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Author: space4knews

धमाधम बस्ती खाली गराउँदैछन् सुकुमवासी (तस्वीरहरू)

Mass Evictions Begin in Densely Populated Squatter Areas of Kathmandu Valley (Photos)

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

News Summary

Prepared by AI, with editorial review.

  • The government is set to begin clearing major squatter settlements in Kathmandu Valley starting tomorrow morning.
  • Security agencies are actively carrying out the evictions under the direction of Prime Minister Balendra Shah.
  • Prime Minister Shah has expressed the current government’s commitment to resolving the squatter housing issue and providing appropriate resettlement for genuine squatters.

April 24, Kathmandu – The government is preparing to initiate eviction operations tomorrow (Saturday) morning in key squatter settlements within Kathmandu Valley.

Under the guidance of Prime Minister Balendra Shah, security forces have intensified efforts to carry out the clearances.

Residents have been notified to vacate their homes by 7 PM today and many began relocating their belongings starting Friday morning.

On Friday evening, residents in the Thapathali area were actively moving their household goods.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shah reaffirmed the government’s dedication to resolving the squatter settlement issues and pledged to provide necessary support for the resettlement of genuine squatters.

Photos:

 

Chinese Startup DeepSea Releases New AI Model ‘V4’

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Chinese startup DeepSea has unveiled its new model, ‘DeepSea-V4’, featuring high-capacity artificial intelligence at a low cost. The DeepSea-V4 offers an ultra-long context capability of up to one million words and is available in two versions: ‘V4-Pro’ and ‘V4-Flash’.

Making global waves by developing high-performance AI at a low cost, DeepSea officially launched the ‘DeepSea-V4′ on Friday. Having disrupted the American companies’ monopoly early in 2025, the startup claims that this new version significantly reduces production and computing costs.

The model is offered in two variants: V4-Pro and V4-Flash. According to the company, DeepSea-V4 features an ‘ultra-long context’ capacity of up to one million words, enabling it to process complex tasks by handling large amounts of information simultaneously. The V4-Pro version contains 1.6 trillion parameters, while the cost-effective and faster V4-Flash has 284 billion parameters.

On the ‘World Knowledge Benchmarks’, this model is said to compete strongly with Google’s ‘Gemini-Pro-3.1’, outperforming other open-source models. Industry analysts view this as a benchmark move that could democratize AI capabilities previously limited to expensive research laboratories, making them accessible to businesses and the general public.

Since DeepSea has kept its models open source, usage is rapidly increasing across Chinese municipalities, healthcare institutions, and the financial sector. However, the company’s success has also raised security and privacy concerns. The White House has accused Chinese firms of orchestrating a large-scale campaign to ‘steal’ American AI technologies. Michael Kratsios, former science and technology advisor under the Trump administration, has claimed there is evidence that Chinese institutions have harvested data from US AI models through ‘distillation’ techniques. Additionally, DeepSea’s chatbot has faced criticism for censoring responses on sensitive political topics such as Tiananmen Square. Ahead of the upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping in Beijing next month, AI competition is further heightening tensions between the two countries.

Sports Ministry Effectively Managed by Advisor Siddhi Byanjankar, Brother of Kumar Benka

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Minister Sasmit Pokharel has appointed Siddhi Byanjankar, brother of Prime Minister’s Chief Advisor Kumar Benka, as the Chief Advisor to the Sports Ministry. This advisor has been handling sports-related affairs almost in the capacity of a minister.

News Summary

Source reviewed.

  • The team led by Siddhi Byanjankar inspected the National Sports Council’s (RANOC) ‘National Team Preparation’ program on behalf of the Sports Ministry.
  • RANOC’s 2026 Mission program, paused due to budget shortages, has been directed to resume by the team.
  • Sports Minister Sasmit Pokharel has admitted spending limited time in sports matters, with advisor Siddhi actively advancing ministry work.

April 24, Kathmandu – On Monday, a team including Siddhi Byanjankar visited the National Sports Council (RANOC) to inspect the ‘National Team Preparation’ program. In Minister Sasmit Pokharel’s absence, the team represented the Sports Ministry during the inspection.

RANOC had initiated its Mission 2026 program to prepare for the 20th Asian Games starting in Japan on September 19. However, this program, launched on January 29, 2024, was halted from late January due to budget constraints.

The inspection team, unaware of the suspension, questioned RANOC member secretary Ramcharitra Mehtal and immediately directed the resumption of training. The team included Siddhi Byanjankar and Raju Singh.

The minister’s secretariat confirmed that Siddhi Byanjankar was appointed as Chief Advisor of the Sports Ministry. Siddhi is the elder brother of Kumar Benka, Chief Political Advisor to Prime Minister Balendra Shah. In addition, Nisham Maharjan serves as Chief Personal Assistant, and Raju Singh is Youth Development, Monitoring, and Evaluation Advisor.

On Thursday afternoon at the Sports Ministry, the minister’s office was found empty while Chief Advisor Siddhi and his team were present in their respective workspaces within the secretariat.

Although Sasmit Pokharel is the sports minister, Siddhi Byanjankar has been leading activities from inspections to directives, representing the ministry in tasks such as budget allocation and athlete send-offs. Siddhi stated, “Minister Sasmit has told me to handle sports affairs, while she focuses on education.”

All issues related to sports are reportedly communicated by Prime Minister Balendra Shah to his chief advisor Kumar Benka, who in turn instructs his brother Siddhi. In this way, Siddhi has taken responsibility and progressed the ministry’s work.

Siddhi issues directives to staff and keeps detailed accounts of identified sports problems. On whether his role is advisory or directive, Siddhi hesitated and said, “We will continue to communicate honestly about the state of sports.”

He added that he only visits the ministry when necessary and did not provide clear comments on how the ministry is currently operating. Raju Singh noted, “We ourselves are working in sports. The minister is not brought into the work by us. The main issue is the budget; nothing else. We have been running the mission.”

Singh also reported that the team works at the ministry from 7 a.m. until 11 or 12 midnight daily.

Usually, advisors are appointed to offer suggestions and guidance to ministers, but in sports, Siddhi Byanjankar is effectively functioning at the ministerial level, according to sports officials.

RANOC member secretary Ramcharitra Mehtal confirmed that Siddhi’s directions were approved and the steps are being taken to support ministry work.

Limited Ministerial Attention to Sports

Almost a month after appointment, Minister Sasmit Pokharel has only visited Fapla Cricket Ground in Dhangadhi briefly to bat. Even during the National Sports Council inspection, he focused primarily on education-related matters.

His one-month activities include the RANOC inspection and sending the kabaddi and wrestling teams off to the Asian Beach Games, limited largely to appearances at Fapla Ground.

Sports Ministry

The minister’s frequent engagement with the education ministry takes priority, as confirmed by his social media posts.

Pokharel plans to honor silver medalist Erica Gurung, who won in the Karate One Premier League 2026, only after criticism, despite earlier neglect, particularly towards students taking the SEE examinations.

A ministry employee commented, “The minister has spent very little time here. When in Kathmandu, he usually comes to the office for only 1-2 hours.”

Many believe the minister’s focus has been on the education ministry at the expense of sports. A RANOC board member noted, “The current sports minister has not devoted even five minutes to sports.”

Putin Calls Armenian Genocide the Most Horrific Tragedy of the 20th Century

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has paid tribute to the Armenian genocide, describing it as the most horrific tragedy of the 20th century. Putin stated that ethnic and religious hatred, nationalism, and xenophobia shocked the civilized world of that era. Between 1915 and 1923, the Ottoman Empire systematically carried out the mass killing of 1 to 1.5 million Armenians. April 24, Kathmandu.

On the 111th memorial day of the Armenian genocide, President Putin conveyed a special message in which he characterized the event as the most terrifying tragedy of the 20th century. In the message released on Friday, Putin paid homage to thousands of victims and strongly condemned the mass murder and forced exile of innocent people.

In his message, Putin emphasized that the deadly consequences of ethnic and religious hatred, nationalism, and xenophobia stunned the entire civilized world of that time. He also recalled that in 1915 Russia, Britain, and France jointly condemned the atrocity as a crime against humanity, highlighting that Russia’s stance has remained consistent ever since.

The Armenian genocide refers to the planned and systematic mass killing and ethnic cleansing of the minority Armenian population under Ottoman Empire rule (now Turkey) during World War I (1915 to 1923). It is estimated that approximately 1 to 1.5 million Armenians lost their lives in this tragic event.

From a Remote Mountain Hut to Ultra Running Stardom: Ang Furba’s Journey

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Typically, ultra runners peak in their early twenties. However, Ang Furba, nearing her twentieth birthday, has already emerged as a star in ultra running. The 20-year-old Sherpa athlete won the women’s category of the Manjushree Trail Race 100-mile event, finishing in 33 hours, 13 minutes, and 6 seconds. Over four years competing in ultra trail running, she has delivered outstanding performances in various races across Nepal and abroad. Despite lacking sponsorship, she has personally borne all expenses and expressed the need for support to participate in international competitions.

April 24, Kathmandu – The 20-year-old Ang Furba Sherpa recently triumphed in the prestigious Manjushree Trail Race (MTR) in Nepal. She conquered the grueling 100-mile (approximately 160 kilometers) race, completing it in 33 hours, 13 minutes, and 6 seconds to claim first place. She outpaced foreign competitor and former champion Anita Rai. Netherlands’ Anne My Baan secured second place with a time of 33 hours, 51 minutes, and 41 seconds, while Nepal’s Anita Rai finished third in 38 hours, 18 minutes, and 23 seconds.

Originally from Fera, Solu Dudhkunda Municipality-2, Solukhumbu, Ang Furba had achieved notable accomplishments in ultra trail running but remained relatively under the radar. Her victory in the long-distance race held in Kathmandu valley has boosted her recognition. She first ran the Manjushree Trail Race at age 18 and became champion on her third attempt. Previously, she finished third twice and was unable to finish last year.

Ang Furba began her journey in 2022 through the Everest Trail Race. Initially unfamiliar with ultra trail running, she developed interest after her brother, Nima Tendi Sherpa, informed her about it. She said, “My brother found about the race on the internet and told me. That’s when I wanted to try it.” Over four years, she has participated in various races ranging from Solukhumbu to Kathmandu and Manaslu to Jumla.

She stated, “My goal is to compete internationally, participate in global events and world championships.” However, she emphasized the challenges posed by lack of sponsorship, saying, “Without sponsors, it’s difficult for us. Good sponsorship would make it easier to participate in international races.”

राप्रपा नेता विक्रम पाण्डे पक्राउ – Online Khabar

Rastriya Prajatantra Party Leader Vikram Pandey Arrested

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Rastriya Prajatantra Party leader and former minister Vikram Pandey was arrested on Friday by Nepal Police’s Central Investigation Bureau for allegedly hacking the e-bidding website. Pandey is a senior leader and vice chairman of the RPP and was elected as a Member of Parliament from Chitwan Constituency No. 3 in the 2079 BS election.

In 2075 BS, the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) had filed a case against him for substandard work in the Sikta Irrigation Project, following which he was released after paying a bail of four crore rupees. Police have stated that Pandey was arrested on allegations of hacking the e-bidding website to secure a favorable contract.

Nepal Women Unity Society Urges Against Forced Eviction of Homeless Squatters

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The Nepal Women Unity Society has urged authorities not to remove homeless squatters without providing alternatives. Kathmandu, April 24. In a statement, the society expressed concern over the Prime Minister’s directive to clear the squatter settlements. The society strongly condemned this harsh decision affecting women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities living in those settlements.

According to the society, forcibly relocating individuals without offering alternatives constitutes a significant violation of citizens’ constitutional right to livelihood. The society called for an immediate halt to forced evictions carried out through oppressive means without providing options. The statement read, “We urge all concerned to promptly revise this decision and to respect the right to land and housing with dignity.”

The society warned that if the decision is not amended, human rights activists, civil society groups, and stakeholders will unite to raise their voices and mobilize public protests.

Nepali Army Warns of Action Against Disorderly and Anarchic Activities

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The Nepali Army has expressed serious concern over various allegations directed at its organization and leadership. The army has requested vigilance against false information and statements circulated through some media outlets and social networks. It reminded the public to stay within the boundaries of existing laws, as such misinformation creates confusion among the general population. Kathmandu, 24 April.

The Nepali Army highlighted its deep concern regarding expressions made against its organization and leadership. In a press note issued on Friday, the army pointed out false information and statements about the Nepali Army and its leadership being circulated on certain media platforms and social media. The army cautioned against such actions as these materials create confusion among the public.

“The Nepali Army and related agencies are continuously monitoring such disorderly and anarchic activities. It is also reminded that those engaging in such acts will be subject to applicable laws,” the warning issued by the army stated. Additionally, the army urged the public not to trust baseless and malicious news or comments. The full press note from the army reads as follows.

13.2 Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Footprints Discovered in South Africa

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Dinosaur footprints dating back 13.2 million years have been discovered along South Africa’s southern coastline. Researchers from Nelson Mandela University uncovered more than two dozen footprints in the Western Cape province. The study reveals that these tracks were left by dinosaurs belonging to the theropod, ornithopod, and sauropod groups.

Found on a small rocky outcrop near the town of Knysna, these footprints represent the oldest dinosaur relics ever uncovered in South Africa. Previously, scientists believed that a massive volcanic eruption 18.2 million years ago and the subsequent lava flows had eradicated all dinosaur traces in the region. However, the new findings confirm that dinosaurs survived this natural disaster and continued to roam the area for a significant period afterward.

The researchers discovered the footprints on a 40-meter-long and 5-meter-wide rocky section along the Western Cape coastline. This area is submerged during high tide. The presence of so many footprints within such a confined space strongly indicates a substantial population of dinosaurs occupied the region at the time. Scientists suggest that similar fossilized remains may also exist in other parts of both the Western and Eastern Cape.

Nepali Trail Runner Sunmaya Denied Visa to Japan, Missing World Trail Majors Event

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Renowned Nepali trail runner Sunmaya Budha has been unable to participate in the Mount Fuji 100 event under the World Trail Majors 2026 series due to denial of her visa application to Japan. The Asia Pacific Adventure Athletic Agent based in Hong Kong confirmed that the Japanese embassy rejected her visa. Last year, as the World Trail Majors champion, Sunmaya also missed the first competition in Spain because she was unable to secure a flight ticket due to instability in the Middle East.

Kathmandu, 11th Baisakh – Asia Pacific Adventure Athletic Agent (APA Athlete), managing Sunmaya’s race participation, announced on their Facebook page this Friday that she will miss the World Trail Majors competition because of the visa denial by Japan. Despite being an elite world-class athlete, the Japanese embassy in Nepal refused to grant Sunmaya the visa, which the agency expressed regret over.

APA Athlete stated, “Sunmaya intended to compete in the Mount Fuji 100-mile race this weekend, and despite having an invitation letter and all necessary documents from the organizers, the Japanese embassy rejected her visa application. She is considered one of the top professional athletes globally in her sport.”

The agency added, “This is truly a heartbreaking situation. The embassy did not give her the opportunity to provide additional documents or evidence and imposed a six-month ban on reapplying. This has been a deeply disappointing experience.” Last year’s World Trail Majors 2025 champion, Sunmaya was also unable to participate in the first World Trail Series event held in Spain this year, caused by flight ticket issues stemming from Middle East circumstances. Sunmaya was excited about the new season, but ongoing challenges have prevented her from competing consistently. Not only Sunmaya but also the international ultra trail community and Nepal’s Belarjumb have expressed deep regret over her absence from the races.

सैन्य आधार तालिमबाट ९७ जना सैनिकहरू दीक्षित – Online Khabar

97 Soldiers Commissioned After Completing Military Basic Training

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April 24, Gandaki – A total of 97 soldiers have been commissioned after successfully completing the Basic Military Training conducted at Kalijung Battalion in Ghodabandh, Baglung, under the Western Command Headquarters of the Nepal Army. The final flag parade marked the conclusion of the training, informed Major Shiva Bahadur Adhikari, Commander of Kalijung Battalion.

Senior military officials, including Lieutenant Colonel Bholanath Thapa of the Western Command Headquarters, chiefs of district security agencies, and other distinguished guests were present to inspect the parade. On this occasion, Lieutenant Colonel Thapa also distributed awards to soldiers who demonstrated outstanding performance during the nine-month training period. In his speech, he urged all soldiers to remain loyal to the nation, the people, and the army, and dedicate themselves to military service.

Lieutenant Colonel Thapa emphasized the importance of maintaining military decorum and discipline while fulfilling professional duties with utmost dedication. He expressed a commitment to timely updating and improving both education and training. “Since the army is the backbone of the nation, only a strong army can guarantee a strong country,” he said. “Skilled, well-trained, disciplined, and dedicated soldiers form the backbone of the army.”

Subedash Magar, the top performer in the basic military training, was honored with a khukuri as a symbol of excellence. Lieutenant Colonel Thapa presented awards to Rajan Bista for outstanding performance in firing, Sunil Limbu in drill, Pawan Lungwa for the best in the 12-kilometer run, Dipen Rasaili for the 5-kilometer race, and Saroj Rai for the obstacle course. The training completion ceremony was attended by Assistant Warrant Officer Vijay KC of the 23rd Battalion Baglung, local representatives, chiefs of security agencies, and the families of the commissioned soldiers.

Bus Accident in Tanahun Injures 27 People

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April 24, Kathmandu – A bus accident occurred in the Sherafant area of Tanahun district. According to Deputy CDO Deepak Regmi of the Tanahun District Administration Office, rescue operations are currently underway for the injured from the accident. The bus involved in the accident bears the registration number Ga 2 Kha 1836. Initial reports indicate that approximately 30 passengers were on board the bus. Twenty-seven people were injured in the accident. The injured have been taken to GP Hospital in Belchautara for treatment. Police Chief of Tanahun, SP Tek Bahadur Karki, stated that local residents and the police are jointly conducting the rescue efforts and more details about the accident are awaited. The bus had departed from Pokhara en route to Bhairahawa. Police have arrived at the scene and are continuing rescue operations. “There have been no reports of fatalities so far. Rescue operations are ongoing,” he said.

Government Decides to Begin New Infrastructure Development Following Removal of Unauthorized Settlements

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The government has decided to initiate immediate new infrastructure development following the removal of unauthorized settlements. This decision was made during a meeting chaired by Urban Development Minister Sunil Lamsal at the ministry. The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, along with the Ministry of Urban Development, has agreed to commence preparatory infrastructure work without delay. Kathmandu, 11 Baisakh.

On Friday, during a meeting led by Urban Development Minister Sunil Lamsal involving various agencies and stakeholders, the decision to remove the settlements was finalized. The resolution stated that after clearing the settlements, the dilapidated structures at the site will be demolished, tracks will be opened, and other necessary infrastructure preparations will begin immediately under the joint supervision of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport and the Ministry of Urban Development.

Raghav Chadha and Six Other AAP MPs Join Bharatiya Janata Party

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Influential Aam Aadmi Party leader and Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has announced his departure from the party to join the Bharatiya Janata Party. Chadha stated that he had dedicated 15 years of hard work to AAP, but the party now operates solely out of personal interests, prompting his exit. In total, seven MPs, including Chadha, have decided to leave AAP and join BJP. There is ongoing speculation about Chadha potentially being appointed to a ministerial position. The announcement was made on April 24 in Kathmandu.

On Friday, Chadha held a joint press conference with Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, revealing that two-thirds of the AAP members in the Rajya Sabha are set to merge with BJP under constitutional provisions. Earlier this month, internal party tensions surfaced publicly after AAP removed Chadha from the Deputy Leader position in the Rajya Sabha and appointed Ashok Kumar Mittal in his place.

Expressing strong dissatisfaction with the party’s decisions, Chadha questioned how raising issues of public interest had caused harm to the party. During the press briefing, he said, “I have poured my sweat and blood into this party for 15 years, but now it has completely deviated from its principles and ethical values. This party no longer works for national interests but for personal gains.”

The seven MPs leaving AAP to join BJP are Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal, Harbhajan Singh, Swati Maliwal, Rajendra Gupta, and Vikram Sahni. Chadha, who previously expressed feeling like the ‘right person in the wrong party,’ now says he has chosen a new path to serve the public. This development is considered a significant setback for AAP and a notable turning point in Indian politics. Following their alliance with BJP, discussions have already begun about Chadha’s possible ministerial appointment.

Kabaddi Match Between Nepal and Bangladesh Postponed Due to Rain at Asian Beach Games

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The women’s kabaddi match between Nepal and Bangladesh, scheduled under Group B at the ongoing 6th Asian Beach Games 2026 in Sanya, China, has been postponed due to rain. The game, initially planned for Friday, has been deferred, Nepal team’s Save the Mission member Ram Krishna Shrestha confirmed. Nepal will now face Thailand on Saturday as part of Group B. The postponed match between Nepal and Bangladesh is rescheduled for Sunday, Shrestha added.

Meanwhile, the Nepalese wrestling team departed for China on Friday to compete in the 6th Asian Beach Games. Three wrestlers from Nepal will participate in the competition. In the men’s categories, Suresh Chunar will compete in the 80 kg weight group, and Triloki Prasad Yadav will compete in the 90 kg plus weight group. In the women’s category, Sushila Chand will participate in the 70 kg weight group.