Author: space4knews

The United States, United Kingdom, and Australia have jointly announced plans to develop unmanned underwater drone technology through the AUKUS military alliance. The UK is set to invest approximately £150 million, equivalent to $201 million, in this submarine drone project. The AUKUS alliance is viewed as a strategic initiative to counterbalance China’s increasing military activities in the Indo-Pacific region. May 31, Kathmandu.

Through the inclusive AUKUS military partnership, the US, UK, and Australia are advancing plans to develop underwater drone technology. This decision was made during the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit held in Singapore. Following the conference, the defense ministers of the three nations stated that cutting-edge “Uncrewed Undersea Vehicles” (UUVs) will be developed to enhance maritime security systems and protect critical underwater cables. The technology is expected to be ready within the next year.

While the total project cost remains unspecified, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace disclosed that the UK intends to invest £150 million ($201 million) in the initiative. Established in 2021, the AUKUS defense pact primarily aims to develop nuclear submarines and facilitate the sharing of military expertise. This alliance is especially regarded as a strategic measure to balance China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific and to manage activities in the disputed South China Sea region.

Kathmandu – Artificial intelligence chip manufacturer Nvidia and technology giant Microsoft are set to release new Windows computers next week. According to the US media outlet Axios, these new computers will, for the first time, use Nvidia’s chips as the primary processor (CPU). These Nvidia-powered devices will be available under Microsoft’s own ‘Surface’ brand as well as from other established PC manufacturers like Dell.

Nvidia has been working on developing ARM-based processors capable of running the Microsoft Windows operating system since 2023. Currently, Qualcomm provides ARM-based processors for Windows laptops, while Intel and AMD dominate the traditional computer market. This partnership is strategically significant for Microsoft, particularly in competing with Apple.

The new computers will be officially unveiled at the ‘Computex’ trade show in Taiwan and the Microsoft ‘Build’ developer conference in San Francisco. Official social media posts from Windows, Nvidia, and ARM companies have already hinted at a ‘new era of PCs’ from Taipei, the capital of Taiwan. Additionally, Microsoft is expected to include advanced AI agent software capable of performing complex tasks without internet or cloud support on these computers for the first time.

May 30, Kathmandu – The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology’s Forecast Division has predicted cloudy weather, rain, and storms across various parts of the country today. The presence of a western low-pressure trough in the upper atmosphere, combined with local winds and an active low-pressure trough near Nepal extending from west to east, is expected to bring cloudy skies, rain, and storms.

According to the division, currently, most of the mountainous and hilly regions of the Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces are generally cloudy. The Terai region is partly cloudy. Moderate rainfall is occurring in some parts of Lumbini Province, while light rainfall is reported in certain areas of Gandaki and Karnali provinces.

Today afternoon, the forecast division expects mainly cloudy conditions over the mountainous and hilly areas of Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces, with partly cloudy skies in the remaining Terai regions. There is a possibility of moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning in some locations within the mountainous and hilly areas of Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces, as well as parts of the Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces. One or two places in the Terai regions of Madhesh Province and the Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces may also experience rain with thunder and lightning.

This evening, generally cloudy conditions are expected over the mountainous regions of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces, while the hilly regions and the Terai areas of Lumbini Province will see partly cloudy skies. Most other Terai areas are forecast to have clear weather. There is also a chance of light rain or snowfall in some locations across the mountainous and hilly parts of Sudurpashchim, Karnali, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces.

The department has issued a caution regarding the potential for storms in some parts of Lumbini Province’s Terai region and urges all concerned to remain alert and stay updated with the latest weather information.

Two trekkers from Jhapa successfully completed the challenging hike over Chola Pass to Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp. Pasang Sherpa Lama, a hotel owner from Jongla, stated that after the COVID lockdown, equal facilities are now being provided to both Nepali and foreign tourists. In Gokyo, local entrepreneur Tenzing Sherpa has established a health center with his own investment, offering medical services to domestic and international visitors. My companion Jasu Limbu and I had dreamed of reaching Everest Base Camp for over a year. Our plans, tickets, and preparations had all been finalized before Dashain 2082 BS. However, the sudden JNIA movement halted our journey, making the dream seem incomplete for a time. Yet, the allure of the mountains remained undiminished, and after several months, our trek resumed. We traveled from Jhapa’s Kankadbhitta to Thamel, Kathmandu, a bustling hub filled with people buying trekking gear. After purchasing down jackets, trekking boots, gloves, sleeping bags, and other essentials, we headed toward Ramechhap.

Arriving at Ramechhap Airport in the chilly morning air marked the real beginning of our Himalayan adventure. Early the next day, we boarded a Summit Air flight to Lukla. The views of villages, rivers, and green hills from the plane window, flying between clouds and peaks, were breathtaking. Shortly, the aircraft landed at Tenzing-Hillary Airport. The cold mountain air and alpine surroundings invigorated our spirits. Our trek began on foot from Lukla. Crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, we passed through Phakding en route to Monjo. After obtaining permits at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, we entered the Khumbu region. The journey was enriched by forests, rivers, birds, wildlife, rhododendron flowers, prayer flags (lungta), and scenic mountain trails. The steep climb to Namche Bazaar the following day was quite arduous. Despite growing fatigue, the view of the Hillary suspension bridge captivated us. When Namche Bazaar finally appeared, it felt like a welcoming Himalayan town awaiting our arrival. Surrounded by mountain ranges and nestled in a valley, the bustling market erased all our hardships.

We stayed two days at Namche’s Namaste Hotel to acclimatize. The warm hospitality and assistance from the hotel owner’s sister were remarkable. During this time, we visited Hotel Everest View, Khumjung village, the century-old Samten Choling Monastery, and Sagarmatha Next. Experiencing the Everest ascent through virtual reality (VR) technology and observing materials made from mountain-collected waste were unforgettable highlights. Additionally, Sherpa Barista Cafe in Namche Bazaar offered a 50% discount on coffee and snacks to Nepali tourists, which delighted us. The snowfall encountered on the return from Khumjung tested our health while adding excitement to the journey. Subsequently, our trek advanced toward Gokyo Lake passing through Dole and Machermo. Two French nationals and guide Pasang Chhiring Sherpa accompanied us for several days. Though these approximately 60-year-old tourists spoke only French, their kind and friendly demeanor enriched our camaraderie despite the language barrier. As altitude increased, breathing became difficult and nights brought freezing temperatures. Yet, the deep blue waters of Gokyo Lake, tranquil surroundings, and towering peaks helped us forget the hardships. Upon reaching Gokyo, my brother and I underwent medical checkups at the internationally recognized health center there. Oxygen levels were assessed, and necessary medications administered. Established by Tenzing Sherpa with his own investment, the center serves both local and foreign tourists. His heartfelt welcome and support for Nepali visitors deeply touched us.

The next morning, we climbed Gokyo Ri summit. The panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu were truly indescribable. Sunlight shining on the snow-capped mountains revealed nature’s unparalleled beauty, momentarily dispelling all fatigue and difficulty. Afterwards, we proceeded through Thangnak toward the most challenging segment — crossing Chola Pass. Battling snow, slippery trails, and icy winds, we progressed by grasping iron ropes at certain spots. Despite the hardships, we bravely conquered the pass, experiencing what felt like a major lifetime achievement. In Jongla, we stayed at Mountain Home. Pasang Sherpa Lama, the owner, mentioned, “Before COVID lockdown, many hotels rarely prioritized Nepali tourists for food and lodging, but now equal facilities are provided to both Nepali and foreign visitors.” His words reflected the positive changes in Himalayan tourism. From Jongla, we journeyed through Lobuche to Gorak Shep. The golden glow of sunset on Everest as we climbed Kala Patthar mesmerized everyone. On the descent, we spotted the Tibetan Snowcock and on our return had the opportunity to visit the large and stunning Pangboche Monastery. On the way back toward Namche, we also observed the national bird, the Danphe, up close. After spending the night at Snowland Inn in Gorak Shep, we set out early the next day toward our final destination — Everest Base Camp. The Khumbu region proved more expensive than anticipated, with essential food and supplies costing quite a bit. After traversing such difficult trails, reaching Base Camp was an indescribable moment. Standing amidst the Khumbu Glacier, climbers’ tents, and towering peaks, it felt like a dream fulfilled at last. The days spent in the lap of Everest taught us not only how to reach Base Camp but also how to face hardships, strengthen friendships, and maintain faith in our dreams. This Himalayan journey became a precious chapter of our lives that will forever remain alive in our memories.

May 29, Butwal – Police have commenced an investigation after rescuing 453 Nepali nationals from Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, India, and bringing them to Rupandehi district. The rescue operation was carried out in coordination with the Nepali Embassy in India and Indian police authorities. The individuals were rescued from a networking business office in Kushinagar on Friday and brought to the District Police Office in Rupandehi via the Belahia border on Saturday.

The police are currently in the process of identifying how many among the rescued are victims and how many are perpetrators. Among the rescued individuals, approximately 100 are women. Rupandehi Police Chief, Superintendent Janak Bahadur Shahi, stated that nine suspects have been detained for further investigation.

Investigation has revealed that youth from Lumbini, Koshi, and Sudurpaschim provinces had been lured with job promises, paying between NPR 2,500 and NPR 5,000 to fill out forms, with additional charges demanded under the pretext of training. While some were given low-paid jobs, the majority were reportedly held captive under false employment promises. According to police reports filed by victim families at the Butwal Police Station, the victims were allegedly kept hostage in Kushinagar and even extorted for ransom. After over six months of investigation and coordination with Uttar Pradesh and Kushinagar police, in collaboration with Lumbini Province Police, the rescue was successfully carried out, said Superintendent Shahi.

The embassy’s representatives accompanied the rescued individuals to Rupandehi. Ambica Joshi, Minister Consular at the Nepali Embassy, explained that the rescue followed extensive investigation prompted by complaints from victims related to the networking business. Police confirmed that both operators of the networking business and the victims are Nepali nationals. SP Shahi further revealed that representatives of the organization named Naveen Joshi of India had compelled 15 to 16 individuals to sleep in a single room without proper relief during hot weather. “Initially, many youths from different districts of Nepal were lured with promises of high earnings and brought to Kushinagar New,” he said. “It was found that they were subjected to training and pressured to bring their relatives as well.”

The investigation also uncovered that the group enticed individuals from Nepal with attractive job offers and transported them to Kushinagar via Sunauli border. Preliminary inquiries indicate that the network business charged between INR 7,000 to INR 100,000 per person for membership expansion. Police have launched inquiries based on similar complaints, according to Deputy Superintendent Nishant Srivastava of Butwal Police Station. Following continuous efforts over four days, the rescue was successful with the assistance of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and local Indian police authorities. Investigation also revealed that while one group provided training to the youth lured by job offers, another group collected membership fees to expand the network.

May 30, Hetauda — A trailer truck has fallen into the Bagmati River from the bridge connecting Makwanpur and Lalitpur on the Kanti Lokpath road section at Baguwas, Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-8, Makwanpur. The vehicle, bearing registration number Na 6 Kha 4042, slipped from the diversion road near the Bagmati Bridge into the river. The driver, 30-year-old Dal Bahadur Bartola, a resident of Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City-3, is reported missing, according to the Makwanpur District Police Office.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Madhav Prasad Kafle of Makwanpur informed that the accident occurred while the truck was transporting iron pipes for the Bagmati Hydropower project from Makwanpur to Kathmandu. The binding securing the pipes snapped, causing the vehicle to lose control and fall from the bridge into the river below. There were two people in the vehicle — the driver and a helper. The helper, 17-year-old Prashanna Praja, safely escaped by jumping out of the vehicle, DSP Kafle said.

Immediately after receiving information about the incident, a five-member police team led by Deputy Inspector Pramod Sah Teli of the Thingan Police Post, including traffic personnel, arrived at the scene. Additionally, a seven-member rescue team from the Fast Track Security Base of the Nepali Army, under the command of Jamadar Madhav Prasad Ghimire, is actively engaged in rescue operations, DSP Kafle added.

Sahlesh, the playwright and director of the play Lucifer Rising, has been dismissed by the production team amid serious allegations of disciplinary violations. Kathmandu, 31 May. Sahlesh was removed from the ongoing theatrical performance at a theater in Thapagaun, Nepal.

The production company, Majhuwa Bagar Janakla Manch, issued a statement on Saturday announcing his suspension from all organizational duties and imposing a complete ban on his participation in any future projects.

The accusations against Sahlesh involve acting against the core principles of the institution, along with serious disciplinary breaches. Since the premiere on 15 May, he is alleged to have deviated from the officially approved script by making unnecessary additions and omissions, and by using excessively obscene language during the performance.

Furthermore, Sahlesh is accused of spreading unwarranted rumors against the government and claiming threats to his personal security without providing any concrete evidence, according to the production team.

The statement also highlights misuse of the organization’s official social media accounts to release misleading announcements and conducting activities that have disgraced the entire theatrical community. These actions led to his immediate termination.

Another cited reason for his dismissal was the unexpected introduction of a new character wearing a black Bhadagaun hat and black sunglasses at the end of the play, which the institution found unacceptable.

Following the dismissal, the play, which had faced uncertainty in recent days, is scheduled to resume performances from 31 May. The new leadership will be undertaken by actor Buddhi Ram Chaudhary. Additionally, the play will be relaunched with a new title: Lucifer Rising 2.0: A Gen-Z Play.

Attempts to contact Sahlesh for comment on his dismissal were unsuccessful.

May 29, Kathmandu – Madhav Kumar Nepal, Co-Coordinator of the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), has emphasized the necessity of unifying the divided communist forces across the country. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Unity Conference of the All Nepal Women’s Association held here on Saturday, he highlighted that a strong communist unity is essential for social justice, equality, economic prosperity, and the effective implementation of the constitution.

Reflecting on the historical aspects of the Nepali communist movement, Madhav Kumar Nepal noted that theoretical differences, personal conflicts, and power dynamics have occasionally led to divisions among communist factions. He stressed the importance of learning from past splits and coming together in the interest of the nation and its people.

The Co-Coordinator further directed that before the party’s unity general convention, all mass organizations from wards to provincial levels should gather within the stipulated time to conclude the convention. – Rasash

May 30, Kathmandu – Three former presidents of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) have urged party members not to doubt the scheduled party convention and have called on dissatisfied factions to refrain from taking self-destructive steps. Pashupati Shamsher Jabara, Dr. Prakash Chandra Lohani, and Kamal Thapa issued a joint statement on Saturday.

“The Central Executive Committee will finalize the date of the convention during its meeting scheduled for the last week of the month of Jestha, as decided by the Central Executive Committee,” the statement said. “Do not doubt that the convention will be held as planned. The party’s internal problems, distortions, and challenges will be resolved through the convention.”

They further urged members not to make decisions about quitting the party under such circumstances. “At this moment, we earnestly request all party members not to consider leaving or abandoning the party, nor to take any such self-destructive steps,” the statement added.

Despite the party not achieving the expected success in the recent elections, the statement expressed confidence that by strengthening unity and advancing with a robust action plan, the party can achieve unexpected success in a short span of time.

May 30, Kathmandu – Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has caused confusion among stock investors by presenting conflicting provisions in the upcoming fiscal year’s budget and the Economic Bill 2083. Despite announcing in the budget speech that the capital gains tax on stock transactions would be final, the Economic Bill outlines different regulations. Minister Wagle’s claim that the capital gains tax is final ignores the existing Rs. 4 million threshold maintained in the Income Tax Act.

According to the bill, while capital gains tax is considered final for those earning less than Rs. 4 million in total income, individuals with income exceeding this limit who are required to file income returns are subject to provisions where the tax is not final. “This policy is not beneficial for those who have multiple professions and annual income exceeding Rs. 4 million,” said one investor. “Despite assurances that the tax will be final, the tax rate has increased by 2.5 percent, set at 10 percent for short-term gains and 7.5 percent for long-term gains. The legal framework about the finality of this tax is misleading investors.”

They added that this arrangement is only advantageous to investors who work solely in the stock market and have annual incomes below Rs. 4 million. “Most investors in the Nepalese stock market are part-timers,” the investor explained, “and the government appears to have based this policy assuming full-time investors earn more than Rs. 6 million, which is not accurate.” The Economic Act 2083 has increased the capital gains tax on listed securities transactions, raising it from 7.5 percent to 10 percent for short-term gains and 7.5 percent for long-term gains.

The tax will be collected by the Nepal Stock Exchange through an advance withholding system. Currently, those conducting transactions are required to file income statements for the withholding tax to be considered final. However, the provision under Section 97(1) of the Income Tax Act 2058, which previously stipulated penalties for non-filing, has been repealed. Consequently, individuals trading only in securities have no legal obligation to submit their income details, undermining the concept of a final tax deduction.

Although the amendment has not yet been implemented, existing regulations mandate that tax rates on income from securities trading, classified as non-business taxable assets, must not exceed 7.5 or 10 percent. Furthermore, the debate continues as to whether profits gained from securities trading should be treated as income from non-business or business assets. Chartered Accountant Umesh Pandey explained that even if the tax is considered final, there remains a risk that income from stock trading based on dividends and similar returns could be interpreted as derived from business or commercial inventories.