Skip to main content
Advertisement1200×100-inside-1

Author: space4knews

Nepal Cricket Team Aims for Historic Medal at Asian Games

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Having never advanced beyond the quarterfinals in the previous three editions, Nepal is now targeting at least a semifinal appearance to secure a historic medal at the 20th Asian Games cricket tournament currently taking place in Japan. Placed in Group ‘A’ alongside Afghanistan and Japan, Nepal aims to win at least one match to strengthen its chances of reaching the quarterfinals. Until now, Nepal’s journey in Asian Games cricket has ended at the quarterfinal stage on three occasions. (October 4, Kathmandu)

The Nepal national cricket team, which has repeatedly failed to progress beyond the quarterfinals in the Asian Games, is set to participate in the 20th Asian Games cricket competition in Japan with plans to change its history this time. Nepal, having failed to advance past the quarterfinals in the last three editions, has a clear goal of reaching at least the semifinals to open the pathway towards a medal. Having secured its place in the main event by winning the qualifiers held in Singapore, Nepal is placed in Group ‘A’. Alongside Nepal are Afghanistan, regarded as a powerhouse in Asian cricket, and the host nation, Japan.

Afghanistan is considered the most challenging team in the group and is a well-established side in world cricket. Nepal will face Afghanistan in the Asian Games for the first time in 12 years. The two teams last met in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Asian Games and in the T20 World Cup held in Bangladesh that same year. Meanwhile, Japan is a newer rival for Nepal; the two teams recently competed during the T20 World Cup global qualifiers, giving Nepal a good understanding of Japan’s capabilities. Based on strength, strategy, and experience, neither team is new to Nepal, though Afghanistan has not fielded a full senior squad but still presents a tough challenge, while Japan has consistently brought a regular team. Winning at least one match would almost guarantee Nepal a spot in the quarterfinals. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee has expressed a clear ambition to bring home a medal. “Everyone is experienced, the team is strong, and the training sessions have been good. This time, our goal is to bring back a medal,” said Captain Dipendra.

US Warns of Escalating Conflict in Middle East Following Houthi Missile Attacks on Riyadh

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

For the first time since 2014, the Houthis in Yemen have launched missile attacks targeting Riyadh. The US State Department has urged American citizens outside the Middle East to reconsider their travel plans and exercise caution amid the rising tensions. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump unexpectedly cut short his stay at Camp David and returned to the White House.

Since the resumption of hostilities in Yemen, the Houthis have, for the first time, targeted Saudi Arabia’s capital city, Riyadh, with missile attacks. The US State Department, anticipating a possible intensification of conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, has called on US citizens abroad to reassess their travel.

On Saturday, President Donald Trump abruptly ended his Camp David visit to return to the White House, a decision for which no official explanation has been provided. Earlier that morning, two loud explosions were reported in Riyadh. AFP journalists observed a fire at a fuel tank of Saudi oil company Aramco near the airport. The Saudi-led coalition stated it had successfully intercepted and destroyed the ballistic missiles launched by the Houthis.

According to the coalition, the Houthis targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure in various cities across western Saudi Arabia, including the strategically important Yanbu port on the Red Sea, a key hub for Saudi oil exports. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sari claimed that, in retaliation against Saudi attacks, two military operations were undertaken using ballistic and cruise missiles as well as drones. He stated one operation targeted sensitive areas in Riyadh and the other targeted Aramco facilities in Yanbu.

A security alert was issued to Riyadh residents before 3:30 a.m., urging them to stay indoors due to potential aerial threats. Residents later reported hearing explosions in various parts of the capital. Prior to this incident, Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of targeting Islam’s holy city of Mecca, an allegation the Houthis denied, calling it a false claim.

The Yemeni civil war began in 2014 when the Houthis seized the capital, Sana’a, and other major areas. The Saudi-led coalition intervened militarily a year later. Although ceasefires reached in 2022 were fragile, conflict escalation was reported again in July of this year.

Meanwhile, the US State Department confirmed that Washington has approved the sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets worth $2.43 billion to Saudi Arabia, aiming to help the kingdom mitigate potential threats.

Nepal Defeats Kyrgyzstan in Women’s Volleyball at 20th Asian Games

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

In the ongoing 20th Asian Games in Japan, Nepal secured a 3-0 straight sets victory over Kyrgyzstan in the women’s volleyball classification match. The game, held at the Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Gymnasium, saw Nepal winning the first set 25-20, the second set 25-16, and the third set 25-20.

With this win, Nepal will now compete against Hong Kong for positions ranging from 9th to 12th place. However, having lost both matches in the group stage, Nepal is out of medal contention.

October 4, Kathmandu.

Former Hong Kong Leader Tung Chee-hwa Laid to Rest with State Honors

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

October 4, Hong Kong (RAS/AFP) – The former Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Tung Chee-hwa, who led the city through its early transitional years following its handover to China in 1997, was laid to rest with state honors on Sunday. The funeral ceremony was attended by Chinese officials and Hong Kong political leaders. This marks the third state funeral held in Hong Kong since its transfer of sovereignty from the United Kingdom to China in 1997. Tung, who served as Hong Kong’s Chief Executive from 1997 to 2005, passed away on September 8 at the age of 89.

A shipping magnate, Tung faced significant challenges during his nearly eight-year tenure, including the Asian financial crisis, the SARS epidemic, and widespread public protests. Garlands of flowers were placed outside the Hong Kong Funeral Home where the ceremony took place. A live broadcast by Hong Kong media showed Tung’s coffin draped with the Chinese flag being carried out following the ceremony. The venue did not permit media access inside.

Among those leaving the funeral site together were Politburo member of the Chinese Communist Party Xi Taifeng, Director of China’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office Xia Baolong, and Hong Kong’s current Chief Executive John Lee. According to one attendee, approximately 200 individuals were invited to the ceremony. Others paid tribute to Tung at memorial sites established at three locations across Hong Kong. After Tung’s passing, the Chinese government portrayed him as a close friend of the Communist Party and a key figure in implementing the ‘one country, two systems’ framework.

Rakesh Manandhar Loses Bronze Medal Match at Asian Games

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

At the ongoing 20th Asian Games in Japan, Nepal’s Rakesh Manandhar was defeated by Malaysia’s Thevendran Kaliyana Sundaram 9–1 in the men’s kumite 55 kg bronze medal bout. The match took place at the Toyohashi Gymnasium in Japan.

Earlier, Rakesh had lost 7–0 to Uzbekistan’s Khumoyunmirzo Khalimov in the semifinals. October 4, Kathmandu.

Houthi Rebels Claim Ballistic Missile Attack on Saudi Arabia’s Capital Riyadh

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Houthi fighters from Yemen, supported by Iran, have claimed responsibility for drone and ballistic missile attacks targeting energy centers along the Red Sea coast and the Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh. Saudi authorities reported on Saturday that they successfully intercepted a ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh. However, officials have not confirmed whether there were additional attacks or casualties.

Earlier, plumes of black smoke were seen rising from fuel storage tanks near the international airport in Riyadh, leading to temporary disruptions of flights. Following an escalation of attacks on Saudi Arabia by the Iran-backed Houthis since July, air raid sirens were sounded in the Saudi capital for the first time on Saturday to warn of an aerial threat.

The U.S. Department of State has urged Americans in the Middle East to remain vigilant and reconsider travel plans in the region. A spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition stated that the air defense system thwarted attempts by hostile forces to target civilians in cities including Yanbu.

Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Al-Sari disclosed that a “large number of ballistic and cruise missiles as well as drones” were deployed to attack “sensitive sites” in Riyadh and the government-owned oil and gas company Aramco’s Yanbu coastal facilities. He also accused Saudi Arabia of conducting 300 airstrikes across Yemen in the past week.

Nepal’s Min Bahadur Tamang Advances to Karate Semifinals

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

In the karate kumite 68 kg competition at Toyohashi Gymnasium in Japan, Nepal’s Min Bahadur Tamang defeated Tajikistan’s Mirzojoda Mohammad 2–0 to secure a place in the semifinals. Previously, Min Bahadur earned his quarterfinal spot by beating Hong Kong’s Chow Ka Him 4–1. In the semifinals, he will face Kuwait’s Shaban Abdullah. Kathmandu, 21 September. As part of the ongoing 20th Asian Games in Japan, Nepal’s Min Bahadur Tamang has successfully advanced to the karate semifinals.

Security Alert at US Embassies in West Asia; Trump Returns to White House Before End of Holiday

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Brief Summary: The United States has issued a security alert to safeguard its embassies and citizens in West Asia. President Donald Trump returned to the White House on Saturday evening, cutting short his Camp David retreat by a day. Iran has presented seven conditions to the US aimed at ending the conflict, demanding cessation on all fronts and the release of frozen Iranian funds. (4 Bhadra, Kathmandu)

The US has heightened security vigilance for its embassies and citizens residing in West Asia. The State Department urged people to exercise extra caution amid escalating tensions in the region. American citizens living in Iraq, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Qatar, Lebanon, Kuwait, and Jordan have been advised to stay alert. Additionally, Americans planning to travel to these countries are advised to take necessary precautions.

US citizens have been instructed to regularly update themselves on any new flight or airport information. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump cut short his Camp David visit by one day and returned to the White House on Saturday evening. The White House has not disclosed the reason for his early return. According to reports from Russia Today, a US B-1B Lancer bomber aircraft departed from RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom, flying toward West Asia in full afterburner mode.

Iran’s Press TV reported recent air defense activities at the Kharab al-Jir airbase near Al-Hasakah in northeastern Syria. Iran has set forth seven conditions to the US to end the ongoing conflict. Iran has indicated that it is prepared to continue the war if these demands are not met. Iran’s security chief Mohsen Rezaei told Al Jazeera that Qatar has acted as mediator to deliver these conditions to the US. Iran is currently awaiting President Trump’s response. According to Rezaei, the demands include halting all military actions on all fronts, releasing Iranian assets frozen overseas, and lifting the naval blockade.

Nepal’s Min Bahadur Advances to Karate Quarterfinals

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

At the ongoing 20th Asian Games in Japan, Nepal’s Min Bahadur Tamang secured a decisive 4–1 victory over Hong Kong’s Chow Ka Him in the men’s karate kumite over 68 kg category, advancing to the quarterfinals. He achieved this win in the round of 16 held at Toyohashi Gymnasium. Min Bahadur will now face Tajikistan’s Mohammad Mirzojoda in the quarterfinals.

US-China AI Competition: China’s Response to US Calls to Slow Down AI Development

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, prompting strong warnings from several industry leaders about the potential risks associated with this technology. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, has argued for the necessity of slowing down the pace of AI development. His views are shared by OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Elon Musk. Some Silicon Valley experts have expressed concerns that this technology could one day threaten the very existence of humanity. However, the intense competition between the world’s two leading AI powers, China and the United States, has complicated efforts to manage these risks.

As strategic rivals, both countries evaluate AI development primarily in terms of national security and economic advantage, casting doubt on the prospect of positive collaboration. “If the international community expects binding agreements to emerge from US-China talks on these issues, they will likely be disappointed,” said Dr. Ilaria Carrozza, senior researcher at the Peace Research Institute Oslo. China has ambitious plans for AI, intending to integrate the technology broadly across society and the economy—from agriculture to healthcare and defense sectors.

The Chinese government has long remained vigilant about the potential risks of AI. Since 2017, China has highlighted threats that AI poses to privacy, social stability, and international relations. In recent years, China has mandated labeling for AI-generated content on social media platforms, banned the creation of AI-generated virtual companions for minors, and prohibited the use of deepfakes for misinformation. Compared to their American counterparts, Chinese government bodies and policy advisors hold greater authority to set standards and approve AI development frameworks.

In July, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized that future technological advancements “must always remain under human control.” He made this statement at a meeting of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, which China established to promote international dialogue on AI governance. China’s AI Security Framework released in September underlines the necessity of proactive policies to prevent AI from endangering human existence and development.

Draft of New National Curriculum for School Level Underway: What Will It Include?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

The task force formed in 2076 BS to revise the national curriculum framework for school level education has received extensive suggestions regarding subjects to be included in the upcoming curriculum. According to the task force coordinator, over 25,000 participants—including students, parents, and teachers—have proposed integrating topics addressing challenges such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and climate change adaptation. The Curriculum Development Centre stated that the new academic session will introduce a curriculum designed to bring a noticeably different experience to students. However, officials have noted that preparing textbooks aligned with the new national curriculum may take some time.

According to the Curriculum Development Centre, this marks the first attempt to amend the existing 2076 BS curriculum. The task force, led by Professor Balchandra Luintel and established in the past Baishakh, is actively working on the revisions.

The national curriculum serves as the principal guiding document for school education. Mahendra Parajuli, Executive Director of the Curriculum Development Centre, emphasized the need for timely updates to keep it relevant. “Societal and political changes over time have created the necessity to add new subjects to the curriculum. Due to climate change and disaster management concerns, children need to learn adaptive skills,” he said. The task force also explained that rapid advancements in information technology require corresponding inclusion in the curriculum.

Executive Director Parajuli explained that consultations took place at 51 locations across 28 districts in 7 provinces, interacting with over 25,000 individuals. Educational discussions, including those featuring the Education Minister, were held in districts such as Dhanusha, Siraha, Mahottari, and Saptari in the Madhesh Province. The team visited classrooms to assess implementation status and collect suggestions from key stakeholders—children and teachers alike. According to Luintel, provisions were also made for submitting suggestions online.

Both the task force and the Curriculum Development Centre report that a multitude of suggestions emerged during discussions and interactions. The key points recommended for inclusion in the curriculum are: climate change adaptation and disaster management, information technology, education on artificial intelligence (AI) and coding, ethical education and values, making the curriculum more flexible and practical, skills training, vocational knowledge, and entrepreneurship starting from the school level, campaigns like ‘Book Free’ and ‘Bagless Day,’ and topics related to teaching methodology and assessment.

One prominent suggestion during the consultations centered on creating learning environments tailored to children’s interests and skills under the ‘Book Free’ and ‘Bagless Day’ campaigns. Parajuli clarified, “This does not mean students just attend school without engaging in learning. Rather, learning takes place without textbooks. For example, if students learn how to connect electrical wires, they also gain knowledge about electricity safety.”

The task force has stated that after compiling all suggestions and conducting thorough discussions and interactions, a report will be prepared. “According to procedure, the national curriculum framework should be submitted by the month of Magh. If possible, it can be submitted one and a half months earlier,” said Luintel. After submission, the Curriculum and Evaluation Council chaired by the Education Minister must approve it.

“Once all procedures are completed by Chaitra, starting from Baisakh, the Curriculum Development Centre will form a working team to begin developing curriculum and related materials,” he added.

Ukraine Allegedly Intensifies Attacks Ahead of Russian Parliamentary Elections, Claims Russian Diplomat

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Senior Russian diplomat Rodion Miroshnik from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has alleged that Ukraine has escalated terrorist activities as Russia’s parliamentary elections approach. He stated, “Ukraine is targeting polling stations. Recently, a member of a regional election commission was murdered.” Miroshnik claimed there are attempts to disrupt the elections, besiege cities, and force election commissions and local officials to conduct voting through alternative means. October 4, Kathmandu.

As Russia’s parliamentary elections draw near, Rodion Miroshnik, a senior diplomat at the Russian Foreign Ministry, asserted that Ukraine has intensified its terrorist operations. He said, “Ukraine is attacking polling stations. A member of a regional election commission was recently killed.” Miroshnik confirmed that evidence of attacks on polling centers and designated areas has been secured. He added, “We have observed rising tensions. Efforts are underway to halt the elections, encircle these cities, and compel our election commissions and local authorities to facilitate voting via alternative methods.”

The Impact of Post-Bhotekoshi-Trishuli Flood Scenes on Mental Health and How to Address It

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Scenes following the floods increase the risk of ‘secondary trauma.’ According to medical professionals, repeatedly viewing distressing content on the phone can indirectly cause psychological harm. Psychiatrist Richa Amatya stated that prolonged exposure to various flood-related scenes on social media raises the danger of ‘secondary trauma.’

How can one recognize if they are experiencing ‘secondary trauma’ and how can its effects be mitigated? For more information on this topic, be sure to watch the accompanying video.

Historic Agreement Between US and Denmark Resolves Greenland Security Dispute

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

A significant agreement has been reached between the United States and Denmark to resolve the security dispute over Greenland, addressing former President Trump’s claims of Denmark granting the US permanent control. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen have stated that the agreement respects shared security concerns and the right to self-determination. The pact includes restrictions on military presence and sensitive investments by adversarial nations, and it is expected to be signed at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. (October 4, Kathmandu)

This agreement comes in response to diplomatic tensions sparked by former President Donald Trump’s threat to acquire Greenland. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has noted that the deal will help maintain regional stability. Trump had asserted that Denmark gave the US “permanent control” over Greenland, Denmark’s semi-autonomous Arctic territory, regarding its security and other necessities.

Both Danish and Greenlandic leaders have positively received the enhanced security agreement. Although the full text has not yet been publicly released, it is anticipated that the agreement will be signed at the United Nations General Assembly next week. Trump had long threatened to take full control of Greenland, citing national security, strategic location, and valuable mineral resources as justification.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen remarked that the agreement is beneficial to all three parties and expects it will be signed at the UN General Assembly next week. Greenlandic Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen expressed satisfaction, stating that the pact will strengthen the security of Greenland, Denmark, the United States, and the Western alliance. He added, “This agreement acknowledges Greenland’s interests and our role in international cooperation. It is in the best interest of all of us.”

Raphinha’s Consecutive Hat-Tricks Propel Barcelona to Victory

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Raphinha’s hat-trick helped Barcelona defeat Sevilla 3–1, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to six points. This season, Raphinha has scored hat-tricks in two consecutive matches, bringing his total to 14 goals across all competitions and 9 goals in La Liga. Barcelona have secured seven straight La Liga victories, accumulating 21 points from 7 games. Kathmandu, October 4.

Captain Raphinha netted his second consecutive hat-trick as Barcelona overcame Sevilla 3–1 in La Liga, further extending their lead at the summit. The match at Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán saw the home side take the lead in the 19th minute through Youssef En-Nesyri, but Barcelona responded within 3 minutes. Raphinha finished excellently inside the box to level the score at 1–1.

In the second half, Raphinha completed his hat-trick with two more goals assisted by Lamine Yamal. He scored his second goal in the 52nd minute with a header, then chipped in the third in the 69th minute following Yamal’s exquisite through pass. Previously, he had scored a hat-trick in Barcelona’s 7–2 victory over Racing Santander. With these goals, the Brazilian winger has reached 14 goals in all competitions and 9 goals in La Liga this season. This victory marks Barcelona’s seventh consecutive La Liga win, collecting 21 points from 7 games. Hansi Flick’s team is now 6 points clear of second-placed Real Madrid and third-placed Real Betis, although both teams have one fewer match played.