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.

Five-Point Agreement Reached to Ease Tensions in Birgunj:

A multi-party, multi-stakeholder meeting held Sunday evening at the District Administration Office in Birgunj reached a five-point agreement to calm recent tensions. The decisions include a thorough investigation and legal action against those involved, commitment from all sides to uphold interfaith harmony, and cooperation in the legal process. The meeting also resolved to ensure free treatment for the injured and compensation for damages. Display of weapons during religious or cultural events will be banned, with violators facing legal action. Authorities will also strictly monitor religious institutions and their affiliated schools or madrasas, taking action if irregularities are found.

Ex-King Gyanendra Breaks Silence on Tinkune Violence, Urges Restraint During Public Protests: Former King Gyanendra Shah has spoken out two weeks after the violent protest that took place in Tinkune, Kathmandu. In a video message released on the eve of the Nepali New Year, he responded to the incident, emphasizing the importance of peaceful expression in a democracy. “It is a beautiful feature of democracy that different political groups, communities, and individuals can express their views freely,” said Shah. “However, while presenting such views and beliefs, everyone must exercise restraint. The violence, arson, and vandalism that occurred during the recent public demonstration caused human and material loss, which is deeply saddening.”

He also remarked that the growing public awareness among citizens is a positive sign. “There is no greater system or ideology than civil liberty. True democracy exists where there is a tradition and culture of listening to the people’s grievances—good or bad. The rising awareness among the Nepali people about the nation and its future is something we see as positive,” he added.

Supreme Court Seeks Clarification on Rabi Lamichhane’s Detention Order:

The Supreme Court has sought a clarification from the Tulsipur High Court regarding its decision to remand Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane into custody. The request was made by a single bench of Justice Tek Prasad Dhungana on Sunday, following a preliminary hearing. The clarification must provide the legal rationale behind the High Court’s order to detain Lamichhane for trial.

Lamichhane, who is facing charges in the Supreme Cooperative fraud case, had filed a petition at the Supreme Court on Friday challenging the Butwal bench’s order. He was arrested from his home in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu, after the High Court’s decision and flown to Butwal. The Rupandehi District Court later issued a detention order, sending him to jail. Earlier, on Magh 13, the same district court had released Lamichhane on a bail of Rs 10 million, while another accused, Chhabilal Banjade, was remanded to custody.

NC President Deuba Urges Govt to Address Teachers’ Demands Through Talks:

Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba has urged the government to address the legitimate demands of agitating teachers through dialogue and negotiation. Speaking at a program organized by the Nepal Muslim Association at the Congress Party Office in Sanepa on Sunday, Deuba emphasized the importance of resolving the teachers’ concerns through meaningful discussion.

“If there are challenges in meeting the demands, both the government and the teachers should seek solutions through dialogue,” he said. Deuba also highlighted the inclusive nature of Nepal’s constitution, noting that while no single party may easily secure a majority, the constitution ensures space for all through inclusive and proportional representation. “Nepal’s constitution is a strong foundation for inclusiveness,” he added. He further stated that the Nepali Congress party has upheld the values of inclusivity and proportional representation in its own structure, ensuring representation from all communities, including the Muslim community.

Civil Servant Unions Warn of Protests if Excluded from Federal Civil Service Act Drafting:

Six trade unions affiliated with various political parties, including those close to the ruling Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, have jointly warned the government not to proceed with the drafting of the Federal Civil Service Act without consulting them. In a joint press statement issued on Sunday, the unions stated that the Act must be developed with the meaningful participation of stakeholders, as it serves the collective interests of all civil servants and acts as a guiding framework for local and other government services.

The statement was signed by Bhawani Dahal Neupane, president of the UML-aligned Nepal Civil Servants Organization; Uttam Kumar Katuwal, senior vice president of the Congress-affiliated Civil Servants Union; and Ambadatta Bhatta, president of the Maoist-aligned National Civil Servants Organization, among others. The unions put forward a 10-point demand list, calling for transparency in the lawmaking process, safeguarding the rights of civil servants across federal structures, and ensuring inclusive representation in decision-making bodies.

Prachanda Claims New Government Formation Likely with Onset of New Year:

Chairperson of the CPN (Maoist Centre), Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, has claimed that the foundations for forming a new government have emerged with the arrival of the new year. Speaking to journalists in his home district, Chitwan, Prachanda hinted that a government under the leadership of the Nepali Congress could be formed soon.

When asked by reporters whether there is a possibility of a new government in the new year, he responded that although his party is not actively seeking to lead the government, current circumstances are pushing in that direction. “Our focus is not really on the government,” Prachanda said. “But the situation is evolving in such a way that it appears this government may not be able to move forward much longer. Therefore, any possibility could arise.”

Teachers’ Federation Continues Protest Demanding School Education Act, Hints at Change in Agitation Modality:

The Teachers’ Federation, which has been staging protests centered in Kathmandu since Chaitra 20 (April 2), continued its demonstrations today as well. Protesters marched from Maitighar to Baneshwar demanding the promulgation of the School Education Act. According to Federation Vice Chair Nanumaya Parajuli, the organization is advancing both street protests and dialogue simultaneously. She hinted that the modality of the movement could change if the Cabinet and relevant ministries make decisions regarding the demands of teachers.

Dialogue between the government and the Federation has been ongoing since Thursday. Following a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Education on Saturday, Vice Chair Parajuli said the Federation could alter its protest strategy if there is assurance that teacher-related provisions will be addressed through Cabinet decisions. Parajuli noted, “The decision lies with the Cabinet. They said the bill is moving forward at a good pace. If there is assurance that the Act will be passed, the protest modality may change. But it can’t be based on my words alone. If there’s no guarantee of the Act’s issuance, the protest will continue.”

Protesting Teachers to Burn Party Membership Cards:

Teachers, who have been protesting for the past 12 days, have announced a program to burn their political party membership cards. As part of their ongoing demand for the prompt enactment of the School Education Act, teachers have scheduled this symbolic act to coincide with the Nepali New Year.

The Teachers’ Group has organized the membership card burning event for Baisakh 1, 2081 B.S. (April 14, 2024) at Maitighar Mandala. In a declaration to become purely professional educators committed to reforming the education sector, they announced they would publicly renounce and burn any political party memberships—regardless of the party or alias under which the memberships were acquired.

Tension Erupts at Parsa District Administration Office Amid Third-Round Talks Following Communal Clash:

Tensions flared at the Parsa District Administration Office during an ongoing meeting intended to resolve a dispute that arose from a clash between two communities. The unrest broke out while the third round of dialogue was underway inside the office, following the completion of two earlier rounds aimed at maintaining communal harmony.

On Sunday morning, during the earlier discussions, political parties active in the district had agreed to work toward preserving social harmony. They jointly pledged that no community, group, or organization would organize rallies, strikes, or activities that could disturb peace and order, particularly those of religious or communal nature. Chief District Officer (CDO) Ganesh Aryal stated that anyone involved in creating unrest during religious processions or events would be brought under legal action and face strict consequences according to the law.

UML Koshi Discloses Damak Rally Expenses, Claims Rs 1.265 million Spent:

The CPN-UML Koshi Province has publicly disclosed the expenses of a mass awareness rally held in Damak, Jhapa. The event, which the party claimed was organized to counter anti-republic and anti-federal forces, cost Rs 1.265 million, according to the UML. During a press conference held on Sunday by Press Chautari Jhapa, UML Koshi Province in-charge Sherdhan Rai stated that this was a new practice introduced in the Koshi region.

Rai emphasized that participants had reached the venue at their own expense from each ward, dismissing rumors that the event was funded by the government. “We haven’t taken a single rupee from the government,” said Rai. “We can organize such massive gatherings with the support of our well-wishers alone.” He further claimed that the rally in Damak had successfully silenced regressive elements.

Nepal Sees 745 Disaster-related Deaths in One Year:

In the span of a year, natural disasters across Nepal claimed the lives of 745 people, as per data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The Authority recorded 8,861 disaster events nationwide over the year, leading to widespread human and financial losses.

According to NDRRMA spokesperson Ram Bahadur KC, 69 people were reported missing and 1,702 sustained injuries in various disaster-related incidents. Altogether, 18,991 households were affected, and the estimated economic loss reached Rs 3.13 billion. Landslides were the deadliest, responsible for 351 deaths. Floods followed, killing 97 people, while 78 died due to lightning strikes and 77 lost their lives in fire-related incidents. Animal attacks resulted in 43 fatalities, 24 people drowned, 23 died in air crashes, and 19 succumbed to snake bites.

NEPSE Ends Lower on Last Trading Day of 2081 B.S.:

The share market closed lower on the final trading day of the year 2081 B.S. On Sunday, the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index declined by 8.84 points. After fluctuating throughout the trading session, the index finally settled at 2,661.86 points by the end of the day.

According to NEPSE, the total trading volume on the day stood at Rs 6.28 billion, with 13.19 million shares changing hands. Except for the Hotels & Tourism, Investment, Mutual Fund, and Non-life Insurance sub-indices, all other sectoral indices witnessed a decline. Despite the overall market drop, Nepal Micro Insurance Company hit the upper circuit limit, while Vin Nepal Laghubitta hit the lower circuit limit.

FNCCI President Urges Government to Draft Budget Based on Economic Reform Commission’s Recommendations:

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has urged the government to prepare the upcoming budget in line with the recommendations of the High-Level Commission on Economic Reform.

Speaking at a budget and revenue policy interaction program organized by the Ministry of Finance and the Revenue Advisory Committee in Rupandehi, Dhakal stated that following the commission’s suggestions would help address various economic issues. He emphasized that the budget should focus on the people, meet current needs, and prioritize increasing production and employment. He also criticized the government’s tendency to prioritize revenue collection alone, saying that this has sidelined critical issues such as job creation, boosting domestic production, and import substitution.

NRB to Withdraw Rs 30 billion from Market Today:

Nepal Rastra Bank is set to withdraw Rs 30 billion from the market today, Sunday. The central bank stated that it will be using the deposit collection instrument to withdraw the amount for a period of 21 days in order to manage excess liquidity. Nepal Rastra Bank has been regularly withdrawing money from the market every Sunday and Wednesday. In continuation of this routine, the bank plans to withdraw Rs 30 billion today as well.

According to the notice issued by the central bank, banks and financial institutions interested in participating in the deposit collection process can submit their online bids by 3 PM today. The Rastra Bank mentioned that bids can be placed in such a way that the amount is divided into units of at least Rs 100 million and up to Rs 500 million, ensuring there is no residual amount left.

NRB to Invest Rs 970 million in Fixed Deposits of Banks and Financial Institutions:

Nepal Rastra Bank has decided to invest Rs 970 million in fixed deposits across various banks and financial institutions. Issuing a notice on Sunday, the central bank announced that the amount—belonging to its grant and pension fund—will be deposited in commercial banks, development banks, and finance companies. According to the central bank, the funds will be invested in fixed deposits in Class ‘A’ commercial banks, nationally operating Class ‘B’ development banks, and nationally operating Class ‘C’ finance companies. Out of the total amount, Rs 776 million will be invested in commercial banks, Rs 145.5 million in development banks, and Rs 48.5 million in finance companies.

Bad Weather Forces Diversion of 7 Flights Bound for Kathmandu:

Due to deteriorating weather conditions, seven flights headed to Kathmandu have been diverted. According to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), three international flights en route to Kathmandu were diverted to India.

TIA spokesperson Rinji Sherpa stated that a Fly Dubai flight from Dubai was diverted to Kolkata, while an Air India flight from Delhi and an Air Arabia flight from Sharjah were diverted to Varanasi. Among domestic flights, both Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines flights from Biratnagar had to return to Biratnagar. Similarly, a Yeti Airlines flight from Pokhara was diverted back to Pokhara, while a Buddha Air flight that had departed Kathmandu for Simara also had to divert.

Director Dinesh Lingden to Direct the Film Matribhumi:

A new film titled Matribhumi will be directed by Dinesh Lingden. The movie is being produced under the banner of Falgunanda Lingden Films, with Dinesh Lingden himself writing the script. The film will be backed by investment from Kabita Rai Lingden. Set to be shot in various regions of Nepal and the United States, the film will portray the diverse cultures and traditions of the different ethnic groups of Nepal.

The film will feature performances from actors such as Sanjiv Thebe, Sonia Sharma, Bhim Bahadur Magar, Lakshmi Yonghang, Bharat Malla, Raj Kumar Lingden, Suman Thamsuhang, Keshav Ram Rai, Sangmu Sherpa, Rohit Rumba, Naresh Kumar Menyangbo, Chunglamu Sherpa, Kumbahadur Gharti, Nisma Jimmy, Surya Simkhada, and Shambhu Phombo, among others.

Model Smriti Shrestha Becomes the First Contestant to Enter Miss Nepal 2025:

Model Smriti Shrestha has become the first contestant to be selected for Miss Nepal 2025. During the Designer of the Year finale event organized by The Hidden Treasure on Saturday, Smriti was announced as a finalist.

Smriti, from Manthali, Ramechhap, surpassed 20 other models to secure her place in this year’s Miss Nepal competition. The Hidden Treasure also recognized her as the Best Model.Smriti, who has been pursuing her modeling career for the past five years, is currently in her fourth year of a BBA degree. “Being a part of Miss Nepal has always been my dream. I worked hard to apply, and now that I’ve been selected, I plan to work even harder,” Smriti said after being selected for Miss Nepal.

Director Yadav Kumar Bhattarai Unveils Poster of Film Jhilko:

The poster of the film Jhilko, directed by Yadav Kumar Bhattarai, has been released. The poster features a young girl in a school uniform holding a mobile phone, with a poignant elderly man’s face in the background. This visually hints at the film’s themes of generational change, the misuse of technology, and the family conflicts it can cause.

While technology itself is not inherently bad, the film conveys a message about how its uncontrolled and careless use can have serious consequences on children’s futures, family balance, and social health. The film, which chronicles a young girl’s struggle with digital addiction seeks to tell a story about the urgent need for parents, teachers, policymakers, and society to work together to protect children from the harmful effects of digital addiction.

Nepal Falls Short by 3 Runs, Loses T20I Series Title to Kuwait:

Nepal narrowly missed out on winning the title of the four-nation T20I series, falling to Kuwait by just 3 runs in a nail-biting final match held in Hong Kong. Chasing a target of 175 runs set by Kuwait, Nepal was bowled out for 171 in 19.3 overs. A shaky start to the innings proved costly, despite a brilliant fightback from Bashir Ahmed and Nandan Yadav.

Bashir top-scored for Nepal with a blistering 80 off 43 balls, including eight fours and four sixes. Nandan Yadav added a quickfire 37 off just 14 balls, hitting two fours and four sixes, bringing Nepal close to victory. With only 3 runs needed from the final three balls, hopes were high—but they were dashed when Bashir was caught by Clint Anto, sealing the win for Kuwait. Earlier, Kuwait posted 174 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs after being invited to bat first. The final was played at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong.

Shree Kumari Club Triumphs Over Naya Basti Club in Shahid Smarak ‘B’ Division League:

Shree Kumari Club secured an easy victory over Naya Basti Club in the Shahid Smarak ‘B’ Division League. The match, held at the ANFA Ground in Satdobato on Sunday, saw Shree Kumari win 2-0.

Sujan Rana scored in the 14th minute, and Yaman Maharjan added another goal in injury time to seal the win for Shree Kumari. With this win, Shree Kumari has earned 6 points from 6 matches, while Naya Basti has 5 points from the same number of matches. The league features 14 teams competing in the ‘B’ Division.

Nepal Women’s National Cricket Team Arrives in Bhairahawa for Training Camp Ahead of World Cup Asia Qualifiers:

The Nepal Women’s National Cricket Team has arrived in Bhairahawa for a closed training camp. The team arrived in Rupandehi on Saturday evening to begin the second phase of its training in preparation for the World Cup Asia Qualifiers scheduled for May. According to the International Cricket Council (ICC) schedule, the Asia Regional Qualifiers will be held in Thailand in May. The team has already completed the first phase of closed training, and the second phase has now started in Bhairahawa.

The 26-member women’s cricket team was warmly welcomed by sports enthusiasts upon arrival in Bhairahawa, with the presence of the team adding prestige to the Siddhartha Cricket Ground, as stated by Niraj Pratap Khan, Treasurer of the Rupandehi Cricket Association. The training camp will run until the 17th of Baishakh, 2082 and after completing this phase, the Nepali team will depart for Thailand.

Ukraine Says 21 Killed by Russian Ballistic Missile Strike:

At least 21 people were killed and 83 others were wounded by a Russian ballistic missile strike in the heart of the northern Ukrainian city of Sumy on Sunday morning, Ukraine’s interior minister Ihor Klymenko said. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack- one of the deadliest strikes on Ukraine this year – and called for a tough international reaction against Moscow.

“Only scoundrels can act like this. Taking the lives of ordinary people,” he wrote on social media, alongside a chilling video which showed corpses on the ground, a destroyed bus and burnt-out cars in the middle of a city street. “And this is on a day when people go to church: Palm Sunday, the feast of the Lord’s Entry into Jerusalem,” Zelenskiy said. Interior minister Klymenko said the victims were on the street, in vehicles, public transport and in buildings when the strike hit.

US Tariff Impact on India’s GDP Just 0.1%, Says PHDCCI:

Industry body PHDCCI on Sunday said that the reciprocal tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump will impact only 0.1 per cent of the Indian GDP, exuding confidence in price competitiveness and continued government support. Given,India’s price competitiveness and supportive government policies, we expect GDP to see only a 0.1 per cent impact,” said PHDCCI in a statement.

Hemant Jain, President of PHDCCI, said that strong domestic manufacturing and continued government handholding through strategic policy measures, including PLI, Make in India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, among others, will support India’s growth resilience. The president of the industry body further stated that India’s strong industrial competitiveness will balance the impact of US tariff announcements, and GDP will see only a 0.1 per cent impact in the short term.  However, he added, this shortfall will be negated in the medium term as the policy takes full effect.

Taiwan Detects 6 Chinese Vessels in Its Territory:

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) on Sunday 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.”

The latest development follows heightened activity recorded just a day earlier. On Saturday, the MND said it had detected 34 sorties of People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and seven PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan by 6 a.m. that day. Of the 34 aircraft, 19 crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern and eastern Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ), underscoring increased Chinese military presence in the region.