Minister of Education and Sports, Sammit Pokharel, has described the Nepal Premier League (NPL) as a strong foundation for enhancing Nepal’s sports tourism and international recognition. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Pokharel highlighted that the enthusiastic response from the spectators has raised hopes for the potential and bright future of Nepalese sports. Kathmandu, 9 Kartik.
Reflecting on the inauguration of the third edition of the NPL, the minister expressed confidence that the tournament, known as the ‘Festival of the Himalayas,’ will further strengthen Nepal’s international identity.
He noted that the enthusiasm exhibited by the audience during the opening ceremony symbolizes the promising prospects and vibrant future of sports in Nepal. “This is an important opportunity to connect the support of sports enthusiasts with the development of Nepal’s sports sector and its international recognition,” he said.
Welcoming foreign players, commentators, and guests who have come to participate in the competition, Minister Pokharel expressed the hope that they will not only experience Nepalese cricket but also take back memories of Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. He extended his best wishes to all the teams and players participating in the tournament for outstanding and thrilling performances.
Paras Khadka, Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Balendra Shah, Education and Sports Minister Sasmit Pokharel, and all other guests present at the opening ceremony of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Prime Minister Balendra Shah inaugurated the tournament on Monday at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, where he met the players and handed over the ball to the match referee.
Khadka highlighted that the state’s guardianship and trust in Nepali cricket has infused new energy and enthusiasm into the sport. He extended thanks to CAN officials, members, franchise teams, sponsors, and everyone involved in the management. Emphasizing that the NPL, embraced by the entire Nepali population, has become a symbol of Nepal’s identity and pride on the international stage, Khadka wished success to all teams participating in the tournament.
The third season of the NPL commenced on Monday, with the Lumbini Lions securing a victorious start by defeating the Sudurpashchim Royals.
In the second quarterfinal of the inaugural Majhiya Memorial Cup, Padma Sports Club from Okhaldhunga defeated Belbari Football Club of Morang with a commanding 7–0 scoreline. Simran Gurung scored four goals in the match, earning her the ‘Player of the Match’ title. The tournament features eight teams, with the winner set to receive a prize of NPR 300,000. The event is being held in Kartik (mid-November).
The second quarterfinal was held on Sunday at Mulkhark, Madi Municipality-3 in Sankhuwasabha district. Sukriya Magar gave Padma Sports Club an early lead by scoring the opening goal in the 31st minute. During added time of the first half, Simran netted two consecutive goals, followed by one from Bhumika Budhathoki. In the second half, Simran added her third goal, strengthening her team’s commanding position.
Simran scored her fourth goal in the 33rd minute, sealing a comprehensive 7–0 victory for Padma Sports Club. Belbari was unable to score any goals during the match. The competition is organized by the Majhiya Man Bahadur Jimmi Memorial Foundation in memory of the late Man Bahadur Jimmi Majhiya, with co-organization by Hangthum Club. The third quarterfinal match is scheduled for Monday between Fedap Rural Municipality, Poklawang, Tehrathum, and DYC Sangurigadhi, Bhedetar, Dhankuta. The tournament will continue until Kartik 13 (late November).
In the opening match of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), the previous year’s runners-up, Sudurpashchim Royals, have lost seven wickets. At this stage, Sudurpashchim Royals have accumulated just 56 runs. They have lost key players including Vinod Bhandari, Arif Sheikh, Brandon McMullen, Saif Ali Jayeb, Sherfan Rutherford, and Ishan Pandey. Lumbini Lions’ Sher Mall took two wickets in the 10th over, dismissing Scott Kugelein LBW. Kathmandu, 9 Kartik.
Under the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), Sudurpashchim Royals find themselves in a challenging position after losing seven wickets in the opening match. In the 10th over, Sher Mall of the Lumbini Lions claimed two wickets. The seventh wicket fell when he had Scott Kugelein out LBW. Although the umpire initially did not give the decision, Lumbini Lions’ captain Rohit Paudel took the review. Considering that the ball pitched outside off, the impact was in line, and it was hitting the stumps, the dismissal was confirmed.
Earlier, at 9.2 overs, Sher Mall had dismissed Sherfan Rutherford LBW. Rutherford was attempting a big shot but missed as the ball rose sharply, leading to a catch by Asif Sheikh in the long-on region. So far, Sudurpashchim has made 56 runs. Previously, Sudurpashchim had lost Ishan Pandey as the fifth wicket, bowled by Tilakraj Bhandari of Lumbini Lions. Captain Rohit Paudel took the catch off Bhandari’s delivery to send Pandey back to the pavilion. Sher Mall had earlier sent the opening batsman Vinod Bhandari back to the pavilion at 3.1 overs. Arif Sheikh was dismissed without scoring significant runs and left the field after being taken out by Lumbini’s Kishor Mahto. Kishor Mahto then bowled out Brandon McMullen, who was dismissed at 4.4 overs after scoring 2 runs off 2 balls. Sudurpashchim lost Saif Ali Jayeb as their fourth wicket.
A video recently released shows a waterfall in Scotland’s Highlands appearing to flow upwards due to strong winds. This storm, named ‘Bolo,’ has resulted in at least two fatalities across the UK.
In addition, various regions are experiencing flooding, transportation disruptions, and power outages. Warnings about the severe weather have been issued for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Northern England.
In the opening match of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), Lumbini Lions bowled out Sudurpashchim Royals for just 87 runs. The Royals were dismissed in 17.2 overs, with Kishori Mahato of Lumbini taking four wickets and Sher Mall capturing three. Shadli Bhan, Tilkaraj Bhandari, and Rohitkumar Paudel also contributed with one wicket each. The match took place on 9 Kartik in Kathmandu.
Sudurpashchim captain Dipendra Singh Airey top-scored with 27 runs off 23 balls. Later, Saif Ali Jaiv added 13 runs from 14 balls, but no other batsmen reached double figures. The Royals lost their first wicket on the first ball of the fourth over, as Vinod Bhandari was declared LBW by Sher Mall of Lumbini.
After losing the opening wicket, Sudurpashchim reached 24 runs before losing a total of four wickets at 34 runs. Saif Jaiv was dismissed for 13, Brandon McMullen scored 2, and Ishan Pande got out for 7. Sherfan Rutherford was out for 1, while Scout Quigelin and Hemant Dhami were dismissed without scoring. Anil Kharel scored 7 before getting out, leaving Abhinas Bohara unbeaten.
During the 13th over, defending champions Lumbini Lions took 9 wickets from former runners-up Sudurpashchim Royals. In the opening match of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), Lumbini Lions exerted pressure on Sudurpashchim Royals by dismissing 9 of their wickets. Kishor Mahto dismissed Deependra Singh Airi and Hemant Dhami, intensifying the pressure on Sudurpashchim. The Royals were struggling at 56 runs for 9 wickets. 9 Kartik, Kathmandu.
In the 12.3 and 12.4 overs, Kishor Mahto took the wickets of Royals’ captain Deependra Singh Airi and Hemant Dhami respectively. Earlier, in the 10th over, Sher Mall took two wickets. He dismissed Scott Kuggeleijn lbw as the seventh wicket. After the umpire initially did not give the dismissal, Lumbini Lions captain Rohit Paudel opted for a review. The ball tracking showed pitching outside off, impact in line, and hitting the stumps.
At 9.2 overs, Sudurpashchim lost Sherfan Rutherford off the bowling of Sher Mall. Rutherford attempted a big shot but only managed to hit the ball upwards, resulting in a catch by Asif Sheikh at long on. Currently, Sudurpashchim Royals are fighting with 56 runs on the board. Previously, Sudurpashchim lost Ishan Pandey as the fifth wicket, who was caught by captain Rohit Paudel off Tilakaraj Bhandari’s bowling for Lumbini Lions.
In the 3.1 over, Lumbini’s Sher Mall also dismissed Sudurpashchim opener Vinod Bhandari. Shortly after, Arif Sheikh was out without scoring after playing less than an over; he was dismissed by Kishor Mahto. Mahto also bowled Brandon McMullen in the 4.4 over, who had scored two runs off two balls. Sudurpashchim previously lost Saif Ali Zaib as the fourth wicket.
On Friday, gunmen opened fire inside a church in Jordan, resulting in a tragic incident. Authorities have reported that at least seven people have died and 34 others have been injured in the attack. CCTV footage broadcast by Jordan’s state media outlet Al-Mamlaka clearly shows the assailants firing shots.
The attackers fled the scene in a car after opening fire. King Abdullah II of Jordan has condemned the incident, describing it as a “terrorist act,” and has pledged to ensure the perpetrators face severe punishment. However, the motives and background of the attack remain unclear at this time.
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil, defeated Flávio Bolsonaro in the runoff election held on Sunday, securing his fourth term with 51.78% of the vote. According to data released by Brazil’s Supreme Electoral Court, with 99.98% of the votes counted, Bolsonaro received 48.22%. Speaking from São Paulo to announce his victory, Lula committed to governing in the interest of all Brazilians and pledged to uphold the constitution. This unprecedented win marks another significant chapter in the political history of Latin America’s largest nation.
In the first round of voting on October 4, Lula finished second with 45.16% of the vote, just behind Senator Bolsonaro who garnered 47.03%, allowing Lula to advance to the runoff. By achieving this comeback, he became the first candidate since the restoration of democracy in Brazil to win the presidency despite placing second in the initial round. Addressing supporters in São Paulo after the victory, Lula expressed a strong commitment to serving the interests of all Brazilians despite political divisions.
Lula’s return to office was heavily influenced by the range of key issues he highlighted during his campaign. Topics such as the cost of living, public security, corruption, Brazil’s foreign policy, and especially strained relations with the United States had a profound impact on the election discourse.
Born on October 27, 1945, in Pernambuco, a northeastern state of Brazil, Lula first won the presidency in 2002 and took office again in January 2023. During this upcoming fourth term, he plans to focus on poverty reduction, increasing social spending, boosting public investments, and environmental protection. Lula’s new term will begin on January 5, 2027, extending his presidential career to nearly three decades.
In the past Bhadra month, the devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi and lower Trishuli river regions caused extensive damage to lives, property, and assets. This calamity severely impacted various industries, trades, and businesses, leaving thousands of people’s employment and livelihoods uncertain.
What kinds of employment or benefits can the government offer to citizens who lost their jobs due to this flood? In an inquiry, Sagar Budhathoki interviewed Pukar Mall, a member of the National Planning Commission, to discuss this issue.
Health officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have announced the commencement of trials for a new vaccine aimed at controlling Ebola infections. This trial will evaluate the vaccine’s safety, efficacy, and identify the appropriate target groups for its use. Meanwhile, authorities continue efforts in case identification, isolation, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns. (9 Kattik, Kinshasa)
Officials from DR Congo’s health sector have initiated a new vaccine trial to curb the spread of Ebola. The trial is designed to assess both the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness, as well as determine which population groups are suitable for its administration. Throughout the different phases, close monitoring for potential adverse effects will be maintained.
Experts have clarified that starting this vaccine trial does not imply that the vaccine has already been approved for general use or that its efficacy is confirmed. Drawing definitive conclusions about the vaccine’s effectiveness requires comprehensive analysis of data gathered through the various clinical study stages. Concurrently, health authorities continue to identify and monitor infected individuals, isolate patients, track contacts, and conduct ongoing public information drives.
These combined measures play a crucial role in controlling the virus’s transmission. Additionally, provisions are in place to supply necessary materials to frontline workers. The DR Congo declared the Ebola outbreak in mid-May. Ebola is a highly lethal disease that has claimed over 15,000 lives in Africa over the past 50 years. The new vaccine trial marks a significant step in the larger effort to control the outbreak.
With the likelihood of heavy rainfall during the mid-season rice harvesting period, the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) has advised farmers to complete harvesting by Tuesday or to wait until the rainfall subsides before harvesting. NARC recommends that farmers should only cut rice if they can dry it under the sun or store it safely after threshing.
Although this year’s El Niño weather system is expected to bring less rainfall, rice production is anticipated to increase slightly compared to last year. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued warnings for widespread rainfall across Nepal starting Wednesday for four days due to a developing system in the Bay of Bengal. Meteorologists have also predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in some districts and significant snowfall in mountainous areas.
NARC has urged all farmers not to begin rice harvesting from Thursday onwards. In cases where harvesting cannot be completed by Tuesday, farmers are requested to commence harvesting only after the rainfall stops. NARC’s Executive Director Mr. Shremat Shrestha stated, “If you can complete harvesting by tomorrow (Tuesday), please do so, but if not, we advise waiting until the rain stops before harvesting.”
Former Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Hari Dahal, also recommended refraining from harvesting in the current weather conditions and advised farmers to thresh and store rice safely if rainfall occurs after harvesting. He emphasized, “Farmers should make decisions based on local conditions and weather forecasts, choosing whether to harvest accordingly.” Taking into account the projected El Niño system and its effects, the Ministry of Agriculture has worked with NARC to prepare well in advance of the rice planting season.
Image caption, Rice crops ripening yellow in Pakla, Pauwadung Rural Municipality–3, Bhojpur, an area known as a granary
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With heavy rainfall forecast during mid-season rice harvest, the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) has urged farmers to complete harvesting by Tuesday or wait until after the rain subsides before cutting the crop.
NARC recommends harvesting rice only when it can be dried in one or two sunny days or when it can be tied and stored safely.
Although the El Niño climatic phenomenon predicts less rainfall this year, rice production is expected to increase slightly compared to last year.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has advised vigilance for widespread rainfall in Nepal over four days starting Wednesday due to an active system developing in the Bay of Bengal.
Meteorologists indicate some districts may face heavy to very heavy rainfall and heavy snowfall in mountainous regions.
According to the department, light rain will begin in eastern Nepal on Wednesday, with heavy rain forecast from Thursday through Saturday. The Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces may see partial rainfall.
When Should Farmers Harvest Rice?
Image source, RSS
Image caption, Rice ripening near the Triyuga River in Udaypur
NARC has urged farmers not to harvest rice from Thursday onward.
If not harvested by Tuesday (tomorrow), farmers are requested to wait until after the rain stops to start harvesting.
“If harvesting can be completed tomorrow (Tuesday), it should be done, otherwise, we recommend cutting only after the rain has stopped,” said NARC Executive Director Srimat Shrestha.
“Rice harvested on Tuesday can dry in one or two sunny days. Most of the rice is now ready for harvest, but it is important to evaluate the crop condition before cutting.”
If harvesting on Tuesday is challenging, the use of machinery like combine harvesters or reapers is advised instead of manual cutting.
“Proper drying of harvested rice is essential before storage to prevent pest damage,” added Shrestha.
Former Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, Hari Dahal, also advised against harvesting at this time and recommended tying the rice bundles if harvested right before rains.
“Farmers should make decisions based on local conditions and weather forecasts. If the rice is fully ripe and cannot be stored safely, then it is better not to harvest,” he said.
“Harvested rice should be dried quickly to avoid damage from pests. Keeping rice tied in a ventilated place can keep it safe for a few days. Rice loss must be avoided.”
Image source, RSS
Image caption, Farmers harvesting Marsi rice in the fields of Lachu Jiyulo, Tatopani Rural Municipality-3, Jumla
Accounting for this year’s El Niño phenomenon and its impact, the Ministry of Agriculture, through NARC, had prepared well before rice transplantation this season.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicted a stronger El Niño from August to October this year, expecting higher temperatures and changing rainfall patterns.
“Considering potential impacts of El Niño, we planted rice on time and selected varieties that require less water. However, its effects haven’t been significantly felt yet,” said Executive Director Shrestha.
“Therefore, despite water shortages, rice production is unlikely to suffer losses.”
Last year, rice yield averaged 3.7 metric tons per hectare; this year it is expected between 3.8 to 3.9 metric tons.
“The use of improved rice varieties this year is also contributing to the anticipated increase in production,” he added.
In 2081 BS (2024/25 AD), Nepal’s rice productivity per hectare was also 3.8 metric tons.
US President Donald Trump claimed on Sunday in Port Huron, Michigan, that a trade agreement between the United States and Canada will be finalized soon. Following unsuccessful negotiations in August, Trump imposed additional tariffs on various goods imported from Canada, affecting products worth approximately $20 billion. In response to the trade dispute, Canada imposed equivalent tariffs on US products, and the White House removed tariffs on some items on Friday. (November 9, Washington)
Trump made these remarks during an election rally in Port Huron, just nine days before the US midterm elections. The failed trade talks in August increased tensions between the two countries, prompting Trump to impose extra tariffs on Canadian goods. He stated, “We will resolve this issue soon. Currently, Canada is ready to give us whatever we want.” Defending the tariff decision against Canada, he said that Canada had taken unfair advantage of the US for years.
The tariffs imposed after the failed August talks have affected nearly $20 billion worth of products ranging from lumber to cement. In retaliation, Canada imposed equivalent tariffs on US goods. Trump responded by levying tariffs as high as 50 percent on some products. At the request of Senator Susan Collins from the border state of Maine, the White House removed the tariffs on some of these products last Friday. The upcoming Tuesday midterm elections have Democrats targeting Collins’ Senate seat to gain control of the Senate. Since the beginning of his second term, Trump has broadly imposed tariffs on both allied and rival countries, accusing other nations of profiting unfairly from the US. He has sought to reform the global trade system, often linking tariffs with his political and foreign policy goals.
Following a serious security vulnerability detected in the PHP programming technology, several government and banking websites that were temporarily taken offline have been gradually restored, officials have confirmed. PHP is a technology commonly used for developing web applications. According to authorities, by applying necessary security patches and completing thorough testing procedures, online services have steadily returned to normal operations. “Over nine hundred websites have been reinstated. We are currently focusing on critical systems such as the Public Service Commission, Passport Department, and the Department of Transport,” stated Subhash Dhakal, acting head of the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers’ Information Technology and Electronic Governance Division. He added that websites considered high-risk were prioritized in the remediation efforts. “Most websites are expected to be back up by Monday and Tuesday.”
The Information Technology and Electronic Governance Office was established as a replacement for the old Information Technology Department. To address the current challenge, this office is coordinating with the National Cyber Security Center, the Software Development and Operation Center, and other related agencies, Dhakal explained. Security patches and testing were undertaken during the Dashain holiday period. “Having identified the risks, we have adopted advance warnings and precautions. Therefore, there is no need for undue alarm,” he reassured.
These PHP-related security issues have affected many systems not only in Nepal but worldwide. As a precaution against potential cyberattacks, dozens of government websites and systems, including banking platforms, were temporarily shut down in Nepal. Cybersecurity experts warned that attackers could exploit these weaknesses to run server-side code without actually accessing the websites directly. “This is the ultimate target of the hackers,” said cybersecurity expert Santosh Sharma. However, Dhakal from the IT and Electronic Governance Office stated that the risk to the websites themselves was not significant. “The greater risk lies in what damage could occur if attackers penetrate deeper into our systems from these websites,” he explained.
Experts have noted that as reliance on cyber and digital services grows, cyber security challenges are becoming increasingly complex. With the expansion of government services, financial transactions, communication services, and the digital storage of personal data, threats such as cyberattacks, data theft, unauthorized access, and ransomware demands have also increased. According to acting head Dhakal, a risk assessment is underway for critical IT infrastructure to develop a dedicated plan for ‘Critical Information Infrastructure’ (CII). “This work goes beyond the PHP issue and relates to a broader evaluation and management of risk,” Dhakal emphasized.
