‘Super Series’ phase to reach the main event. The 2027 World Cup will feature 11 teams in the main stage, including the top 8 ranked ODI sides, co-host South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the qualifier winner.
The new ODI World Cup structure, as reported by cricket news sources, confirms that the qualifier champion bypasses the initial round and advances directly to the World Cup’s main group phase. Meanwhile, the second, third, and fourth placed teams from the qualifiers must compete in the preliminary ‘Super Series’ round. Although the ICC has yet to announce the exact dates, venues, and final format for the qualifier tournament, it is expected to take place in early 2027.
Under this updated format, alongside the top 8 ODI ranked teams, co-host South Africa, and Zimbabwe will also earn automatic berths in the main stage. Adding the qualifier champion, the main competition will feature a total of 11 teams. The teams finishing second to fourth in the qualifier will compete in the ‘Super Series’ phase, involving two matches between pairs of teams. Only the winners from these matches will secure spots in the main group stage.
The main stage will consist of 12 teams divided into two groups. The top three teams from each group, along with the best fourth-placed team between the groups, will advance to the ‘Super 7’ stage. Subsequently, the top four teams from this phase will qualify for the semi-finals. The qualifier tournament will comprise 10 teams, including two full member nations (excluding the co-hosts) based on ODI rankings, the top four teams from League 2 cricket, plus four teams emerging from the World Cup qualifier playoff. The playoff will feature the bottom four teams from League 2 competing against four teams from the Challenge League, with the top four teams progressing to the qualifier tournament.
The task force formed to prepare a discussion paper on constitution amendment has submitted its report, drawing significant attention to the subjects covered within.
After most opposition parties withdrew, representatives from the ruling National Independent Party (Rastriya Swatantra Party – RSWP) and National Democratic Party (Rastriya Prajatantra Party – RPP) remained in the task force.
According to RSWP MP Mohanlal Acharya, certain provisions of the constitution have been recommended for amendment.
“We have recommended amendments on technical matters that do not affect party politics,” he stated.
The report presents some issues as suggestions and also highlights differing opinions and stances of various parties.
“It has been recommended to dissolve the district coordination committees and remove the subjects divided into exclusive and concurrent lists in the schedules related to the jurisdiction of federal, provincial, and local governments,” Acharya added.
What Is the Structure and Constitutional Appointment Process of the Judicial Council?
Image Source, PMO Nepal
The changes in the Judicial Council’s structure, which appoints judges after 2006 (2063 BS), have faced criticism for politicizing the judiciary.
Currently, under the 2015 constitution (2072 BS), the Judicial Council is chaired by the Chief Justice and includes the Law and Justice Minister, the senior-most judge, legal experts appointed by the President on the Prime Minister’s recommendation, and senior advocates appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Nepal Bar Association, making a total of five members.
Following the restoration of multiparty democracy, the 1990 (2047 BS) constitution included the Justice Minister, the two judges by seniority, and distinguished legal experts designated by the King as members of the Judicial Council.
“The interim constitution of 2006 (2063 BS), created after the second People’s Movement, eliminated one judge and introduced a member recommended by the Nepal Bar Association,” he explained.
Image Source, RSS
According to RSWP MP Acharya, it has been recommended to remove the membership of both legal practitioners.
“Amendments recommending a three-member Judicial Council have been proposed,” he added.
Since 2006 (2063 BS), parliamentary hearings for individuals recommended to constitutional bodies have been in place, but some experts have questioned its relevance.
Acharya informed that the task force also discussed ending the parliamentary hearing system.
“In a presidential system, the government’s recommendation is scrutinized by parliament, but the Constitutional Council — including heads of the executive, judiciary, and legislature — makes recommendations here,” he explained. “It was argued that it is theoretically incorrect for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and National Assembly Chairperson to be on the committee and for their recommendations to be subjected to parliamentary hearings and repeated rejections.”
What about Monarchy and Hindu Nation?
Image Source, Getty Images
Caption, Nepal’s current constitution was promulgated ten years ago (file photo)
The National Democratic Party (RPP) opposes the fundamental features of the constitution such as republic, federalism, and secularism. On the day the task force submitted the report, its chairman Rajendra Lingden met with Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’.
“The Prime Minister held positive talks on many subjects, so now we hope for the best,” Lingden said without elaborating further.
“We have expressed that if it is true that other opposition parties left the task force suspecting attempts to overturn the constitution’s fundamental features, then the RPP will remain with the government,” Lingden added.
Image Source, PMO Nepal
However, Acharya stated that consensus was reached not to alter the fundamental structure. He added, “It is suggested that some issues might go to a public referendum, but at the moment there is a consensus not to touch the fundamental structure.”
According to him, the features of the constitution’s preamble will remain unchanged. Although the preamble refers to a federal republic, many questions and suggestions have been raised concerning the term ‘socialism’.
Is the Door Open for a Public Referendum?
Image Source, PMO Nepal
Lakshmanlal Karn of the Loktantrik Samajwadi Party (LOSPA) said they left the task force due to doubts about its objectives.
He said, “We exited fearing that touching core features might destabilize the constitution’s foundation and lead to its nullification.”
The ruling side has urged the opposition to prepare the report by indicating both agreements and disagreements.
However, leader Karn has noted that the ruling faction seeks to open all topics under the guise of constitutional amendment.
Image Source, PMO Nepal
Caption, The task force consulted former prime ministers and representatives from various levels
RSWP MP Acharya speculates that certain parties left due to disagreements over the system of government with a directly elected executive and RSWP’s policy to abolish the provincial assembly.
He stated they did not propose anything new and sought to proceed in accordance with existing constitutional provisions, but some opposition parties used excuses to withdraw.
Image Source, PMO Nepal
“We have connected the public referendum issue with the directly elected executive; it is not about monarchy vs republic,” he explained. “However, the provision for a referendum already exists in the constitution. Discussions and debates on other topics should not be prevented either.”
The task force held discussions with nearly 200 individuals including experts, politicians, former administrators, and representatives from diverse sectors.
According to Acharya, a total of 44,613 suggestions were received via email and WhatsApp.
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A discussion with stakeholders on the bill prepared for the amendment and integration of the Youth Act was concluded under the chairmanship of Minister for Youth, Labour and Employment Ramji Yadav. The ministry has initiated the process of drafting a bill that incorporates timely improvements to youth-related laws and includes necessary provisions for effective implementation. Minister Yadav expressed commitment to strengthening the bill by integrating effective practices from various countries along with Nepal’s positive efforts.
On July 17 in Kathmandu, representatives and prominent figures from various youth organizations such as the National Youth Council, Nepal Youth Club, and Youth Advocacy Nepal participated in the discussion. The ministry informed that it is moving forward with the bill drafting process aimed at timely amendment of youth-related laws to include provisions necessary for effective implementation. Youth participants at the event suggested that the law should include provisions ensuring respectful participation of young people, recognizing their contributions across different sectors.
Additionally, participants emphasized that positive practices adopted by other countries in youth-related fields should also be incorporated into the bill. Responding to these suggestions, Minister Yadav stated that the bill would be further strengthened by studying effective approaches from different countries worldwide along with Nepal’s past positive achievements and efforts. The discussion was also attended by Ministry Secretary Deepak Kafle, former Secretary Ram Prasad Thapliya, Joint Secretaries Baburam Bhandari and Manita Shrestha, Joint Secretary of the Foreign Employment Board Chandra Bahadur Shivakoti, Associate Professor Dipesh Ghimire from Tribhuvan University, and Deputy Secretary of the Nepal Law Commission Jaleshwar Ram, among others.
According to data from the Department of Agriculture, as of July 16, rice transplanting has been completed on 69.77 percent of the total planted paddy fields nationwide. Sudurpashchim Province leads with 90.67 percent completion, while Madhesh Province shows notable improvement with 57.13 percent transplanting achieved. With the monsoon active and irrigation facilities available, the Department of Agriculture is optimistic that transplanting will be completed in the remaining 30 percent of the area within July.
July 16, Kathmandu – Midway through this year’s rice transplanting season, approximately 70 percent of the rice planting area has been completed across the country. According to statistics from the Department of Agriculture, an average of 69.77 percent of transplanting has been done across all seven provinces as of July 16. Last year, transplanting for the same period was 72.14 percent. Out of the total 1,373,862 hectares available for rice cultivation nationwide, transplanting has been completed on 958,574 hectares this year.
By province, Sudurpashchim Province is leading the progress. Out of 162,250 hectares in the province, transplanting has been completed on 147,116 hectares, resulting in 90.67 percent completion. However, last year during the same timeframe, this figure was higher at 96.99 percent. Lumbini Province has also made good progress; transplanting has been completed on 80.65 percent (243,042 hectares) of its total 301,372 hectares area.
Similarly, in Gandaki Province, 78.36 percent of the area has been transplanted; in Bagmati Province, 77.33 percent; and in Karnali Province, 77.05 percent. Madhesh Province has shown significant improvement as well. Whereas last year only 46.83 percent of transplanting was completed by the first week of July, this year the figure has increased to 57.13 percent. In Madhesh, transplanting has been done on 221,546 hectares out of the total 382,433 hectares available.
In contrast, Koshi Province shows a slight decline this year with 54.86 percent completion compared to 61.79 percent at the same time last year. Out of the total 276,386 hectares available, transplanting has been completed on 151,619 hectares. Observing the nationwide transplanting status, with the active monsoon and expanding irrigation availability, most provinces show substantial physical progress in transplanting. The transplanting process will continue throughout July, and it is expected that the remaining 30 percent of the area will also achieve good completion.
