KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top news.

11 Injured in Jeep Accident in Baglung; Two in Critical Condition:

Eleven people, including officials from Tamankhola Rural Municipality, were injured when a jeep met with an accident in Baglung due to brake failure. The vehicle was en route to Baraha pond from Bongadovan bazaar. Among the injured are Assistant Administrative Officer Muna BK and Technical Assistant Nabin Malla, both critically hurt and referred to Dhaulagiri Provincial Hospital. Others, including a former vice-chairperson and support staff, are being treated at Burtibang Hospital, police said. The driver also sustained injuries.

Ex-President Bhandari Says Public Disillusioned by Lack of Stability and Good Governance:

Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has said the Nepali people are disillusioned due to the failure to ensure stability and good governance. In a New Year message published by RSS, she said it is unfortunate that expected goals remain unmet despite efforts. Bhandari noted that a lack of economic opportunities is forcing thousands of youth to migrate abroad. Hinting at a return to active politics, she stressed the CPN-UML must lead the nation out of its current political stagnation with decisive action.

Nepal’s Capital Spending at Just 29% in Q3; Revenue Collection Also Below Target:

Nepal’s development expenditure has reached only 29.2% of its annual allocation by the third quarter of FY 2024/25, with just Rs 102.9 billion spent from the Rs 352.35 billion capital budget, according to the Financial Comptroller General Office. Overall budget spending stands at 53.67%, while revenue collection is also weak, achieving only 57.89% of the annual target. Foreign grant inflow is especially low at just 27.27% of expectations. The slowdown signals growing challenges in budget execution and fiscal management.

Woman Missing in Kaligandaki River While Filming TikTok on New Year:

A 35-year-old woman, Bishnu Pant, went missing in the Kaligandaki River while filming a TikTok video after taking a ritual bath during New Year and Baisakh Sankranti. Originally from Mahashila-5, Parbat, and currently living in Pokhara, Pant slipped into the river near Modibeni in Kushma-5. Police and Armed Police Force teams are conducting search operations downstream up to Bihadi. She was accompanied by her sister and two sons, who returned safely. The river draws large crowds during the annual festival.

New Year 2082 BS Begins with Joy and Hopes:

Nepal welcomed the New Year 2082 BS on Monday, marked by festive celebrations, religious rituals, and renewed hopes for the year ahead. Baishakh 1, the first day of the Bikram Sambat calendar, is celebrated nationwide as the official start of the Nepali New Year. The day holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning, with people visiting temples, spending time with family, and engaging in traditional practices.

According to the solar calendar, the New Year begins on Baishakh 1, while the lunar calendar observes the start of the year on the first day of Chaitra’s bright fortnight. Rooted in the Hindu Panchanga, the Bikram Sambat calendar remains a key timekeeping system in Nepal.

Former King’s New Year Message:

Former King Gyanendra Shah has extended best wishes for the happiness and peace to all Nepali within the country and abroad.In a video message on the occasion of the New Year 2082 BS today, he stated that he was always conscious and sensitive that let there be no conflict among the Nepalis and the sad sense of violence among each other.

Likewise, the former king also expressed sadness over the human and physical losses that occurred in the course of the violence, arson, vandalism and demonstrations in Tinkune of Kathmandu some days back.

President Paudel Appeals for Common Resolve for A Prosperous Nation:

President Ramchandra Paudel has appealed to all to come together with enthusiasm for the progress and prosperity of the nation and move forward with a common resolve. In a message of best wishes on the auspicious occasion of the New Year 2082 today, he has said Nepalis consider the New Year as an auspicious occasion to review the past and make promises and resolutions for the coming days.

It is our tradition to set life goals on special occasions and days and to remain committed to fulfilling them throughout our lives. Hence, the New Year is a day for us to set a common national goal for the country and resolve to achieve it,” he has said in the message. Stating that Bikram Sambat is a Shaurya Sambat based on ancient Hindu tradition and Vedic chronology, he said that this Sambat represents our civilization, social life and traditions, reminds us of Nepal’s glorious past and inspires us to move forward towards a prosperous future.

Prosperity Possible Only with Joint Efforts of all Nepalis, Says PM Oli: 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the government alone is not enough to realize the common aspirations of a prosperous nation. “We can achieve success only with the joint efforts, hard work and contribution of all Nepalis inside and outside the country.

In a message of best wishes on the occasion of the New Year 2082 today, Prime Minister Oli has said that in the new year we seek new energy new resolutions and new possibilities, and that I am confident that this year will inspire us all to develop hope, enthusiasm and positive thinking for our common resolve to make the country prosperous and the people happy. Describing ethnic, regional, cultural and religious diversity as common assets of our nation, he has emphasized that we should move forward by developing unity between them as a strength and not as opposing forces.

Two Killed in Scooter Accident in Humla:

Two individuals have lost their lives in an excavator accident at Loti in Chankheli Rural Municipality-2, Humla. According to Shankar Pokharel, DSP of the Humla District Police Office, the deceased have been identified as 45-year-old Prabal Kami and 31-year-old Arjun Kami.

The incident involved a scooter registered to Nandalal Baduwal of Mugu Chhayanath Rara Municipality-14, as reported by the district police office. The excavator driver’s condition is reported as normal, and he has been taken into custody for further investigation into the accident.

Suspended Judge Bhuwan Giri Released from Prison After Acquittal in Marital Rape Case:

Suspended judge Bhuwan Giri has been released from Dilli Bazaar Prison after being acquitted in a high-profile marital rape case. Giri was freed around 10 AM on Monday morning following the arrival of court documents confirming his acquittal. The Patan High Court had cleared Giri of all charges related to marital rape on Sunday. The acquittal came from a joint bench of Judges Lal Bahadur Kunwar and Dilliratna Shrestha.

Earlier, in Jestha of the previous year, the Kathmandu District Court had found Giri guilty of marital rape. The court had sentenced him to imprisonment and imposed a fine of three lakh rupees. With the High Court overturning the earlier conviction, Giri has now been officially released from custody.

Curfew Lifted in Birgunj:

The District Administration Office, Parsa, has lifted the curfew imposed in Birgunj metropolis area from Sunday midnight. Chief District Officer of Parsa, Ganesh Aryal, shared that the curfew was lifted from 12:00 pm after analyzing the overall law and order situation in Birgunj, which has seen a gradual improvement and based on the decision taken at the all-party meeting.

However, a prohibitory order has been imposed putting a ban on any kind of gatherings, meetings, processions and demonstrations with effect from April 14 and until further notice, he added. Those violating the order will be taken into custody and action will be taken according to the law. The DAO had imposed the curfew order with effect from 6:30 pm on Saturday after a clash between two groups took a violent turn in the Birgunj municipal corporation area on the same afternoon.

UML Plans to Rally One Lakh Youths in Kathmandu on Loktantra Day:

The ruling party CPN-UML is preparing to organize a large-scale youth gathering in Kathmandu on the occasion of Loktantra Day, Baisakh 11. The event aims to bring together at least one lakh youths from across the country. The gathering will be held at either Bhrikutimandap or Tundikhel, and is being coordinated by UML’s youth wing, Youth Association of Nepal.

The event is being presented as a celebration of democracy, but it also serves as a significant political show of strength by the party. The program will feature activities to honor youths and highlight youth-related agendas, including discussions on their issues, challenges, and policy responses. The party is branding the event as a “Youth Festival,” reflecting its intention to engage and mobilize the younger generation through a high-profile event in the capital.

Tourism Is Foundation of Nepal’s Development and Prosperity:

Minister Dr Rana: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has urged for the promotion of tourism in Nepal, highlighting its vast potential for the country’s development and prosperity. She made this statement at a retreat organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Antu and Kanyam of Ilam for the heads of foreign missions in Nepal and representatives of various international organisations. “Nepal’s unique culture, heritage and natural beauty are the major attractions to the world, and these invaluable assets are the basis of the country’s development and prosperity.”

Dr Rana praised Nepal’s cultural and natural diversity, as well as its beauty, greenery, biodiversity and heritage, and mountain ranges. Explaining the importance of the Ilam region, she described Ilam as a land of tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and warm-hearted local people, and urged everyone to experience tea gardens, clean air, traditions, and lifestyle of the tourist destination, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign Envoys Celebrate Nepali New Year 2082 in Kanyam and Antu:

Nepali New Year 2082 turned festive and vibrant in the eastern hills as ambassadors from various countries immersed themselves in scenic beauty and local traditions in Kanyam and Antu of Suryodaya Municipality, Ilam.  Arriving in the afternoon, the delegation—comprising over 45 dignitaries including Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Foreign Secretary Amrit Rai, and representatives from the Nepal Tourism Board—was welcomed at the lush green Kanyam tea gardens with the rhythm of traditional Panche Baja and warm local hospitality.

Before heading to Antu for an overnight stay, the guests were treated to a unique experience in Kanyam. Clad in indigenous attire, they explored the iconic Love Danda on horseback, soaking in the serenity of the tea-covered hills. The initiative is part of an annual New Year tradition led by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote lesser-known tourist destinations among the diplomatic community. According to Suryodaya Mayor Rana Bahadur Rai, this year’s focus was to showcase Kanyam and Antu as rising eco-tourism gems.

Looting Incident in Bouddha: 18 Youths Arrested, NPR 6 millionStolen:

Eighteen individuals involved in looting activities in the Boudha area of Kathmandu were arrested by the police on Sunday. According to the police, the group had lured Nawaraj Khanal under the pretext of “land sale” and carried out a robbery on the 27th of Chaitra. Ritesh Lama, a 42-year-old resident of Bouddha, had been robbed of NPR 6 million in cash, after which the police began their investigation. Upon extensive monitoring, the police arrested the suspects involved in the robbery from various locations.

Among those arrested were 23-year-old Raj Parajuli from Tarkeshwor Municipality, Lolang, 23-year-old Prabhas KC (alias Hari Ram Khatri) from Ramachhap, currently residing in Bhaktapur Madhyapur Thimi, 28-year-old Sarki Majhi from the same village, and 20-year-old Rajesh Bhandari from Ramachhap, currently residing in Gothatar, Kageshwori Manohara. Other suspects arrested include 26-year-old Kushal Basnet from Solukhumbu, 35-year-old Ranjit Lama from Kavrepalanchok, 21-year-old Suyoj Lama from Tarkeshwor Lolang, 37-year-old Uttam Magar from Ramachhap, and 28-year-old Raju Magar, 26-year-old Tika Bahadur Magar, 34-year-old Ramesh Bahadur Magar, and 29-year-old Lax Bahadur Magar from the same area.

Finance Minister Paudel Claims 29 Legal Amendments Have Boosted Economic Optimism:

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel has said that the amendment of 29 laws related to the private sector has generated new optimism in Nepal’s economy. Speaking during a discussion on the upcoming fiscal year 2082/83’s budget and revenue policy with industrialists and businesspeople in Rupandehi, Paudel stated that these legal reforms have helped uplift the morale of the private sector.

“After the formation of the current government, we amended 29 laws at once through an ordinance to address private sector issues. This initiative has infused enthusiasm across the broader economic sector,” Paudel said. He emphasized that the government is working with a commitment to listen to the private sector and create a business-friendly environment. The legal amendments, he said, are part of that broader effort. According to the finance minister, these changes have led to positive shifts in the economy and increased confidence among private sector actors.

Nepal’s Economy in 2081 BS: Modest Recovery Amid Structural Challenges:

Nepal’s economy in 2081 BS showcased cautious recovery but remained mired in deep-rooted challenges. While the external sector remained stable, internal economic hurdles, especially in public finance, persisted. Credit disbursement lagged despite ample liquidity and lower interest rates, reflecting weak investor confidence. Nepal’s debut sovereign credit rating of ‘BB-’ with a stable outlook signaled progress in accessing international financial markets, yet the country’s return to the FATF grey list underscored ongoing governance and regulatory issues.

Public debt rose to Rs 2.676 trillion, representing 46.91% of GDP, exacerbated by exchange rate fluctuations. The Nepal Investment Summit failed to yield substantial commitments due to bureaucratic inefficiencies. Inflation eased to 3.75%, and remittances grew by 9.4% to Rs 1.051 trillion, bolstering foreign reserves. However, capital expenditure and credit expansion fell short of targets, limiting economic momentum. Other highlights included record-high gold prices driven by global tensions and the establishment of a National Cooperative Regulatory Authority to tackle financial mismanagement. Globally, geopolitical conflicts and trade disputes added economic volatility, while advancements in fintech and AI reshaped financial systems. Despite incremental progress, Nepal’s economy faces urgent structural reform needs to sustain growth and investor confidence.

NEPSE Index Rises 31.5% in 2081, But High-Risk Stocks Raise Concerns:

In the Nepali calendar year 2081, the overall NEPSE index surged by 31.5%. The market, which stood at 2,023 points at the start of the year, climbed to 2,662 points on the first trading day of 2082. At one point—on the 31st of Shrawan 2081—the index even reached the 3,000 mark. However, it still fell short of the all-time high of 3,198 points recorded on Bhadra 2, 2078. While the long-term trend of the market appears bullish, short-term fluctuations and corrections have been more frequent.

Despite the overall index rising by 31%, some individual stocks soared by as much as 300% over the past year. However, many of these stocks belong to companies with weak financial foundations. Market analysts have cautioned that such steep rises, unsupported by strong fundamentals, come with significantly higher investment risks.

Government Revenue Falls Short by Rs 176 billion in First Nine Months of Fiscal Year:

The government’s revenue collection performance remains sluggish, with a significant shortfall compared to the target set for the current fiscal year. In the first nine months, actual revenue collection has fallen short by Rs 176 billion. From Shrawan to Chaitra (nine months), the government had set a revenue target of Rs 1.016 trillion. However, only Rs 840.91 billion has been collected during this period.

To meet the annual revenue target, a 38% increase over last year’s collection would be required. But as of now, the growth rate is only 9%. Although some months in this fiscal year recorded revenue growth of up to 20%, the latest data from Chaitra shows a significant slowdown once again. This widening gap between target and actual collection highlights the government’s continued struggle to mobilize internal resources effectively.

‘Jari 2: Song of Chyabrung’ Officially Announced:

The much-anticipated sequel Jari 2: Song of Chyabrung has been officially announced. On the occasion of Nepali New Year 2082, production house Bansuri Films revealed the announcement poster, confirming key details of the project. The film will be written and directed by Upendra Subba, continuing his signature style of blending indigenous storytelling with cinematic artistry.

The lead cast includes acclaimed actors Dayahang Rai, Miruna Magar, Bijay Baral, and Richa Sharma, all of whom also played central roles in the original Jari. Joining them are an ensemble cast of notable talents: Buddhi Tamang, Pushkar Gurung, Prem Subba, Mao Tse Gurung, Manahang Lawati, Bishnu Moktan, Kamalmani Nepal, Anil Subba, Rekha Limbu, Bedana Rai, and Sirjana Ninglekhu.

‘Dhukdhuki’ Announced on New Year’s Day:

The team that brought audiences the film Mohar has officially announced a brand new project titled Dhukdhuki on the occasion of Nepali New Year 2082. Written and directed by Om Pratik, the upcoming film will be produced under the banner of Filmmaker Pvt. Ltd., with Chumbanjung Shahi onboard as the producer. According to the production team, shooting for Dhukdhuki is scheduled to begin after Tihar, although no cast members have been finalized yet.

Interestingly, Dhukdhuki is not an entirely new title in the Nepali film scene. A film with the same name was previously produced by Binod Manandhar, with its screenplay and dialogues penned by Om Pratik himself. Now, Om is taking the creative reins further by not only writing but also directing a new film under the same title, marking a new chapter in his storytelling journey.

‘Cetamol’ Set for Release on Saun 23, New Poster Unveiled:

The release date of the upcoming Nepali film Cetamol, directed by Raj Bahadur Sane, has been officially announced. Coinciding with the Nepali New Year 2082, the production team unveiled a new poster on Baisakh 1, revealing that the film will hit theatres on Shrawan 23. The newly released poster features the film’s lead actors Saugat Malla and Benisha Hamal.

In the image, Saugat is shown standing with the help of a walking stick, holding a red rooster in one hand—a symbolic and somewhat whimsical visual. Beside him, Benisha is portrayed in a cheerful expression, cradling a baby, hinting at a familial storyline. From the imagery, it is speculated that the two play a married couple in the film. The combination of rural symbols, parental cues, and a hint of satire suggests the film may blend elements of drama, comedy, and social commentary.

10th National Games in Karnali Postponed Amid Logistical and Legal Concerns:

The much-anticipated 10th National Games, originally scheduled to take place in Karnali Province from Jestha 3 to 10 (May 17–24), has officially been postponed. The decision comes after the Monitoring Committee under the National Sports Council (NSC) advised the Ministry of Youth and Sports to defer the event due to insufficient preparation and unresolved legal procedures.

Led by NSC Vice President Dhruba Acharya, the committee submitted a detailed report to Youth and Sports Minister Tejulal Chaudhary, outlining critical shortcomings that made the event infeasible on the announced dates. The report highlights that the venues for various sports disciplines had not been finalized, and construction work on several stadiums remained incomplete. Moreover, key logistical elements such as the selection of athletes at the provincial level had not been completed. The committee noted uncertainty regarding the final number of athletes, coaches, and referees. 

2081: A Landmark Year of Sports Achievements and Global Recognition for Nepal:

Nepali sports reached new heights in 2081, with a series of historic milestones and international triumphs across various disciplines. This year, marked by a string of significant accomplishments, showcased the growing strength of Nepali athletes on the world stage. One of the most remarkable achievements came from the Nepali kho kho teams, both men’s and women’s, who made history with their performances, elevating the profile of traditional Nepali sports globally. Their success was a highlight in a year that could be rightfully called Nepal’s “World Cup Year.”

In cricket, the national men’s team made a stellar return to the ICC T20 World Cup, marking a major achievement for the sport in Nepal. Meanwhile, Nepal’s U-19 women’s cricket team created history by playing in the ICC U-19 Women’s World Cup for the first time. These accomplishments underscored the growing potential of Nepali cricket on the world stage. The excitement didn’t stop there. As the year came to a close, Nepal’s U-19 men’s cricket team was gearing up for their World Cup qualifying matches, beginning this Sunday with the hopes of earning a spot in the 2026 U-19 World Cup in Zimbabwe. At the same time, the senior cricket team was competing in the Hong Kong T20I Series, keeping the cricket spirit alive throughout the year.

10th Manimukunda Cup Volleyball Championship to Kick Off in Rupandehi:

Rupandehi is all set to host the 10th edition of the Manimukunda Cup Men’s Volleyball Indo-Nepal Club Championship 2082, starting from Baisakh 6 (April 19). Organized under the slogan “Sports for Health, Sports for Nation,” this year’s event will feature nine teams, including one Indian club and three departmental teams, according to the organizing committee.

The tournament is being hosted by the Manimukunda Volleyball Club, Butwal, which has been organizing this annual competition since 2072 B.S. While the first eight editions were held at the district level, the 9th edition, held last year, was upgraded to the national level for the first time. The 10th edition marks a new milestone in the tournament’s history, further enhancing its scope with international participation and continued efforts to promote volleyball as a key sport in the region.

Deadly Russian Attack on Ukraine Was a Mistake, Trump Says:

A Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy, which killed 34 people – including two children – and injured 117 others, has been strongly condemned by Kyiv’s Western allies.Two ballistic missiles struck the city centre mid-morning on Sunday, exploding near the state university and congress centre, leaving bloodied bodies scattered in the streets.

US President Donald Trump described the attack as a “horrible thing” while Germany’s chancellor-in-waiting, Friedrich Merz, accused Russia of committing a war crime. There was no immediate official comment on the attack from Russia, whose forces across the nearby border are said to be preparing for a major offensive.

Taiwan Records Increased Chinese Incursions Around Its Territory:

Taiwan recorded six sorties of PLA aircraft and seven PLAN vessels operating around its territory on Monday, as shared by Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND). In a post on X, MND observed that these were detected up until 6 AM (UTC+8) on Monday. It further noted that two of the six sorties crossed the median line and entered into Taiwan’s southwestern ADIZ.”6 sorties of PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today.

2 out of 6 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded”, MND wrote on X. Earlier on Sunday, MND reported the detection of six People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels operating around the island as of 6 am (UTC+8). In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the ministry said, “6 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 am (UTC+8) today. Illustration of flight path is not provided due to no PLA aircraft operating around Taiwan were detected during this timeframe.

China’s Xi Says Tariffs ‘yield no winners’ As He Begins Southeast Asia Tour:

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that trade wars “yield no winners” as he prepares to kick off a tour of Southeast Asia against the backdrop of heightened trade tensions between China and the United States. Writing in Vietnam’s Nhan Dan newspaper ahead of his visit to the country on Monday, Xi said that countries should work to advance a “comprehensive and inclusive global economic globalization”.

“Trade wars and tariff wars yield no winners, and protectionism offers no solutions,” Xi said. “There is a need to resolutely protect the multilateral trading system, sustain the stability of global production and supply chains, and maintain an open and cooperative international environment.”

EU Urges New Sanctions on Russia After ‘Barbaric’ Missile Strike on Sumy:

European Union foreign ministers have called for urgent new sanctions on Russia following a deadly missile strike on Ukraine’s Sumy, which killed at least 34 people and injured over 110 during Palm Sunday celebrations. The attack, involving ballistic missiles and cluster munitions, has been condemned as a war crime and a blow to peace efforts. Ministers demanded sanctions targeting previously exempt sectors like LNG and nuclear energy. The proposed 17th sanctions package may face resistance from Hungary, which has opposed further economic restrictions on Russia.