Author: space4knews

Speaker DP Aryal reviews the under-construction industry. April 14, Dhading. The country’s economy has been affected by a global economic downturn, investor hesitancy, and international conflicts. Despite these challenges, a new industry is being established in Kamere village, Ward No. 8 of Nilkantha Municipality in Dhading. Initiated amidst the public movement of mid-September, import-export disruptions, and a lack of investment-friendly conditions that have weakened the private sector, this project has instilled confidence among locals in jointly advancing agriculture and industry.

The industry structures are currently under construction in Kamere village near Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters. Heavy machinery is being installed, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with activity from workers and enthusiastic farmers alike. This new development is generating fresh energy in the area.

Renewed Hope Among Farmers: Surrounding the industry, there are 6-7 major cultivable areas including Kamere Phant, Koirale Phant, Tallobensi Phant, Sasah Phant, Birtabensi Phant, and Jalvire Phant. Traditionally, these areas have grown paddy and maize. While potato holds considerable potential as a winter crop, farmers have only engaged in limited cultivation for subsistence due to market shortages. The establishment of a potato-related industry in this region has sparked new hope among farmers. The industry plans to encourage potato production and purchase the potatoes produced.

Based on the recommendation from Ward No. 8 of Nilkantha Municipality, the industry has announced a 25% discount on potato storage facilities for local farmers. It also offers new prospects for the renowned potato farmers of northern Dhading. Previously, high-altitude potatoes often went to waste due to lack of markets, but now there is an increased likelihood of good market access. Sitaram Koirala of Ward No. 8 Nilkantha Municipality stated, “The areas traditionally used only for paddy and subsistence farming will now successfully cultivate potatoes. Direct sales from farm to industry have greatly encouraged the farmers.”

Employment Opportunities for Locals: Once fully operational, the industry director, Rameshbhai Adhikari, said approximately 200 people will be directly employed. Additionally, around 20,000 farmers are expected to benefit indirectly. The industry plans to prioritize providing employment to local youth, giving them opportunities to develop skills and work within their community instead of seeking foreign employment. A fully automated system based on German technology is being installed, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of Nepali agricultural products internationally. By processing agricultural products—typically limited to raw material form—and adding value, this initiative could positively impact the nation’s trade balance.

Adhikari further informed that the industry will consume 10 tons of potatoes daily to produce potato-based food products. Alongside industrial production, local entrepreneurs aim to build an ‘economic ecosystem’ by developing skills, transferring technology, and utilizing local human resources effectively.

Speaker Dolprasad Aryal, visiting Dhading—the first time during his tenure—inspected the under-construction industrial site and affirmed that the government is taking serious steps to secure private sector investment. His remarks have boosted investor confidence and morale, according to business leaders. Historically, bridging the gap between agriculture and industry has been a challenge in Nepal. However, this industrial project in Dhading, which adopts policies to increase agricultural output and improve market access, signals a reduction in that divide.

Kathmandu, April 14 – Hark Sampang, Chairman of the Labour Culture Party and a Member of Parliament, has committed to soon publicly disclose his assets. On Tuesday, he shared preliminary details on his Facebook status, stating that he does not own any land and only possesses a modest bank balance along with some gold.

Responding to public demands for his asset declaration, MP Sampang asserted that he holds no immovable property in his name. “I understand there is interest in my asset details, and I will make them public within a few days,” he said. “I own nothing in my name. I might have around 4-5 tolas of gold earned through foreign employment. My bank balance is only about 200,000 to 400,000 rupees.” He further noted that the only ancestral property associated with him is some farmland in Khotang, which is registered under his mother’s name.

Sampang specified that he possesses a few plots of farmland, including steep slopes, cultivated land, bamboo groves, and grassland, in Chokhane village, Ward No. 2 of Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality, Khotang district, all under his mother’s name. He clarified that none of his siblings have claimed any share of this inherited property so far. Addressing the legal requirement for public representatives to disclose their assets and the public’s growing queries, he affirmed his formal commitment to making his asset details publicly available.

Blockades imposed by the US on Iran’s ports have officially commenced. President Donald Trump announced that the blockade would begin at 10:00 AM Eastern Time (14:00 GMT) on Monday. Amid these developments, US Vice President James Defantis Pence accused the Iranian government of engaging in “economic terrorism” by disrupting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

In a television interview, Pence stated that the Iranians are “involved in acts of economic terrorism,” and the US will adopt a policy of “not allowing any Iranian vessels to go out.” Pence also addressed weekly talks, commenting, “The ball is in Iran’s court.” Earlier, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament affirmed Tehran’s stance of “not bowing to threats.” As for President Trump’s recent statements, there has been no official Iranian response.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued a warning that vessels in the area might face “military presence” and “inspection procedures.” Meanwhile, the New York Times cited senior Iranian officials reporting that Iran had proposed to suspend nuclear activities for five years, which the US rejected, insisting on a 20-year ban instead.

The report also noted that talks between the US and Iran took place in Pakistan, but no agreement was reached. Requests for comments from the White House are pending. Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain the central point of contention. President Trump has consistently stated that the US will ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on both the US and Iran to resume negotiations, emphasizing, “There is no military solution to this war; that is clear.”

Ravi Lamichhane, chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, characterized the upcoming New Year 2083 as a year that will be full of intense challenges. He stated, “It will be a year that truly tests endurance, and I hope we all gain the strength to endure hardship.” 1st Baisakh, Kathmandu.

Chairman Lamichhane extended his New Year greetings on behalf of his party. He specifically highlighted the year while conveying his wishes for the occasion.

President Ramchandra Paudel has characterized the New Year as an opportunity to determine shared national goals and to make a firm commitment to successfully achieving them. He highlighted that a new government has been established, and the people are expecting the rule of law, sustainable peace, and development. President Paudel emphasized the necessity of being loyal to the federal democratic republican system, committing to good governance, and upholding social justice. April 14, Kathmandu.

On the occasion of the New Year 2083, President Paudel extended wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, and longevity, while noting that goals are not easily attained and require strong resolve and hard work. He stressed that adherence to laws and regulations along with cultured behavior are essential to achieving these set objectives.

Recalling that the various Nepali calendars are an important part of the nation’s history, civilization, and social life, President Paudel remarked that they remind us of Nepal’s proud past and inspire continuous progress toward the future. He stated, “We Nepalese have traditionally regarded the New Year as a special occasion to review the past and to make pledges and resolve plans for the year ahead.”

President Paudel acknowledged the successful conclusion of the recent House of Representatives elections and the resolution of complex issues faced by the country, resulting in the formation of a new government based on the fresh mandate. He said, “Through this election, the Nepali people have expressed their desire for rule of law, sustainable peace, good governance, social justice, and prosperity rooted in the federal democratic republican system.”

He expressed his hope that the New Year will provide the determination and capability to achieve the goals of the federal democratic republic and inspire deeper trust, harmony, tolerance, and cooperation among Nepalis, thereby reinforcing national unity.

1st Baisakh, Tehrathum – The area stretching from Cholung Park to Tinjure and Gupha Pokhari has become a major attraction for tourists during the New Year celebrations in eastern Nepal. The Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale (TMJ) trail, located at the junction of Tehrathum, Sankhuwasabha, and Taplejung districts, has become a hub for nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and photographers. In spring, this region transforms into a vibrant world of rhododendrons. Known as the “Capital of Rhododendrons,” the area draws thousands of visitors on New Year’s Day. When the hills and ridges are painted red with various species of rhododendrons, the natural beauty of the area becomes even more enchanting. The rhododendron forests spreading from Tinjure Hill to Milke and Jaljale have become the top choice for tourists.

Cholung Park serves as the gateway to this region. From here, visitors travel to RR Garden, Ghurpise, Pathibhara, and then ascend to Tinjure Hill. The mesmerizing views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Kumbhakarna mountains from Tinjure captivate all who visit. Continuing from Tinjure, tourists reach Gupha Pokhari in the Milke-Jaljale region via Chaukibazar and Mangalbare. Gupha Pokhari holds religious and natural significance; its peaceful surroundings, adjacent rhododendron forests, and cool air offer visitors spiritual and mental tranquility. Activity at this site increases markedly during the New Year. Not only do tourists from the eastern Terai districts of Nepal visit, but thousands also come from neighboring India’s Sikkim, Darjeeling, and West Bengal.

The rhododendron blooming season, beautiful mountain vistas, and cool weather make this a popular spot for celebrating the New Year, a fact confirmed by local residents. The growing number of tourists means hotels and homestays here are often fully booked. According to Hima Khanal, a hotelier in Gupha Bazaar, room bookings during the New Year and rhododendron season must be made well in advance, not just for two or four days but even earlier. Local resident Shriprasad Karki notes that managing the influx of tourists poses a challenge for both hotels and homestays during this season. Easy access via various types of vehicles continues to boost tourist arrivals.

With road network expansion, tourists can now easily reach close by motorcycle, jeep, or bus. This accessibility distinguishes the TMJ area from other remote tourist destinations. To manage the increasing traffic, a bus park has been constructed in Ghurpise, which plays a crucial role in transportation management, traffic control, and facilitating tourist movement. The combined efforts of local government and communities have had a positive impact on tourism promotion. TMJ boasts rich biodiversity, hosting hundreds of plant species, rare medicinal herbs, birds, and wildlife. The trek from Cholung Park to Gupha Pokhari is considered peaceful, safe, and scenic. Trails connecting villages, the local cultural life, homestay facilities, and organic food experiences bring tourists closer to rural lifestyles. However, despite its enormous potential, improvements in infrastructure development, marketing, and long-term tourism management remain necessary. With planned and efficient implementation by concerned authorities, this region could become one of Nepal’s premier tourist destinations. During the New Year, the journey from Cholung Park to Tinjure and onward to Gupha Pokhari offers an excellent choice for those seeking nature, culture, tranquility, and adventurous trekking. The rhododendron-covered hills, breathtaking mountain vistas, convenient access, and organized transportation collectively establish this region as a must-visit destination for the New Year.

Gagan Kumar Thapa, Chairman of the Nepali Congress, emphasized the need for everyone to rise above partisan interests and boundaries and work collaboratively on the occasion of New Year 2083. He called for a firm resolve to confront national challenges through unified efforts. He extended his best wishes that the New Year strengthens unity, brotherhood, and cooperation among all Nepalis.

April 14, Kathmandu — Chairman Thapa stated that for the nation’s and people’s benefit, all must transcend party interests and boundaries to advance together. Marking the occasion of New Year 2083, he wished for happiness, peace, prosperity, and continuous progress, urging all political parties and responsible bodies to unite in building a peaceful, civilized, culturally enriched, and economically prosperous nation.

He highlighted the importance of safeguarding and reinforcing the historic achievements attained through the long sacrifices, struggles, movements, and sacrifices of the Nepali people, while facing potential future national challenges with a united determination. He also noted that this is a crucial time to utilize new opportunities effectively by strengthening good governance and resolutely advancing economic development and prosperity.

Wishing that the New Year further solidifies mutual unity, brotherhood, harmony, and cooperation among all Nepalis and institutionally strengthens the federal democratic republic, he expressed hope that it will provide new energy, enthusiasm, and inspiration to progress toward economic, social, and cultural prosperity.

1st Baisakh, Kathmandu – Today marks the beginning of Vikram Samvat 2083. The New Year is traditionally seen as a symbol of excitement, fresh hopes, and new beginnings. Across the country, people are exchanging greetings and celebrating the New Year with great joy. Globally, the New Year is celebrated as a special occasion, and in Nepal, Baisakh 1 is observed as the New Year. Vikram Samvat is considered the oldest calendar system, and today is its very first day. It also marks the day the sun completes its transit through the Pisces zodiac sign and enters Aries, an event known as Baisakh Sankranti or Mesh Sankranti.

Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha and the Nepal Chamber of Industries held discussions on collaboration for the development and advancement of the energy sector. Minister Shrestha stated that the government is responsible for increasing both electricity export and domestic consumption, and is expecting suggestions from the private sector. President of the Chamber, Birendra Raj Pandey, proposed the formulation of policies to boost electricity consumption and urged allowing the private sector to engage in both domestic and international electricity trade.

During the meeting on Monday, 1st Baisakh, in Kathmandu, Minister Shrestha emphasized the government’s commitment to progressing by cooperating with the private sector for the overall development of the energy sector. He mentioned that the government is undertaking groundwork on how to increase domestic electricity consumption alongside exports. Highlighting that the government prioritizes reservoir, renewable energy, and strategies to increase electricity consumption, he also expressed expectations for clear suggestions from the private sector on how the energy sector can contribute more significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Birendra Raj Pandey, President of the Nepal Chamber of Industries, stressed the need for policy implementation to increase electricity consumption, suggesting that energy production should be ensured for industries and transmitted via ‘wheeling charges.’ He recommended allowing the private sector to participate in both domestic and international electricity trading. Upon federal government approval, he urged immediate power purchase agreements (PPAs) with all surveyed projects pending such agreements. He also called for the development of policies to increase electricity consumption and requested incentives for industries based on fossil fuels to transition to electric-based equipment. Additionally, Pandey emphasized the importance of paying attention to alternative energy sources.

Summary: Former King Gyanendra Shah, on the occasion of the New Year 2083, urged all parties to be firmly committed to seeking a constitutional solution without delay. He emphasized that prohibitions, divisions, strikes, and rebellions weaken the country, and politics should be free from mutual hatred, enmity, and revenge. King Gyanendra remarked that only superficial changes have occurred in the political and governance systems, turning the country into a laboratory experiment.

Kathmandu, 30 Chaitra: Former King Gyanendra Shah called on all stakeholders to resolve constitutional issues promptly. In his New Year 2083 greeting message released on Monday, he insisted there should be no place for mutual animosity, hatred, revenge, or politics of prohibition.

He warned that prohibitions, divisions, strikes, and rebellions weaken the nation and advocated for a constitutional solution that addresses the demands of all parties. “Prohibitions, divisions, strikes, and rebellions undermine us. There should be no politics of mutual hatred, enmity, revenge, and prohibition. We must consider the people’s aspirations and prioritize the nation while moving forward without delay. Let us be resolutely committed to finding a constitutional solution through dialogue, consensus, and cooperation that addresses everyone’s demands,” said King Gyanendra.

He commented that despite significant alterations in the political framework, governance system, and administration, these changes were merely superficial. He added that the country has become a laboratory, having lagged behind in nation-building efforts.

“We have made many changes in politics, the state system, and governance administration. But these were only superficial changes,” King Gyanendra noted, “Amidst the chaos, we have stumbled often, yet we have fallen far behind in national prosperity. We were always engaged in experiments, practices, and searching for alternatives. As a result, our country has remained just a laboratory.”

On the eve of the New Year, King Gyanendra’s full address is as follows:

Dear Nepali brothers and sisters, we have entered the New Year 2083. On this sacred occasion of the beginning of the new year, I extend my best wishes for happiness and peace to all Nepalis living within the country and across the world.

With the passage of time, our country and society must advance on the path of progress. By correcting past shortcomings and mistakes and removing obstacles, we must move toward the highest goals. Only then will the new year have true significance.

There is a widespread sentiment among the Nepali people that development in recent years has been declining. We have witnessed numerous changes in politics, the state system, and governance administration; however, these were mere superficial modifications. Amidst the quagmire and turmoil, we have faltered many times, but we remain significantly behind in prosperity and development. We have constantly been engaged in trials, experiments, and seeking alternatives. Consequently, our country has become nothing more than a laboratory.

Stability, continuity, and perseverance have been lost at certain points. Past experiences have taught us that simply changing laws, systems, and individuals does not improve the overall situation.

The increasing involvement of the younger generation in politics and governance is encouraging. The presence of educated, country-conscious, and technologically adept enthusiastic individuals will contribute positively to the nation’s progress.

Our country is currently surrounded by various challenges. At this time, the hopes and aspirations of the Nepali people are very high. Our main focus should be on improving the troubled economic condition and enhancing cooperation and goodwill with neighboring and friendly nations.

Internal security systems are extremely weak. In the new year, it is essential to establish a framework to make security agencies efficient to guarantee life safety, protection of essential goods and resources, and uphold human rights and security associated with human life.

In today’s uncertain and turbulent world, the state must pay deep attention to ensuring security for its people and the assurance of produced goods. Citizens should not experience any physical, mental, material, or livelihood hardships.

We must strive for self-reliance in all areas and eliminate dependency to make the country resilient. The nation’s resources are its assets, and their proper use is essential for social welfare. Additionally, preserving culture and promoting indigenous art increases national pride. We must advance these fundamental tasks and responsibilities.

Prohibitions, divisions, strikes, and rebellions weaken us. Politics must not be fueled by hatred, enmity, revenge, or prohibition. We must not delay in moving forward with the country at the center, keeping public demands in consideration. Let us resolutely commit to finding a constitutional solution through dialogue, consensus, and cooperation that addresses all parties’ demands.

May Nepal become a land of peace and a country of progress, driven by its original, eternal identity and prestige. May all Nepalis attain justice, peace, and happiness. This is our highest ideal.

May Lord Pashupatinath bless everyone. Long live Nepal.

Summary after verification: Contractor Navinraj Basnet, who is connected to the suspended Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, Pradeep Adhikari, left for Germany with his family on 10 April (27 Chaitra). Adhikari, arrested on corruption charges by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), is also under investigation for money laundering and organized crime. The investigation has revealed efforts to threaten Adhikari, use tantric practices, and establish extremist groups.

Kathmandu, 13 April (30 Chaitra) – Navinraj Basnet, a contractor directly associated with suspended Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN) Pradeep Adhikari, has departed abroad together with his family. Basnet left Nepal three days after news broke regarding his connection to Adhikari. The 37-year-old Basnet from Dolakha was residing in a residential area of Bhaktapur and departed from Tribhuvan International Airport on Friday, 10 April (27 Chaitra). According to reliable sources, Basnet traveled to Germany via Qatar Airways flight QR 647. He was accompanied by his wife, Elisa Gautam. Basnet’s name appears 13th on the Qatar Airways passenger list.

On 7 April (24 Chaitra), news was published revealing that Adhikari, with Basnet’s involvement, had tried to manipulate powerful centers to resolve the Samsum case and had issued threats using names of tantrics and underworld dons. After the publication, Basnet denied the allegations, yet he left the country with his family three days later. Investigators consider his departure as further confirmation of the accusations.

The CIAA arrested Adhikari on corruption charges on 2 December (17 Mangsir) and filed cases. On 6 December (21 Mangsir), Adhikari was sent to Dillibazar prison over irregularities in the construction of the Nalinchok heliport in Bhaktapur. Besides the Nalinchok heliport case, two other corruption cases related to Pokhara International Airport have been filed against him.

Adhikari is currently under investigation for money laundering, organized crime, and possession of illegal assets. Navinraj Basnet has also been found to be involved in this investigation. Basnet is known to be close to Adhikari and has been actively trying to appease the CIAA. Three years ago, Basnet secured contracts inside Bhairahawa’s Gautam Buddha International Airport for the taxiway and apron. These contracts were awarded to the Ashish-Kshamadevi-Buddha Himalayan JV group, at which time Basnet was affiliated with the Kshamadevi group.

WhatsApp chats between Adhikari and Basnet reveal clear discussions on influencing the CIAA. Basnet appears to have promised, via Rajesh Bajracharya, to get Adhikari’s corruption cases dismissed. On 23 November 2025 at 11:07 PM, Adhikari messaged Basnet, “Talked with Rajesh dai.” Basnet replied at 11:10 PM, “I am fixing it,” adding later, “I will meet with Bas too. Dai, we are together.” On 25 November at 11:10 PM, Basnet messaged, “I will do it at any pace, dai, don’t worry.”

After failing to settle the case with the CIAA, investigations revealed attempted use of tantric rituals, threats via forming extremist groups, and efforts to force the resignation of CIAA chief Prem Rai. Basnet was found to have sent the letterhead of the extremist group to Adhikari via WhatsApp. Digital Forensic Lab (DFL) reports indicate that the letterhead was distributed from Basnet’s mobile number. The letter, which appeared to have been prepared by Prakash Pathak, threatened to assassinate CIAA head and 10 others. The threat was delivered through a video, and Pathak allegedly received a 20 million NPR contract for this task.

To evade charges through tantric sorcery, Adhikari enlisted help from an Indian tantric baba named Saraya Kinnera (Jai Jagadambe) based at Kamakhya Devi Temple in Guwahati, Assam, India. Adhikari sent a photo of CIAA chief Rai to the tantric practitioner, who performed rituals as shown in videos sent to Adhikari, including destroying an effigy of Rai while chanting mantras.

Basnet, currently absconding, is also implicated in an abduction case dating back to 23 April 2020 (10 Baisakh 2077), when he assisted in bringing former Health Minister and then-MP Surendra Yadav from Mahottari to Kathmandu as part of efforts to split the Socialist Party. Basnet has a history of being linked to criminal activities.

Summary: The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has requested local authorities to take legal action against schools that fail to provide scholarships as mandated by regulations. The ministry has urged both private and public schools to immediately update scholarship information reflecting the mandated 10 percent provision on the IMIS platform. Schools have been instructed to publicly disclose and regularly update details of students receiving scholarships in a manner easily accessible to parents. 30 Chaitra, Kathmandu – The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has appealed to all local governments to coordinate and facilitate necessary legal measures against schools that do not comply with scholarship provisions stipulated in the law.

In a letter sent today to the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, the ministry requested local bodies to monitor and support compliance regarding whether private and public schools have updated the IMIS with details of scholarships provided to the required 10 percent of students based on enrollment, in accordance with the Education Act and related regulations.

Under the Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2075 (2018), privately invested schools and those managed under public educational trusts must provide free education and allocate seats based on a designated percentage of their student population. Similarly, the Education Regulation, 2059 (2002), mandates institutional schools to award scholarships to at least 10 percent of their students from disadvantaged groups including the poor, differently-abled, female, Dalit, and indigenous communities. Accordingly, all schools are required to provide scholarships to the prescribed percentage of their enrolled students.

The ministry has requested schools to systematically collect and promptly update scholarship recipient data on the IMIS platform. Additionally, schools must publish these details in a format accessible to guardians. The directive also emphasizes monitoring compliance and requiring schools that have not updated the scholarship information to do so immediately, as detailed in the official letter.