National News
1. Motihari-Amlekhgunj Petroleum Pipeline Handover Preparations Underway
Amlekhgunj, Bara – Preparations are underway to officially hand over the Motihari-Amlekhgunj Petroleum Pipeline to Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) following the completion of its extension works. The pipeline, currently transporting petroleum products from Motihari, India, to Amlekhgunj, is undergoing test operations under supervision of an Indian Oil Corporation technical team. The extension from Amlekhgunj to Lothar, Chitwan (69 km), is also set to commence soon, potentially with an inauguration involving both countries’ Prime Ministers.
2. Jeep Accident in Darchula Leaves 11 Injured
Khalanga, Darchula – Eleven people were injured when a jeep traveling from Hopari to Hoparigad in Naugad Rural Municipality met with an accident due to sudden brake failure. Four of the injured, including Parbati Tamata (25) and Mohan Thagunna (26), are in critical condition. All victims have been admitted to Gokuleshwor Hospital, and further investigation is ongoing.
3. First Women Police Conference Kicks Off in Kathmandu
Kathmandu – The inaugural Women Police Conference has commenced with 200 women police personnel from across Nepal participating. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak highlighted women’s growing role in law enforcement and pledged to increase their representation from 12% to 20%, with a long-term target of 33%. The two-day event aims to promote inclusion, empowerment, and gender equality, culminating in the adoption of the “Kathmandu Declaration” outlining policy recommendations for the Nepal Police.
4. Seven Youths Arrested for Tramadol Possession in Chitwan
Bharatpur, Chitwan – Police arrested seven youths for possessing 17,400 tramadol capsules from a hotel near the Central Bus Terminal. One of the detainees is reportedly from West Champaran, Bihar, India. The arrests were made during a crackdown on illegal drug trafficking.
5. Dengue Cases Rise in Baitadi Hills
Baitadi – Seven dengue cases have been confirmed across Dasharath Chand, Purchaudi, Melauli, and Patan municipalities. The District Health Office has launched a “Search and Destroy Larva” campaign involving local authorities, health workers, and communities to prevent further spread during the monsoon season.
6. Tourism Department Implements IT-Friendly Services
Kathmandu – The Department of Tourism has prioritized procedural simplification and technology-friendly governance to make services accessible and business-friendly. The initiative aims to integrate international best practices, promote tourism infrastructure, enhance hospitality, and boost employment opportunities in the sector.
International News
1. World Leaders Condemn Israel’s Plans for Gaza Offensive and Settlement Expansion
Global leaders have strongly condemned Israel’s planned military offensive in Gaza City and the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank’s E1 area. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned of catastrophic humanitarian consequences, urging a ceasefire and the reversal of settlement expansion. French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed concerns, highlighting risks of permanent conflict.
2. Iran Launches Military Drill Following 12-Day War with Israel
Iran’s navy launched its first military exercise since the 12-day conflict with Israel, firing cruise missiles in the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean. Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh confirmed new missile capabilities and readiness to counter any future Israeli attacks. Iran has suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency amid rising tensions over nuclear monitoring.
3. US Judge Frank Caprio, ‘Nicest Judge in the World,’ Passes Away at 88
Frank Caprio, a Rhode Island judge famous for his compassionate courtroom approach and viral videos, has died at 88. Known for leniency in minor infractions, his reality TV show Caught in Providence inspired millions worldwide. Caprio’s family described him as “an example of humanity,” and the Rhode Island Governor ordered flags at half-staff in his honor.
4. Uganda to Accept Deported Migrants from the US under Conditions
Uganda has agreed to take deported migrants from the US provided they have no criminal records and are not unaccompanied minors. Officials emphasized that African nationals would be prioritized, and detailed modalities for the agreement are being discussed.
5. India Encourages Russian Companies to Boost Trade Amid US Tariffs
Amid new US tariffs on Indian goods, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged Russian companies to expand business engagement with India. He highlighted opportunities under initiatives like Make in India, growing infrastructure, and new Free Trade Agreements, stressing the importance of strategic economic collaboration between the two nations.
