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Nepal Faces Namibia in ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 Match

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

As part of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, Nepal is set to take on Namibia today in the Netherlands. The match will begin at 2:45 PM Nepal time in Utrecht. Nepal aims to improve its position on the points table during this crucial encounter. Securing a spot in the top four of League 2 will grant Nepal direct entry into the ODI World Cup qualifiers. (5th Shrawan, Kathmandu).

The League 2 series featuring the Netherlands, Namibia, and Nepal kicks off today in the Netherlands. Nepal’s opening match will be against Namibia and is scheduled to start at 2:45 PM Nepal time in Utrecht.

Currently ranked fifth on the League 2 points table with 28 points from 28 matches, Nepal faces a critical stage as this series coincides with the final rounds of the tournament. Finishing in the top four would allow Nepal to progress directly to the ODI World Cup qualifiers, while finishing in the top six ensures retention of ODI status.

Namibia holds seventh place with 22 points from 28 matches, whereas the Netherlands is third with 32 points. The Nepali squad includes Rohit Paudel, Kushal Bhurtel, Dipendra Singh Airee, Asif Sheikh, Binod Bhandari, Ishan Pande, Bhim Sarkar, Arif Sheikh, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Arjun Kumal.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Winner to Receive Historic Championship Ring

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The winning team of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be awarded not only the trophy and gold medals but also a historic championship ring. FIFA has announced the creation of 2,026 special rings, of which 30 will be presented to the winning team. The remaining 1,996 rings will be made available worldwide to football fans as officially licensed products.

According to FIFA, the champion of the final match scheduled on July 19 will receive this historic ring. One side of the ring will feature an engraving of the FIFA World Cup trophy, while the other side will be customized to reflect the identity of the winning team. The announcement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 champion will take place on July 19 at the New York, New Jersey Stadium.

For the first time in World Cup history, the winning team will be presented with specially crafted championship rings. FIFA has ensured that these rings will be officially licensed products available to fans globally. Each ring will bear a unique number, be crafted in sizes to fit individuals, and come with an official certificate of authenticity.

Immediately following the final match, temporary rings will be given as mementos to the captain and head coach of the winning team. The 30 rings designated for the champions will later be customized and officially handed over, creating a lifelong remembrance of this historic achievement.

Protests Erupt Against Ukrainian President Zelensky Following Defence Minister Fedorov’s Dismissal

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

After Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov from his position, civil society members and lawmakers have expressed strong opposition. Protesters in the capital Kyiv chanted slogans such as ‘Keep Away From Fedorov’ and ‘Stop Obstructing Victory!’

President Zelensky has proposed appointing Major General Yevheni Khmar as acting Defence Minister. On July 17, in Kathmandu, news emerged that Zelensky had abruptly dismissed Fedorov, prompting intense backlash from civil society and parliamentarians.

On Thursday morning, young people gathered in Kyiv and other cities to demonstrate. Protesters carried placards bearing slogans like ‘Keep Away From Fedorov’ and ‘Stop Obstructing Victory!’ They also chanted ‘Have Some Shame!’ during the rallies.

President Zelensky defended Khmar, currently the acting head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), stating that he has gained extensive and unprecedented experience in technical military operations across numerous areas.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Winner to Receive Prize Money Exceeding 700 Million NPR

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The winner of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will receive a prize of 50 million US dollars, approximately 7.7 billion Nepalese rupees. The FIFA Council has allocated a total prize pool of 655 million US dollars for the 2026 World Cup, marking a 50 percent increase compared to the last Qatar World Cup. Each participating nation will receive 150,000 US dollars as preparation expenses, and an additional 10 million US dollars for qualifying for the tournament.

Defending champions Argentina and European champions Spain are set to compete in the final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both teams are very close to lifting the World Cup trophy. The 23rd edition’s champion will be announced on Monday morning. Along with the World Cup trophy, the winning team will be awarded prize money worth millions of rupees. This amount, paid in US dollars, converts into billions of Nepalese rupees.

This time, with the tournament expanded to 48 teams, the prize money and financial rewards for participants have also increased. The FIFA Council has approved a record prize pool of 655 million US dollars for the 2026 World Cup. The winner alone will receive 50 million US dollars. Based on the exchange rate of 154.14 NPR per US dollar as of Thursday, this amount equals approximately 7.7 billion Nepalese rupees.

When Argentina won the Qatar World Cup, they received a prize of 42 million US dollars. The runner-up will be awarded 33 million US dollars, the third-place team 29 million, and the fourth-place team 27 million US dollars. Not only the winners but all participating teams will receive prize money. All 48 teams will be awarded cash prizes.

Teams eliminated in the quarterfinals will earn 19 million US dollars, those exiting in the round of 16 will get 15 million, and teams knocked out in the round of 32 will receive 11 million US dollars. Even teams eliminated in the group stage will earn 9 million US dollars. In addition to prize money, teams qualifying for the World Cup will receive extra funds. Each qualified nation will get 1.5 million US dollars for preparation expenses, plus an additional 10 million US dollars for qualifying for the tournament.

Trump Accuses China of Stealing Data of 220 Million American Voters Amid Previous Election Fraud Claims

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his allegations of fraud in the 2020 presidential election, claiming that China stole the data of 220 million American voters. Trump accused U.S. intelligence and security agencies of concealing the election’s true nature and ordered the FBI and CIA to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. However, American media outlets and former investigations have stated that there is no evidence supporting Trump’s claims, and no clear tampering with election results has been found.

In a national address on election security last Friday, Trump repeated his longstanding assertion that the 2020 presidential election was rigged. He launched aggressive accusations against U.S. intelligence agencies and released some confidential election security documents from the White House. Trump alleged that China had stolen data on 220 million American voters during the 2020 election. Additionally, he cited Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statistics alleging that approximately 278,000 non-citizens were registered to vote.

Trump warned that voting machines were vulnerable to cyberattacks and identified Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea as potential threats. He instructed the National Intelligence Director, FBI, CIA, and Department of Justice to conduct the most comprehensive investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of election security data and to pursue criminal charges against those responsible. Trump also criticized major U.S. media outlets, particularly NBC and ABC, for not broadcasting his address live.

Accusing China of data theft and espionage, Trump claimed that sensitive information—including names, addresses, phone numbers, and political party affiliations—of voters from 18 U.S. states had been stolen. He described this as the largest cyberattack in U.S. election history. Nevertheless, U.S. media and previous investigations have stated that these allegations remain unverified.

Trump Administration Implements New Strict Visa Policies for International Students in the US

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

The Trump administration in the United States has announced new stringent regulations for international students. Under the new policy, foreign students will no longer be allowed to remain in the US for more than four years without federal government approval. Additionally, there will be tighter restrictions on program changes within courses and transferring from one university to another. Currently, US higher education institutions have the authority to extend students’ visa durations.

This new policy will take effect starting September. The Department of Homeland Security stated that the measure aims to “prevent visa misuse and strengthen national security through regular monitoring.” However, the Association of International Educators has criticized the new rules as “unnecessary and misguided guidelines.” Previously, F-1 and J-1 exchange visa holders were permitted to hold visas until they completed their degrees, but the new regulations impose a strict time limit on this period.

Homeland Security Secretary Marquee Malin remarked, “For decades, international students were allowed indefinite stays in the US, resulting in thousands exploiting our immigration system by enrolling in multiple courses continuously and residing indefinitely.”

According to the new rules, international students will be allotted only 30 days to either return to their home country after graduation or obtain a different visa type, reducing the previous 60-day grace period. The nonprofit organization advising US educational institutions, Association of International Educators (naFSA), has strongly criticized the regulations. Its CEO, Fanta Awale, stated, “The new policy has created uncertainty, staffing issues, and fear within a system that had been functioning effectively in the long term. This is a policy that creates problems and then seeks to find solutions through them.”

Balen Shah: Questions Arise Following the Pledge to Brand Nepal as a Wedding Destination

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Private sector representatives have highlighted the need to address several policy challenges to attract Indian tourists by branding Nepal as a “wedding destination,” while the government has expressed its commitment to facilitate this initiative. Earlier this week, representatives from the Hotel Association requested Prime Minister Balendra Shah, popularly known as ‘Balen,’ to simplify the process for Indian couples to bring jewelry and other ceremonial items into Nepal. During his election campaign, the Prime Minister pledged to brand Janakpur as a wedding destination, a goal also incorporated into the upcoming fiscal year’s budget.

Local business owners have criticized the government for insufficient efforts to promote wedding-related tourism in Janakpur; however, officials have informed that promotional programs are being conducted in various locations across Nepal and India, with plans to continue these initiatives throughout the year. In previous years, reports circulated about foreign couples exchanging rings and marrying at various tourist centers. More recently, such wedding ceremonies have been held in popular destinations like Kathmandu, Sauraha, Pokhara, as well as Nepalese towns bordering India’s West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, according to authorities.

Addressing the people in Janakpur, Prime Minister Balendra Shah noted that Nepalis often travel to Jaipur in India and Bali in Indonesia for destination weddings. Similarly, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle presented plans to brand Janakpur as a wedding destination during this week’s budget speech. Nonetheless, representatives of the private sector argue that policy ambiguities persist and urge the government to take further measures to develop Nepal as a premier wedding tourism destination.

Dinesh Tuladhar, Vice President of the Hotel Association of Nepal, stated, “Indian tourists show significant interest in our wedding destinations. We have also informed the Prime Minister about existing legal complexities.” Surendrakumar Bhandari, Chairman of the Janakpur Industry and Commerce Association, commented, “While the Prime Minister has made promises, practically not even one percent of the work has been accomplished.” He emphasized that efforts to establish Janakpur as a hub for wedding tourism have not progressed substantially.

New Mediation Efforts Underway to Resolve South China Sea Dispute

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Tensions in the South China Sea continue to rise as implementation of the historic 2016 arbitration ruling remains unfulfilled even after a decade. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague dismissed China’s expansive maritime claims, affirming the Philippines’ sovereign rights. While China has rejected the ruling, 14 countries including the United States recognize it as legally binding and final.

The dispute over the South China Sea has persisted for decades. It dates back to 1947 when China’s then-nationalist government first published a map showing eleven dashed lines. This evolved into the so-called “Nine-Dash Line,” which is not a continuous border but connects nine separate dashes, encompassing roughly 3.5 million square kilometers—about 90% of the South China Sea.

According to Philippine Solicitor General Darlin Marie Berberabe, the 2016 ruling legally affirmed the Philippines’ fishing rights in its coastal areas. This has heightened tensions and led to increased clashes between Philippine and Chinese vessels. On July 12, 2026, marking the tenth anniversary of the arbitration ruling, the Philippines, along with 14 countries including the United States, issued a joint statement reaffirming the ruling’s legal binding nature and finality.

In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly criticized these commemorations by certain countries, accusing the ruling of violating international law and exacerbating tensions rather than resolving the dispute. Chen Xiangmiao, a researcher at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, supported by China’s Ministry of Home Affairs, emphasized that goodwill and cooperation are necessary for a resolution to the dispute.

Governor: Loan Expansion Without Fiscal Policy Support Only Raises Asset Prices

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Professor Dr. Bishwanath Paudel, the Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, emphasized that expanding loans through monetary policy leads to an increase in asset prices. He stated that credit and investment expansion via monetary policy would yield effective results only when supported by a definite fiscal policy framework. Governor Paudel remarked, “The primary mandate of monetary policy is economic stability,” adding that the government is actively working to control inflation. Kathmandu, 32 Ashar.

Governor Paudel clarified that attempting to manage liquidity by expanding loans solely through monetary policy results merely in higher asset valuations. He stressed that loan investment expansion should be based on clear fiscal policy guidelines to ensure smoother management. Paudel also highlighted the importance of engaging in comprehensive discussions on monetary policy rather than neglecting key sectors such as the stock market and real estate.

During an event organized by the Former Planning Forum Nepal on Thursday, Governor Paudel highlighted significant differences between the budget and monetary policy. He pointed out, “Inflation arises from international factors and cannot be entirely controlled, but efforts can be made.” He noted that structural reforms incorporated into the upcoming fiscal year’s monetary policy have addressed issues of market manipulation in the stock market.

Governor Paudel stated that the main focus of monetary policy is on policy interest rates, which facilitate liquidity management; however, this requires reliance on fiscal policy. He added, “Expanding credit solely through monetary policy results only in an increase in asset prices.” Furthermore, he informed that there is currently sufficient liquidity available in the financial system.

Employer Council Formation Process Completed Under Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The formation process of the Employer Council under the Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been successfully completed. Federation President Anjan Shrestha emphasized that the council should advocate policy improvements in the labor sector. The meeting unanimously nominated Babukaji Karki as the Vice Chairperson of the Employer Council. Kathmandu, 32 Asar.

The main institutional body representing private sector policies related to labor and employment, social dialogue, and employer interests, the Employer Council formation process under the Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is now complete. At the first meeting of the Employer Council held today at the Federation Secretariat in Teku, President Anjan Shrestha handed over the nomination certificates to members formed under the chairmanship of Council Chair Prabal Jung Pandey.

President Shrestha highlighted the Employer Council’s crucial role in improving, strengthening, and establishing industry-friendly labor relations in the labor and employment sector. He informed that discussions are underway at the ministerial level regarding determining minimum wages by sector. Council members stressed the need to prepare a unified private sector stance to effectively advocate for policy improvements.

The meeting, in accordance with Article 43.1 of the Federation’s 2049 B.S. (7th Amendment) statute, which provides for the nomination of one elected associate member as Vice Chairperson, unanimously approved Babukaji Karki for this role. The Council expressed its commitment to playing a leading role in creating an industry-friendly labor environment, promoting investment and entrepreneurship, increasing productivity and competitiveness, and developing labor relations with social justice.

Increased Tourist Activity at Timbung Pond Adorned with Kenzo Flowers

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Tourist activity has been increasing at Timbung Pond, located on the border of Panchthar and Taplejung districts, coinciding with the blooming of pyramid-shaped Kenzo flowers. Situated at an altitude of 3,335 meters above sea level, this area is becoming known for its natural beauty and religious significance. According to local tourism entrepreneur Amir Rai, homestays are becoming busier with the influx of visitors, and the area is emerging as an excellent destination for trekking enthusiasts. (July 17, Panchthar)

Timbung Pond has again become a major attraction for tourists. With the onset of the rainy season, the blooming of pyramid-shaped Kenzo flowers has given this Himalayan destination a fresh identity. Adorned with lush hills, cool breezes, open meadows, and a Himalayan lifestyle, the area is now recognized as a unique spot for nature lovers. Visitors are warmly welcomed by the natural surroundings, including verdant hills stretching in all directions, views partially veiled and revealed by mist, expansive meadow pastures, and a serene pond at the center that enlivens the atmosphere.

Another prominent attraction in the Timbung area is the Kenzo flower. These pyramid-shaped flowers color the hillsides vibrantly. The flowering season also marks the peak tourist season for visiting Timbung. According to local tourism entrepreneur Amir Rai, tourists continue to arrive not only from across various districts of Nepal but also from Sikkim, India. The popularity of Timbung is steadily growing, with new visitors arriving every year. Beyond its natural beauty, Timbung is also a center of religious faith and tradition. The local community continues to uphold the tradition of worship and rituals at the pond to this day.

गोरखा सहकारीमा ४ अर्ब १२ करोड अपचलन, गैरसदस्यका नाममा ७८ करोड हिनामिना

Embezzlement Exceeding NPR 412 Crore Uncovered at Gorkha Cooperative; NPR 78 Crore Loan Recovered in Non-Members’ Names

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

The board members of Gorkha Saving and Credit Cooperative have been involved in embezzlement exceeding NPR 412 crore. The government has arrested four individuals linked to the cooperative fraud case, including Chairman Imansingh Rai and Chief Executive Officer Lalbahadur Kshetri. The committee reports that the cooperative’s loan investments amount to NPR 1.524 billion with a membership count of 31,800.

According to the oversight committee of the troubled cooperative, directors such as Tejbahadur Tamang and DB Bamjan have misappropriated significant funds. Following the people’s movement, the newly mandated government under Balendra Sah arrested four individuals connected with the Gorkha cooperative on Friday on charges of cooperative fraud. Those arrested include 61-year-old cooperative chairman Imansingh Rai, CEO Lalbahadur Kshetri, Avin Kumar Rai, and former accounting member Karnbahadur Rai.

The committee states that the Gorkha cooperative’s total savings, including interest, amount to NPR 414.13 million, while total loans, including interest and penalties, reach NPR 446.4 million. Persistent non-repayment of loans taken by board members and their families has precipitated institutional challenges. DB Bamjan and his elder sibling Tejbahadur Bamjan, who are not cooperative members, have failed to repay loans taken over several years, exacerbating the issues.

More than 70 percent of the total loans attributed to dummy borrowers have been utilized, with no regular loan repayments being made. The committee’s report highlights long-standing problems due to non-payment of both principal and interest amounts.

Iran Conflict: President Trump Claims Tehran Afraid to Participate in Peace Talks

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

United States President Donald Trump has stated that Iran is willing to engage in peaceful negotiations and desires to end the war that began last month between Israel and the US. However, Iran has categorically denied this claim. On Wednesday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that although the US has sent messages with various proposals, no talks have taken place. Araqchi described Washington’s mention of negotiations as an admission of defeat and warned that they should no longer demand unconditional surrender. He added that Tehran wants the war to end on its own terms, which include assurances that the US and Israel will not launch further attacks and full compensation for the damages suffered by Iranians.

Emphasizing that Iran is engaging in talks, Trump said, “They are afraid to admit it because they fear they could be killed by their own people.” He further remarked, “They fear they could also be killed by us.” On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reported that President Trump has been involved in “productive talks” with Iran over the past three days. She described US actions as “ahead of schedule” and said the Iranian government is searching for a “way back.” However, these statements sharply contrast with those of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who said, “There are currently no plans for negotiations” and that the country remains focused on its “security.”

Discrepancies are also evident regarding proposals to end the war. On Wednesday, reports indicated that Iran had received a 15-point plan from the US aiming at establishing a ceasefire. Citing a senior political-security official in Tehran, state-run Press TV outlined five conditions to end the war, including payment for war damages and compensation and a comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts. Despite these efforts, clashes between the two sides continue. Following Iranian missile strikes, smoke was seen rising from an Israeli energy facility, and air defense system alarms were heard in Tehran.

Asia Cup Triathlon and South Asia Championship Conclude in Pokhara; Winners Announcedf

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

News Summary

  • The 7th Asia Cup Triathlon and the 14th South Asia Triathlon Championship were successfully held in Pokhara.
  • In the Asia Cup Triathlon, Japan’s Hukuto Owara won the men’s gold medal, while Sarika Nakayama claimed the women’s gold.
  • In the South Asia Triathlon, India’s Yajat Kandanda and Dolly Devidas Patil secured first place in the men’s and women’s categories respectively.

March 20, Kathmandu – The Nepal Triathlon Association successfully organized and hosted the 7th Asia Cup Triathlon and the 14th South Asia Triathlon Championship on Saturday in Pokhara.

According to the association, the event significantly enhanced Nepal’s reputation in the international sports arena. The competition featured top athletes from various countries.

A total of 41 athletes from Nepal, Japan, Slovakia, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Singapore, Oman, Estonia, and India participated in the event.

In the Asia Cup Triathlon men’s category, Japan’s Hukuto Owara secured first place with a time of 54 minutes and 30 seconds. Fellow Japanese athlete Mitsuho Muchizuki took second place, while Uzbekistan’s Alexander Kurishov finished third.

In the women’s category, Japan’s Sarika Nakayama won the gold medal with a time of 1 hour and 16 seconds. Uzbekistan’s Alina Khakimova was the runner-up, and Japan’s Minori Ikona claimed third place.

The top five finishers were awarded cash prizes of USD 630, 525, 429, 315, and 210 respectively, along with medals and certificates.

In the South Asia Triathlon Championship, India’s Yajat Kandanda secured first place in the men’s category, followed by Khundrakpam Metei in second, and Nepal’s Maulik Maharjan in third place.

In the women’s category, India’s Dolly Devidas Patil finished first, Mansi Mohty took second place, and Nepal’s Yuska Maharjan came third.

The association expressed gratitude to all organizations, sponsors, volunteers, security personnel, media, and spectators for their support in making the event successful.

Special thanks were extended to the Gandaki Province government, National Sports Council, Pokhara Metropolitan City, and Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province for their cooperation.

Association President Nilendra Raj Shrestha affirmed the commitment to organize such international competitions in the future and to develop Nepal as a premier hub for sports tourism.

Gold Price Drops by NPR 12,500 in a Single Day

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

News Summary

Editorially Reviewed.

  • On Sunday, gold price dropped by NPR 12,500 per tola, reaching NPR 282,000.
  • Gold price has declined by NPR 27,400 over the course of one week.
  • Silver price also fell by NPR 355 per tola to NPR 4,540 on Sunday.

8 Chaitra, Kathmandu – On Sunday, the price of gold dropped by NPR 12,500 per tola in a single day. The Nepal Gold and Silver Traders Federation set the gold price at NPR 282,000 per tola on Sunday.

The previous day, gold was traded at NPR 294,500 per tola. Over the span of one week, the price of gold has fallen by NPR 27,400.

Last Sunday, gold traded at NPR 309,400 per tola. On Magh 15, the gold price had reached an all-time high of NPR 339,300 per tola.

Following the rise in oil prices, various countries have been required to increase the purchase of US dollars, which in turn increased demand for the dollar and caused a decline in gold prices, according to international media reports.

The increase in oil prices on the international market has also pressured global interest rates to rise, which has exerted downward pressure on the prices of gold and silver.

On Sunday, the price of silver also decreased by NPR 355 per tola. The previous day, silver traded at NPR 4,895 per tola, falling to NPR 4,540 on Sunday.

Within one week, the price of silver has dropped by NPR 730. Last Sunday, silver was traded at NPR 5,270 per tola. On Magh 15, silver reached a record high price of NPR 7,505 per tola.