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Commerce Department Refutes Industry Minister’s Claim of Hidden Gas Stock; Controversy Over Raid at Radisson Hotel

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The government appears to be adopting a cheap tactic to cover up its failure by raiding a five-star hotel instead of taking responsibility for the artificial shortage of cooking gas in the market. While the Commerce Department clarified that the cylinders stored at the Radisson Hotel adhere to regular consumption procedures, the ministry has gone as far as labeling it black market hoarding. Business owners and consumer rights advocates have stated that the government’s approach will not resolve the issue and have called for breaking syndicates to ease supply.

Kathmandu, 28 Shrawan – For over a month, the entire country has faced an artificial shortage of LPG cooking gas, resulting in the public lining up beside empty cylinders along the roads. Despite complete failure in managing gas supply, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies is currently engaged in cheap stunts and misinformation to conceal its shortcomings. Minister Gauri Kumari Yadav has herself assured consumers over the phone about receiving gas, while the ministry’s Commerce, Supply, and Consumer Protection Department has been promoting a risky narrative by portraying routine monitoring as a raid on a high-end hotel.

Just today, the minister’s secretariat claimed in the media that the Commerce Department raided the Radisson Hotel, a five-star establishment in Lazimpat, seizing 184 gas cylinders supposedly ‘hidden’ there. The ministry also indicated that actions are being prepared against the hotel for hoarding a large quantity of gas when consumers are unable to obtain it.

However, the government’s claim borders on the absurd as it is contradicted by the department’s own documentation stating, “at the hotel kitchen, 70 cylinders were observed in simultaneous use.” For an international chain hotel that serves hundreds of guests daily and operates with a manifold system connecting 70 gas cylinders at once, having 184 cylinders in stock cannot be considered unauthorized storage or black market hoarding. Mathematically, the presence of 184 cylinders where 70 are consumed simultaneously only represents a backup supply for about two to three days.

Given the severe gas shortage and the government’s failure to guarantee regular supply, is it a crime or a necessity for a business to maintain a two- to three-day backup supply to ensure uninterrupted service? Understanding this, the department’s “raid-style” action against Radisson appears to be nothing more than a stunt and a tool to hide its own inadequacies.

“We did not conduct a raid, only routine monitoring,” says Commerce Department
According to the Commerce Department, which conducted the monitoring, the hotel did not hide any gas, and the stock was only for regular use. Anil Kiranti, the department’s information officer, flatly rejected the ministry’s allegations, clarifying that no raid was carried out, only routine inspections. Due to the larger gas consumption systems of five-star hotels, the presence of about 150 cylinders cannot be classified as black market hoarding or concealed storage, he explained.

“This is part of our regular monitoring. We have inspected five or six five-star hotels, including Radisson, Solti, and Hyatt,” Kiranti stated. “During this monitoring, it was found that nearly 150 cylinders are present in five-star hotels, with 80 to 90 cylinders connected simultaneously, reflecting actual consumption, not hidden stock.”

Despite the department’s conclusion that no gas was hidden, the ministry and the minister propagated false claims of recovering hoarded gas following the alleged raid. When questioned about this, Information Officer Kiranti expressed ignorance about the ministry’s stunt. “I can’t comment on that, but from our perspective, this was only a routine monitoring and the gas was stored for normal hotel use,” he added.

Status of Service and Spare Parts Amid Growth of Diverse Vehicle Brands in Nepal

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

News Summary

  • More than 55 electric vehicle brands and over 40 new models were unveiled at the ongoing ‘NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo–2026’ in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu.
  • As the influx of new electric vehicles increases, consumers need to gather clear information about service centers, spare parts availability, and long-term maintenance before purchasing.
  • Expo coordinator Gaurav Sharda advised customers to ask five essential questions about official service networks, parts availability, and company responsibility before buying a vehicle.

August 13, Kathmandu. With the expansion of the electric vehicle market in Nepal, an increasing number of new vehicle brands are entering the market. Featuring attractive designs, advanced technology, extended range, and competitive prices, Chinese and other international brands are making a prominent entry into the Nepalese market. This trend is evident at the ongoing ‘NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo–2026’ held in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu since August 11.

More than 55 brands are participating in the expo, with over 40 new models unveiled. The pace of new brands entering the four-wheeler, two-wheeler, and commercial vehicle segments is accelerating rapidly.

However, as the variety of brands and models increases, consumers now face pressing questions such as: Where will service be available after purchase? Are spare parts readily accessible? Who will repair the battery or motor in case of malfunction? What happens if the company exits the Nepalese market?

When buying vehicles, customers often focus heavily on price, range, design, features, and financing options. Yet, post-sale service is equally critical for evaluating the true ownership cost and long-term reliability of the vehicle.

Currently, customers tend to prioritize new models over the quality of service and availability of spare parts. Attractive offers associated with new launches draw customers, but many neglect to consider ease of service center access or spare parts availability after purchase.

New Brands Bring New Risks

In recent years, Chinese electric vehicle brands have rapidly entered Nepal’s auto market. Participating in NAIMA Expo–2026 are brands including BYD, Omoda/Zeeko, Denza, Forthing, Henry Volts, Icar, K, Lipmotor, Maxus, R-Fox, Henry Boma, Wuling, and Jikor.

While some are new to Nepal, others are expanding their market presence. The biggest challenge for these brands lies in ensuring reliable after-sales service and spare parts supply since establishing a showroom to sell vehicles is different from building a nationwide service network.

Having attractive showrooms and a few service centers in Kathmandu alone cannot guarantee long-term support for customers nationwide. Especially outside Kathmandu, questions remain about availability of regular servicing, accident repairs, battery checking, motor and electronic parts maintenance, and access to genuine spare parts.

How Extensive are Service Centers Outside Kathmandu?

Established brands are expanding their service networks alongside vehicle sales. Established players are increasing their customer base and simultaneously extending service centers. However, new brands have varying situations — some operate with limited Kathmandu networks, while others are expanding to major cities across Nepal.

Consumers visiting the expo should ask, “Where are your service centers located? How many in Kathmandu? Are there centers in key cities like Pokhara, Chitwan, Butwal, Nepalgunj, Biratnagar, Itahari, and Birgunj?”

In the global EV market, BYD operates 14 service centers nationwide in Nepal. Tata Motors has 37 charging stations and more than two dozen service centers across the country.

Other brands such as GWM, Mahindra, Royal Enfield, Proton, Omoda, Nissan, Hyundai, Suzuki, Denzha, TVS, KTM, and Atar have also extended their service centers nationwide.

For newer brands, service centers remain limited mostly to the Kathmandu valley and a few other locations.

What is the Spare Parts Stock Situation?

Having service centers alone is insufficient; adequate availability of necessary spare parts is equally critical. While parts for basic maintenance may be locally available, components such as motors, controllers, inverters, battery modules, charging systems, airbags, and various electronic parts often need to be imported, which can delay repairs and increase customers’ expenses.

Ensuring availability of spare parts and service centers is crucial when new brands enter Nepal. NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo–2026 coordinator and Sharda Group director Gaurav Sharda emphasizes that after-sales service is a fundamental responsibility of every brand.

“Every brand must manage its own service operations. We are also engaging with the government on road infrastructure matters,” he stated.

He added that educational sessions are being held in collaboration with Nepal Police Club at the expo venue in Bhrikutimandap. However, the brands themselves must remain accountable for service.

“Service is simple — if I provide good service to my customers, who else will buy my vehicles tomorrow? Customers are not foolish,” Sharda remarked.

According to him, since customers invest more than NPR 3 million in buying a vehicle, they make decisions by reviewing the company’s history and service network.

“I urge customers to thoroughly check the manufacturer, official dealer, service history, and spare parts availability before selecting a vehicle,” he emphasized.

The expo presents an excellent opportunity for customers interested in new brands, as many brand representatives are available at one location. Customers can inquire beyond price and features to understand post-sale service conditions. Sharda recommends customers seek answers to these five key questions:

  • How many authorized service centers exist nationwide?
  • Which cities outside Kathmandu offer service facilities?
  • What is the stock level of necessary genuine spare parts and how long is the import lead time?
  • Are repair services for battery, motor, controller, or inverter available locally, or must entire parts be replaced?
  • If an importer or manufacturer ceases operations in Nepal, who takes responsibility for servicing vehicles and supplying parts?

When purchasing a new vehicle, it is important to ask not only “How large is the company?” but also: Who is the official dealer in Nepal? What is their financial strength? How long have they been in the market? What investment have they made in service networks? And how long do they commit to supplying parts?

Failing to obtain clear answers to these questions can expose customers to additional risks if purchases are made based solely on attractive design, range, features, or price showcased at the expo.

How Are Service and Spare Parts Availability Impacted by the Increase in Various Vehicle Brands?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

News Summary

  • The ongoing “NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo–2026” at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, features over 55 electric vehicle brands and more than 40 new models unveiled.
  • As the influx of new electric vehicles increases, consumers need to seek clear information on service centers, spare parts availability, and long-term maintenance before purchase.
  • Expo coordinator Gaurav Sharda advises customers to ask five key questions regarding official dealer service networks, parts availability, and company accountability when buying a vehicle.

August 13, Kathmandu – With the expansion of the electric vehicle market in Nepal, a rapid influx of new brands has been observed. Attractive designs, advanced technology, long ranges, and competitive pricing have brought electric vehicles from China and other countries to the Nepali market. This trend is also evident at the ongoing “NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo–2026” at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, which started on August 11.

More than 55 brands are participating in the expo, and over 40 new models have been launched. The addition of new brands in four-wheelers, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles continues to accelerate.

However, as the variety of vehicle brands and models increases, consumers face important questions: Where will they get service after purchase? Are spare parts available? Who repairs batteries or motors in case of faults? What happens if the company withdraws from Nepal?

When buying a vehicle, customers often focus on price, range, design, features, and financing options. But post-sale service is equally critical for managing the real ownership cost and ensuring the vehicle’s long-term reliability.

Currently, customers tend to prioritize new models over service quality and spare parts availability. Attractive offers on new models attract customers, but adequate attention is rarely given to service center accessibility and availability of spare parts after the purchase.

New Brands Bring New Risks

In recent years, Chinese electric vehicle brands have surged into Nepal’s auto market. Brands such as BYD, Omoda/Jeko, Denza, Forthing, Henry Volts, iCar, K, Lipmotor, Maxus, RFox, Henry Boma, Wuling, and Ziker are participating in the NAIMA Expo-2026.

Among these, some are new to Nepal, while others are expanding their market presence. The greatest challenge for new brands is to ensure post-sale service and parts supply. Opening showrooms to sell cars is very different from establishing a widespread service network throughout the country.

Operating an attractive showroom and a few service centers in Kathmandu does not guarantee long-term service for customers nationwide. Following sales outside Kathmandu, questions arise about regular servicing, accident repairs, battery testing, motor and electronic parts repairs, and availability of genuine spare parts.

How Extensive Are Service Centers Outside Kathmandu?

Established brands have been expanding their service networks alongside sales growth. Well-known manufacturers are increasing service centers along with customer attraction. However, new brands vary in this regard. Some have started with a limited network only in Kathmandu, while others are expanding to major cities across Nepal.

Therefore, customers visiting the expo should inquire: “Where are your service centers located?” How many are in Kathmandu? Are there centers in Pokhara, Chitwan, Butwal, Nepalgunj, Biratnagar, Itahari, Birgunj, and other key cities?

In the global EV market, BYD has 14 service centers across Nepal. Tata Motors operates 37 charging stations nationwide, with more than two dozen service centers. Similarly, brands including GWM, Mahindra, Royal Enfield, Proton, Omoda, Nissan, Hyundai, Suzuki, Denza, TVS, KTM, Athar, among others, have also expanded service centers throughout Nepal.

For newer brands, service centers remain limited in Kathmandu Valley and a few other locations.

What Is the Spare Parts Stock Situation?

Having service centers alone is insufficient; necessary spare parts availability is equally crucial. While common service parts may be locally available, components like motors, controllers, inverters, battery modules, charging systems, airbags, and various electronic parts often need to be imported if damaged. This delays repairs and increases costs for customers.

When introducing new brands in Nepal, ensuring spare parts availability and a robust service network is essential. Gaurav Sharda, coordinator of NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo–2026 and Director of Sharda Group, stresses that post-sale service is a fundamental responsibility of every brand.

“Every brand must manage its own service network. We are also engaging with the government regarding road infrastructure,” he said.

According to him, learning sessions are being organized through collaboration with Nepal Police Club at the expo venue, Bhrikutimandap. However, he believes that brand responsibility for service is paramount.

“Service is simple; if I provide good service to my customers, tomorrow who will buy my vehicle? Customers are not foolish,” Sharda stated.

He further emphasized that customers investing over 3 million NPR to purchase vehicles often decide based on the company’s history and service network.

“I urge customers to check the manufacturer, official dealer, service history, and spare parts availability before choosing a vehicle,” he added.

The expo also offers an opportunity for customers considering new brands to meet representatives from multiple companies in one place. They can inquire not only about price and features but also about after-sales service. Sharda advised that customers should get answers to at least these five questions:

  • How many official service centers exist nationwide?
  • In which cities outside Kathmandu are service facilities available?
  • What is the stock of essential genuine spare parts, and how long does it take to import them?
  • If the battery, motor, controller, or inverter fails, is repair service available within Nepal, or must the parts be fully replaced?
  • If the importer or manufacturer ceases operations in Nepal, who will be responsible for providing service and parts to customers?

When purchasing new vehicles, questions should cover not just the company size, but also the official dealer’s identity, financial strength, years present in the market, investments in service networks, and the company’s commitment to spare parts supply duration.

Without clear answers to these questions, buying a vehicle based solely on attractive designs, range, features, or price seen at the expo can pose additional risks for customers in the future.

Rain of Offers at NAIMA Expo: What Discounts Are Available on Which Brands?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Over 55,000 visitors have already explored the ‘NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026’ held at Bhrikutimandap within just two days. Various automobile companies have launched attractive schemes during the expo, including hefty cash discounts, free insurance, and exciting gifts through lucky draws. Brands like Tata, Nissan, MG, and Honda are showcasing new vehicle models with special discounts and extended warranty benefits exclusively at the expo. Kathmandu, 28th Shrawan.

Thinking about buying a new car, motorcycle, or scooter? Unsure which brand to choose or where to find the best deals? Then Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu could be your ideal destination. Since its opening on Tuesday, the ‘NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026’ has become the main attraction for automobile enthusiasts and prospective vehicle buyers.

Organized by the Nepal Automobiles Importers and Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), the grand event has already welcomed over 55,000 visitors in its first two days. According to organizers, 29,000 visitors came on the first day, followed by 26,000 on the second. The target to attract approximately 150,000 visitors throughout the expo appears achievable.

However, this expo is far from just a gathering of spectators. Anyone visiting the venue will notice that visitors are actively selecting, booking, and reserving cars and scooters that catch their interest. This surge in bookings is primarily driven by the enticing offers, cashback, exchange bonuses, fun activities, and attractive gifts presented by automobile companies aiming to draw customers.

Nangshal and Rihana Pair Advances to Quarterfinals in Pushpalal Memorial Badminton Tournament

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

In the ongoing 14th Pushpalal Memorial National Senior Badminton Tournament, the women’s doubles team of Nangshal Tamang and Rihana Serchan has secured a spot in the quarterfinals. The match held on July 12 in Kathmandu saw Tamang and Serchan defeat Nepal Police Club’s Shreya Bajracharya and Ashmita Khatri in straight sets, 21-15 and 23-21, to advance to the final eight.

The pair of Sushma Bhujel from Chitwan and Dilasha Rana from Kaski also secured a decisive win against Army players Anumaya Rai and Samriddhi Shrestha with a score of 21-8, 21-8. Similarly, the team of Nirbhita Shahi from Surkhet and Nisha Singh overcame Megha Sharma and Lila Thapa 21-10, 21-17 to reach the quarterfinal stage.

In the Boys’ Under-15 singles category, Suham Karki from Dhanyantari, Uday Chand from Kanchanpur, Deep Thing from Sindhuli Badminton Academy, and Samant Bhadra Bajracharya from the Army also advanced to the quarterfinals. Suham defeated Army’s Rijon Magar 21-14, 21-19; Uday overcame Balakumari Remix’s Prajwal Bajracharya 21-9, 21-11; Deep won against Army’s Ashutosh Kasaudhan 21-8, 21-10; and Samant beat Suryadarsan’s Sonam Wali 21-19, 21-9.

Man Dies from Snakebite in Saptari

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Ramsevak Sah, who was working in a shop in Bodebarsain, Saptari, was bitten by a cobra on Thursday morning. Sah, injured from the snakebite, was taken to Virat Nursing Home in Biratnagar for treatment. July 13, Saptari.

Ramsevak Sah, owner of Roshan Traders in Ward No. 5 of Bodebarsain Municipality, was bitten by the snake at around 9:30 am while working in his shop. Following the incident, a technical team from the District Forest Office Saptari arrived at the scene and rescued the cobra.

Nepal U-15 Team Set to Participate in FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The FIFA Council meeting on June 25 confirmed that the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival will be held in Azerbaijan from October 22 to 32. Nepal’s U-15 football team is set to participate in this event. Despite the suspension of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), Nepal will be allowed to compete as this tournament is a youth festival, a statement from ANFA spokesperson Suresh Shah confirmed. Player selection trials at district, provincial, and national levels are scheduled to begin from August 16.

Kathmandu – Nepal’s age-group football team has started preparations to take part in the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival set to be hosted in Azerbaijan. The FIFA Council’s June 25 decision confirmed the tournament dates as October 22 to 32. FIFA invited all 211 member nations, ensuring that Nepal will also be able to participate, said ANFA spokesperson Suresh Shah.

ANFA is currently suspended by FIFA; however, Shah explained that since this event is a youth festival rather than a main competition, Nepal would still be permitted to compete. “Our name was already registered for the U-15 World Cup and Festival before the suspension. All FIFA member nations worldwide can participate in this event. There will be selection tournaments as well, which is why Nepal has been allowed to play,” he added.

This will be FIFA’s first-ever U-15 World Cup and Festival dedicated to youth talent. Incidentally, ANFA was suspended by FIFA on the day this tournament was announced. Shah highlighted that player selection will take place from district to national levels. District-level selections will occur from August 16 to 25, provincial level from August 28 to 31, and national level from September 3 to 6. The preliminary squad list must be submitted by September 10, and the final list by October 7. A virtual meeting was held today regarding this, following which ANFA will commence the player selection process, he informed.

Although ANFA remains suspended by FIFA, resulting in the halt of all Nepal’s international football activities, and football operations within the country being at a standstill, the U-15 World Cup and Festival presents a key opportunity for Nepal’s youth football development.

Run Competition Held by Nepal Trade Union Congress National Youth Committee on International Youth Day

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

On the occasion of International Youth Day 2026, Ganesh Singh secured first place in the open category, while Jenisha Rai won first place in the women’s category in the run competition. Kathmandu, 28th Shrawan. The race, organized by the National Youth Committee of the Nepal Trade Union Congress, started from Maiti Ghar and concluded at Tinkune. In the open category, Rupesh Karki came second and Sanjiv Nepali finished third. In the women’s category, Purnima Acharya placed second, and Sharda Rai took third place.

Cash prizes along with medals and certificates were awarded to the first, second, and third place winners, amounting to NPR 10,000, 5,000, and 2,500 respectively. The organizers also reported that a consolation prize of NPR 2,000 was granted to an eight-year-old participant runner. The race saw participation from more than 300 youths and received technical support from the National Sports Council, as stated by Dipendra Sunar, Chairperson of the Nepal Trade Union Congress National Youth Committee.

According to Sunar, the competition aimed to enhance youth health, discipline, leadership skills, and positive social engagement.

First Para National Sports Competition to Commence from January 29

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The National Sports Council has decided to organize the first Para National Sports Competition starting from January 29. Ramcharitra Mehta, Secretary of the Council, informed that the Para competition will begin 15 days after the conclusion of the 10th National Games.

The 10th National Games are scheduled to be held in Karnali Province from December 1 to 14. Although dates for the Para National Sports Competition had been previously set, the event has not yet been held. It has now been confirmed that the 10th National Games will take place in Karnali Province from December 1 to 14.

Sports Minister Pokharel Optimistic About Soon Lifting ANFA Suspension

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Minister for Education and Sports, Sashmit Pokharel, has informed that positive steps are underway to lift the suspension of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). Speaking at the 125th board meeting of the National Sports Council, Minister Pokharel stated that continuous dialogue with FIFA is ongoing. Kathmandu, 12 August.

Minister Pokharel said, “We are cooperating closely. Discussions are ongoing. Various correspondences are also taking place. The dialogue is positive. We can hope the suspension will be lifted soon.” Although the ANFA issue was on the meeting agenda, no decision has been finalized yet.

According to sources, the government is currently awaiting a response from FIFA. “Our position has been finalized from our side. Now we are waiting for FIFA’s reply. Once we receive their response, the government will proceed,” the source revealed.

Powerful 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake in Western Colombia Kills 265, Leaves 500 Missing

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, resulting in 265 confirmed deaths and leaving approximately 500 people still missing. Addressing the widespread damage, President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a financial emergency and announced the establishment of a relief and reconstruction fund. Continuous aftershocks, totaling around 130 so far, have complicated search and rescue operations for those trapped under debris, posing significant challenges for security forces and rescue teams. (August 13, Bogota)

As the search continues for survivors trapped beneath rubble, the death toll from Monday’s devastating quake has reached 265. Despite the difficulties posed by relentless aftershocks, security personnel and rescue workers remain actively engaged in relief efforts throughout the affected regions. President Espriella stated that an emergency fund will be set up to support the reconstruction of destroyed hospitals, schools, homes, and other critical infrastructure.

According to President Espriella, more than 25,800 families have been impacted by the earthquake. Official reports confirm 3,770 individuals have been injured, while over 9,550 homes have suffered damage. The city of Pereira, Colombia’s main coffee-producing area, has experienced 83 fatalities, and Cali, the country’s third-largest city, has reported 74 deaths. Officials confirmed substantial loss of life and property in other affected regions as well.

The earthquake caused extensive damage to buildings, homes, and healthcare facilities in cities including Cali, Pereira, and Manizales. Remote communities in the Chocó region also suffered, with geographic obstacles complicating the delivery of rescue and relief supplies. This earthquake is regarded as one of the strongest to strike Colombia in the 21st century. The government has pledged to provide immediate aid to affected families and prioritize the reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure.

Niroshan Dickwella to Continue Playing for Lumbini Lions

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Summary of the News

Editorial review completed.

  • The Nepal Premier League champion Lumbini Lions have re-signed Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella for the upcoming season.
  • Chairman Ishwar Jisi highlighted Dickwella’s outstanding performance and leadership last season, which helped the team secure the title.
  • Chairman Jisi warmly welcomed Dickwella, saying, ‘We are delighted to welcome Niroshan Dickwella back to the Lumbini Lions.’

August 13, Kathmandu – The Nepal Premier League (NPL) champion, Lumbini Lions, have retained Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella for the upcoming season.

Dickwella played a crucial role in leading Lumbini to the title last season and will continue representing the champion team in the next season.

He joined Lumbini after the group stage in the previous season, at a time when the team had lost three out of their first four matches and was in a critical position. Following his inclusion, Lumbini won all six remaining matches, eventually securing the championship.

In the six matches he played for Lumbini, Dickwella scored 137 runs at a strike rate exceeding 122, with a batting average of 34.25, the highest among the team’s batsmen. However, Rohit Paudel and Darcy Short were the team’s top run-scorers with 276 and 256 runs respectively.

Lumbini Lions chairman Ishwar Jisi expressed his happiness in welcoming Dickwella back to the team.

“We are thrilled to welcome Niroshan Dickwella back to the Lumbini Lions. Last season, he not only delivered outstanding individual performances but also played a key role in uniting the team. He is a champion player, having not lost a single match while playing for Lumbini Lions. We expect him to continue this vital role in the upcoming season,” Jisi stated.

In the Qualifier 2 match last season, Dickwella scored 29 runs off 22 balls, contributing to Lumbini’s total of 134 runs for 8 wickets, a score they successfully defended.

He also remained unbeaten with 29 runs off 22 balls against Biratnagar Kings in the group stage. Against Pokhara Avengers, he scored 37 runs off 22 balls, his highest individual score in the NPL.

In the final, Dickwella remained unbeaten on 11 runs off 12 balls.

The 33-year-old Dickwella recently played in Sri Lanka’s Lanka Premier League representing Dambulla Sixers. Internationally, he has represented Sri Lanka in 54 Tests, 55 One Day Internationals, and 28 Twenty20 Internationals.

Debate over Parliamentary Decorum between Khagendra Sunar and Police Chief Dan Bahadur Karki in Public Accounts Committee Meeting

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

The Federal Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee discussion on Wednesday focused on allegations of irregularities in the purchase of police uniforms, an issue that has attracted significant attention. The meeting included the Secretary of the Home Ministry, heads of the Armed Police and Nepal Police, and ruling party National Independent Party (Raswapa) lawmakers, including Khagendra Sunar, who sparked a broad public debate regarding parliamentary expression, decorum, and traditions.

The session raised questions about the style and respectfulness appropriate in parliamentary discussions. While some argued that the police chief, a highly respected official, should not be publicly reprimanded without substantiated complaints, others pointed out that in parliamentary systems, lawmakers traditionally have the right to pose direct and tough questions to officials, a practice common in other democracies. Additionally, comments have emerged critiquing Police Inspector General Dan Bahadur Karki’s responses as lacking precision.

Political analyst Milan Shrestha noted that the questions raised by Sunar and others were legitimate. “If the official summoned to respond provides unsatisfactory answers, further meetings may be convened, and if doubts persist, an investigative committee can be formed. However, it is inappropriate to employ disrespectful language towards the head of a security institution without understanding parliamentary decorum,” stated Shrestha, associate professor in the Department of Political Science at Tribhuvan University. Former Parliamentary Secretary Manohar Bhattarai emphasized the responsibility of the committee chair and members to ensure that lawmakers maintain respectful discussions. “It is essential to uphold a dignified style within legal limits and avoid presenting issues in a manner that insults anyone, as this is also a matter of discipline,” Bhattarai added.

Khagendra Sunar defended the significance of the issues he raised, asserting that the focus should be on the content rather than his style of expression. “If my style is inappropriate, I will improve or remain silent, but the primary and foremost matter is the issue I brought forward,” he stated. “After serious allegations, the parliamentary committee must take effective action.” During the meeting, Sunar argued that senior officials against whom allegations have been made should be relieved of their duties until investigations are complete. He posed rhetorical questions such as, “Vitamin is found in oranges, vitamin is found in eggs, but what vitamin is there in shoes and socks?”

However, when members of his own party appeared uncomfortable, Sunar left the meeting in protest. While there was acknowledgment that more care should be taken in word choice, his statements were not deemed outright inappropriate. “There may be a lack of training, but it is also related to individual natural expression,” said Bharat Bahadur Khadka, committee chairperson. “During discussions, some uncomfortable situations arose, and I had issued instructions at the time regarding choice of words. Our intention was not to disrespect the security agencies.”

The Public Accounts Committee is considered the most important parliamentary committee, with its chairmanship generally assigned to a member of the main opposition party. According to the parliamentary website, “The core responsibility of the Public Accounts Committee is to ensure that state expenditures follow parliamentary directives and to investigate the effective use of public funds.”

New Franchise ‘Sudurpashchim Royal Warriors’ Announced for Everest Women’s Volleyball League

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The third edition of the Everest Women’s Volleyball League (EWVL) has introduced a new franchise team, the ‘Sudurpashchim Royal Warriors.’ The team aims to provide a professional platform for talented female players from the remote areas of Sudurpashchim. Sanjip Shahi, one of the team’s owners, stated, “Our goal is to identify and nurture talented female athletes from rural and remote regions, giving them the opportunity to compete at the national level.”

Kathmandu, 28 Shrawan — As preparations advance for the third edition of the Everest Women’s Volleyball League, a new franchise team has been announced. The league organizer, Infinity Dreams, officially unveiled the Sudurpashchim Royal Warriors on Thursday as the newest franchise joining the competition. Organizers are confident that this addition will further expand the reach of professional women’s volleyball across Nepal.

The Sudurpashchim Royal Warriors are jointly owned by Uma Gautam Bhandari, Sanjip Shahi, and Kumar Bhandari. According to the organizers, this franchise will represent the volleyball talent and sporting potential of the Sudurpashchim region. The team has set a clear mission to identify female athletes from rural, remote, and underserved areas and provide them with a professional platform.

Speaking on behalf of the ownership group, Sanjip Shahi said, “There is significant enthusiasm and talent for volleyball in the Sudurpashchim region, yet the area has lacked its own franchise team in the women’s professional league. Through the Sudurpashchim Royal Warriors, we aim to change this scenario. Our target is to recognize and develop talented players from rural and remote regions and offer them professional opportunities and pathways to the national stage.”

He added that the team plans to represent the identity and capabilities of Sudurpashchim while creating meaningful opportunities for young women through volleyball.

Snevi Chapagain, Chief Executive Officer of the Everest Women’s Volleyball League, expressed pride in welcoming the Sudurpashchim Royal Warriors to the third edition. She remarked, “From the inception of EWVL, we dreamed of connecting with enthusiastic volleyball fans in Sudurpashchim and honoring the region’s contribution to the sport’s development by building a link between the region and the league.”

Chapagain also expressed hope that the entry of the new ownership group would strengthen the league’s national presence and bring Sudurpashchim closer to the professional structure of women’s volleyball in the country.

The organizers are actively preparing to conduct the third edition of the Everest Women’s Volleyball League effectively and have announced that more details will be shared in the near future.

Rare Solar Eclipse Darkens Daytime in Northern Hemisphere

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

‘Day turned to night for a moment’: People in the Northern Hemisphere were astonished while observing a rare solar eclipse. On August 13, 2026, at 13:21 +0545, Europe, North Africa, and North America witnessed the largest solar eclipse since 1999. Millions joyfully observed this celestial event, which made it appear as if daytime had briefly turned into night. On Wednesday, as the Earth, Moon, and Sun aligned, certain parts of the Northern Hemisphere experienced temporary darkness. Iceland and Spain witnessed a rare total solar eclipse, while other areas experienced a partial solar eclipse.