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. Here are today’s key news updates:

Kathmandu District Administration Imposes Two-Month Prohibitory Order in Key Areas:  The Kathmandu District Administration Office (KDAO) has enforced a two-month prohibitory order in key government areas, effective from Monday, March 10. The restricted zones include the President’s Office (Sheetal Niwas), Lainchaur, Singha Durbar, Baluwatar, and the Parliament Building in New Baneshwor.

The order bans gatherings of more than five people for protests, including hunger strikes, rallies, and demonstrations. Issued by Chief District Officer Rishi Ram Tiwari, the directive also holds protest organizers accountable for any damages to public or private property.

Oli Criticizes Pro-Monarchy Rally, Calls NGOs to Focus on Self-Reliance: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli criticized pro-monarchy supporters, stating Nepal has no time for “undemocratic, anti-system activities.” Speaking at the NGO Federation’s general convention, he called on NGOs to focus on self-reliance instead of depending on foreign aid. Oli emphasized increasing productivity and focusing on progress rather than failures. Referring to Sunday’s monarchy rally, he remarked, “We are not in a pitiable condition to carry foreign pictures in processions.” He reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to democracy and prosperity.

Deuba Dismisses Monarchy Rumors, Affirms Ruling Alliance Stability: Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba stated there is no dispute among ruling parties and the alliance will continue until 2084 BS. Speaking at Dhangadhi airport, he dismissed monarchy reinstatement rumors, saying, “Nothing happens by making noise.” Deuba arrived in Dhangadhi for the Nepali Congress Sudurpaschim province-level conference.

Mukkumlung Conservation Movement Announces Third Phase of Protests: The Mukkumlung Tansep Chumpho and the Mukkumlung Conservation Inter-Party Struggle Committee have announced the third phase of their movement, which will include public gatherings, hunger strikes, and strikes. The movement will begin on March 12 in Kathmandu with a gathering of intellectuals. On March 15, information about the movement will be distributed to political parties and lawmakers, followed by a Dharan conference. A relay hunger strike will start in Phungling on March 16, and major protests, including a Singhadurbar encirclement, will follow. From April 7, an indefinite transport strike is planned in 14 districts of Eastern Nepal. Organizers have vowed to continue advocating for Mukkumlung’s conservation.

Rabi Lamichhane Challenges Rs10 Million Bail Order in Fraud Case:  Rastriya Swatantra Party chairman and former home minister Rabi Lamichhane has appealed to the Tulsipur High Court against the Rupandehi District Court’s order requiring him to post Rs10 million bail in the Supreme Cooperative fraud case. The District Government Attorney’s Office has also filed an appeal, arguing Lamichhane should remain in custody. The case involves allegations of Rs20 million transferred to Lamichhane’s personal account and Rs25 million to former DIG Chhabilal Joshi’s. An audit found Rs109.936 million channelled into Gorkha Media Network. While Lamichhane is out on bail, Joshi remains in custody as investigations continue.

US Embassy in Kathmandu Stops Public Air Pollution Data Updates: The US Embassy in Kathmandu has stopped publishing air pollution data due to financial constraints, ceasing updates from its Maharajgunj and Kantipath monitoring stations. The US State Department stated that internal monitoring would continue, but public access may resume only after securing funds.

Environmental experts stress the importance of these readings, as Nepal’s government-operated stations face frequent failures. The Department of Environment plans to repair broken stations and strengthen Nepal’s air quality monitoring system. With air pollution causing 48,500 annual deaths in Nepal, experts call for stronger policies, including a Clean Air Act, to address the crisis.

RPP Pays Rs100,000 Fine for Littering During Former King’s Welcome Rally: The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) has paid a Rs100,000 fine to Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) for littering during its rally welcoming former King Gyanendra Shah. The KMC penalized RPP for environmental damage caused in areas like Tribhuvan International Airport, Tilganga, and Gaushala. Citing violations of multiple environmental laws, the city office stated that public property, including plants, was damaged. RPP lawmaker Gyanendra Shahi accepted the fine, emphasizing the party’s commitment to governance and rule of law. The KMC had previously fined CPN-UML the same amount for a similar violation during a rally in November last year.

President Paudel Calls for Climate Justice at Nepal Geological Congress: President Ramchandra Paudel emphasized the need to raise climate justice issues in global forums, highlighting Nepal’s vulnerability despite having no role in climate change. Speaking at the 11th Nepal Geological Congress, he stressed cooperation in tackling climate change, natural disasters, and earthquake prediction. He also urged discussions on Nepal’s mineral resources and investment opportunities.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba Leaves for India on Religious Visit: Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba departed for India today for a religious visit to Baba Baidyanath Dham in Jharkhand. She will also attend the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on March 17 and undergo a health check-up. Ministry officials bid her farewell at Tribhuvan International Airport.

NEPSE Drops 20.68 Points; Turnover Hits Rs. 8.37 Arab: The NEPSE index declined by 20.68 points (0.74%), closing at 2,751.42, following a previous 46.33-point loss. The session saw Rs. 8.37 Arab turnover, with 15.09 million shares traded across 311 companies in 87,156 transactions. Nepal Reinsurance Company (NRIC) led turnover at Rs. 73.50 Crore, closing at Rs. 1,300. NESDO surged 9.98%, while ULBSL dropped 6.98%. Sector-wise, the Others Index gained 0.08%, while the Trading Index declined 1.65%, marking the largest sectoral loss.

Loan Interest Rate Drops to 42-Month Low, Deposit Rates at 8-Year Low: The weighted average interest rate on loans has dropped to 8.55%—the lowest in 42 months—while deposit interest rates have hit an 8-year low. Nepal Rastra Bank reduced the interest rate spread to 4%, further lowering loan rates. Despite this, credit growth has improved, with private sector lending rising by 5.6% in seven months. However, declining interest rates have slowed deposit growth, as more funds flow into alternative investments like the stock market.

Nepal’s Foreign Exchange Reserves Reach Record High: As of mid-February 2025, Nepal’s foreign exchange reserves surged 16.1% to Rs.2369.08 billion from Rs.2041.10 billion in mid-July 2024. In USD terms, reserves increased 11.7% to $17.05 billion. According to Nepal Rastra Bank’s Current Macroeconomic and Financial Situation of Nepal report, NRB-held reserves rose 13.9%, while reserves in banks and financial institutions grew 37.1%. The Indian currency share stood at 22%. Reserves can cover 17.2 months of imports. The Nepalese rupee depreciated 3.80%, with the exchange rate at Rs.138.63 per USD. Meanwhile, oil prices dropped 10.13%, while gold prices soared 43.48% to $2891.50 per ounce.

Current Account and Balance of Payments Surplus in Review Period: Nepal’s current account recorded a surplus of Rs.166.80 billion in the review period, slightly higher than Rs.162.52 billion in the same period last year. In USD terms, it stood at $1.24 billion, up from $1.22 billion. Net capital transfer rose to Rs.5.83 billion, while foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow (equity only) increased to Rs.7.45 billion, compared to Rs.5.19 billion last year. The balance of payments (BOP) surplus stood at Rs.284.41 billion (USD $2.11 billion), slightly lower than last year’s Rs.297.72 billion (USD $2.24 billion).

Second Teaser of Multistarrer Film ‘Pitambar’ Released: The second teaser of the multistarrer film Pitambar has been released on the occasion of actor Pradeep Khadka’s birthday. The teaser focuses solely on Pradeep’s action-packed scenes, highlighting his intense efforts in the film. Produced under the banners of KP Films and Purushottam Pradhan Films, Pitambar features stars like Dayahang Rai, Saugat Malla, and Aryan Sigdel. The film is set to release on Chaitra 29.

Durgesh Thapa’s Dushman Hereko Heryai Enters YouTube’s Global Trending Chart: Durgesh Thapa’s song Dushman Hereko Heryai has made it to YouTube Music’s global trending list, currently ranking 67th. Released eight weeks ago, the song was in 86th place on Sunday before climbing to 67th on Monday. It is also the most-watched Nepali song on YouTube in the last 28 days. Featuring vocals by Anand Karki, Durgesh, Elina Chauhan, and Samikshya Adhikari, the song has gained massive popularity across festivals, TikTok, and Reels.

Language Commission Condemns Linguistic Discrimination Against Singer Kuma Sagar: The Language Commission has expressed concern over the mockery and humiliation of Nepal Bhasa speaker and singer Kum Sagar through a podcast on social media. Following a complaint from the federal committee of Newa Dey Dabu, alleging linguistic violence against a Nepal Bhasa speaker, the commission issued a statement on Fagun 26, addressing the matter and emphasizing the need for respect and inclusivity in linguistic representation.

Brigade Boys Secure Hard-Fought Win in B Division League: Brigade Boys Club (BBC) defeated Shri Kumari Club 2-1 in their opening match of the Shahid Smarak B Division League at ANFA Complex on Monday. Ashish Gurung scored both goals for BBC, netting in the 15th minute and early in the second half. Shri Kumari’s Pranay Gurung pulled one back, but despite late pressure, they couldn’t equalize. In the day’s first match, Planning Boys United edged Jhapa FC 2-1.

Dharan FC Enters Mechinagar Gold Cup Semifinals: Dharan FC defeated Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls FC 5-3 in a penalty shootout to reach the Mechinagar Gold Cup semifinals. The match ended 1-1 in regulation time at Kakarvitta Stadium. Dharan’s goalkeeper Bipul Magar was the hero, saving a crucial penalty. Dharan will now face hosts Kakarvitta Football Training Centre for a place in the final. On Tuesday, Machhindra FC will take on APF Club in the tournament.

Nepal Police Club Secures 87-Run Victory Over Lumbini in PM Cup Cricket Opener: Defending champions Nepal Police Club began their PM Cup National One-Day Cricket campaign with an 87-run win over Lumbini Province on Monday. Chasing Police’s 250-run target, Lumbini managed 162/9 in 50 overs, with Prajwal Thapa scoring 72. Sagar Dhakal took three wickets for Police. Earlier, Police posted 249/6, led by Kushal Bhurtel’s 59 and Aarif Sheikh’s 56. Anuj Chanara and Krishna Karki claimed three wickets each for Lumbini.

Church Boys to Face Three Star in Birat Gold Cup Final: Church Boys United will face Three Star Club in the Birat Gold Cup final. Church Boys secured their spot by defeating Nepal Police Club 1-0 in the second semifinal, with Lakpa Pakhrin scoring the decisive goal. Three Star had earlier beaten Tribhuvan Army Club 3-2. Gaurav Shrestha was named Player of the Match.

Nepal Loses to Hong Kong by Two Runs in Women’s T20I Tournament: Nepal suffered a narrow two-run defeat against Hong Kong in the Women’s T20I tournament. Chasing 101 at the Entebbe Cricket Oval, Nepal managed only 98/7 in 20 overs. Captain Indu Barma top-scored with 32 runs. Earlier, Hong Kong posted 100/7, with Natasha Miles scoring 35. Nepal now has two points from three matches, while Hong Kong has four.

Lalitpur City FC’s Head Coach Simon Grayson and Forward Kervens Belfort Arrive in Nepal: Lalitpur City FC’s new head coach, Simon Grayson, and forward Kervens Belfort have arrived in Nepal for the upcoming Nepal Super League (NSL) season. Grayson, a UEFA Pro License coach and former Leeds United manager, has led multiple clubs to the English Championship. Belfort, a former Haiti international, previously played in the Bangladesh Premier League.

Kapilvastu 11 to Face Abhishek Church in Sunagabha Sainamaina Gold Cup Final: Kapilvastu 11 and Abhishek Church Nawalpur will clash for the title of the Sunagabha Sainamaina Gold Cup 2081 in Rupandehi. Kapilvastu 11 secured a spot in the final after defeating Mahavir Club Kathmandu 5-4 in a penalty shootout. The final will take place on Falgun 28, with the winner receiving NPR 7 lakh and the runner-up NPR 4 lakh.

Xavier and Herald Secure Double Wins in HISSAN Central Inter-College Basketball Championship: Xavier International College and Herald International College registered double victories on the opening day of the HISSAN Central Inter-College Basketball Championship 2025. Xavier defeated Rit Academy 58–35 and Kathmandu World School 54–13 in Group ‘A’. Meanwhile, Herald won against Kathmandu Valley College 53–28 and Jaya Multiple College 42–15 in Group ‘C’. The tournament, featuring 16 colleges, will continue until Wednesday.

Indian PM Modi to Attend Mauritius National Day Celebrations: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mauritius for two days, attending the country’s National Day celebrations as the chief guest on March 12. A marching contingent from India and an Indian Navy ship will also participate. This marks Modi’s second attendance at the event since 2015. The Akash Ganga Sky Diving Team will perform during the celebrations.

Air India Flight to New York Returns to Mumbai Over Security Threat: An Air India flight from Mumbai to New York was forced to return midway on Monday due to a security threat. The Boeing 777, carrying 322 people, changed course while flying over Azerbaijan. A threat note was found in a toilet, prompting emergency protocols. After landing, security checks confirmed the threat was a hoax. Investigations are ongoing.

U.S.-Ukraine Talks in Saudi Arabia as Trump Pushes for War’s End: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Ukrainian officials in Jeddah on Tuesday to discuss a peace framework amid Russia’s latest attacks. Rubio will also meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The talks, following recent U.S.-Russia discussions, aim for a ceasefire. Ukraine remains committed to constructive dialogue, emphasizing urgency in achieving peace.

China’s Top Advisory Body Concludes Annual Session: China’s top political advisory body, the CPPCC, concluded its annual session on Monday, urging advisors to contribute to national modernization. President Xi Jinping and other leaders attended the meeting in Beijing. CPPCC Chairman Wang Huning emphasized strengthening political consultation and national unity. The session approved key resolutions, reinforcing commitment to socialism with Chinese characteristics.

Syria Declares End to Clashes With Assad Loyalists: Syria’s caretaker government announced the end of intense clashes with Bashar al-Assad loyalists, marking the worst violence since the civil war ended in December. Fighting erupted after Alawite gunmen attacked a police patrol near Latakia, leading to heavy casualties. However, reports suggest continued clashes in Baniyas. The new government struggles to assert control nationwide.