KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, bringing you the most important developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and the economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we provide a concise summary of the day’s top stories. Here are today’s key highlights:

Socialist Front Announces Kathmandu Demonstration on March 28:
The Socialist Front has scheduled a mass demonstration in Kathmandu on March 28 to oppose recent attempts to suppress citizens’ rights and address systemic issues. Secretary Khadga Bahadur Bishwokarma emphasized the need to counter anomalies in governance. At the event, Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal admitted past mistakes but reaffirmed the Front’s commitment to federalism and socialism. He stressed the need to amend the constitution and protect Nepal’s sovereignty. Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal underscored the necessity of a Nepal-specific socialist republic, while leader Netra Bikram Chand called for unifying Maoist forces.

The Socialist Front Nepal has alleged that reactionary forces are exploiting public dissatisfaction to undermine the federal democratic republic and restore monarchy. The Front emphasized that protecting the republic and advancing towards a Nepal-specific socialist model is now a national priority.

Dahal Opposes Law for Benefits to Former VIPs:
Maoist Chairman and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has questioned the need for a law granting lifetime benefits to former high-ranking officials. Speaking at a Socialist Front Nepal press conference in Lalitpur, Dahal criticized the government’s move, stating that no discussions had taken place within Parliament or among political parties. He called the proposal untimely and unnecessary, warning it would only provoke public backlash. Dahal emphasized that no consensus had been reached on providing special privileges to former VIPs and expressed concerns over the lack of political consultation on the matter.

49 Injured in Banke Juvenile Correctional Home Clash:
A violent clash at Jayandu Juvenile Correctional Home in Banke injured 49 detainees, with some in critical condition. The unrest, which began Friday night, escalated into Saturday, requiring heavy police intervention. A fire damaged the facility, forcing the transfer of 70-80 detainees. Overcrowding, drug use, and lack of security fuel repeated clashes.

Texas Declares March 13 as ‘Nepali Lumbini Advocacy Day’:
The Texas legislature has officially recognized March 13 as ‘Nepali Lumbini Advocacy Day’ after passing a resolution on the historical and spiritual significance of Lumbini. Proposed by lawmaker Suleman Lalani, the resolution was approved in the presence of visiting Nepali mayors from the Lumbini Circuit. The initiative, led by Netra Pandey and Prabhat Dixit, aims to promote Nepal’s tourism and Buddhist heritage. The Nepali community in Texas will celebrate the day annually to enhance awareness and cultural ties. Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is revered as the birthplace of Buddha and a global spiritual hub.

Speaker Ghimire Stresses Stronger India and China Ties for Nepal’s Development:
Speaker Devraj Ghimire has emphasized the need for Nepal to enhance cooperation with India and China to drive sustainable development and investment. Speaking at the Kasthamandap Dialogue, organized by the Foundation for Peace, Development, and Socialism, he highlighted India’s role in Nepal’s economic growth and called for new areas of Nepal-China collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Ghimire reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to the One China Policy and Panchsheel principles, stressing Nepal’s potential as a transit hub. Former PM Jhalanath Khanal and China’s Ambassador Chen Song echoed the importance of BRI for Nepal’s infrastructure and economic future.

Former Royalist Leaders Seek to Unite Pro-Monarchy Forces:
Former royalist leaders, including ex-Panchayat officials, met at Pashupati Shamsher Rana’s residence to discuss uniting pro-monarchy groups. They proposed Nawaraj Subedi, the last National Panchayat chairman, as coordinator. Efforts are ongoing to bring Rajendra Lingden, Kamal Thapa, and Durga Prasai together. RPP remains undecided on Subedi’s leadership. Attendees included Prakash Chandra Lohani and Dhawal Shamsher Rana, while Lingden was absent.

Minister Thakuri Calls for Global Support to Tackle Climate Change:
Minister for Forests and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, highlighted Nepal’s vulnerability to climate change and stressed the need for international aid to mitigate its impact. Speaking at a reception hosted by the Nepali Embassy in London, he emphasized that key sectors like agriculture and tourism are at risk, urging stronger Nepal-UK cooperation. He also noted the historical ties between Nepal and the UK, particularly through the Gurkha force, and encouraged foreign investment in Nepal. Ambassador Chandra Kumar Ghimire reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations for mutual benefit.

Nepal Oil Corporation Reduces Fuel Prices:
Nepal Oil Corporation has reduced fuel prices, effective from midnight Saturday. The corporation’s board decided to cut petrol prices by Rs 5 per liter and diesel/kerosene prices by Rs 4 per liter.

IMF Approves $41.8M for Nepal, Urges Economic Reforms Amid Growth Challenges:
The IMF has approved a $41.8 million disbursement for Nepal under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), bringing total disbursements to $289.1 million. The IMF praised Nepal’s reform progress but warned of weak domestic demand, financial vulnerabilities, and political instability. Economic growth is expected at 4.2% in FY2024/25, aided by capital spending and hydropower. Inflation, which surged due to flood-related disruptions, is projected to stabilize at 5%. The IMF urged fiscal discipline, financial sector reforms, and stronger AML/CFT measures, especially after Nepal’s FATF grey listing. The government must improve capital spending and revenue mobilization for sustainable growth.

Nepal Faces Power Shortage Risk Amid Uncertain Electricity Supply from India:
Nepal faces a potential power crisis as its electricity import agreement with India expires on March 16. Under the current deal, India supplies power 20 hours a day, but from Sunday, supply will be limited to 12 hours (6 AM to 6 PM). Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has urged the government to secure continued supply through diplomatic channels. Delays in approving a new agreement, along with political interference, have further complicated the situation, increasing the risk of power cuts, especially at night.

Real Estate Transactions Stable, Revenue Increases in Falgun:
Despite stable real estate transactions in Falgun, revenue collection saw a 6.39% rise, according to the Department of Land Management and Records. A total of 46,061 transactions were recorded nationwide, similar to Magh’s 46,069. However, revenue increased from Rs 3.87 billion in Magh to Rs 4.12 billion in Falgun. Compared to last year’s 50,998 transactions in Falgun, this year saw a 9.68% decline. The government collects revenue from real estate through service tax, registration fees, and capital gains tax.

Nepal’s First Consumer Court Inaugurated to Strengthen Consumer Rights:
Nepal’s first Consumer Court was inaugurated on March 15, 2025, by Chief Justice Prakashman Singh Raut, coinciding with World Consumer Rights Day. Established under the Consumer Protection Act 2018, the court aims to address unfair trade practices and substandard goods or services. Located in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, it will initially handle cases from the Valley. Judge Ram Prasad Sharma will chair the court, with two under-secretaries as members. Chief Justice Raut emphasized the need for judicial activism to ensure credibility. Industry Minister Damodar Bhandari and Attorney General Ramesh Badal highlighted its role in consumer rights protection and fair market practices.

‘Anjila’ Sees Bumper Box Office Success
The Nepali film Anjila, released on Thursday, has seen a massive audience turnout, leading to additional shows nationwide. The song Raat Kin Huncha Hajur has gone viral, with emotional social media posts and trending videos boosting the film’s popularity. Directed by Milan Chams, Anjila has received praise for its story, acting, and music. Based on footballer Anjila Tumbapo Subba’s life, the film stars Anjila herself alongside Premkumar Shrestha, Sunil Thapa, Dayahang Rai, and others. With houseful shows and positive reviews, the film is expected to set new records in Nepali cinema.

Namo Buddha Clinches Panchthar Gold Cup, Defeats Machhindra 1-0:
Namo Buddha Youth Club became the new champion of the Panchthar Gold Cup, defeating A-Division team Machhindra Club 1-0 in the final. Alex scored the winning goal in the 73rd minute. Nirmal Ghising was named Player of the Match. Namo Buddha, in only its second appearance, won all matches against A-Division clubs. The team bagged NPR 1.1 million, while runners-up Machhindra received NPR 555,000.

Tritraj Das’ Century Powers Army to Victory in PM Cup:
Tritraj Das’ brilliant century helped Tribhuvan Army Club defeat Koshi Province by seven wickets in the PM Cup. Chasing 231, Army reached the target in 47.1 overs, with Tritraj scoring 112 off 139 balls. Basir Ahmed remained unbeaten on 61. With this win, Army remains unbeaten with eight points from four matches. Koshi, still winless, suffered its fourth consecutive defeat in the tournament.

Madhesh Police Wins First IGP Cup Cricket Tournament:
Madhesh Province Police clinched the inaugural IGP Cup Cricket title, defeating Lumbini Province by 14 runs in the final at Mulpani Cricket Ground. Organized by Nepal Police Sports Committee, the tournament featured eight teams. IGP Basanta Bahadur Kunwar awarded medals, certificates, and cash prizes to the winners. He emphasized the importance of sports for law enforcement officers’ physical and mental fitness, highlighting their national and international representation.

ISRO Successfully Tests Cryogenic Engine for LVM3-M6 Mission:
ISRO has successfully conducted the flight acceptance hot test of the cryogenic engine for the LVM3-M6 mission at the Propulsion Complex in Tamil Nadu. The test ensures the engine’s readiness for the mission, scheduled for the second half of 2025. ISRO highlighted that the new testing method reduces setup time, expediting the engine’s delivery for space missions. The CE20 engine met all performance objectives, aligning with predictions throughout the test. The engine will now be integrated into the Cryogenic Upper Stage of the LVM3-M6, reinforcing India’s advancements in space technology.

BLA Claims Execution of 214 Pakistani Military Hostages After Ultimatum Expiry:
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claims to have executed 214 Pakistani military hostages captured during the Jaffar Express incident, citing Pakistan’s failure to respond to a prisoner exchange ultimatum. The group stated that its fighters, known as Fidayeen, fought until the last bullet before taking their own lives. The BLA insists it acted under international law, blaming Pakistan’s inaction for the outcome. No independent verification of the claim has emerged.

G7 Urges Russia to Accept U.S.-Proposed Ukraine Ceasefire:
G7 diplomats urged Russia to agree to a U.S.-proposed ceasefire in Ukraine or face further sanctions. In a joint statement from Canada, they warned of additional costs, including oil price caps and increased aid to Ukraine if Russia refuses. The Kremlin signaled reluctance, saying more work is needed. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met with Putin, and U.S. officials will assess Russia’s stance this weekend. Canadian Foreign Minister Malie Joly emphasized that all G7 nations back the ceasefire, stating, “The ball is now in Russia’s court.”

Mass Protests Erupt in Belgrade Demanding Government Resignation:
Tens of thousands protested in Belgrade on March 15, 2025, calling for President Vučić’s resignation following a deadly canopy collapse in Novi Sad last year, blamed on corruption. The movement, initially led by students, has grown into a nationwide outcry for transparency and reforms. Despite government attempts to suppress the rally, including arrests and halting public transport, the protest remained peaceful. Demonstrators chanted slogans and waved banners demanding accountability. The opposition has vowed to continue mobilizing until their demands are met, setting the stage for a major anti-government movement in Serbia.