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 stories.
PM Oli and NC President Deuba Hold Talks on Budget, Parliamentary Deadlock: A meeting was held between two top leaders of the ruling coalition. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba held discussions on Wednesday afternoon at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, according to the PM’s Secretariat. The Secretariat stated that the two leaders discussed the ongoing obstruction in Parliament, the national budget, and other contemporary political issues.
Government Announces 19 Decisions from Recent Cabinet Meeting: The government has made public 19 decisions from the Cabinet meeting held on June 16. At a press conference on Wednesday, government spokesperson and Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced the decisions. Among the major decisions, the government has agreed to accept a concessional loan of approximately NPR 20.79 billion from the World Bank for the third phase of the Bridge Improvement and Maintenance Program.
PM Oli to Undertake Official Visit to Spain: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is set to make an official visit to Spain. The Cabinet approved the visit, scheduled from June 30 to July 5, during its meeting on Monday. The Cabinet also decided to form a Nepali delegation led by Prime Minister Oli for the trip. This will be Prime Minister Oli’s first official visit to Spain since taking office. The visit is expected to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance bilateral cooperation between Nepal and Spain.
MCC Projects in Nepal to Continue: The United States has granted a special exception to its 90-day global pause on foreign aid, allowing the full implementation of the $500 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact to move forward. This exemption, approved by Secretary of State in February 2025, comes as the U.S. government continues a comprehensive review of its foreign assistance programs worldwide. The decision permits Nepal to proceed with MCC-funded projects, primarily focused on electricity transmission infrastructure and road maintenance.
Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar Departs for Four-Day Visit to South Africa: Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar left for South Africa on Wednesday morning for a four-day official visit. She will participate in a high-level dialogue on democracy held in Pretoria. The event, scheduled for June 19 and 20, is organized jointly by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), the Open Society Foundation, and South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
PM Oli Chairs First Meeting of High-Level Good Governance Commission: The first meeting of the High-Level Good Governance Commission, chaired by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, was held on Wednesday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar. The session featured an introductory discussion on the commission’s objectives, scope of work, and a priority agenda for upcoming actions. Formed by a Cabinet decision on Baisakh 8 (April 21), the 15-member commission aims to strengthen governance mechanisms and policy enforcement across Nepal.
Over 2,000 Nepalis Duped via Visit Visa Scams Contact RSP: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has stated that over 2,000 Nepalis victimized through visit visa-related scams have come into contact with the party. On May 28, the party had issued a public call urging Nepalis who were cheated through visit visas or human trafficking schemes to reach out. “In response to that call, more than 2,000 affected Nepali citizens have contacted us through both virtual and physical means,” said Manish Jha, RSP’s acting spokesperson.
Finance Minister Poudel Urges Not to Speculate on UML’s Future Leadership: CPN-UML Vice Chairperson and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel has urged party members not to make unnecessary speculations regarding the party’s future leadership. Addressing a meeting of the UML’s affiliated organizations, Poudel emphasized that discussions on leadership should not take place before the Statute Convention. “Let’s not debate leadership before the Statute Convention,” said Poudel. “Once the convention determines the procedures, we can discuss leadership then. There is no issue regarding leadership within UML.”
Federal Civil Service Bill Unlikely to Be Tabled Before June 29: The “Federal Civil Service Bill” which outlines provisions regarding the formation, operation, and terms of service of Nepal’s federal civil service, is unlikely to be tabled for decision in the House of Representatives before Asar 15 (June 29). According to the schedule released by the Federal Parliament Secretariat, there is no plan to present or pass the bill before Asar 15 (June 29). The schedule lists parliamentary sittings on June 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28, but the bill is not included on the agenda.
Nepali Embassy in Israel Begins Online Registration for Evacuation: The Nepali Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel, has initiated online registration for the evacuation of Nepali nationals currently residing in Israel. In a public notice, the embassy announced that Nepalis in need of evacuation or those wishing to return home can now register online. “In view of the recent developments in Israel, and to gather data for evacuation, repatriation, and other necessary support for Nepali citizens facing difficulties or fear, the embassy has started collecting information,” the notice states.
PM Oli to Face Parliamentary Q&A on June 20: The House of Representatives will hold a question-and-answer session with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, June 20, according to the calendar released by the Federal Parliament Secretariat. The Q&A session is part of a regular monthly practice, where lawmakers engage the Prime Minister on current national issues during the first week of every month.
Human Rights Group Protests in Kathmandu, Urges End to Israel-Iran War: The Human Rights and Peace Society held a peaceful protest in Kathmandu on Wednesday, demanding an end to the ongoing war between Israel and Iran. The demonstration took place in front of the Israeli Embassy in the morning. Protesters expressed concern that the war is escalating tensions in West Asia and posing a growing threat to global peace. On Friday, June 13, Israel launched an offensive named “Operation Rising Lion” targeting Iran. In response, Iran retaliated, and the conflict has now continued for six consecutive days.
Over 35 Nepalis Detained in Bangalore Theft Case: More than 35 Nepalis have reportedly been taken into custody by Indian police in connection with a theft case in Bangalore, India. The city has increasingly become a popular destination for employment among Nepalis, especially those from Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces. While Delhi and Mumbai were previously the main cities of employment for Nepalis in India, Bangalore is now seen as a safer and more promising location—particularly for families working as domestic helpers.
NEPSE Inches Down by 1.07 Points Despite 18% Rise in Turnover: Despite an 18% increase in trading volume, the NEPSE index declined slightly by 1.07 points on Wednesday, settling at 2,653 points. The total transaction amount reached Rs 9.08 billion, up from Rs 7.65 billion the previous day. Out of the traded companies, 88 saw gains, 159 declined, and one remained unchanged. Sector-wise, the market showed mixed performance. Hydropower rose by 0.74%, life insurance by 0.14%, manufacturing and processing by 0.37%, and the ‘others’ category increased by 0.19%.
NRB Withdraws Rs 90 billion in One Day Amid Liquidity Surplus: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has withdrawn Rs 90 billion from the banking system in a single day on Wednesday to manage excess liquidity. This follows similar moves in the past, where NRB has withdrawn up to Rs 80 billion in a single day. The central bank issued a 21-day auction notice inviting participation from banks and financial institutions, with the auction scheduled for 3 PM Wednesday.
Nepal to Receive Rs 51 billion in Foreign Loans and Grants: The Government of Nepal has decided to secure a total of Rs 51 billion in foreign loans and grants to support various development projects. The decision was made during the Cabinet meeting held on June 16. As part of this financial arrangement, Nepal will receive a concessional loan of Rs 20.79 billion from the World Bank for the improvement and maintenance of bridges across the country. Another major portion of the financial package includes a Rs 29.72 billion loan from the World Bank to improve Nepal’s strategic road network and enhance trade routes.
ADB Unveils 2025–2029 Strategy for Nepal Focusing on Green and Resilient Growth: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has unveiled a new Country Partnership Strategy for Nepal, effective from 2025 to 2029. The plan emphasizes green, private sector-led, and climate-resilient development to support Nepal’s economic transformation. Its three strategic pillars include: promoting employment-generating green economic transformation led by the private sector, developing quality human capital, and strengthening public services and climate-resilient infrastructure.
Nepal Receives Less Than Half of Expected Foreign Aid Over Five Years: Though the government projects high amounts of foreign grants in each budget—given that such aid need not be repaid—data from the Ministry of Finance show Nepal has received less than half the expected amount over the last five years. The highest aid received in this period was Rs 21.29 billion in FY 2079/80 (2022/23), still falling short of targets.
35-Year-Old Song ‘Dhoka Diyo Timile’ Re-released in New Version: The iconic Nepali song ‘Dhoka Diyeu Timile’, originally released 35 years ago, has been re-released in a new version. The song is composed by Shantiram Rai and sung by The Voice of Nepal Season 6 first runner-up Roshan Rai. Presented by Lungto Creation, the lyrics are written by Buddhabir Lama. The original male version was sung by Saroj Kumar Shrestha, and the female version by veteran singer Sukmit Gurung. The new version is arranged by Devesh Rai, with additional music by the late Bikram Rai, to whom the song is dedicated.
Nepali Film ‘Abhimanyu: Chapter-1’ Uses AI Yetis for Promotion: The Nepali film ‘Abhimanyu: Chapter–1’ has adopted artificial intelligence (AI) technology for its promotional campaign. The film’s production team released posters featuring AI-generated images of the mythical Yeti, portraying it as asking viewers about the film at the box office. This marks one of the first major uses of AI-generated visuals in Nepali film promotion.
Director Sudarshan Thapa and Actor Pradeep Khadka Reunite for ‘Shubha Bibaha’: Director Sudarshan Thapa is set to direct and produce a new film titled ‘Shubha Bibaha’ starring popular actor Pradeep Khadka. The film’s name has been officially registered with the Film Development Board, confirming Khadka in the lead role. Thapa and Khadka previously collaborated in the hit film ‘Prem Geet’ a decade ago. After years of strained relations following that project, this film marks their second collaboration.
Karan KC Reaches 100 Wickets Milestone in T20 Internationals: Nepal’s fast bowler Karan KC has reached a major milestone in T20 International cricket, becoming the first Nepali pacer to take 100 wickets in the format. KC achieved the feat during Tuesday night’s match against Scotland. He claimed his 100th wicket by dismissing opener George Munsey on the third ball of his second over. He later removed Finlay McCreath in the fourth over, finishing with 2 wickets for 20 runs in his 4-over spell. With these two wickets, Karan KC now has a total of 101 wickets in T20 Internationals.
Six Nepali Cricketers, Including Sandeep Lamichhane, Listed in BBL 2025 Draft: Six Nepali cricketers, including star leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane, have been listed in the draft for Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) 2025 season. Alongside Lamichhane, emerging players Dev Khanal, Sher Malla, Bipin Sharma, Arif Sheikh, and Arjun Saud have also entered the draft pool. While Sandeep has previous experience playing in the BBL, the other five players are seeking their first break in an overseas franchise league. The BBL 2025 draft features a total of 440 players from 19 countries. The player auction is scheduled for June 19.
Sankata Midfielder Mamata Pun Magar Moves to Croatia: A Division League club Sankata’s midfielder Mamata Pun Magar has migrated abroad. According to Sankata, she has left for Croatia. Mamata was a member of Sankata’s first women’s football team. She played eight matches in the ANFA Women’s League, scoring one goal and providing an assist. However, Sankata failed to reach the Super League stage. While Sankata was preparing for the qualifiers of the same league, Mamata departed for Croatia in pursuit of a better future. She had put on an impressive performance in the recent Shahid Smriti Local Level National Women’s Gold Cup held in Hetauda.
Israeli Tanks Kill 59 People in Gaza Crowd Trying to Get Food Aid: Israeli tanks fired into a crowd trying to get aid from trucks in Gaza on Tuesday, killing at least 59 people, according to medics, in one of the bloodiest incidents yet in mounting violence as desperate residents struggle for food. Video shared on social media showed around a dozen mangled bodies lying in a street in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. The Israeli military, at war with Hamas-led Palestinian militants in Gaza since October 2023, acknowledged firing in the area and said it was looking into the incident.
Heavy Rainfall in Gujrat, India Causes At Least 18 Deaths: Heavy monsoon rains since Monday have led to the deaths of at least 18 people in parts of western Gujarat, India, according to state officials. Disaster response teams have been deployed to assist residents in the southern regions of the state, who are preparing for even heavier rains. The most affected areas include the cities of Palitana and Jesar, where 867 millimeters (34 inches) of rain fell within the last 24 hours as of Tuesday. State Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey reported that fatalities were caused by storms, lightning, and structural collapses due to the severe weather.
Trump Considers Joining Israel’s Strikes on Iran as Conflict Enters Sixth Day: As Israel and Iran exchange fire for the sixth day, US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering joining Israel’s strikes on Iran’s underground nuclear sites. Trump earlier demanded Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and said he knows the location of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei but won’t kill him “for now.” In response, Khamenei vowed no compromise with Israel and “no mercy.” Israel struck a centrifuge site and weapons facilities in Tehran overnight. Iran retaliated with attacks triggering sirens twice, though their strikes have reportedly lessened.
Oil Prices Spike, US Stocks Fall on Israel-Iran Crisis: Oil prices have spiked amid fears that the Israel-Iran crisis could spiral into a broader conflict involving the United States. Brent North Sea Crude and West Texas Intermediate – the two most popular oil benchmarks – rose 4.4 percent and 4.3, respectively, on Tuesday as US President Donald Trump demanded “unconditional surrender” from Tehran. The benchmarks stood at $76.45 per barrel and $74.84 per barrel, respectively, following the jump. Oil prices edged up further in early trading on Wednesday, with both benchmarks about 0.5 percent higher as of 03:30 GMT.
