March 21, Kathmandu – The Nepali Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has provided updates on the condition of Nepali nationals injured when drone debris fell in Abu Dhabi. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the embassy has been in contact with the injured individuals to monitor their health status. Embassy staff have spoken with all seven injured Nepalis.
Among those injured on Friday, one individual’s condition is serious, but all seven are out of danger, said Lok Bahadur Paudel Kshetri, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He added, “We have established contact with everyone. One person sustained an injury to the hand, but their condition is stable. The embassy is actively assessing what further assistance may be required.”
According to spokesperson Paudel, two of the injured Nepalis have been discharged after treatment, while five remain hospitalized and continue to receive care. Following reports from UAE government media that seven Nepalis were injured, the embassy promptly sought information regarding their status.
The incident occurred after the UAE air defense system intercepted a drone launched by Iran with missiles, resulting in debris falling in the Al Azban area of Abu Dhabi on Friday. The event caused injuries to 12 people, including seven Nepalis and five Indian nationals.
March 21, Kathmandu – The Nepalese Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated efforts to ascertain the condition of Nepalese nationals injured after drone debris fell in Abu Dhabi. The embassy has formally requested detailed information regarding the injuries and health status of those affected from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to Nepal’s Ambassador to the UAE, Tej Bahadur Kshetri, no formal details about the incident have been received so far. He stated that the embassy’s interest was piqued after UAE government media outlets reported that seven Nepalese were injured.
Ambassador Kshetri noted, “We are working to understand the situation of the injured Nepalese. Formal information is yet to arrive. We only became aware that seven Nepalis were injured through local government media reports. Based on this, we have sent a letter to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requesting detailed information about what happened and the condition of the injured individuals.”
He added that a response from the Ministry has not yet been received but is expected by Monday. “The incident occurred on Friday. Saturday and Sunday were holidays here. We anticipate some updates by Monday,” he explained.
On Friday, debris from a drone fired from Iran fell in the Al Ajban area of Abu Dhabi after UAE’s air defense systems intercepted it with a missile. In total, 12 people were injured in the incident, including seven Nepalese and five Indian nationals. According to official media, one of the injured Nepalese remains in serious condition.
The incident occurred when the air defense system successfully intercepted threats coming through the air, causing debris to fall in parts of Abu Dhabi. The UAE has been continuously intercepting missiles and drones originating from Iran. However, during Friday’s interception, drone debris fell in the Al Ajban area. Immediately after the event, Abu Dhabi authorities mobilized emergency teams to secure the affected area and provide medical assistance to the injured.
Earlier, on March 19, a similar interception led to debris falling, resulting in the temporary shutdown of the Habshan gas facility. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the Iranian attacks targeting the Habshan gas facility and the Bab field.
Image caption, The habit of drinking warm water in the morning is a century-old tradition that has recently gone viral.Article Information
“I saw it on social media and kept watching one video after another… I thought, why not try it once,” says 21-year-old Maryam Khan.
This isn’t about adopting a strict workout regimen or buying expensive skincare products. The trend Maryam and many others are following is simple – drinking warm water in the morning.
The health benefits of drinking hot or warm water have been promoted for thousands of years in traditional medical systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda originating from India.
However, this ancient practice has gained a new global audience since it went viral on social media earlier this year.
On TikTok and Instagram, videos tagged with terms like “newly Chinese” and “Chinamaxing” have been viewed millions of times. These videos often show young people starting their day drinking warm water, having warm breakfasts, and doing gentle stretches.
But do such simple lifestyle habits really improve your health?
Preserving ‘Qi’
Millions in China practice traditional medicine, which is based on the belief in ‘Qi’ — the vital energy that flows through the body and causes illness if blocked or imbalanced.
Advocates believe that drinking warm water without steaming it protects and strengthens Qi, leading to improved health and longevity.
“Think of it as your home,” explains Professor Shun Au, a traditional Chinese medicine researcher. He compares eating cold foods to letting cold air into your home.
This theory also supports other traditional Chinese suggestions like wearing warm slippers indoors and starting the day with warm meals.
Image source, Maryam Khan
Image caption, Maryam Khan says the traditional routine helps her have a mindful moment in the morning.
For Maryam, these habits became a gateway to traditional Chinese medicine. Living in London, she first noticed the trend on TikTok.
She feels benefits from starting her day with Tai Chi, involving slow body movements, deep breathing, and meditation. She now drinks warm water in the morning instead of coffee.
“I used to have caffeine right away in the morning, and I didn’t realize how jittery I felt,” she explains.
“Then I started drinking plain warm water, sometimes with mint or lemon, and I felt more refreshed,” she adds.
Why Are People Returning to Traditional Treatments?
The increased online interest in traditional Chinese lifestyle recommendations among youth signals a wider social trend, notes Dr. Shyama Kuruvilla, interim director of the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine.
“In Europe alone, population-based studies show up to 70 percent or more of people use some form of traditional medicine. In countries like China and India, this may exceed 90 percent,” she says.
Some advocates distrust modern medicine, a sentiment perhaps reinforced by the COVID-19 pandemic. A US study showed trust in doctors and hospitals dropped from over 70 percent in 2020 to almost 40 percent in 2024.
Others may lack access to biomedical treatments or use traditional medicine as an affordable alternative.
Additionally, traditional medicine appeals to some due to its personal and holistic approach. Habits like drinking warm water can be a gentle starting point toward a health system that balances mind, body, and environment.
These practices also carry deep cultural, spiritual, and historical significance for many.
“Many traditional practitioners and indigenous communities say, ‘We have been using this for thousands of years, and we have seen people benefit,'” Kuruvilla says.
The WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine evaluates evidence to guide policymakers and patients.
It’s a vast task, but currently less than 1 percent of global health research funding goes toward traditional medicine, she notes.
“Building a solid evidence base is absolutely essential,” she says.
Patients should consult healthcare professionals about safety before adopting traditional treatments within their overall health context, she advises.
Regarding drinking warm water specifically, the WHO has no formal guidelines, but Kuruvilla says factors like water temperature, quantity, and individual health condition matter.
“Everything comes down to evidence and balance,” she emphasizes.
What Does Science Say?
Dr. Rosie Brooks, a longevity medicine specialist and general practitioner, says drinking warm water upon waking may offer some benefits.
“It could slightly aid digestion and help relieve constipation,” she adds.
She notes limited evidence suggests warm water might ease esophageal spasms (tightness in the tube connecting throat and stomach).
“Beyond that, drinking water—hot or cold—primarily benefits the body by preventing dehydration,” she says.
Dr. Selina Gray, a UK-based general practitioner and lifestyle physician, says there is no evidence that cold water harms health.
Contrary to some social media claims, she states that there is no scientific proof drinking warm water burns fat, boosts metabolism, or detoxifies the body.
“If someone enjoys warm water and it encourages them to drink more fluids, that’s positive, but it does not speed up bodily functions,” she explains.
Growing up in Singapore with exposure to Chinese medicine, Gray says, “I still hear my mother say ‘Drink warm water to warm from within.'”
“These traditions offer people routines that are easy to adopt, culturally meaningful, and feel natural,” she adds.
A Chance to Slow Down
Though evidence about drinking warm water is limited, research suggests other traditional practices can be helpful.
A hot breakfast made with whole foods is nutritionally better than cold cereal.
While there’s no evidence that cold feet cause illness, keeping warm and comfortable can help you relax and sleep better.
Small studies have shown that traditional Chinese exercises like Tai Chi and Qigong help strengthen the body, promote movement, and reduce stress.
Image source, Prof Shun Au
Image caption, The concept of energy generation is a key belief in Chinese medicine.
“Most of the time our mind is active… our body and mind exist in separate places,” says Chinese medicine expert Au.
“The main aim of meditation, Qigong, and Tai Chi is to slow down,” he adds.
Though Dr. Brooks doesn’t believe drinking warm water yields major physical benefits, she acknowledges it can help mentally.
“It’s a regular ritual… it gives you some time for yourself, something we often forget in busy lives,” she says.
She shares how she notices a positive effect on her mental health from her eating habits and takes time in the morning to drink warm water as self-care.
“I see it as a chance to slow down, tune in to my surroundings, and start my day with purpose,” she concludes.
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March 21, Kathmandu – Approximately 1,900 cooperative organizations operate within Kathmandu Metropolitan City. However, nearly 50 percent of them fail to submit their annual reports regularly. This situation indicates underlying issues within the cooperatives. According to the cooperative department of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), only 723 cooperatives have submitted their annual reports on a regular basis.
According to Duvrukumar Kafle, head of the KMC cooperative department, the metropolitan office has repeatedly urged these cooperatives to submit their annual reports consistently. Cooperatives that have not submitted reports for an extended period, often citing various excuses, are preparing to face legal action. Kafle stated, “Some cooperatives do not maintain contact, while others involved in disciplinary action fail to submit reports. Additionally, cooperatives that unlawfully grant loans typically do not submit regular reports either.”
The metropolitan office has directed these cooperatives to immediately conduct their annual general meetings and submit the audit reports along with the general assembly decisions and annual reports to the KMC cooperative department. Kafle explained that for cooperatives that continue to neglect submitting general assembly reports, an investigation trap has been planned. To prevent misappropriation of depositors’ funds, the metropolitan office will first require submission of reports before proceeding with deregistration processes.
KMC has cautioned all depositors against falling for the temptation of high-interest returns, which could result in losing their savings. Kafle advised, “Before saving money, it is important to verify whether the cooperative operates according to its rules, whether audits are conducted, if the interest rates are reasonable, the transparency of the institution’s finances, and the oversight by regulators.” He added, “Do not deposit money in cooperatives run by acquaintances or relatives without due diligence, as it could lead to losses.” Currently, many cooperatives managed internally face financial management problems, and lack of legal enforcement has exacerbated these issues.
Advocate Bam, a leader of the Youth Union, has been arrested on charges of intimidation. The Crime Investigation Department (CID) took him and 12 others into custody. He is currently held in the CID’s detention facility. Kathmandu, 21 Chaitra — Advocate Bam, a leader of the Youth Union, was arrested on charges of intimidation. The CID apprehended Bam during an operation targeting individuals involved in intimidation activities. He is a secretariat member of the youth organization affiliated with the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist). Bam, active in the Youth Union office team, was arrested late Friday night and is currently in CID custody. In total, the CID detained 13 individuals including him. Originally from Palata Rural Municipality in Kalikot, Advocate Bam has been active in the Thamel area.
This news summary has been prepared after editorial review. US President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have violated international law by showing disregard for civilian protection in their war against Iran. Thousands have been killed and millions displaced in Iran, Lebanon, and Israel, highlighting the extensive humanitarian impact of the conflict. Governments must collect evidence of war crimes from satellite images, communication records, and footage and provide additional resources to the United Nations.
For decades, leaders responsible for war crimes have tried to appear ignorant of these issues or sought to justify these crimes as mere mistakes. However, the recent developments in West Asia clearly reflect the arrogant stance of leaders from the US, Israel, and Iran. They are outright neglecting, mocking, or openly violating international laws meant to protect civilians. If the international community does not clearly reaffirm its support for these laws, it will amount to tacit approval of their destruction.
President Trump conveyed to The New York Times that “international law is unnecessary” and that his greatest basis for controlling power is his own “morality,” while Secretary Hegseth dismissed “tepid legality” in favor of maximum lethality. Both have publicly shown minimal concern for protecting civilians affected by America’s war on Iran. The conflict recently entered its second month. After the US announced the destruction of Iran’s Kharg Island, Trump told NBC News, “We might hit it a few more times just for fun.” Defense Secretary Hegseth declared that Iran’s enemies would receive “no forgiveness or mercy,” implying authorization to kill surrendering forces rather than detain them—practices historically cited by the US military as examples of war crimes. Beyond the Trump administration, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz threatened to destroy homes in southern Lebanon and prevent the resettlement of millions during the Gaza conflict.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has also designated American banks, investment companies, and commercial vessels as legitimate civilian targets. Its spokespeople warned that any opposition would face strikes even harsher than the January massacre that killed thousands nationwide. State television hosts further warned that overseas dissidents would face consequences that would plunge their families into mourning. These statements clearly demonstrate disregard for civilian life and suggest the intent to carry out such acts, demanding urgent attention.
More than 2,000 people have died in Iran, over 1,200 in Lebanon, and 17 in Israel. Millions have been displaced or forced to flee their homes across the Gulf, Israel, and Lebanon. Preliminary US military reports attribute responsibility to US forces for an attack on a primary school in Minab, Iran, where more than 170 children and staff were killed. Governments with advanced intelligence capabilities in South Asia must begin securing and publicly releasing evidence of war crimes—including satellite images, communication records, and open-source footage. It is also confirmed that the Israeli military has used white phosphorus in Lebanese homes, a substance banned in civilian areas, and that Iran has launched internationally prohibited cluster munitions into Israeli cities. International laws intended to protect civilians have not been suddenly violated without cause.
While Israel’s massacre in Gaza, destroying hospitals and water systems and killing thousands of Palestinians, was backed by the US—elevating some leaders above the law—this has fostered a double standard that diminishes the value of legal norms. Although attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf by Iran were promptly condemned, governments have remained silent over Israel’s illegal use of white phosphorus. Leaders must explicitly state that any attacks on Iranian energy sites, Lebanese homes, or Gulf civilian areas violate the laws of war. Otherwise, these rules will become mere instruments to punish only one’s adversaries. The Geneva Conventions not only require states to observe these laws but also empower the international community to halt weapons deliveries to militaries and groups that fail to comply. Yet many warring parties continue to receive arms, a matter that urgently demands thorough review.
Opportunistic European governments are indirectly supporting illegal airstrikes. If the actions of US and Israeli forces align with their leaders’ irresponsible rhetoric, the countries supplying them weapons may also be complicit in war crimes. Documentation and accountability, as seen in former Yugoslavia and recent Ukraine conflicts, must occur during wartime, not afterward. But warring parties in West Asia have reversed this practice. Iran has shut down internet access and imprisoned those sharing videos of attacks. Israel has blocked live broadcasts and detained journalists. Gulf countries are punishing citizens posting images online. In the US, the Federal Communications Commission condemned the Trump administration and threatened to revoke licenses of broadcasters covering the Iran conflict. Governments must promptly preserve and publicize war crimes evidence and provide additional resources to the UN. Justice must be clear at any time. Waiting until hostilities cease risks losing crucial evidence and political will. Warring parties know this well and may be relying on it.
Leaders who reject the laws of war imagine they can benefit from lawlessness, where brutal force settles all questions and harm to civilians is dismissed as “collateral damage.” But one violation cannot justify another. Such obligatory retaliation endangers both sides. Supporting the existing system to control war’s brutality is essential; otherwise, when the world burns in future conflicts, we will have to answer why we remained silent.
US military forces continue to search for a crew member from a fighter jet downed in an Iranian attack. Of the two American fighter pilots who ejected from aircrafts downed at separate locations in Iran, one crew member has been rescued, while the other reportedly ejected using the aircraft’s safety equipment. US media report that both American and Iranian military forces are engaged in ongoing efforts to locate the missing crew member.
CBS, citing US sources, told the BBC that a weapons systems officer from the US F-15 fighter jet, which was brought down in southern Iran, remains missing. The pilot of the aircraft has been rescued, but the weapons officer is still unaccounted for. US President Donald Trump declined to comment on rescue operations but stated that the incident would not affect negotiations with Iran.
Tehran has appealed to local residents to assist in locating the missing crew member. An announcement has been made offering a reward to anyone who finds the individual. It is reported that the US forces have placed a reward of $66,000 (approximately 1 crore Nepalese Rupees) for information leading to the safe recovery of the personnel.
Iranian media have also reported that another US A-10 Warthog aircraft was intercepted and forced to separate from its pilot over the Persian Gulf. According to US Central Command, six people died on March 12 after a US refueling plane collided with another aircraft in western Iraq.
Bollywood director Ramesh Sippy has described actor Rajesh Hamal as Nepal’s Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra. The conversation took place during the ‘Cinema Dialogue’ session at the Nepal International Film Festival, where Sippy and Hamal discussed the film ‘Sholay’. Sippy shared that the shooting of ‘Sholay’ began on October 2, 1973, with a budget that eventually reached three crore rupees.
Speaking at the event in Kathmandu, Sippy said, “Nepal is a fortunate country because you (Rajesh Hamal) embody both Amitabh and Dharmendra.” He openly discussed the film’s development and revealed that the writer duo Salim-Javed entrusted him to direct ‘Sholay’. He remarked, “They did not say this was a film in my style.”
Sippy provided details about the production timeline, noting that filming started six months after the script was completed, commencing on October 2, 1973. He added, “Initially the budget was set at one crore, but it finally escalated to three crore.”
Actor Hamal expressed admiration for Sippy’s direction of ‘Sholay’, highlighting how all the film’s characters and even the horse’s name have become iconic among audiences. Sippy shared, “Due to weather conditions, one particular scene took 21 days to shoot.” Their dialogue lasted for nearly an hour.
March 21, Kathmandu – Authorities have detained 18 individuals at Tribhuvan International Airport. The police took these measures last night amid reports of passenger scuffles occurring at the airport. SSP Ramesh Thapa of the Kathmandu District Police Office confirmed the arrests, stating that those apprehended include taxi drivers and hotel representatives involved in the incidents.
In addition to these arrests, police also took into custody a large number of individuals linked to gang-related activities during the night. The list of the 18 detainees is as follows: 1) Surya Maji, 18, originally from Sarlahi and residing in Kathmandu’s Sinamangal area; 2) Ekesh Tamang, 22, from Banke, residing near the airport; 3) Premkumar Magar, 26, originally from Panchthar and residing near the airport; 4) Rajkumar Rai, 32, from Sindhuli, living in Nayabasti; 5) Magalman Ghilan, 40, from Makwanpur, residing near the airport; 6) Khagendra Limbu, 38, from Panchthar, living in Tokha; 7) Ashis Khatiwada, 29, from Morang, residing near the airport; 8) Bishwo Moktan, 34, from Makwanpur, residing in Sambhumarg; 9) Birendra Jha, 45, from Dhanusha, residing near the airport; 10) Lada Miya, 60, from Siraha, living in Tilgaga; 11) Parsuram Rai, 46, residing in New Buspark; 12) Santu Tamang, 27, originally from Ramechhap, living in Bhaktapur; 13) Raghuvir Shah, 53, from Dhanusha, living in Tilgaga; 14) Rajivkumar Rawat, 33, from Mahottari, residing in Tilgaga; 15) Sarojkumar Mahto, 26, from Dhanusha, living in Gausala; 16) Ajaylama, 19, from Makwanpur, residing in Kaji Gausala; 17) Keshav Limbu, 39, originally from Jhapa, living in Sinamangal; 18) Ramprasad Joshi, 20, from Bajhang, residing in Sinamangal; and 19) Bimalraj Joshi, 29, from Bajhang, residing in Kirtipur.
Summary prepared after a news review. In West Asia, the United States and Israel have launched over 200 attacks on Iran, while Iran has also retaliated. Iran has announced a reward of 10 billion Iranian tomans for anyone who captures and surrenders the pilot of the downed U.S. fighter jet alive. Clashes continue between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, with both sides launching missile attacks. (March 21, Kathmandu)
Tensions in West Asia have escalated significantly. While the U.S. and Israel continue their intense attacks on Iran, Iran is actively retaliating. On Saturday, the U.S. is actively searching for its downed fighter jet pilot, while Iran continues missile strikes against America. Based on direct reports received Saturday morning, the recent situation in Iran is as follows: The U.S. has deployed a C-130 Hercules aircraft to search for the pilot of the American fighter jet downed in Iran. A video circulated on social media shows the plane flying at a very low altitude over Iran while releasing hot flares.
This flare release technique helps the aircraft evade missile attacks by diverting missiles to the flares’ heat signatures instead of the engine’s hot parts. Meanwhile, an Israeli official has claimed that one of the two pilots of the downed U.S. fighter jet has been rescued alive in Iran. The search for the other pilot is ongoing. However, this claim has yet to be officially confirmed. Iran initially claimed to have shot down an American F-35 fighter jet, but some reports suggest the plane might have been an F-15E. Additionally, in the Gulf region near Hormuz, an A-10 Warthog aircraft crashed, and U.S. officials say one of the two pilots was rescued.
Iran Announces Reward for Capturing U.S. Pilot Alive. Iran’s state media IRIB presenter has called upon the public, announcing a reward of 10 billion Iranian tomans for anyone who captures and surrenders the U.S. fighter jet pilot alive. After declaring the downing of the U.S. aircraft, celebrations have been reported on the streets of Iran. Iranian officials have warned that their military capabilities are vast and that attacks will continue. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, sarcastically stated, “Those who boasted about defeating Iran 37 times are now unable to find their own pilot.”
Over 200 Attacks in 24 Hours. In the last 24 hours, the U.S. and Israel have launched more than 200 attacks on Iran. The human rights organization based in the U.S., Human Rights Activists in Iran, reported that from Thursday to Friday, 206 attacks occurred across 13 provinces in Iran, resulting in the death of one civilian. However, the New York Times, citing American intelligence reports, said Iran was able to restore its underground missile bunkers damaged by U.S. and Israeli strikes within a few hours. Iran is also believed to have preserved a large number of missiles and mobile launchers safely.
Iran’s Retaliation. On Friday night, Iran fired missiles targeting Israeli and American checkpoints. Iranian ballistic missiles struck Kiryat Atta and Petah Tikva in northern Israel, causing damage to vehicles and buildings. The armed group Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed it launched 19 drone and missile attacks on U.S. military bases in Iraq and neighboring areas in the past day, although the U.S. has not confirmed this. During these events, an Iranian drone crashed in Bahrain’s Sitra region, injuring four people and damaging homes.
Similarly, drone debris fell while intercepting an air attack in Dubai’s Marina area, but no human injuries were reported there. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the downing of the fighter jet will not affect potential talks with Iran, adding, “This is war. We are in a state of war.” Republican Congressman John Curtis said that Congress will not provide further military funding until formally declaring war. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni indicated Europe would not fully support the U.S. in a war against Iran, emphasizing national interests as the top priority. Trump criticized European allies for not supporting a war with Iran. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is scheduled to meet with Trump on April 8. A proposed U.N. Security Council vote on Bahrain’s proposal to ensure safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz has been postponed until next week.
Clashes in Lebanon. In Lebanon, violent clashes continue between Israel and Hezbollah. The Israeli Air Force destroyed rocket launchers fired by Hezbollah in northern Israel and conducted attacks on various locations in Beirut. Hezbollah claimed it launched rockets and guided missiles targeting Israeli troops at three different locations in southern Lebanon. (With agency contributions)
21 Chaitra, Kathmandu – Nepal Rastra Bank has set the foreign currency exchange rates for today. The buying rate for the US dollar is NPR 148.67, and the selling rate is NPR 149.27. The European Euro’s buying rate is NPR 171.62, and the selling rate is NPR 172.31. The British Pound Sterling has a buying rate of NPR 196.76 and a selling rate of NPR 197.55, while the Swiss Franc’s buying rate is NPR 186.22 with a selling rate of NPR 186.97.
The Australian Dollar is priced with a buying rate of NPR 102.71 and selling rate of NPR 103.12. The Canadian Dollar’s buying rate is NPR 106.76 and selling rate is NPR 107.19. The Singapore Dollar has a buying rate of NPR 115.65 and a selling rate of NPR 116.11. The Japanese Yen per 10 units has a buying rate of NPR 9.32 and a selling rate of NPR 9.36. The Chinese Yuan’s buying rate is NPR 21.61 and selling rate NPR 21.69. The Saudi Arabian Riyal is bought at NPR 39.59 and sold at NPR 39.75, and the Qatari Riyal has a buying rate of NPR 40.78 and a selling rate of NPR 40.94.
According to the central bank, the Thai Baht’s buying rate is NPR 4.57 with a selling rate of NPR 4.58. The UAE Dirham is priced at NPR 40.48 for buying and NPR 40.64 for selling. The Malaysian Ringgit’s buying rate is NPR 36.88 with a selling rate of NPR 37.03. The South Korean Won per 100 units is bought at NPR 9.85 and sold at NPR 9.89. The Swedish Krona’s buying rate is NPR 15.76 and selling rate NPR 15.82, while the Danish Kroner is bought at NPR 22.96 and sold at NPR 23.06.
Nepal Rastra Bank has set the Hong Kong Dollar’s buying rate at NPR 18.97 and selling rate at NPR 19.05. The Kuwaiti Dinar is bought at NPR 484.50 and sold at NPR 486.46. The Bahraini Dinar’s buying rate is NPR 393.83 with a selling rate of NPR 395.42, and the Omani Riyal is bought at NPR 386.21 and sold at NPR 387.76. The Indian Rupee for 100 notes is set at a buying rate of NPR 160.00 and a selling rate of NPR 160.15.
The central bank has indicated that these exchange rates may be revised at any time as necessary. Commercial banks may offer different exchange rates, and the updated exchange rates are available on the central bank’s official website.
March 21, Kathmandu — The Pentagon has confirmed the deaths of 13 US soldiers in the ongoing conflict with Iran. According to a statement from the US Department of Defense headquarters, 13 troops have lost their lives in the confrontation with Iran.
Data from the Pentagon reveals that a total of 365 US soldiers have been injured amid the ongoing war involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Breakdown of casualties by branches of the armed forces indicates that 247 soldiers in the Army, 63 in the Navy, 19 in the Marines, and 36 in the Air Force have been wounded in attacks attributed to Iran.
The Nepal Kabaddi League (NKL) has entered into a partnership with the reality show ‘NepHopko Shripach,’ under which the upcoming season will feature a blend of kabaddi and hip-hop music. NKL Season 2 is set to commence on June 5 at the RAAHEP Covered Hall in Tripureshwor, with six franchise teams competing. Over 100 foreign players from 16 countries have registered, and teams will select players through a draft system.
This collaboration covers NKL Season 2 and the third season of ‘NepHopko Shripach.’ The memorandum of understanding was signed on Friday in Kathmandu between Astronics Management, the league organizer, and Sudip Pokharel, the founder of the show. Vikas Agrawal, CEO of Astronics, highlighted that this partnership would add a new dimension by linking sports and entertainment. He stated, “The collaboration between NKL and NepHop is ushering in a new era in Nepal, transforming how sports and entertainment are perceived. We are building a movement where the power of kabaddi and the voice of hip-hop will forge a new narrative. Kabaddi will no longer be just a sport, but the voice of youth, cultural energy, and a fresh identity for the nation.”
Founder Sudip Pokharel emphasized that this is the first time a reality show and a sports league have partnered in such a way, creating new opportunities for both artists and players. According to him, rappers from the show will compose anthems for NKL teams, injecting additional energy into the games. Judges of ‘NepHopko Shripach,’ Byoma and Manas Ghale, were also present at the event and said that this collaboration would benefit both the music and sports industries. Byoma also composed the anthem for NKL Season 2.
In Season 2, the competing teams are Biratnagar Bahubali, Janakpur Knights, Kathmandu Mavericks, Pokhara Lakers, Butwal Bulls, and Dhangadhi Wildcats. As per the agreement, ‘NepHopko Shripach’ contestants will create anthems for various teams, with winners eligible for cash prizes. Amitkumar Begani, head of Astronics Management, noted that some of the world’s best players are eager to come to Nepal to compete in NKL Season 2. To date, over 100 foreign players from 16 countries have registered, and teams will choose players through the upcoming draft process.
March 21, Siraha – The administration has tightened supervision in Siraha during the second day of the Nepali language subject exam under the Secondary Education Examination (SEE). According to the Education Development and Coordination Unit, during monitoring conducted on Friday, 194 mobile phones and 2 smartwatches were seized from nine examination centers across the district. Following violations of exam discipline, two center chiefs and four inspectors found with mobile devices were expelled.
The expelled individuals include Sanjay Yadav, the center chief from Balmandir Secondary School, and Ramkishor Yadav, the center chief from Janata Secondary School, Phulbariya.
According to Unit Chief Deepak Raj Kanaulee, an oversight team deployed under the leadership of Chief District Officer Surendra Paudel took immediate action upon attempts to disrupt the examination’s integrity. In the past, Siraha’s examination centers had been affected by cheating, influence, and mediation activities, which had cast doubts on the credibility of the examination system. This year, to prevent recurrence of such incidents, Chief District Officer Surendra Paudel confirmed that strict monitoring has been enforced.
This year, a total of 11,037 students from Siraha are participating in the SEE exam, including 10,625 from the general stream and 412 from technical streams. Among the examinees, 5,308 are female and 5,729 are male students. The district has designated 51 examination centers. According to the National Examination Board, the SEE exams are being conducted from Chaitra 19 to 29, from 8 AM to 11 AM daily.
March 21, Kathmandu – The Nepal Electricity Authority has announced a power outage in several areas across Kathmandu today. According to a notice issued by the Authority, the planned power disruption aims to replace deteriorated poles in the distribution network supplied through the Imadol feeder of the Baneshwor distribution center.
The Authority stated that electricity will be cut off to replace 11 kV capacity poles near Narephat, around CCRI College, and along the Suryakot route. The outage is scheduled from 11 AM to 3 PM today. The Authority apologized for any inconvenience caused by this necessary maintenance work.
