Following Brazil’s win against Japan in the 2026 World Cup, nuns expressed their joy on social media, quickly going viral. Their heartfelt celebration came in the wake of Brazil’s decisive victory over Japan.
As Brazil clinched a dramatic 2-1 lead in the final moments of the match, the nuns’ excitement peaked. They are now dedicating their prayers for Brazil’s next match against Norway on July 5.
In the group stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the outcomes for Belgium and Senegal remained uncertain until the final matches. However, both teams secured emphatic victories in their last games to advance to the knockout stage. On Thursday at 1:45 AM local time, Belgium and Senegal will face each other in the Round of 32. Belgium, undefeated in the group stage and crowned group winners, will meet Senegal, who qualified on goal difference for the knockout rounds, marking their first-ever encounter. Key players for Belgium include Kevin De Bruyne and Leandro Trossard, while Senegal will rely on Ismaila Sarr and Papa Gueye.
Kathmandu – The group stage scenario for Belgium and Senegal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 was unclear until the final matches. Both teams had failed to register wins in their first two games, making their prospects of reaching the knockout stage quite slim. However, with impressive wins in their third matches, both secured places in the knockout phase, though their paths differ significantly. These two teams now compete in the Round of 32 on Thursday morning aiming to reach the last 16, with the match starting at 1:45 AM Nepal time. This knockout round encounter is expected to be intensely thrilling.
Despite their struggles in the group phase, Belgium remained unbeaten while Senegal advanced by winning only one game. In FIFA rankings, Belgium holds 9th place, and Senegal is 15th. Belgium topped Group G undefeated, entering the knockout stage as group winners. They drew 1-1 against Egypt in their opening game, followed by a goalless draw with Iran. Facing the challenge of winning their final group match, Belgium secured a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand, emerging as group winners on goal difference ahead of Egypt, both having 5 points.
Senegal, on the other hand, advanced from Group I in third place to reach the knockout stage. They accumulated just 3 points from one win and two losses but were fortunate to qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams based on goal difference. Although Senegal performed well in the initial matches, defeats to France (3-1) and Norway (3-2) put their progression in jeopardy. A resounding 5-0 win over Iraq in their last group match proved decisive. Among the third-placed teams, Senegal was the only team to qualify with just 3 points. Teams like Iran, South Korea, and Scotland also had 3 points but failed to advance due to lower goal differences.
This will be the first-ever meeting between Belgium and Senegal in a World Cup. They have not faced each other previously in international football. All eyes will be on Belgium’s goal scorers from the last game, Leandro Trossard and Kevin De Bruyne. Trossard, who plays for Arsenal, scored twice against New Zealand, with De Bruyne and substitute Romelu Lukaku also contributing goals. As a regular starter, Trossard carries the main goal-scoring responsibility. De Bruyne will manage the midfield duties, while Lukaku remains a potent scoring option off the bench and has proven his effectiveness before. For Senegal, Ismaila Sarr and Papa Gueye will be key figures. Sarr netted twice against Norway and scored in the opening loss to France. In the final group match against Iraq, Papa Gueye came off the bench to score twice, bolstering Senegal’s advancement prospects.
Nepal Rastra Bank is planning to restart Karnali Development Bank by introducing new founders to raise capital, after the previous plan to allocate shares to old depositors failed. According to Tikaram Khatri, the chairman of the bank’s management committee, preparations are ongoing to collect around NPR 400 crore through new founders to revive the bank. Reports indicate that directors and senior management misappropriated NPR 127 million in cash, resulting in the bank’s net worth showing a negative NPR 246 crore. Location: Kathmandu, date: 17 Ashad.
After failing to revive the bank by issuing shares to depositors, Nepal Rastra Bank has advanced a second option. This involves bringing in new founders and implementing a plan to mobilize fresh capital. However, the plan to convert new stakeholders into shareholders has been stalled at the Nepal Securities Board. Despite an agreement between the central bank and depositors, instability in the board’s leadership has delayed the process, as explained by Tikaram Khatri.
Although permission has not yet been granted by the board, Khatri emphasized that the institution will not be prevented from restarting, and the plan to induct new founders as shareholders will proceed. Discussions are ongoing at the senior levels of the central bank regarding bringing in new founder shareholders to reopen Karnali Development Bank. Khatri further noted that once the central bank declares an institution problematic, securities law does not prohibit its reopening. After the plan to award shares to depositors hit regulatory hurdles, Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Prof. Dr. Vishwanath Paudel acknowledged the central bank’s limited authority in this matter.
Severe flooding in Ghana has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people. The Ghanaian emergency rescue services have reported saving nearly 470 individuals.
The government has advised citizens to stay indoors and seek higher ground for safety. There is also a forecast for further heavy storms and intense rainfall.
New research suggests that the creatine supplement, popular among gym-goers, may assist in treating depression. Scientists at the University of Ottawa have indicated that creatine positively impacts mental health by enhancing the brain’s energy supply system. However, they caution that more extensive clinical trials are necessary, and safety considerations regarding creatine use must be observed.
Creatine, widely used by individuals who go to the gym and build muscle, has been shown in this new study to potentially support treatment for depression (depressive disorder). By stimulating the brain’s energy supply system, creatine may have a beneficial effect on mental health, according to researchers. Although current evidence is promising, further research is required before it can be recommended as a medicine in medical practice.
Published in the journal Brain Medicine, a systematic review conducted by researchers from the University of Ottawa analyzed five clinical trials conducted in various countries. These trials involved a total of 238 participants, many of whom were women. The study results were mixed. Two of the trials reported significant improvement in depression symptoms with creatine use, whereas the other three found no notable benefit.
One study, focused primarily on women with major depressive disorder, found that taking 5 grams of creatine daily alongside the conventional antidepressant escitalopram led to a marked reduction in depression symptoms within eight weeks, with many patients showing recovery. In contrast, the other three trials, which involved patients who did not respond to other medications, adolescents, and individuals with bipolar disorder, did not demonstrate a significant effect of creatine.
The primary mechanism by which creatine may combat depression is by replenishing the brain’s energy needs. Creatine accelerates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency, in brain cells similar to its role in muscles. Scientists also speculate that creatine may influence neurotransmitters that regulate mood, such as dopamine and serotonin. Experts emphasize the need for larger, long-term clinical trials involving more men and women to fully understand creatine’s role and efficacy in depression treatment.
June 30, Kathmandu — Kylian Mbappé’s goal has given France the lead over Sweden in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, New York, saw France take the lead just before halftime in the 45th minute.
Mbappé converted an excellent opportunity inside the box, assisted by a precise pass from Ousmane Dembélé.
As the first half concluded, France held a one-goal advantage.
Throughout the first half, France successfully maintained pressure on Sweden’s defense.
On the occasion of the United States’ 250th Independence Day, YouTube has introduced special features, interactive games, and an ‘America 250 Hub.’ Through this new hub, users can easily explore celebratory videos, recipes, outfit ideas, and decoration tips related to the festivities. The newly added games allow users to rank various dishes, virtually set off fireworks, and color national parks. (July 1, Kathmandu)
This weekend, YouTube announced several new features to commemorate the 250th Independence Day celebrations in America. These include a centralized hub dedicated to America 250 content, new interactive games, and special visual effects. As part of these additions, YouTube has created the “America 250 Hub.” This hub appears to users searching for celebration-related content and offers a consolidated view of recommended videos and live streams marking this historic occasion.
YouTube stated that the hub will assist users in finding a wide range of inspiring celebration-related content. This includes recipe ideas for dishes, outfit inspirations, and do-it-yourself American-themed decoration tips. Furthermore, to enhance the celebration experience, YouTube has introduced three interactive games. According to YouTube, the “Food Ranker” game allows users to rank American dishes such as New York and Chicago pizza, settling debates about taste.
In addition, the “Fireworks” game lets users tap the screen to set off virtual fireworks; by accumulating 250 points, participants can unlock their own personalized fireworks display. Another game, the “Coloring Book,” enables users to color America’s most famous national parks as they wish and see them transformed into realistic natural scenes. To honor this historic celebration, YouTube will also showcase a special “America 250” logo on its platform. Established as a major source of entertainment and information in America, YouTube expects these new features to play a significant role in engaging many users in the national festivities and connecting them digitally.
A sudden television blackout during the penalty shootout caused significant tension among Paraguayan supporters. This unexpected incident occurred during the match against Germany, leaving fans shocked. Experiencing such a disruption at a critical moment of the game negatively impacted the morale of the supporters.
The US Supreme Court has overturned the Trump administration’s directive to limit birthright citizenship, thereby maintaining the existing legal framework. Vice President JD Vance described the court’s ruling as ‘deeply disappointing’ and stated that the Trump administration continues to pursue all available legal channels. This ruling annuls President Donald Trump’s executive order that sought to deny automatic citizenship to children born to undocumented or temporary residents. 17 Ashadh, Kathmandu.
In an appearance on Fox News, Vice President JD Vance reacted sharply to the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold birthright citizenship, calling it ‘extremely disappointing.’ He made it clear that the Trump administration is actively working on all legal avenues in this matter. Vance emphasized that the White House will continue pushing forward efforts to reform US immigration policies.
The Supreme Court’s decision represents a significant legal setback to President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda and policies. The court struck down Trump’s order aimed at restricting birthright citizenship. On the first day of his second term, President Trump had issued a pivotal executive order addressing this issue.
The executive order declared that children born in the United States to parents residing illegally or temporarily would not automatically acquire birthright citizenship. Initially, lower courts blocked this order. Subsequently, the Trump administration appealed to the Supreme Court to eliminate the provision granting automatic citizenship to children of undocumented or temporary visa holders. However, the highest court upheld the longstanding principle of birthright citizenship in its ruling.
In the match ongoing at the New York New Jersey Stadium, France holds a three-goal lead in the 75th minute. Captain Kylian Mbappé’s two goals have helped France establish a three-goal advantage against Sweden in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. Mbappé scored his first goal in the 45th minute, followed by Bradley Barcola doubling the lead in the 53rd minute. Mbappé netted his second personal goal in the 74th minute, extending France’s lead to three goals. As of 17 Ashar, Kathmandu — with these goals, Mbappé has now scored six goals in FIFA World Cup 2026, tying with Lionel Messi for the most goals in the tournament.
June 30, Janakpur-Dham – Just days remain before the end of Ashar month in the current fiscal year, yet the Madhesh Province government faces escalating challenges. Internal disputes and lack of coordination within the tripartite coalition administration continue to affect operations.
Currently, payments for completed construction projects are facing obstacles. Payments amounting to nearly one billion Nepalese rupees for 48 projects under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure have been caught in a dispute.
The payment suspension occurred after the Ministry of Finance re-imposed budget restrictions within its expenditure system (PLIMBS), leaving payments uncertain. This has significantly impacted construction contractors and consumer committees.
With the payments for some completed projects halted in the final stretch of Ashar, contractors are under pressure. In response, they have prepared to lock the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure, where the Infrastructure Development Office has already been padlocked.
Rupesh Singh, General Secretary of the Dhanusha Construction Entrepreneurs Association, stated that the Madhesh government’s decision to freeze the budgets of dozens of projects has caused widespread tension.
“The ministry completed tender and other procedures to advance the projects. All legal formalities from our side were fulfilled. Now, to stop payments at the very end of Ashar after work completion, how justifiable is that?” he questioned sharply.
He added that frustrations with the government’s intentions and the resulting hardships faced by many contractors and consumer groups forced the lockout of the ministry.
According to the expenditure guidelines issued in Shrawan 2082 BS (July 2025), project implementation must proceed only after prior approval.
Until the end of Baishakh, the Ministry of Finance had kept the development budget frozen in the PLIMBS system. Some work resumed after the budget was released in the last week, including advances on certain projects.
However, towards the end of Ashar, the Ministry of Finance reversed course and reinstated the budget freeze, aggravating the payment issues.
Sanjay Kumar Sah, Deputy Secretary at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure, explained that construction activities resumed only after the Finance Ministry lifted the freeze, but the re-imposition of the freeze caused the current problem.
“Work progressed only because the budget was temporarily opened; now that it’s suspended again, this situation has arisen,” he said.
The expenditure directives were issued when Sunil Yadav of the Nepali Congress was Finance Minister. The current minister, Yuvaraj Bhattarai, has emphasized that the instructions must be followed according to earlier decisions and cannot be changed or annulled without cabinet approval.
“The budget freeze has been in place according to guidelines issued 11 months ago. Prior approval is required to proceed with any project,” he stated, adding, “I suggest the cabinet should consider issuing a new decision.”
Meanwhile, internal disputes within the tripartite coalition are ongoing regarding this fiscal year’s budget freeze and spending cuts. On Jestha 26, the Finance Ministry issued a circular to freeze budgets for projects under 1 million NPR and to reduce expenditures by 30 to 50 percent on categories including fuel, provoking dissatisfaction among the Chief Minister, ministers, and staff.
Although the Council of Ministers meeting of Ashar 13 reversed the Finance Ministry’s decision and passed a different resolution, responsibility remains with the Finance Ministry. The proposal was not initiated by the Finance Ministry, and Minister Bhattarai’s absence at the meeting raised questions about the decision’s validity.
The tripartite coalition government is headed by Chief Minister and Nepali Congress parliamentary party leader Krishna Prasad Yadav, while the Finance Minister is Yuvaraj Bhattarai, leader of the Communist Party faction. Internal dissatisfaction continues to hamper the Madhesh government’s functioning.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud held high-level talks in Beijing. Minister Wang emphasized that choosing dialogue over conflict is preferable and reaffirmed China’s full support for ongoing peace negotiations in the Middle East. The two ministers engaged in significant discussions aimed at enhancing economic and investment cooperation in sectors such as energy, industry, and advanced technology.
During the meeting, Minister Wang reiterated China’s backing for peace talks in the Middle East and stressed the importance of continuing dialogue despite recent fragile ceasefires. According to a statement from China’s Foreign Ministry, Wang remarked, “It is better to hold conversations than to fight, and it is preferable to choose dialogue over confrontation.”
Reviewing the regional situation, Wang identified the primary focus as the full implementation of the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on June 17 between the United States and Iran, and maintaining momentum for broader agreements through ongoing negotiations. In Tuesday’s meeting, Wang made clear that China is ready to work alongside Saudi Arabia to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East and supports Saudi Arabia’s significant role in global governance.
Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal also praised China’s constructive role in reducing tensions in the Middle East. Moreover, the two ministers discussed boosting economic and investment cooperation in energy, industry, supply chains, and advanced technology. This meeting represents a key element of the structured diplomatic efforts underway between China and Middle Eastern countries.
France secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 ‘Round of 16’ by defeating Sweden in a commanding 3-0 victory. Captain Kylian Mbappé scored twice, while Bradley Barcola added a goal to complete the win. Mbappé opened the scoring in the 45th minute, giving France the lead. Shortly after, in the 53rd minute, Barcola doubled the advantage with his goal. Mbappé then sealed the victory with his second goal in the 74th minute, further strengthening France’s lead.
With his two goals, Mbappé has now matched Lionel Messi with six goals each, sharing the top scorer spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament. France will next face Paraguay as they compete for a place in the quarterfinals.
Summary prepared after reviewing the news. In 1983, American psychologist Howard Gardner introduced the theory of multiple intelligences, arguing that intelligence should not be confined solely to exams or IQ tests. Howard Gardner is an American psychologist, educator, and researcher born on July 11, 1943, in Pennsylvania, USA. He has made significant contributions to the study of education and human intelligence. Gardner has long been affiliated with Harvard University, conducting extensive research.
Gardner stated that the traditional view of intelligence as measurable only through exams or IQ tests is inadequate. According to him, each individual possesses different types of abilities and talents. Gardner’s theory was introduced in 1983, identifying eight distinct types of intelligences and emphasizing that these intelligences exist in various combinations. Each intelligence explains how a person processes information and facilitates learning.
Overview of the Eight Multiple Intelligences:
1. Linguistic Intelligence: The ability to effectively use language through speaking, writing, and expressing oneself.
2. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence: Skill in problem-solving, reasoning, and understanding mathematical concepts.
3. Visual-Spatial Intelligence: The ability to imagine and understand art, images, shapes, architecture, and spatial relationships.
4. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence: The capability to learn and perform tasks using body movements.
5. Musical Intelligence: Understanding and creating music, rhythm, and sound patterns.
6. Interpersonal Intelligence: The capacity to understand others’ emotions and to work collaboratively.
7. Intrapersonal Intelligence: Self-awareness, reflective abilities, and deep understanding of one’s own emotions and motivations.
8. Naturalistic Intelligence: Awareness and understanding of nature, plants, animals, and the environment.
Application of Multiple Intelligences in Classrooms – Personalized Education – Diverse Teaching Methods – Cooperative and Peer Learning – Promoting Inclusiveness and Equality – Increasing Motivation through Active Engagement – Encouraging Holistic Development. How to Implement Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom? It is useful to adopt varying methods that address different intelligences. Encouraging students to develop other intelligences while guiding them to leverage their strengths is beneficial.
When planning lessons, group work, physical activity, visual and practical learning experiences can be incorporated. Understanding each student’s capabilities helps create a supportive environment. Students should be actively involved in the learning process and motivated to succeed. The importance in education lies in recognizing that every child has a unique learning style and capability. Teaching should be student-centered, promoting recognition of diverse talents beyond exams alone. Schools should be encouraged to adopt varied teaching methods. Gardner’s theory acknowledges that individuals learn in different ways and promotes differentiated instruction in education. It clearly demonstrates that human potential is not limited to scores and IQ. Identifying children’s individual potentials contributes significantly to their overall development. It inspires teachers to address diverse intelligences and create a more inclusive learning environment. (Author Puja Khadka is a teacher working at Gorkha Model Secondary School, Lamahi-6, Dang)
17 Ashar, Kathmandu – The health condition of Sonam Wangchuk, an academic and environmental activist on a hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, has been deteriorating with each passing hour. Abhijeet Deepke, leader of the ‘Cockroach Janata Party’ (CJP), provided updates on Wangchuk’s condition, noting that his resolve remains steadfast. Deepke also reiterated the urgent demand for India’s Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, to resign immediately.
In a recent post on the social media platform X, Deepke reported that since the hunger strike began, Wangchuk has lost two kilograms and his blood pressure continues to decline.
The CJP has been staging a protest at Jantar Mantar for the past 12 days in response to the leak of the “NEET-UG” examination question papers. Their primary demand is the resignation or dismissal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on moral grounds. The party has also strongly insisted on strict action against those responsible for the leak and the establishment of accountability. To push these demands, Sonam Wangchuk commenced his hunger strike on Sunday.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, a journalist asked Abhijeet Deepke, “While this protest continues, question papers for two other exams were also leaked—does the government have any concerns about this?” Responding with sarcasm about the government, Deepke remarked, “Modiji doesn’t have time for such ordinary matters. I think Modi has far more important tasks—like breaking other parties and going on world tours. Kids’ exams keep happening; what’s such a big deal in that?”