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Dhaniram Chaudhary and Lalita Nath Appointed as Members of National Sports Council Board

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

According to the ministerial decision of Education and Sports Minister Sashmit Pokharel, Dhaniram Chaudhary and Lalita Nath have been appointed as board members of the National Sports Council (Rakhap). Dhaniram Chaudhary from athletics and Lalita Nath from volleyball have been appointed to the vacant positions in accordance with the National Sports Development Act, 2077. Both members will serve a four-year term. On 25th Shrawn, in Kathmandu, Sports Minister Pokharel handed over their appointment letters at the ministry located in Singha Durbar.

Dhaniram Chaudhary and Lalita Nath have been appointed as board members of the National Sports Council (Rakhap). Following the decision of Education and Sports Minister Sashmit Pokharel, both have been nominated to serve as Rakhap board members. According to the ministry, their appointments have been made as per Section 3, Subsection 2, Clause (Ka) of the National Sports Development Act, 2077.

Complaint Filed Against Gruhlaxmi Gas and Dealer in Pokhara District Administration for Creating Artificial Shortage

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The LP Gas Sellers Association of Kaski has lodged a complaint with the District Administration Office in Pokhara, accusing Gruhlaxmi Gas Company and its dealer of creating an artificial shortage. The association alleges that Gruhlaxmi Gas violated government directives by sending 300 gas cylinders on deposit to Baglung for distribution, which increased the shortage in the market. The association also accuses the company of arbitrarily collecting cylinders from other companies that are not authorized dealers and has requested the Chief District Officer to take strict action against the offenders. Kathmandu, 25 Shrawan.

Accused of causing an artificial gas shortage in Pokhara market, the LP Gas Sellers Association Kaski has filed a complaint with the District Administration Office of Kaski against Gruhlaxmi Gas Company Pvt. Ltd. and one of its dealers. The association submitted a letter of attention to the Chief District Officer demanding strict action against black marketing and artificial shortage makers. The petition, signed by association president Narayandatta Dahal, alleges that Gruhlaxmi Gas, located in Gagangaunda, has named its affiliated ‘Shubhcherisma Emporium Pvt. Ltd.’ as a new dealer, impacting the distribution system in Pokhara.

While a gas shortage persists in Pokhara, the company is accused of arbitrarily sending gas to Baglung and other districts, evidence of which has been presented by the association. According to the association, on Shrawan 12, gas was sold in Baglung through bill number 228 with the bill receipt issued and payment made via ‘Connect IPS,’ and this proof has been submitted to the administration. Previously, on Bhadra 3, 2082, the association had also submitted a petition regarding this matter to the administration.

Despite government directives prohibiting industries or sellers from collecting cylinder deposits during gas shortages, Shubhcherisma Emporium reportedly violated this directive by collecting a deposit on 300 cylinders in Baglung, forcing consumers to purchase gas and aiming for unfair profit, claims the association. By sending gas to other districts in this manner, proportional distribution in Kaski district has been hampered, leading to artificial scarcity, the association stated.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s Diplomacy: A Strategic Approach to Cooperation with India and China

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah 'Balen' with Ambassadors of India and China

Image Source, PM Secretariat

While it has been customary for past prime ministers to meet with ambassadors, Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ garnered particular attention on Monday for holding separate bilateral meetings with the ambassadors of India and China.

After serving as prime minister for four months, Balen had his first opportunity to meet individually with the envoys from Nepal’s two key neighboring countries.

According to former ambassador Dinesh Bhattarai, the prime minister’s actions were appropriate and should have happened earlier, though the timing was somewhat delayed. “He is expanding such diplomatic dialogues after recognizing there may have been some weaknesses in relations with neighbors,” Bhattarai explained.

Bhattarai previously served as foreign affairs adviser to Prime Ministers Sushil Koirala and Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Earlier prime ministers and senior leaders often faced criticism for breaches of diplomatic protocol with foreign envoys.

Western Europe Records New Temperature High Amid Heatwaves

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

According to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, Western Europe experienced its highest average temperature ever recorded in June and July, reaching 21.62 degrees Celsius. The extreme heat, drought, and wildfires driven by climate change have reduced the flow of major rivers across Europe, severely impacting water transport, irrigation, and energy production. Global sea surface temperatures have also set a new record at 20.96 degrees Celsius, with scientists identifying greenhouse gases from human activities as the primary cause of the rising temperatures. (25 Shrawan, Paris)

This year, Western Europe endured its hottest June and July on record amid increasing heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires attributed to climate change. Data released Monday by the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, a global temperature monitoring system, revealed a new high temperature milestone in the region. Copernicus reported that the combined average temperature for Western Europe during June and July reached 21.62 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record set during the same period in 2022.

Copernicus noted that the continuous high temperatures and prolonged heat episodes this summer signaled an abnormal heat pattern. Europe remains the fastest-warming continent globally. In July, unusually dry conditions were observed in parts of Western and Central Europe, including France, Spain, Austria, Hungary, as well as areas in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Iceland. Compared to the severe drought of 2022, soil moisture levels were even lower in July of this year, according to Copernicus.

Three-Member Investigation Committee Formed Over Gandaki Province Sports Medal Controversy

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The Ministry has formed a three-member investigation committee following a controversy regarding the distribution of sports medals by the Gandaki Province Sports Council. Chaired by Ministry Secretary Dr. Shesh Narayan Paudel, the committee will study whether the medal distribution aligns with the Medal Distribution Act and related laws. Due to disputes over medal recommendations, the committee is expected to submit its report by August 14.

The committee was established in response to the dispute concerning the sports medals distributed by the Gandaki Province Sports Council. After the medals were announced on July 15, the Province Minister for Social Development, Youth, and Sports, Rekha Gurung, appointed the investigation committee led by Secretary Paudel. The committee also includes Deputy Secretary Ghanshyam Paudel and Officer Narayan Prasad Bastola as members.

Chairman Paudel stated, “On behalf of the ministry, I am heading this investigation committee. We will review the medal distribution according to the Act and legal provisions and submit our report by August 14.” On July 15, the Gandaki Province Sports Council honored six athletes, coaches, and four sports associations with the ‘Gandaki Province Sports Medal’ at a special ceremony held at the Pokhara Stadium.

However, controversy arose after medals were awarded to even the members of the selection committee. Keshav Pathak, a sports journalist who received a medal, is a member of the medal recommendation committee and has previously served as a member and acting secretary of the Council. Member Secretary Sridhar Sharma of the Province Sports Council stated that the medals were distributed in accordance with proper procedures.

Banks Need to Focus on Loan Quality Over Expansion, Says Siddhartha Bank CEO

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Despite increasing liquidity and declining interest rates, loan disbursement by banks remains sluggish. Meanwhile, the volume of non-performing loans has risen as some loans have become unrecoverable. Alongside the expansion of digital transactions, security challenges have also intensified. Addressing these issues, Siddhartha Bank CEO Rameshwar Prasad Basyal stated, “Digital banking has gained widespread acceptance. Banks are increasingly emphasizing digital banking services.”

Basyal further elaborated, “Nepal’s youth represent the most dynamic and aware customer segment of digital banking services. They require faster, safer, and simpler services accessible anytime and anywhere, instead of visiting branches for traditional banking.” In this context, Siddhartha Bank considers digital banking not merely as an alternative platform but as a fundamental requirement for sustainable banking in the evolving financial environment.

The bank has developed, expanded, and continually improved various customer-friendly services such as Easy Bank, mobile banking, internet banking, QR code payments, online account opening facilities, card services, and digital payment options. He emphasized, “Our goal is not only to increase digital transactions but to make the daily financial lives of young people more straightforward, secure, and productive.”

Basyal also pointed out, “The success of digital solutions cannot be measured merely by app downloads or transaction volumes.” He added, “Customer situations may vary based on their business models, loan structures, cash flows, and management capacities.” Accordingly, Siddhartha Bank views financial inclusion broadly—not limited to the number of accounts opened but encompassing a wider perspective.

Gas Shortage in Nepal: Three Key Causes and When Supply Will Stabilize

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Nepal Oil Corporation claims it is supplying around 120,000 cooking LPG cylinders daily to eliminate the shortage. However, gas vendors say this amount only meets about 60 percent of the demand. According to vendors, consumer pressure has slightly decreased but has not completely subsided. “Demand appears to have dropped by about 40 percent,” says Vinod Kafle, Secretary General of the Gas Dealers Federation. “Yet the pressure is still significant; in some depots, queues of 100 to 150 people are still common.”

Manojkumar Thakur, spokesperson for Nepal Oil Corporation, the agency responsible for gas supply, confirms that approximately 120,000 cylinders arrive daily in the market. The corporation expects the gas shortage to end soon. Devan Chand, President of the Gas Industry Federation, states that over 120,000 cylinders are being distributed daily from the industry. “Currently, there is an increase of 15 to 17 percent in gas imports from India compared to before. While this volume doesn’t immediately cover total supply, demand has decreased. I believe we will see the effects within a week,” he said.

According to Nepal Oil Corporation, 42,500 metric tons of gas were imported from India in the month of Saun (mid-July to mid-August). The spokesperson adds that over 100 gas transportation trucks (bullets) enter Nepal from India daily. Industry expert Devan Chand explains that each gas truck carries 18 metric tons of gas, which can fill over 1,250 cylinders per vehicle. With 100 such trucks arriving daily, it is possible to fill approximately 120,000 cylinders every day.

Nepal Oil Corporation notes that average monthly gas demand in Nepal is 47,000 metric tons, translating to a daily consumption of 1,500 metric tons, or 1.5 million kilograms. Under normal circumstances, vendors report that daily cylinder demand slightly exceeds 100,000. Given this, why do people still queue at gas shops even when 120,000 cylinders are supplied daily? According to the Oil Corporation, industry representatives, and vendors, there are three primary reasons for the ongoing gas shortage.

Gas Shortage in Nepal: Three Key Reasons and When It Will Become Easily Available

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

A woman carrying a cooking gas cylinder on her head

Image source, EPA

The Nepal Oil Corporation claims it is supplying about 120,000 cooking LPG cylinders daily to prevent shortages, but gas vendors report that this volume meets only around 60% of the demand.

According to gas vendors, although consumer pressure has reduced somewhat, it has not entirely eased.

“The demand seems to have dropped by about 40 percent,” says Vinod Kafle, General Secretary of the Gas Vendors Federation.

“But the pressure isn’t significantly reduced. At some depots, there can be queues of 80 to 150 people waiting.”

Line of gas cylinders

Image source, RSS

Manoj Kumar Thakur, spokesperson for the Nepal Oil Corporation, responsible for gas supply in Nepal, states that about 120,000 cylinders currently enter the market daily. The corporation has assured that the gas shortage will soon end.

Brick Kiln Workers in Pakistan Face Increased Risks Amid Rising Heat

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

July 10, Sheikhupura (Pakistan) – Rising temperatures in Pakistan are making life increasingly hazardous for workers in brick kilns. Laborers working under intense sunlight and temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius must endure heat radiating both from the blazing furnaces beneath their feet and the scorching sun above. At a brick kiln in Sheikhupura district, workers are seen shoveling coal into small holes at ground level where the fire burns intensely, while thick black smoke billows from the kiln overhead.

Since temperatures inside traditional brick kilns can exceed 1,000 degrees Celsius, continuous monitoring by workers is essential to ensure the bricks are properly fired. Although Pakistan has historically experienced extreme heat, climate change has exacerbated these conditions, making the work even more difficult and perilous.

Abid Hussain, a 35-year-old worker, was fully covered in dust and black smoke emitted from the kiln. He described feeling trapped between the heat rising from below and the sun blazing above. “The heat is extreme, but due to financial pressures at home, I have no choice but to keep working,” he said. Like Hussain, hundreds of thousands are employed in Pakistan’s brick industry, which is marked by weak labor regulations, low wages, and hazardous working conditions. Despite growing demand for bricks driven by rapid construction, daily wages remain very low—approximately three US dollars per day.

Amid blazing sun, dust, and hot winds, workers labor for hours on the kiln surfaces. Saeeda Gulam Fatima, general secretary of the Banned Labour Liberation Front Pakistan, described brick kilns as “prisons” for workers. “Laborers endure relentless heat from above and intense heat from the kiln below,” she explained. Fatima highlighted that workers are caught in a vicious cycle of debt, extreme heat exposure, and deteriorating health.

Sheikhupura is a major hub of Pakistan’s brick kiln industry. According to Climate and Clean Air Coalition data from 2018, more than 18,000 brick kilns operate across Pakistan, employing over one million people. Climate experts identify Pakistan as one of the countries at highest risk from the effects of climate change. Fatima pointed out that many workers, having taken advances on wages and fallen into debt, are unable to abandon their hazardous jobs.

Hussain reported earning roughly 25,000 Pakistani rupees (about 90 US dollars) per month, which only covers basic housing and children’s essentials. “Even if we fall ill or face family issues, we must work,” he said. “Taking time off causes problems at home.” In an effort to reduce air pollution and health risks from brick kilns, the Punjab provincial government is pressing for conversion of traditional kilns to the more efficient “zigzag” technology.

However, Muzib Ullah, a 45-year-old supervisor, noted that maintaining consistent kiln temperatures makes providing long breaks difficult. “Whether it’s extreme heat, cold, or rain, work must continue,” he said. Although drinking water and occasional short rests are provided, the working conditions still require significant improvement. Elsewhere in the kiln, 28-year-old Muhammad Azim was hand-molding bricks by mixing wet soil with wooden molds. Rows of dried bricks attest to the exhausting nature of the work. Reflecting on his hardship, Azim simply said, “Whether the weather is good or bad, work is work. It must be done.”

From Asian Games to Premier Cup and League 2: Nepal Cricket’s Packed Schedule

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The Nepalese cricket players face a tightly-packed calendar, competing continuously across various tournaments and series, ranging from the national team fixtures to franchise leagues. The Nepal men’s cricket team is set to engage in multiple competitions over the coming months, including the Top End T20 series, the Asian Games, the Premier Cup, and League 2. Amidst this busy international schedule, the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) is also planned for the Kartik-Mangsir period. Kathmandu, 25 Shrawan.

The Nepal cricket team is expected to be extremely active in the next few months. International commitments will begin from the last week of August. From August 21 to 29, the team will compete in the Top End T20 series held in Darwin, Australia. Following that, on September 6, Nepal will play a practice one-day match against New Zealand ‘A’ in Darwin. Afterwards, the players will shift their focus to the Asian Games, where Nepal will participate in the 20th edition taking place in Japan from September 24 to October 3.

After the Asian Games, the Nepali team will travel to Oman to compete in the Cricket World Cup League 2. Upon returning from Oman, the third edition of the Nepal Premier League will commence. Subsequently, Ireland is scheduled to tour Nepal, and the India ‘A’ team will also visit to play a T20 series on Nepali soil. Meanwhile, the women’s team has yet to complete the PM Cup national tournament, which has not been held as scheduled.

Looking ahead, the coming months promise a continuous flow of both international and domestic cricket for Nepal. The national team will juggle efforts to maintain One Day International status, face challenges at the Asian Games, and compete in other international events while players remain actively involved in the NPL. This ongoing series of matches provides valuable international experience and helps players maintain form, but issues like fitness, player management, and adequate preparation will be crucial for the team’s success.

Today Marks ‘National Lazy Day’: What Is Its Purpose?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Summary

Created and Reviewed.

  • Every year on August 10, people are encouraged to take a break from work and busy schedules to observe ‘National Lazy Day.’
  • Understanding the difference between rest and laziness, taking some time off is beneficial for mental health and fostering new ideas.

The morning alarm rings. Eyes open, but there is no desire to get up. Saying ‘Just five more minutes,’ the mobile is placed under the pillow. Five minutes, ten minutes, eventually half an hour passes. Even after rising, the bed is hard to leave.

The to-do list is long, yet the mind says, ‘Let’s not do anything today.’

In such moments, many of us have the habit of calling ourselves ‘lazy.’ When work is delayed, some rest is taken, or hardly anything is done throughout the day, we tend to blame ourselves.

But imagine if there was an official day in the year to ‘be lazy’—celebrated like a formal holiday. How would that feel?

With this fun idea, National Lazy Day is observed every year.

Purpose of National Lazy Day

Though the name ‘National Lazy Day’ sounds amusing, its purpose is equally simple: to take a break from work, responsibilities, and the constant rush, and to rest.

Today, being busy has almost become a status symbol. From morning till evening, people juggle work, studies, household chores, social media, and various pressures, leaving little time to relax. Thus, this day inspires people to pause, rest, and embrace the feeling that ‘it’s okay to do nothing today.’

When is it observed?

National Lazy Day is observed annually on August 10. It is not an officially declared public holiday but rather celebrated informally as a fun day.

There is no compulsion to avoid all work that day. The main idea is to take some time away from busy routines to rest, engage in enjoyable activities, or simply spend time doing nothing.

Origin of National Lazy Day

The exact origins of National Lazy Day are unclear. There is no confirmed history about its founder or how August 10 was chosen for this day.

However, it is believed that the day started gaining popularity in the United States in the early 2000s. Since then, it has spread informally through social media and popular culture to other countries.

Laziness isn’t always negative

The word ‘lazy’ often brings to mind someone who avoids work, wastes time, or shirks responsibility. However, resting is not the same as being lazy.

Continuous work tires both body and mind. Without adequate rest, stress, fatigue, and mental pressure can increase. Taking some time off helps recharge energy and focus when returning to work.

Therefore, distinguishing between rest and laziness is important. Always avoiding responsibilities is laziness, but allowing the body and mind to rest temporarily is part of a healthy daily routine.

Interesting Facts About Laziness

Genetics may also play a role in laziness. Studies have shown that a person’s activity level is influenced not only by environment but also by genetic and biological factors. Thus, laziness cannot be simply seen as a lack of willpower or character flaw.

The brain keeps working even when idle

When we sit doing nothing, the brain does not become completely inactive. During rest or downtime, the brain’s ‘default mode network’ activates, playing a role in imagination, self-reflection, and generating new ideas. Hence, sometimes doing nothing actually fosters creativity.

Rest helps prevent burnout

Continuous work can lead to mental and physical exhaustion. Taking sufficient breaks helps restore energy and maintain the ability to work over a longer period.

Animals also spend a lot of time resting

Look at domestic animals: cats sleep for hours, and dogs spend much of their time resting aside from playing and eating. Many animals in nature spend a significant portion of their time resting. Humans, however, tend to remain constantly active due to responsibilities and busy lifestyles.

How is the day celebrated?

Celebrating National Lazy Day requires no elaborate preparations. In fact, doing nothing is the easiest way to observe it.

Don’t blame yourself for being ‘lazy’

Most importantly, do not feel guilty for taking a break. Amid pressures to always be productive, sometimes saying ‘I won’t do anything today’ is a form of self-care.

Opposition MP Throws Eggs at Kosovo’s Acting Prime Minister in Parliament

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

In Kosovo, opposition MP Time Kadriu threw at least four eggs at Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti during a parliamentary session on Saturday. The incident occurred just before the voting for the selection of the new parliamentary speaker. Kurti had requested additional time for consultations with other parties before the vote.

Political deadlock is escalating in Kosovo, often referred to as Europe’s youngest democracy, which has already held three elections in less than two years.

Iran Claims Tripartite Defense Agreement Will Alter Regional Dynamics

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

News Summary

Prepared following editorial review.

  • Iran asserts that the new defense agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan marks a shift in Middle Eastern countries’ reliance on the United States.
  • Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei emphasized that security is not a commodity to be purchased from external powers.
  • Tehran clarified that the tripartite deal is not targeted at Iran but signals a new phase of regional security cooperation.

July 10, Tehran (RASAS/AFP) – Iran has stated that last week’s defense agreement among Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan reflects a changing perception among Middle Eastern and neighboring countries toward the United States.

Tehran indicated that regional countries are reducing their dependence on the US to ensure their security and are increasingly focusing on strengthening their own collaborative defense arrangements.

In a weekly press conference on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said the pact signals a shift in the regional security architecture.

He stressed that security is not a product to be bought from foreign powers and that regional states cannot rely solely on American security guarantees.

“Countries in this region have understood that security cannot be acquired from false intermediaries,” Baqaei said, adding that regional nations are now striving to strengthen their security through their own capabilities and mutual cooperation.

Iranian officials highlighted Tehran’s deep religious, historical, and cultural ties with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan and clarified that the new defense agreement is not aimed against Iran.

“There is no reason to suspect that this treaty is opposed to Iran,” Baqaei emphasized.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed the defense agreement last Friday amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran that have persisted for five months and contributed to regional instability.

These conflicts have also impacted neighboring countries and caused disruptions in regional maritime and land routes.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, if any one of the three signatories is attacked, the others will consider it an attack on all. The ministry noted that the agreement aims to strengthen collective resistance capabilities among the three countries.

The new defense collaboration has intensified discussions about potential shifts in regional security dynamics. While Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have long-standing security ties, Turkey’s involvement broadens this into a more extensive regional security partnership.

Analysts interpret the agreement as an attempt to contain Iran’s growing confidence and question the durability of American security commitments, suggesting that regional nations are pursuing alternate security frameworks.

Iran regards the pact as not a security alliance aimed at itself but rather as a sign that regional countries are asserting greater autonomy in determining their own security policies. The recent agreement has further fueled debates about reducing external power dependence and strengthening regional cooperation in the Middle East.

Shekhar Thapa of Nepal Wins Bronze at 11th Asian ITF Taekwondo Championship

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Shekhar Thapa from Nepal secured a bronze medal in the black belt third dan pattern category at the 11th Asian ITF Taekwondo Championship held in Mongolia. The competition took place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Gham Bahadur Thapa, the Secretary General of the Nepal International Taekwondo Federation, provided this information. Shekhar also competed in the sparring category for men weighing 65–70 kg but did not win a medal in that division.

Previously, Shekhar Thapa has also won medals at the South Asian ITF Taekwondo Championship. He earned silver medals in the first edition pattern event and the second edition sparring event, in addition to winning a gold medal in the third Indo-Nepal ITF Taekwondo sparring competition. In this recent championship, Mongolia’s Dorjpalam Ayurzanan claimed third place as well, while Malaysia’s Chin Lung Kang won the gold medal, and the silver was awarded to Philippines’ Amiz Krister Lule.

At the event, Pravin Kumar Karki, President, and Gham Bahadur Thapa, Secretary General of the Nepal International Taekwondo Federation, served as umpires. President Karki had previously served as an umpire at Asian ITF Taekwondo tournaments. Secretary General Thapa has also officiated as an umpire at the ITF World Championships in 2019 and 2025.

Loaded Gun Found Abandoned in Dhankuta’s Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

A loaded firearm was found abandoned in Ward No. 8, Harchuwa area of Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality in Dhankuta. A police team dispatched from the Vhedetar Police Office recovered the weapon on Monday. Authorities are currently investigating who left the gun there and for what purpose. On 25th Shrawan, Dhankuta district police confirmed the discovery of the firearm in the area and stated that further inquiries are ongoing to determine its origin and owner.