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Marquee Players Announced for Six Teams in Nepal Volleyball League

The marquee players for the six franchise teams participating in the Nepal Volleyball League have been announced. Dr. Santosh Upadhyay, the Chief Executive Officer, released the list of players through a press statement. The competition is scheduled to take place from September 28 to October 8 at the National Sports Council’s covered hall in Tripureshwor.

Harihajur Thapa has been named the marquee player for Sagarmatha Smashers, while Rabin Nagarkoti will represent Madhesh Warriors as their marquee player. Other marquee players include Sunil Bohara from Kathmandu Reds, Himal Sunari from Annapurna Spikers Kings, Pehal Gahatraj from Karnali Shivraj, and Dhiraj Basnet from Khaptad Falcons.

Prior to this, key details such as the six franchise teams participating in the league’s inaugural season, team owners, logos, slogans, as well as head and assistant coaches of each franchise were also unveiled. IME Khalti Limited has been appointed as the ticketing partner, while Kantipur Television will serve as the broadcasting partner. Organized by Kedia Group, the first-ever men’s franchise volleyball league is set to be held at the multipurpose covered hall of the National Sports Council in Tripureshwor from September 28 to October 8.

TikTok Prepares to Launch AI Literacy Hub in Nepal

TikTok has announced plans to soon launch an AI Literacy Hub in Nepal to help its users identify content created through artificial intelligence. The company has stated that it has already invested over 4 million US dollars globally to promote the responsible use of AI.

Kathmandu — TikTok is introducing a new initiative focused on helping users develop the ability to recognize and understand AI-generated content on its platform. With the goal of ensuring users have a safe digital experience, the company launched this effort in light of the transformative impact generative AI is having on content creation and sharing.

Within the next few weeks, TikTok plans to operate the AI Literacy Hub directly within its app for users in Nepal. The hub will provide educational materials on AI-related topics whenever users search for them. It is expected to offer practical guidance on how to identify AI-generated content and how to confidently engage with AI-driven experiences.

Tom Vargis, Head of AI at TikTok’s Global Public Policy team, said, “At TikTok, we want users to experience the necessary context, confidence, and control when interacting with AI. We continuously invest in technology, partnerships, and educational materials to help users identify AI-generated content, understand how it is created, and use AI tools in creative and responsible ways.”

Firefighters in Oakland, California Provide Oxygen to Parrot Trapped in Blaze

In Oakland, California, firefighters tackling a wildfire were surprised to discover a parrot trapped at the site of the fire. Sensing the bird appeared to need help, they assisted it by placing an oxygen mask on the parrot.

According to the firefighting personnel, the parrot looked visibly distressed. You can watch the video here.

BJP’s New Political Strategy: Controversial Remarks by Shamik Bhattacharya

West Bengal BJP president Shamik Bhattacharya has sparked political controversy after labeling the activists of the Forward Bloc, established by Subhas Chandra Bose, as ‘goons’. The Forward Bloc has strongly objected to this statement and demanded a public apology from Bhattacharya. Analysts suggest that the BJP is increasingly positioning Shyama Prasad Mukherjee as a new icon in West Bengal, positioning him in direct ideological opposition to Subhas Chandra Bose’s legacy.

Bhattacharya’s comments ignited widespread debate on social media platforms. Founded by Subhas Chandra Bose, the Forward Bloc is regarded as one of the greatest nationalist symbols in West Bengal and India as a whole. In response to the remarks, the Forward Bloc issued a firm statement condemning the BJP president’s words. Leaders from leftist parties in West Bengal have also expressed their protest against the statement. On July 17, the BJP celebrated the birth anniversary of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, founder of the Jan Sangh, in West Bengal.

During an event, Bhattacharya said, “When Shyama Prasad Mukherjee was delivering a speech at Mohammed Ali Park, Forward Bloc ‘goons’ threw stones at him and broke his skull.” He added, “Mukherjee was so popular that had he given an incendiary speech from the stage, not a single member of the Forward Bloc would have survived.” Forward Bloc General Secretary G. Devarajan issued a press release strongly condemning the remarks on behalf of the party.

Devarajan stated, “They called Netaji and his followers goons because they repeatedly thwarted attempts to create divisions among people through religious polarization.” Analysts view this as part of a long-term strategy. According to experts, the effort by the Sangh Parivar to portray Shyama Prasad Mukherjee as the anti-Bose Bengali icon is not new.

Himal Sunari Named Marquee Player for Annapurna Spiker Kings in Nepal Volleyball League

Himal Sunari has been signed as the marquee player for the Annapurna Spiker Kings in the Nepal Volleyball League. The team has also appointed national player Usha Bhandari as their brand ambassador. The management has named renowned coach Ramesh KC from the Gandaki region as the head coach with the goal of winning the inaugural season title. Kathmandu, 1st Shrawan.

Himal Sunari has been selected as the marquee player for the Annapurna Spiker Kings in the Nepal Volleyball League (NVL). The league organizer, Kedia Group, completed the marquee player contracting process on Thursday. Representing the Gandaki region, the Annapurna Spiker Kings secured the region’s celebrated player Himal Sunari as their marquee athlete. Sunari has also been selected for the national men’s team, which will participate in the upcoming CAVB Men’s Volleyball Championship scheduled in Pakistan starting July 22.

Selected for the national team for the first time, Sunari is preparing to deliver an outstanding performance for Nepal. He is a well-known and influential player not only in Gandaki but also nationally. He has demonstrated excellent skills in the NVA league and at national level competitions. Annapurna Spiker Kings had previously appointed Ramesh KC, a prominent coach from Gandaki, as head coach, and former Nepal national team player and current Tribhuvan Army Club coach Narendra Giri as assistant coach.

Additionally, the Kings have named prominent national women’s team member Usha Bhandari as their brand ambassador, initiating a campaign to further promote Nepalese national sports. Following the contracting of the coaching staff and marquee player, the Annapurna Spiker Kings are now preparing to participate in player auctions and secure foreign players. Head coach Ramesh KC expressed confidence that his previous experience working with Himal Sunari will be advantageous in the upcoming league. The Gandaki region has a strong volleyball fan base and has produced many national and international players. With this foundation, the team management is moving forward with the ambition to win the first edition of the Nepal Volleyball League.

70-Year-Old Pedestrian Dies After Being Hit by Tipper in Morang

A 70-year-old pedestrian, Bishnumaya Magar, died during treatment after being hit by a tipper in Kerabari, Morang. According to the Central Police Information Desk of Nepal Police Headquarters, the incident occurred on the road at Shanti Chowk, Ward 5 of Kerabari Rural Municipality, when a tipper bearing registration number KO 1 Kha 6790, traveling from Kerabari toward Dharan, struck the pedestrian. Magar, who was seriously injured in the accident, passed away while receiving treatment at Ghopa Dharan Hospital. The police have taken the tipper driver into custody and are conducting the necessary investigation into the accident.

Similarly, in Sunsari’s Inaruwa Municipality-8, Khoriya Tol, a 14-year-old Krishna Sah drowned in the Puthaudhara Khola. The police found his body while continuing the search after receiving information that he went missing by drowning while bathing. The authorities are also investigating this incident.

Nine-Point Agreement Reached Between Interest Loan Victims and Government: What’s Next?

After repeated discussions and hours of negotiations on Friday, participants have confirmed that a nine-point agreement has been reached between the agitating interest loan victims and the government. Following the agreement, those who had been protesting for the past nine days have decided to suspend their movement. The Prime Minister’s Secretariat has disclosed that the government plans to formally recognize interest loan practices as economic crimes and propose their complete eradication at the upcoming Cabinet meeting. “As a result, all fraudulent promissory notes, sight drafts, confiscated passes, and compulsory checks will automatically be declared illegal and annulled,” the Secretariat stated post-negotiation.

According to the agreement, the Ministry of Home Affairs will draft a special bill within three months to create legislation controlling interest loan practices. Additionally, a separate judicial tribunal will be established, committed to hearing cases, returning victims’ assets, and ensuring appropriate compensation. The agreement also mandates that transactions certified at ward offices require proof of legitimate sources of funds and corresponding bank transaction records. Stringent actions will be taken against those investing in interest loan activities. “The new law will criminalize actions such as fabricating documents for large sums, compounding interest unlawfully, withholding payments from borrowers, charging excessive interest, intimidation, physical and mental abuse, coercion to sign blank checks or documents, and seizing assets,” the Prime Minister’s Secretariat explained.

Investigations into interest loan activities will include forensic lab testing of written evidence, tracing and purification of asset origins, and inquiry following criminal procedure codes. Legal assistance will be provided to victims during court proceedings. To address complaints, a high-level coordination committee and a dedicated desk will be established under the coordination of the Secretary of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Office, according to participants. At the district level, a facilitation committee including victims’ representatives will be formed under the leadership of the Assistant Chief District Officer to resolve all complaints within six months. Monitoring will be overseen by the Chief District Officer.

Alongside measures to assist victims out of the cycle of interest loans, including the introduction of economic aid and relief packages in the annual budget, victims have suspended all protest activities, the government announced. The protest began with a ‘Justice March on Foot’ from Tritiyagachi in Janakpur on Ashadh 25, reaching Nijgadh in Bara, where on Ashadh 32 a negotiation team was agreed upon between Home Minister Sudhan Gurung and representatives of the victims in Kathmandu. The verbal agreement reached between the government team and the interest loan victims’ representatives in Simara, Bara, has now been formalized into a written accord. The government halted the protesters traveling on foot from Janakpur to Kathmandu and advanced the negotiation process. Prior to this, a deep discussion between both parties at the Prime Minister and Cabinet Office in Singha Durbar continued until late evening on Thursday. Based on those discussions and the verbal agreement, the final agreement was concluded on Friday, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat reported. The negotiation teams included a three-member team led by Secretary Pushkar Sapkota from the Prime Minister and Cabinet Office and a six-member team led by Awadhesh Kushwaha from the victims’ side.

MP Shatrughan Sinha Appeals to Save Sonam Wangchuk Amid Hunger Strike

Kathmandu, July 17 – Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Shatrughan Sinha has appealed on Twitter to save Sonam Wangchuk, who is on a hunger strike. In his tweet, he stated, “Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has been peacefully undertaking an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, protesting the NEET UG exam paper leak and expressing solidarity with the country’s youth.” Wangchuk’s hunger strike has been ongoing for nearly three weeks, and reports indicate that his health condition is currently very critical due to the prolonged fast.

According to Shatrughan Sinha, in recent days, numerous political leaders, social activists, celebrities, influencers, and many individuals from both within and outside the country have voiced their support for Wangchuk. He wrote, “Given his deteriorating health, I humbly urge the central government, relevant authorities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Prime Minister’s Office to intervene immediately, address his demands, and resolve this movement promptly.” Earlier on Thursday, Shatrughan Sinha’s daughter and Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha also publicly expressed her support for Sonam Wangchuk through a social media post. Quoting this, Shatrughan added, “My daughter Sonakshi Sinha has openly shared her views on this matter, which makes me very proud.”

Pakistani All-Rounder Mohammad Nawaz Suspended for Three Months for Anti-Doping Violation

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has imposed a three-month suspension on Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz after finding him guilty of violating anti-doping regulations. Nawaz admitted to the use of a prohibited substance, and the ICC has allowed his suspension period to be reduced to one month if he completes the prescribed treatment program. Following the Twenty20 World Cup 2026 match against the Netherlands, all of Nawaz’s individual performances have been annulled by the ICC.

Kathmandu, 18 July – The ICC has taken disciplinary action against 32-year-old Mohammad Nawaz for breaching anti-doping rules. Nawaz tested positive for “Carboxy-THC,” a banned substance under ICC’s list of substances of abuse, during doping tests conducted after the Sri Lanka match against the Netherlands held in Colombo as part of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Nawaz has accepted responsibility for this violation.

As the substance was confirmed to have been used outside of competition and not to enhance sporting performance, the ICC has imposed a three-month suspension effective from 1 May 2026, the date Nawaz began his voluntary provisional suspension. Furthermore, if Nawaz successfully completes the ICC’s substance abuse treatment program, his ineligibility period will be limited to one month. Having already served two months and 15 days of the suspension, he will not have to serve any additional period upon completing the treatment. According to the ICC, all of Nawaz’s individual performances from the match against the Netherlands on 7 February through 1 May 2026 have been invalidated.

Balancing Swift Governance with Sensitivity

A review of the news summary was conducted. The government’s smartness should not be limited to gaining attention on social media but must be evident through policy, regulations, and implementation. We now live in an era of instant responses, where instant coffee and instant noodles exemplify the demand for quick reactions and prompt actions. On Ashar 24, 2083 (July 9, 2026), Ganesh Nepali, a rider driver, attempted self-immolation in front of the Passport Department. He died during treatment on Ashar 25. He represents many others — workers dispersed across market squares, alleys, factories, restaurants, hotels, shops, and showrooms. Today’s government prioritizes swift action, emphasizing rapid planning, quick execution, fast enforcement, and accelerated development. It functions much like “Instant and Instant Pvt. Ltd.” In some instances, however, a pause or slower pace is necessary — a deliberate, measured approach. For example, patients with burns require rapid yet sensitive treatment. The current state of hospitals and burn care specialists in Nepal calls for serious reflection.

Turning to specific issues, an almond in a snack set was found to contain insects, resulting in the business’s closure and millions in fines. Fish bones were discovered in an omelet, attracting similar penalties. These incidents sparked debates and trending discussions on social media. While strict enforcement prompts swift responses, when disciplining businesses, factors such as the nature of the offense, operational costs, and the impact of penalties on livelihoods must be considered. Only then can equitable decisions be made.

Regarding hygiene, what is the status of the country’s stable water supply? What conditions do workers at these establishments endure? How are employees affected when businesses face penalties? These issues demand thorough examination and careful analysis. In well-known restaurants in Kathmandu, the negative odor on workers’ faces can be detected even before tasting the food. Why is this the case? Reflect on this question personally. The government imposes hefty fines and shuts down industries, and the public supports these measures. However, it is essential to also consider the welfare of the workers. This does not imply avoiding penalties; enforcement must occur. Yet, actions should be taken with consideration of the broader effects and future consequences.

Though the government has changed, many decisions remain the same. Issues such as public welfare, poverty, farmers’ hardships, damaged infrastructure, economic slowdown, unemployment, water scarcity in Kathmandu, and the budget are longstanding concerns. Being smart entails more than style, behavior, or speed; simplicity can also embody smartness, as history demonstrates. Government smartness must manifest through sound policies, laws, and plans. To build a smart nation, it is ineffective for ministers to run around, consult ChatGPT, pressure entrepreneurs, or hit contractors. Lifting squatters from slums to residential areas, suppressing employees, stirring up social media, using abusive language, or applauding will not solve problems.

Smartness stems from methodology, process, and implementation outcomes. To reach the moon, a rocket is needed; an airplane cannot suffice. Thinking one can reach Jogthala Gaad running is folly. Considering our current national conditions and potential, we should not place excessive expectations on the government, nor should the government harbor high expectations. Instead, let us strive to enhance discussions, making them more comprehensive and sensitive without rushing in the pursuit of rapid action.

Nepal to Deliver Seasonal Disaster Alerts via Phone Calls Starting This Monsoon Season

Rescue team providing security in flood-affected area of Kathmandu during monsoon

Photo source, EPA

Caption, Security personnel rescuing people in flood-affected areas of Kathmandu two years ago during the monsoon season

Until now, seasonal disaster alerts in Nepal have been issued via SMS and toll-free numbers. However, an official has confirmed that starting this year’s monsoon season, preparations are underway to deliver these alerts directly through phone calls.

According to Vinod Parajuli, Senior Hydrologist and Chief of the Flood Forecasting Branch under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, delivering alerts via phone calls is expected to be a comparatively more effective method.

Though weather forecasts have become increasingly reliable, experts note that the dissemination of related information has not been sufficiently effective, highlighting the need for improvements in this area.

Deepak Aryal, former head of the Central Department of Hydrology at Tribhuvan University, suggests that delivering alerts via phone calls through the secretariats of mayors and rural municipality chiefs would increase effectiveness.

Officials report that recently issued disaster alerts have helped reduce fatalities caused by floods to some extent.

How Will Former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham Manage Downing Street as the UK’s New Prime Minister?

Summary of the News Reviewed. Andy Burnham is set to officially become the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom this coming Monday. The Labour Party leader will take over party leadership on Friday and be sworn in before King Charles III on Monday. Burnham has proposed plans during his tenure to decentralize power from London to other regions and improve living standards.

1st Shrawan, Kathmandu – Andy Burnham is confirmed to become the UK’s new Prime Minister this Monday. However, several formalities need to be completed beforehand. These processes are expected to proceed as follows. Frequent swift transitions of prime ministers have become customary in the UK, which will see its seventh prime minister within a decade. Yet, some steps remain before the transition is complete.

So far, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his intention to resign amid unrest within his party. This development cleared the path for former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who won a by-election for a parliamentary seat. According to the UK’s parliamentary system, voters do not directly select the prime minister but rather vote for parties. The ruling party elects its leader from among its members. Currently, the Labour Party holds power.

Burnham has submitted an uncontested candidacy for Labour leadership and garnered support from approximately 95% of his party’s MPs. Once elected Labour leader, the process of becoming prime minister becomes a formality. Burnham will be officially announced as prime minister this Monday.

The process will unfold as follows:

  • First, Burnham will be formally declared the leader of the Labour Party. The party will hold a special conference on Friday to announce the results. He will be appointed in the afternoon. This is not unexpected since he ran unopposed, with no other Labour MPs contesting. Burnham has secured widespread party support, effectively precluding other candidates and confirming his appointment.
  • Next, Keir Starmer will meet King Charles III to tender his resignation. There will be a transitional period of about two days during which Burnham will be party leader but not yet prime minister. Following Starmer’s resignation announcement last month, moving vans were seen packing up. Starmer is expected to work until the weekend and then visit Buckingham Palace on Monday morning to formally resign to King Charles III.
  • Charles III has been on the throne for less than four years but has already seen the farewell of Liz Truss, the appointment and subsequent departure of Rishi Sunak. Now, preparations are underway to bid farewell to Starmer as well.
  • Third, Burnham will visit the palace after Starmer, where the king will invite him to form a government. This encounter is traditionally called ‘kissing hands’, which historically involved the prime minister showing loyalty by physically shaking the monarch’s hand. Modern prime ministers now briefly shake hands instead.
  • Fourth, a new beginning at Downing Street will take place. Following the king’s request, Burnham will reveal photographs of entering his new official residence to the press. This scene is familiar in the UK, where a new prime minister typically gives a speech from the lectern outside before entering the building.
  • Fifth, the real work begins. Burnham will enter 10 Downing Street, appoint his ministers, and commence governing. He will also advance his personal agenda, particularly focusing on promises to improve living standards.

Burnham has announced plans to decentralize power from London to other cities and regions. Moreover, he has committed to opening an official prime ministerial office in Manchester.

Argentina Faces Potential Sanctions Over Falkland Islands Banner Display

Summary

  • Following Argentina’s match against England, players displayed a banner supporting the Falkland Islands, prompting FIFA to initiate an investigation.
  • The British Prime Minister’s Office has taken the matter seriously and urged FIFA to impose sanctions.
  • FIFA could potentially fine the Argentine Football Association or impose player sanctions for displaying political messages.

July 17, Kathmandu – After Argentina’s World Cup semifinal match against England, there has been rising demand for sanctions due to Argentine players displaying a banner supporting the Falkland Islands.

Argentina, former world champions, staged a remarkable comeback in Atlanta to defeat England 2-1, securing their place in the final. However, after the match, Argentine players celebrated on the field while displaying a banner that read “The Falklands are Argentine.”

The Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory in the South-West Atlantic Ocean, have long been a disputed sovereignty matter between the UK and Argentina.

The British Prime Minister’s Office has requested FIFA to investigate the incident. “The World Cup may not be ours, but the Falkland Islands certainly are. Our commitment to the Falklands will never waver,” stated an official spokesperson for the Prime Minister.

FIFA has now launched an inquiry. “FIFA’s independent disciplinary committee is currently reviewing match reports and assessing the circumstances before any further action is taken under FIFA’s disciplinary code,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

FIFA may sanction Argentine players and the national football association for violating rules prohibiting political demonstrations. Typically, FIFA imposes fines ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 US dollars for displaying political messages.

When players or supporters breach rules, FIFA usually initiates disciplinary action a few weeks after a competition ends. Therefore, it is unlikely any major decision will be announced in the coming days.

Given the sensitive nature of the incident on such a prestigious stage as the World Cup and the dispute between two claimant countries, FIFA is expected to treat the matter seriously. However, Argentina faces no risk of being barred from the final.

Edward Davey, leader of Britain’s Liberal Democrats, wrote an open letter to FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Sunday, demanding that Argentine players who displayed the banner be banned from the final against Spain.

Previously, in 2014, FIFA fined the Argentine Football Association £20,000 when players displayed a similar banner before a friendly match against Slovenia, citing breaches of political activity and disciplinary regulations.

FIFA has a history of sanctioning players who display banners with political messages. After winning a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics, South Korean midfielder Park Jong-woo displayed a banner stating “Dokdo is our land,” a territory also claimed by Japan.

FIFA banned Park for two matches due to political messaging related to the disputed territory, causing him to miss two World Cup qualification games.

– From BBC

The Fascinating History Behind the Invention of the Safety Pin

In ancient times, people used simple pins or brooches called fibulae to fasten clothing. The modern safety pin was invented in 1849 by American inventor Walter Hunt. To understand how elaborate costumes worn by characters in historical films or television series were fastened, we need to look back at ancient history. The famous Greek poet Homer, in his epic “Odyssey,” mentions that Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, was gifted twelve attractive gold pins by one of her suitors, Antinous. These pins were used to fasten garments. Additionally, the historian Herodotus wrote that women in Athens used long pins to secure their tunics.

Later, in ancient Rome, a special type of brooch known as the fibula became popular. The fibula is considered the predecessor of today’s safety pin. It was safer than ordinary pins since typical pins had exposed tips that could cause injury, whereas fibulae had mechanisms to cover the pointed end, making them secure and reliable. Roman soldiers widely used these to fasten their cloaks. The fibula was also popular across various civilizations including Greek, Persian, Celtic, Germanic, and Slavic cultures. Over time, its design evolved; initially featuring a spring, later incorporating hinges, and by the third century, the famous crossbow fibula was developed.

The modern safety pin we use today was developed by Walter Hunt in 1849. Facing a $15 debt, Hunt decided to create a new invention. He fashioned a nearly 8-inch-long brass wire into a spring in the middle, with a pin on one end and a clasp on the other, producing a safety pin made from a single piece of wire. He named it the ‘dress pin’ and secured a patent. Later, he sold the rights for $400. Even today, safety pins are essential when wearing sarees. Thus, a seemingly small and simple safety pin conceals a fascinating story spanning thousands of years of history, technological advancement, and social change.

Planned Demolition of Bridge by Explosion in Pennsylvania, USA

A detailed plan has been laid out for the intentional demolition of a bridge by explosion in the United States. The ‘Commercial Street Bridge’ in Pittsburgh is scheduled to be demolished by explosive means. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has already completed construction of a new bridge at the same location.