June 20, Kathmandu – Ukraine has launched a significant attack on a major oil terminal in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The strike occurred on Friday night, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirming that Ukrainian forces successfully targeted critical infrastructure that serves as a vital revenue source for Russia’s war efforts. Additionally, claims have been made that a key Russian naval base was also attacked.
Alexander Beglov, the governor of Saint Petersburg, confirmed the severe drone attack on the city, reporting damage to the oil terminal. However, details regarding human casualties have not yet been disclosed. Recently, Ukraine has intensified long-range drone strikes on Russia’s principal energy infrastructure, reportedly causing a substantial energy shortage within Russia. According to Ukrainian claims, these attacks have destroyed 43 percent of Russia’s oil refining capacity, although this figure has not been independently verified. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged last week that the fuel crisis is a direct consequence of Ukrainian attacks.
June 20, Kathmandu – Millions of people have gathered in Tehran to pay their final respects to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in attacks attributed to the US and Israel. The condolences ceremonies, which began on Friday, continued to see large crowds on Saturday as well. Khamenei’s body is laid in Tehran’s Grand Mosque, where a significant security presence has been deployed.
According to Iranian officials, the memorial events will last for six days, with an anticipated attendance of nearly twenty million people over this period. Furthermore, reports indicate that Khamenei’s body will also be taken to Iraq. Citing Iraqi news sources, an international media outlet reported on Wednesday that his remains will be transported to Baghdad, Iraq’s capital, for additional final tributes.
Images: AFP/RSS
The government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ publicly shared the achievements attained during its first 100 days on Saturday. The report outlined the government’s progress across various sectors including education, health, foreign employment, and administration during this period. In the briefing, government spokesperson and Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Sashmit Pokhrel, highlighted that programs aimed at administrative reform, public service delivery, good governance, infrastructure development, and social sectors are advancing at a rapid pace.
Among the principal accomplishments, the Property Investigation Commission has established administrative and institutional structures and collected over 11,000 property declarations and complaints to date. The Property Purification Investigation Department has filed seven cases involving 101 defendants, demanding compensation valued at 11.8 billion Nepali rupees. In line with the decision of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to shut down betting applications and associated websites, more than 200,000 domain links were blocked within 24 hours across various service providers.
Authorities have arrested 13,696 individuals involved in attacks and looting of private property, registering 6,195 cases against them. To enhance industrial and commercial security, rapid response mechanisms have been set up in 77 districts, with 15,439 armed police personnel deployed. The police have also established swift communication systems with industries, banks, and security agencies.
Processes to dissolve 31 entities, merge 6 bodies, transfer 6 agencies, and restructure 18 organizations are actively underway. Additionally, 672 government vehicles and motorcycles illegally used by former officials and influential persons have been confiscated and reclaimed. Disciplinary action was taken regarding nearly 400 professors from Tribhuvan University who went on study leave and failed to return, resulting in the recovery of approximately 132.6 million Nepali rupees in revenue.
Argentina has taken the lead in the second minute of extra time at the Miami Stadium. Lisandro Martinez scored to put the team ahead. Kathmandu, 20 Ashar.
In the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match, Argentina gained the advantage over Cape Verde during extra time. The match at Miami Stadium entered extra time after the regulation 90 minutes ended in a 1–1 draw, with Argentina scoring early in the extra period.
Captain Lionel Messi had given Argentina the initial lead in the 29th minute. However, Cape Verde’s Dayro Duarte equalized in the 59th minute, leveling the score and pushing the game into extra time.
This question has sparked widespread debate across India’s social media and news headlines, following a recent decision by the West Bengal government last week.
According to the announcement, under a pilot scheme, certain government schools will replace eggs with vegetarian meals in their afternoon snacks.
This initiative is part of the ‘Mid-Day Meal Program,’ which provides free midday meals to students in government and aided schools.
For millions of children from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, this meal is often the most nutritious—and sometimes the only—meal of the day.
Long promoted as a program to improve nutrition, reduce hunger, and encourage regular school attendance, the Mid-Day Meal Program plays a crucial role in children’s health and education.
Alternative Sources
The controversy began after the recently elected Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in West Bengal announced that the food preparation responsibility for Kolkata Municipal Corporation schools would be handed over to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
An ISKCON official said last week that the meals would be prepared by the society’s Annadana Foundation.
This foundation plans to serve exclusively vegetarian meals and use alternative protein sources instead of eggs.
However, the program has not been fully implemented yet, and it remains unclear whether it will be expanded to other schools.
ISKCON has stated that discussions are ongoing and no final decision has been made.
Nevertheless, the move has reignited debates nationwide about what should be included in school midday meals.
Nutritionists emphasize that eggs are among the most affordable and effective protein sources, especially for growing children from low-income families.
Image source, AFP via Getty Images
Recurring Controversies
Several BJP-ruled states have also introduced plans to reduce or remove eggs from school meals, which has repeatedly triggered controversy.
Critics accuse these moves of imposing caste-based or religious-ideological beliefs onto nutrition policies.
Proponents argue that vegetarian diets can also adequately provide the necessary nutrients.
By May, the ruling opposition party in West Bengal, All India Trinamool Congress, had accused the new BJP government of trying to enforce vegetarian meals.
Some leaders and activists have suggested a moderate approach, allowing students to select either egg-based or vegetarian options.
Eggs have long been recognized as a high-quality and affordable protein source.
Image source, NurPhoto via Getty Images
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has stated that the program’s objective is to provide “good and nutritious food” to students.
“No one will be pressured to chant Hare Krishna,” he assured.
Chief Minister Adhikari denied allegations that this measure was influenced by Hindu nationalist ideology.
ISKCON also dismissed such criticism as baseless. Through its Akshay Patra Foundation, the organization reportedly provides food to about one million students across 16 states, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Delhi.
Radha Raman Das, former vice president of ISKCON Kolkata branch until recently, told local media that the organization prioritizes nutritious and hygienic meals.
He argued that vegetarian meals can provide protein and vitamins similar to those found in eggs.
Dietary Diversity
This controversy has refocused attention on India’s school Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
The program, based on a school lunch scheme started in Madras (now Chennai) in 1925 and expanded nationwide by 1995, stands as one of the largest such initiatives globally.
It provides meals to over 11 million children.
Though the central government sets calorie and protein targets, state governments decide how to meet these requirements.
As a result, there is no single national menu, and meal options vary by region.
In Bihar, children receive eggs once a week alongside dal, chickpeas, and rice.
In Tamil Nadu, midday meals typically include rice, sambar, vegetables, and eggs.
Other states provide strictly vegetarian meals; in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi, common dishes include dal, vegetables, and rice or wheat-based preparations, sometimes complemented by milk, paneer, or fruit.
Image source, Reuters
Cooking methods also vary. Many government schools have designated staff who prepare meals on-site, while others contract non-profit organizations to cook according to state nutrition guidelines and menus.
In Kolkata government schools, for the past decade, approved meals have included rice, dal, vegetables, and eggs on set days, though this practice may now change.
The decision has received mixed reactions.
Some primary school students have welcomed the change, appreciating the opportunity to try new types of meals.
Others have expressed disappointment, eagerly awaiting the days when eggs were still served.
Chaitali Mitra, a 37-year-old mother of a daughter attending a government school, said, “School meals are better when they include eggs.”
“I was reassured that my growing child’s protein needs were being met.”
Nutrition Experts Weigh In
The nutrition debate largely focuses on whether vegetarian alternatives can provide nutrients equivalent to eggs.
Farhiya Shanam, a nutritionist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi, noted that eggs are among the most complete and affordable protein sources.
She stated, “Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids required by the body.”
While lentils and legumes are nutritious, they tend to have higher fiber content and lack some essential amino acids.
“Eggs also provide abundant vitamins D and B12, making them excellent nutrition sources for growing children.”
Dr. Shanam added that paneer and similar foods can offer comparable nutrition but are relatively expensive and difficult for government schemes to provide regularly.
Dr. Vamsi B, an internal medicine specialist at Gleneagles Hospital in Hyderabad, said, “For many children, the meal received at school is the most nutritious of the day.”
According to Dr. Vamsi, removing eggs without considering their nutritional value risks deficits in protein and micronutrients.
Though these effects might not be immediate, they could negatively affect growth, cognitive development, and immunity in the long run.
Image source, Reuters
School teachers emphasize the crucial role of school meals for many underprivileged children.
A primary school teacher in Delhi commented, “One of the main reasons children enroll in primary school is precisely because of the mid-day meal.”
She added that most children attend school hungry and look forward to the daily meal.
Bimala Singh, a teacher from Bihar, said students should have freedom of choice, with meat-eaters receiving eggs each Friday and vegetarians receiving bananas.
“Nobody is forced to eat or avoid eggs,” she added.
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Cape Verde, a nation formed by ten islands in Africa, delivered an outstanding performance in their first ever World Cup appearance, fiercely competing against formidable opponents. Remaining undefeated in the group stage, they made history by advancing to the knockout rounds on their debut. The 40-year-old goalkeeper, Vozinha, gained international acclaim for his exceptional saves.
This World Cup has highlighted not only goal scorers but also goalkeepers who effectively thwart opposing attacks. Naturally, the spotlight has been on the big contenders and star players. However, the FIFA World Cup 2026, held across North America, Mexico, and Canada, has also showcased new teams and players who have not gone unnoticed. Cape Verde’s remarkable display in their maiden World Cup challenged powerful adversaries and came close to toppling former champions Argentina.
In the Round of 32, Cape Verde pushed title hopeful Argentina to a 1-1 draw, forcing the match into extra time. Ultimately, Cape Verde was eliminated 3-2 due to an own goal. Lionel Messi-led Argentina’s grit was matched by Cape Verde’s bravery, earning widespread praise from football experts, supporters, and former players worldwide. With 9 minutes remaining in extra time (111th minute), Cape Verde was defeated by an own goal from Dine Borges.
Former Scotland international James McFadden said, “Cape Verde lost but won everyone’s hearts. They demonstrated courage, unity, and strong belief on the pitch.” Former England player Gary Neville also lauded Cape Verde: “This is one of the best performances I have seen from an underdog team. They are crying as they return home because they want to spend their remaining lives here in the desert.”
Cape Verde’s coach Bubista expressed pride in demonstrating their ability to compete with top teams despite their small size. “We may be a small country, but we have the capability to challenge the best teams in the world. This is a great source of pride for us,” he said. He added, “We made history and brought pride to our nation.”
As Prime Minister Balendra Shah, known as ‘Balen,’ completes 100 days in office, the government has introduced several decisions directly impacting working women and housewives. Reflecting on the positive and negative outcomes experienced by housewives during this period, the achievements were reviewed on Saturday under Prime Minister Shah’s leadership. We explored how the policies targeting housewives implemented over these 100 days have created ease or challenges for them. To gain further insight into this topic, be sure to watch the video below.
20 Ashar, Kathmandu – The final farewell ceremony for Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has commenced. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian along with other top national leaders paid tribute to Khamenei on Friday in Tehran. However, due to security reasons, Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was unable to attend the ceremony. On Saturday, millions gathered at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla to bid farewell to Khamenei. According to international media reports, participants clad in black, following Shia tradition, expressed mourning by beating their chests. During the event, slogans such as “Blood will flow,” “Death to America,” and “Revenge, revenge” were chanted. Funeral rites related to Khamenei, which began on July 3, will continue until July 9 in Tehran.
U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that the United States granted Iran a one-week leave for Khamenei’s funeral, a gesture he described as humanitarian. He stated that once the ceremony concludes, Iran should comply with American demands and proceed forward. Over 100 countries sent representatives to the funeral event; however, top leaders from Russia, China, India, and Turkey dispatched delegations rather than attending in person. Likewise, heads of state from Pakistan, Iraq, Armenia, Tajikistan, and Georgia were present at the ceremony.
Alongside Khamenei, victims of the February 28 attack—including his 14-month-old granddaughter, daughter, son-in-law, and daughter-in-law—were given final tributes. Security arrangements for the funeral have been tightened considerably. The military and police forces are extensively deployed outside Tehran’s key roads, intersections, and government buildings. To facilitate public participation, metro and government bus services in Tehran have been made free of charge. Additionally, hotels are offering 50% discounts on rooms, and accommodations have been arranged in schools and mosques. Special trains have also been organized to bring people from other cities.
According to Iranian media, Ali Khamenei’s final journey will proceed from Tehran to Qom, then through Iraq’s Karbala and Najaf, ultimately concluding in Mashhad on July 9, where he will be laid to rest. Qatar has indicated that talks between the U.S. and Iran will resume following Khamenei’s funeral. Meanwhile, Iran has refused permission for the International Atomic Energy Agency to inspect the Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities. Iranian officials estimate that 15 to 20 million people will come to Tehran over the next three days to pay their respects to Khamenei. To alleviate the heat, over 6,000 water sprinklers have been installed. Regarding food provisions, 50 million pieces of bread will be prepared, with 16 mobile bakeries operating in Tehran. Since chemical treatments of bodies are prohibited in Islam, Khamenei’s body was stored under refrigeration for four months without any chemical preservation. His coffin is adorned with red tulips and surrounded by white butterflies drifting in the air. In the Shia community, red flowers symbolize martyrdom and the blood of resistance against injustice, while white butterflies represent the pure soul of the martyr. Although Saudi Arabia is absent from the list of foreign delegations, the Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister made an unexpected visit to Tehran.
France and Paraguay have faced each other twice in the World Cup so far, with France winning both encounters, which included some significant moments. The match between giant-killers Paraguay and the top contender France is set to kick off early Sunday morning at 2:45 AM local US time on June 30, in Philadelphia. On one side is France, currently boasting a roster full of global football superstars, while on the other is Paraguay, delivering surprising performances in this World Cup. These two teams will meet in the second round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 pre-quarterfinals, with all eyes fixed on this highly anticipated clash.
The knockout stage has already seen Paraguay create a major upset by eliminating four-time world champions Germany in a penalty shootout. Meanwhile, France convincingly defeated Sweden 3-0 in regular time. As the top favorite to win the title, France is currently in excellent form, making them a formidable challenge for any opponent. France, who won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, also reached the final in Qatar 2022 but lost to Argentina in a penalty shootout, finishing as runners-up.
Paraguay’s journey has been somewhat turbulent. They secured just one win in three group-stage matches but advanced to the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams. In the Round of 32 against Germany, Paraguay took the lead in the first half thanks to a goal from Julio Enciso. Kai Havertz equalized in the second half, and after a 1-1 draw in both regular and extra time, Paraguay triumphed 4-3 in the penalty shootout to reach the Round of 16.
Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro commented, “This is the first World Cup for many of our players. They need to learn quickly, and playing against one of the world’s best teams is a tremendous opportunity. We aim to make history by playing without pressure.” Likewise, France coach Didier Deschamps said, “Paraguay is no different from any South American team; they will fight hard from start to finish.”
Following the match on Saturday morning in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, coach Lionel Scaloni described Cape Verde as an outstanding team. On 20 Ashad in Kathmandu, Argentina secured a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Cape Verde.
“It was a very tough game, but we must always focus on the positive aspects. This team never gives up. I must also give credit to our opponents,” said coach Scaloni. He added, “No opposing team is weak. Today, Cape Verde proved themselves to be an excellent team.”
Acknowledging the contributions of all players, Scaloni said, “The reality is that everyone was extremely tired because they gave their all. This is Argentina. If you don’t understand that, it’s difficult. We Argentinians will understand it, because nothing comes easy for us.”
Iran has launched an extended public mourning and funeral ceremony for its former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed four months ago in a joint US-Israeli attack. The ceremony honors his legacy amid ongoing conflict.
The former Ayatollah’s body is currently placed at the Grand Mosalla Mosque in Tehran. His funeral is scheduled to take place next Thursday in his hometown of Mashhad.
Iranian officials anticipate that between 12 and 20 million people will participate in the ceremonies.
Senior government officials have described this as the funeral of the century.
The funeral takes place amid a tenuous ceasefire following preliminary peace talks between Iran and the United States held in June.
Who Is Attending?
Image Source, Reuters
On Friday, the casket draped in the colors of the Islamic Republic was positioned at the Grand Mosalla.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was present at the religious complex to pay respects.
Also attending were Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is mediating the peace talks with the US, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
Representatives from Iraq, Armenia, Turkey, and Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman also attended the ceremonies.
During the six-day mourning period, an official funeral will be held in Tehran on Saturday, led by Mohammad Rasool Allah Corps.
Trump’s Response
Image Source, Reuters
The remains of Khamenei and family members killed in the February US-Israeli attack will remain at the Grand Mosalla for three days.
According to commander Hassan Hasanjadeh of the Mohammad Rasool Allah Corps, the casket has been elevated on a high platform for public viewing.
For crowd control, entrance and exit will be permitted every 15 to 20 minutes starting Saturday morning.
Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli strike at the end of February; the region remains affected by conflict since then.
Speaking from the United States on Friday night, President Donald Trump said his country remains committed to the ceasefire efforts.
“We have given them [Iran] a week off for the funeral. Because we are good,” Trump said during a speech at Mount Rushmore ahead of the 250th US Independence Day on July 4.
Ceremony Management
Image Source, Reuters
Officials have ordered all public and private offices to close from Saturday through Monday.
Reports indicate that private vehicle access will be banned in many central parts of the city during this period.
Tehran’s airport was partially closed on Friday and is planned to be fully closed on Monday. The ceremonies on Tuesday will be held in Qom, south of Tehran.
A senior Shia cleric will lead the main funeral prayer at Jamkaran, a significant religious site in Iran.
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June 20, Kathmandu – Following the completion of the Round of 32 matches at the FIFA World Cup 2026, the lineup for the Round of 16, also known as the pre-quarterfinals, has become clear. The Round of 16 is dominated by teams based in Europe and the Americas. From Africa, only two teams have advanced to the Round of 16, while no Asian team managed to qualify for this stage.
Out of nine African teams that reached the Round of 32, seven were eliminated in that round. Only Morocco and Egypt progressed to the Round of 16.
Similarly, from Asia, Japan and Australia (competing through the Asian quota) were both defeated in the Round of 32, resulting in no Asian team’s representation in the Round of 16.
Europe leads the Round of 16 with seven teams securing spots. These include former runner-up France, alongside previous champions Spain, England, Belgium, Portugal, Norway, and Switzerland.
From South America, four teams have advanced: defending champions Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Paraguay. Ecuador, among the South American teams in the Round of 32, failed to progress to the Round of 16.
North America is represented by three countries—United States, Mexico, and Canada—all of which won their Round of 32 matches and advanced.
Matchups for the Round of 16 are as follows: On June 20, Morocco will face Canada at 10:45 PM; on June 21, France will play Paraguay at 2:45 AM; on June 22, Norway takes on Brazil at 1:45 AM, followed by England versus Mexico at 5:45 AM; on June 23, Spain plays Portugal at 12:45 AM and Belgium faces the United States at 5:45 AM; Argentina will meet Egypt at 9:45 PM; and on June 24, Colombia faces Switzerland at 1:45 AM.
After a hard-fought victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 match on Saturday morning, captain Lionel Messi admitted there was a lack of coordination in their play. Kathmandu, June 20 – Argentina’s captain Messi acknowledged that his team was unable to effectively pressure Cape Verde.
Following the tough win in the Saturday morning game, Messi pointed out the challenge in team coordination. “I think we couldn’t keep effective pressure on them. At times, the distance between our players was too wide. When we tried to progress from the defensive pivot, the gap for the center-backs was too large, which slightly disrupted our coordination,” he explained.
Messi revealed that due to the lack of synchronization among players, Cape Verde managed to maintain ball possession. He added, “They always had one more player because we couldn’t coordinate our players accordingly. So they kept control of the ball while we were running after it. We simply couldn’t apply pressure on them the right way.”
June 20, Kathmandu – In Tehran, the capital of Iran, an official Indian government delegation paid tribute to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The official delegation from India included Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasanain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margerita. Governor Hasanain shared photographs of the condolence ceremony on social media and issued a statement expressing his sentiments. The statement read, ‘Along with Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margerita, we represented India at the funeral ceremony of Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei in Tehran on Friday, conveying deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the struggle.’ Minister Margerita also shared pictures on social media, stating, ‘The Bihar Governor and I represented India at the funeral ceremony of former Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, in Tehran. We paid tribute on behalf of the Government of India and the Indian people.’ The funeral ceremony for Ali Khamenei has already commenced in Iran, with foreign dignitaries arriving in Tehran for the event.
June 19, Kathmandu – The pre-quarterfinal lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been finalized. All Round of 32 matches concluded Saturday morning, determining the last 16 teams advancing in the tournament. Four-time champions Germany, third-place finishers in the last edition Croatia, top contender Netherlands, Asian powerhouse Japan, and African dark horse Senegal were all eliminated in the Round of 32.
Defending champions Argentina, runners-up France, fourth-place Morocco, as well as European powerhouses Spain, England, and Belgium are among the 16 teams moving forward to compete for a spot in the quarterfinals. Co-host Canada secured their place in the last 16 by defeating South Africa in the Round of 32. Brazil advanced by overcoming Japan, while Germany was eliminated after losing to Paraguay in a tiebreak.
Morocco knocked out the Netherlands on penalties, Norway defeated Ivory Coast, and France triumphed over Sweden. Mexico beat Ecuador; England overcame Congo; Belgium defeated Senegal; and the United States ended Bosnia and Herzegovina’s campaign. Spain prevailed against Austria, Portugal defeated Croatia, and Switzerland eliminated Algeria. Egypt advanced by winning on penalties against Australia.
Argentina secured their Round of 16 place by defeating Cape Verde, and Colombia eliminated Ghana. The Round of 16 opening match will feature Canada versus Morocco, kicking off tonight at 10:45 PM. The following match between Paraguay and France is scheduled for tomorrow morning at 2:45 AM. Brazil faces Norway Monday at 1:45 AM, with Mexico and England also competing Monday morning. Portugal and Spain will meet Tuesday at 12:45 AM, while the United States takes on Belgium the same day. Argentina clashes with Egypt Tuesday night at 9:45 PM, followed by Switzerland versus Colombia Wednesday morning at 1:45 AM.