AGP Executive Report

Diplomacy: Nepal PM Balendra Shah held his first one-on-one meeting with India’s envoy Naveen Srivastava, stressing deepening “historic ties” and expanding development cooperation, with a separate China meeting also planned. Economy: Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle is in talks with 20 multinational companies on budget implementation, facilities, investment expansion, jobs, and profit repatriation, while reiterating strong public-private partnership for economic transformation. Infrastructure & delivery: A study warns national pride projects could take 10 more years if current pace continues, citing delays from budget, land, tree felling and limited working hours. Public services: Guheshwori Wastewater Treatment Plant is processing 32.4 million litres daily, but officials say separate sewage and rainwater pipelines are needed to boost effectiveness. Safety & travel: Monsoon rains are causing landslides and road blockages across multiple highways, with authorities urging alternate routes and caution. Local life: Gold prices in Nepal fell by Rs 200 per tola while silver rose by Rs 25 per tola. Culture & community: The third International Mother Language Journalism Conference opened in Kathmandu, focusing on inclusive communication and indigenous media. Religion: Thousands of devotees are gathering for Bol Bam at Sundarijal and Pashupatinath, with expanded temple access and health/disaster support. Sports/entertainment: Kathmandu’s Gaijatra comedy “Balen Sarkar” was released, satirising major political parties.

E-Visa Rollout: Nepal will fully launch its digital e-Visa system on August 17, 2026, letting travellers apply online and receive visas by email (with processing generally within 24 hours), easing queues at immigration. Indigenous Rights & Politics: Kathmandu marked International Indigenous Peoples’ Day with calls for real inclusion beyond slogans, while Nepali Congress leaders discussed constitutional amendments and preparations for the 15th General Convention amid internal party tensions. Public Safety & Crime: Police arrested 16 people in drug-related raids across multiple districts; in Kapilvastu, three were held with a pistol, and weapons were also recovered in Dhading, Pyuthan and Gulmi. Power & Utilities: A technical fault during work at the Piluwa substation caused a temporary power disruption in the Kathmandu Valley. Health Alerts: Japanese encephalitis deaths and infections are rising, with officials warning unvaccinated people face higher risk. LPG Crackdown: Authorities intensified monitoring to curb black marketing of cooking gas, urging consumers not to hoard. Sports: Hora Esports qualified for the PUBG Mobile World Championship Grand Finals; Nepal’s sports bodies also advanced Asian Games and domestic preparations.

Indigenous Rights & Representation: President Ramchandra Paudel marked the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, stressing constitutional unity in diversity and calling for meaningful indigenous participation in policy and decision-making, citing 36.8% local-level representation. Politics & Alliances: Eight parties announced a new “Progressive Front” in Nepal, aiming for an inclusive, discrimination-free society and equal representation; meanwhile, Nepali Congress leaders are set for a Central Working Committee meeting amid preparations for the party’s general convention. LPG Crisis Watch: Police began deploying at gas depots in Kathmandu to curb black marketing, while officials say LP gas supply is gradually returning to normal as imports rise. Roads & Monsoon Disruptions: Heavy rain triggered landslides and erosion, blocking key highways and prompting vehicle bans on some sections overnight. Economy & Markets: Gold prices rose by Rs 4,800 per tola and silver by Rs 65 per tola in the domestic market. Public Safety & Governance: Kathmandu Valley traffic police chief urged a technology-friendly “faceless traffic” approach, and an HoR committee chair warned against corrupt behavior among traffic officers. Youth & Culture: Nepalaya published three books featuring 75 writers under 25, and US Embassy launched the 2026 USYC Nepal cohort of 55 young leaders.

Landslide-hit trade: The Tatopani border point has been blocked for over three weeks, halting Nepal–China imports and exports as roads to the gateway remain unusable. LPG shortage response: Industry Minister Gauri Kumari Yadav inspected gas industries and depots in Kathmandu, directing priority sales for students, daily wage workers and distressed citizens while the government pushes a quick response to complaints. Higher education reform: A two-day policy lab backed a transparent, inclusive, result-oriented faculty recruitment and promotion system, urging universities to strengthen research, innovation and coordination. Dalit surname listing: The Ministry of Women, Children, Gender and Social Security published recommended Dalit surnames and opened a two-day public feedback window before a final Council of Ministers decision. Politics and parties: Nepali Congress says its 15th general convention will be held on schedule (Oct 2–5 in Kathmandu), while RPP chair Rajendra Lingden pledged to safeguard active cadres ahead of the party’s Dec 12–14 convention. Mountaineering tragedy: Bad weather has delayed recovery efforts after five bodies were spotted on Yalung Ri, with authorities waiting for visibility to reach the site and confirm identities. Sports calendar: CAN announced NPL Season 3 dates—Oct 26 start and Nov 21 final. Urban rights: Bhaktapur’s demolished squatters staged a protest demanding immediate resettlement, compensation and a time-bound plan.

State-Owned Reform Push: PM Balen Shah says long-deficit state industries are turning around, citing Nepal Aushadhi Limited’s rising sales and plans to expand production of free medicines. Gas Supply Oversight: Industry Minister Gauri Kumari Yadav inspected the Nepal Gas Industry in Balaju and a Teku distribution depot, directing firms to ensure supply for students in Kirtipur amid complaints. Trade Link with Oman: Export Promotion Federation and an Omani non-resident Nepali club signed an MoU to expand “Made in Nepal” exports, including tea, spices, handicrafts and garments. Diplomacy & Security: Korea-Nepal ties were praised by Ambassador Park Taeyoung, while US-Iran-Oman talks point to a possible reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial oil transport. Public Safety & Health: Nepal Medical Association condemned an assault on doctors and nurses at Palata Hospital; Nepal Police also arrested two absconding defendants in a heroin case. Governance Appointments: PM Shah appointed office-bearers at three national academies. Politics & Rights: Constitutional expert Dr. Bhimarjun Acharya criticized ruling-party “double standards,” and eight parties announced a “Progressive Front” focused on federalism and social justice. Culture & Society: Kathmandu Public Health Office set up a breastfeeding room at Teku for staff and health workers. Mountaineering Vigil: Tributes continued for Broad Peak victims, including a Kathmandu “Tribute Run 5K” ending with a vigil at Boudhanath Stupa.

Doctors’ Deal: A five-point agreement between the government and intern doctor Dilli Harijan, who was on a four-day hunger strike at Bir Hospital, has been reached; Harijan has been moved to ICU for further treatment. Housing & Rights: Nepal’s demolition drive around Kathmandu Valley has displaced an estimated 15,000–20,000 people, with rights concerns raised as verification of landless families begins. Landless Verification: The Land Problems Resolution Committee says about 70% of checked displaced families are genuine landless squatters, with further checks ongoing. Federal Parliament: Four bills were tabled in the HoR, including amendments on constitutional bodies’ remuneration, passports, human trafficking controls, and mines and minerals. Energy & Daily Life: The government says cooking gas supply is being monitored to prevent shortages, with cylinder tracking and efforts to secure more LPG quota from India. Capital Markets: SEBON released a white paper to modernise Nepal’s primary capital market, pushing for a more technology-friendly, internationally competitive system. Koshi Politics: Koshi CM Hikmat Karki barred a minister linked to a bid to oust him from announcing Cabinet decisions. Markets: NEPSE slipped 0.15% to 2650.09. Public Safety: Police say they’ve registered 161 cybercrime complaints in the past year, mostly involving youth aged 19–25. Mountaineering: Last rites of Broad Peak climber Pur Bahadur Gurung were held at Swayambhu in Kathmandu.

Parliament & Governance: Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal ordered the government to clarify the Dhalkebar national trauma centre plan after lawmakers questioned commitments. Energy & Infrastructure: The Infrastructure Development Committee pushed for faster electricity access to remote settlements and tighter coordination on pole relocation; Nepal Electricity Authority says pole shifting is 80–90% done, while the Roads Department calls pole relocation a major bottleneck for road upgrades. Economy & Finance: Nepal Rastra Bank will collect Rs 60 billion via a one-month deposit instrument through online bidding; MPs also raised concerns over economic slowdown and project delays. Telecom: Nepal Telecom Authority issued an 8-point directive to mobile operators on network quality, complaint handling, and phased 4G/5G expansion. Transport & Safety: Heavy rain and landslides have disrupted highways, while a bus crash on the Gwarko flyover wall left casualties. Local Economy & Prices: Gold rose to Rs 296,900 per tola; ride-hailing drivers protested high commissions and VAT. Trade: Nepal recorded a trade deficit with 128 partners in FY 2025/26 despite record exports. Health & Institutions: New appointments at the Nepal Pharmacy Council and Shahid Gangalal National Heart Center; nurses protests and health-sector pressures continue.

Broad Peak Tragedy: Pur Bahadur Gurung’s body (“Yukta”) has been repatriated to Kathmandu after the avalanche in Pakistan, with families and mountaineers paying tribute ahead of Friday’s rites. Supreme Court Watch: The SC has ordered a review of its decision on the legitimacy of Nepali Congress leadership under Gagan Thapa, and also allowed a review tied to whether the Election Commission followed fair-hearing rules. Displaced Children: An SC interim order demands education, health and housing support for children displaced from Kathmandu Valley riverbanks during encroachment removals. Monsoon Preparedness: National Assembly leaders pressed the government to strengthen disaster readiness, with Home Minister Sudhan Gurung pointing to the monsoon preparedness and response plan and command posts. Electricity Tariffs: The Electricity Regulatory Commission issued a new directive to set consumer tariffs on a fully cost-based and transparent process. Sports: Nepal confirmed 136 athletes in 22 sports for the 20th Asian Games, and the national cricket team will play a practice ODI against New Zealand ‘A’ in September. Governance & Services: MoFA launched fully online consular attestation via NEATS, and UGC took over foreign degree equivalency services. Politics & Diplomacy: Kathmandu cancelled a high-profile Tibetan studies seminar after a directive linked to Chinese concerns, while Home Minister Gurung visited the Gen Z injured office to coordinate treatment.

Broad Peak Tragedy: Pakistani helicopters airlifted five climbers’ bodies from Broad Peak to Skardu, raising recovered bodies to eight; Nirmal Purja was among those flown, while two remain missing and the search continues. Health in Monsoon: Kathmandu hospitals report a rise in fever cases since rains began, with doctors urging people to treat fever as a symptom that can come from many infections, not just seasonal flu. Road Safety: A passenger bus crash in Lalitpur killed one and injured 19; the driver is in police custody as investigations continue. Public Finance & Jobs: The government rolled out an updated salary scale for civil servants and related services effective Shrawan 1, with a 10% monthly incentive allowance. Parliament Watch: The National Assembly meets with ministers to answer oral questions and will table an Infectious Animal Diseases (Control) Bill. Economy & Governance: Auditor General Toyam Raya warned that inconsistent understanding of economic laws is complicating audits, while private-sector leaders urged more trust-building, less retrospective pressure. Kathmandu Mobility: Heavy rain disrupted highways and brought night-time traffic bans on parts of the BP Highway and Kantilokpath. Politics: Former PM Jhalanath Khanal and JSP chair Upendra Yadav held talks on national unity and rights.

Jobs & Foreign Employment: Employment Minister Ramji Yadav says the government plans to create 100,000 jobs this year, with 12 action plans including a “Green Job Mission,” plus steps to rescue Nepalis stranded abroad and curb “free visa/free ticket” fraud through an amended Foreign Employment Act and an online complaint system. Media Accountability: A probe into Nepal Television procurement found irregularities in digital transmitter and broadcasting-related purchases, citing illegal decisions, procedural flaws, and financial liabilities, including misuse of “Archive Digitization” funds. Diplomacy & Research: The Foreign Ministry launched the “MoFA Knowledge Hub,” a monthly forum meant to strengthen research-led foreign policy. Koshi Power Deal: Hikmat Karki will continue as Koshi chief minister for now under an understanding he will step down if KP Sharma Oli asks. Broad Peak Tragedy: Recovery teams brought Nirmal Purja and three climbers to Broad Peak base camp; the Nimsdai Foundation also launched a global fund for guides’ families. Law & Rights: The HoR Law Committee directed the government to seek clarification from Amnesty International, ICJ and Human Rights Watch over statements on judicial independence. Road Disruptions: Floods and landslides blocked or partially disrupted multiple highways, with some sections reopened after repairs.

Tarai-Madhes Security: The government says it will arrange compensation, relief and treatment for the deceased and injured from the Sunsari and Siraha violence, while Home Ministry consultations with Hindu and Muslim leaders push preventive steps to protect communal harmony. Drugs & Crime: Police arrested a man with 207 kg of marijuana in Parsa and also nabbed five people with heroin-like substances and Tramadol in Sindhuli. Landslides & Travel Disruption: Rain-triggered landslides blocked and then cleared parts of the Muglin–Narayangadh road; Nepal Police reports multiple highway obstructions and night travel restrictions in some stretches. Health Sector: Hunger-striking nurse Jyoti Ranabhat ended her fast after a 19-point deal with the government, including plans for a task force on pay and service conditions for health workers. Economy & Prices: Nepal Rastra Bank will collect NPR 85 billion in three-month deposits; gold prices jumped by Rs 4,200 per tola. Energy & Daily Life: The Industry Ministry says LP gas supply should normalize within days and warns against hoarding and black marketing. Environment & Policy: Gandaki province legalized medical cannabis farming and use despite a national ban; the Agriculture Ministry issued National Agriculture Policy 2083. Sports/Culture: Nepal’s tiger count hit a record 429; and Lost in Mandala is set to reach global audiences via Apple Entertainment.

Monsoon Disruptions: Floods and landslides have completely shut down five key highways, including sections of the Kanti, Araniko, and Mid-Hill routes, with dozers and excavators deployed and commuters urged to use alternatives. Broad Peak Tragedy: Pakistan search teams are now working on foot as poor weather keeps helicopters grounded, after an avalanche killed 10 climbers including Nepal’s Nirmal Purja; candlelight vigils in Kathmandu mourn the “lost generation” and families press for bodies to be brought home. Land for Landless: The government says distribution of land ownership certificates to landless squatters has started from June 2, while lawmakers demand faster, coordinated action across all three tiers. Gas and Health Pressure: Nepal Oil Corporation insists there is no LPG shortage, while MPs push for better supply management; meanwhile, a hunger-striking nurse Jyoti Ranabhat has been moved to ICU, renewing demands for nursing reforms and anti-snake venom availability. Security and Justice: Home Minister Sudhan Gurung has begun talks with the family of Rabindra Mehta after his death from Sunsari clashes, and MPs again demand a judicial probe into Sunsari and Tarai-Madhes incidents. Economy and Cities: Finance Minister Wagle met bank CEOs on credit and monetary reforms; KMC and AEPC signed to revive Teku waste-to-energy operations.

Monsoon Watch: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology warns of moderate to heavy rain with thunder and lightning, with flash-flood risk in small rivers across 30 districts including Kathmandu Valley and parts of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki. Health Protests in Kathmandu: Hunger strikes and sit-ins are spreading over health and education sector demands, including intern doctors’ pay and working hours, and nurses’ concerns about labor exploitation. Sunsari Violence Update: In Kaptangunj, injured youth Rabindra Mehta has died in Kathmandu, bringing fatalities to three; locals demand a fair investigation. Sindhuli Road Tragedy: Search continues after a car plunged into the Sunkoshi following a bus collision; locals have blocked the highway, citing faster rescue, compensation and accountability. Central Bank Reform: Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle told the House Finance Committee that the NRB Act should be amended to make Nepal Rastra Bank more proactive and accountable. City Waste-to-Energy: KMC and AEPC sign deals to restart Teku waste-to-energy and biogas operations within two months. Identity & Travel: Nepal formally seeks India’s recognition of its National Identity Card for cross-border travel. Women’s Air Rescue: 103 pregnant and postpartum women received free medevac services under the President’s Women Upliftment Programme in FY 2025/26.

National Transport Policy 2083: Nepal has replaced a nearly 25-year-old transport policy with a new plan aimed at a sustainable, safe, green and technology-friendly integrated transport system across road, rail, waterways and aviation. Insurance Reform Push: The Finance Ministry formed a three-member committee to recommend reforms for Nepal’s insurance sector, with a 90-day deadline for a report. Monsoon Disruptions: Heavy rain and monsoon disasters have blocked or restricted traffic on multiple highways, with authorities warning of landslide and flood risks and advising drivers to check routes. Road Accident in Sindhuli: A bus collision led to a car plunging into the Sunkoshi River; three people are reported missing and a rescue operation is underway. National ID Outage: Technical failures in Nepal’s national ID system have disrupted authentication for passports, banking and government services, with officials expecting restoration soon. Broad Peak Tragedy: Search and recovery continue after the avalanche in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir; eight bodies have been recovered, including Nirmal “Nims” Purja, while two climbers remain missing. Food Safety: Bhaktapur authorities destroyed 4,000 liters of substandard milk after lab tests found it below required standards. Film Grants Oversight: The government is drafting clearer procedures for incentive grants to the film industry to improve transparency and accountability. Tourism Update: Foreign tourist arrivals rose 2.3% in July to 71,775 visits, led by increases from China and the US. Nepali Congress Politics: The party formed a 40-member strategic response team for disaster preparedness and held its parliamentary party meeting, while also demanding a judicial probe into Sunsari and related incidents.

Monsoon Watch: Nepal’s Met office warns of heavy to very heavy rain over the next days, with flash-flood and landslide risk especially in Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki, and also in parts of Lumbini and Karnali—people are urged to stay alert and follow updates. Nurses’ Strike: Nurses in Kathmandu staged a protest at Bir Hospital on the fifth day of an indefinite hunger strike by Jyoti Ranabhat, demanding reforms, minimum wages and an end to labor exploitation. Civil Service Pay Delay: The Ministry of Finance has stalled the bi-monthly salary payment process for civil servants, citing missing salary scale details needed for the Auditor General. Broad Peak Tragedy: Bodies of four climbers, including Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, were recovered near 5,700m on Pakistan’s Broad Peak as rescue teams continue under extreme conditions. Curfew Eases in Tarai: Curfew was relaxed in parts of Madhesh and Koshi after communal violence subsided, though prohibitory orders remain in some areas. Identity for Border Travel: Nepal has formally asked India to accept Nepal’s National Identity Card for cross-border travel and identity checks. Road Disruptions: Rain and landslides have blocked or restricted traffic on multiple highways, including the Kanti Lokpath and BP Highway sections. Market Moves: Gold rose Rs 800 per tola to Rs 284,000; silver gained Rs 35 to Rs 4,350.

Nepal-China Ties: Fu Qiang donated about Rs. 250,000 worth of China-focused books to Nepali libraries and institutions to mark 71 years of diplomatic relations, boosting people-to-people learning. Broad Peak Tragedy: Nepal-born British mountaineer Nirmal “Nimsdai” Purja’s body was recovered on Pakistan’s Broad Peak at around 5,700m, along with three other climbers; rescue teams continue for the remaining missing after the avalanche killed all 10 expedition members. Telecom Push: Communications Minister Bikram Timilsina outlined FY 2083/84 plans to launch 5G commercially, expand nationwide 4G (NTC coverage now over 98%), and improve telecom regulation and customer experience. Fuel and LPG Pressure: Nepal Oil Corporation raised petrol/diesel and aviation fuel prices while claiming no LPG shortage, as consumers in places like Janakpur report supply gaps amid protests. Security and Protest: Police arrested medical businessman Durga Prasai after he announced a protest; Nepal Teachers’ Federation also announced upcoming protests over unresponsive government demands. Regional Unrest Spillover: Communal violence linked to Sunsari tensions has spread into Madhesh districts, with curfews and security measures affecting daily life. Weather and Farming: Monsoon rains are accelerating paddy transplantation, now at 92.57% nationwide, while heavy rain and landslide risks disrupt roads.