Pakistan recorded a 17.6 percent increase in exports for September, reaching 2.94 billion US dollars compared to the same month last year. However, imports also rose by 11.1 percent to 6.49 billion dollars, leading to an expansion of the trade deficit. Over the first three months of the 2026/27 fiscal year, total exports grew by 10.8 percent to 8.42 billion dollars, while the overall trade deficit for this three-month period widened by 15.1 percent to stand at 10.79 billion dollars, according to official statistics. From public sources and the WeNepal research team
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal is scheduled to leave for Fiji and Australia tonight to attend official programmes and engage with the diaspora. From public sources and the WeNepal research team
India won the gold medal in the men cricket competition after defeating Pakistan. Pakistan fell short of the target set by India during their allotted overs. From public sources and the WeNepal research team
An exhibition showcasing contemporary photo and video technology has opened in Biratnagar. Organised by the Photographers Association Morang at RK Party Palace, the two-day event displays works captured by local creators. Coordinator Ekraj Shrestha stated that the programme aims to introduce recent technological advancements to the younger generation. Visitors can also participate in editing workshops and training sessions focused on artificial intelligence tools.
The Martadi-Kolti road has reopened following a three-month closure caused by monsoon disruptions that began in the second week of Asar. The blockage prevented farmers in Pandusen and surrounding upper areas from reaching markets, forcing some to redirect apple shipments to Nepalgunj and Dhangadhi through the Karnali corridor. Apples from Swami Kartik Khapar Rural Municipality are now reaching the Martadi market at prices between NPR 130 and NPR 200 per kilogram. Agriculture officials note that apple cultivation spans approximately 375 hectares across several local units.
The sole land route connecting Manang has stayed blocked for six consecutive days due to floods and landslides that struck on the preceding Saturday and Sunday. Authorities are deploying machinery, explosives and personnel to remove debris and clear obstructions at sites including Khotro and Koto. A lake formed by an obstructed Marsyangdi River in Chame has added further complications to the clearance operations, according to Chief District Officer Mukti Prasad Khanal.
As his tenure in Kathmandu draws to a close, outgoing Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava has launched an online photo series highlighting the avian wildlife inside the embassy compound. He documented parakeets, kingfishers, crows, and owls alongside a 223-year-old Himalayan cypress tree dating back to 1803. Unlike diplomats whom he described as birds of passage, these animals remain permanent inhabitants of the green grounds.
The secondary market experienced a double-digit decline on Friday, the final trading session of the week. According to the Nepal Stock Exchange, the benchmark index decreased by 11.90 points to settle at 2,587.25. Total turnover surpassed NPR 4 billion, reaching NPR 4,29,37,74,181. Market activity showed varied movements among individual securities, with NMB debenture recording the highest gain of 14.29 percent. Conversely, investors in Sindhu Bikas Bank faced the steepest drop as its share value fell by 8.55 percent, alongside a decline for Dhaulagiri Laghubitta Financial Institution.
New cricket regulations introduced by the International Cricket Council took effect on 1 October 2026, introducing penalties for time wastage. Batters who fail to prepare for deliveries within the required duration face warnings initially. Accumulating three delays in an 80-over block results in a five-run penalty for the team, with the warning count resetting after 80 overs in multi-day matches. Incoming batters are granted two minutes to face their first delivery after a wicket falls.
Kathmandu authorities have unveiled a comprehensive security arrangement for the upcoming festival season, deploying thousands of security personnel across the district. Officials stated that forces in both uniforms and plain clothes will handle potential risks including theft, robbery, and public molestation throughout Dashain and Tihar. Forces will operate across twenty-two different duty types, with provisions to increase numbers if threat levels rise.
Nepali football has remained suspended by FIFA for 100 days without a clear timeline for the ban to be lifted. The governing body maintains that member associations must operate independently from external interference, pointing to similar recent cases in neighbouring countries where bans were resolved after administrative control was restored. Meanwhile, youth teams face missing upcoming qualifiers unless the penalty is lifted before deadlines.
An immigration lawyer based in Australia highlights the need for honest discussions about migration challenges, following recent reports on rising student visa refusals and tragic incidents involving students. While Australia provides genuine opportunities, families should ensure young people know that returning home or seeking help is acceptable.
The stock market in Nepal recorded a decrease of 11.90 points, bringing the Nepse index to 2,587.25 on Friday. Total turnover surpassed NPR 4.29 billion [Rs 4.29 billion] across thousands of transactions involving multiple securities. Most sub-indices declined, with manufacturing and processing registering the largest drop. NMB Debenture led the gains, whereas Sindhu Bikash Bank experienced the steepest decline. Market observers noted that participants seemed to favor a wait-and-see strategy.
Muktinath Bikas Bank Limited has established a partnership with Athlete Land and Training Club located in Balkumari to offer reduced rates for fitness services. Under this arrangement, cardholders and mobile banking users can receive price cuts between 7.5 percent and 17.5 percent on activities such as boxing, mixed martial arts, yoga, Zumba, and cardio. Sauna facilities are also included for post-exercise relaxation.
Weather conditions across the country show the partial influence of monsoon winds and western winds, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. Moderate rain may occur in select locations within the Himalayan and hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, alongside potential snowfall in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces. Madhesh Province Terai areas also face chances of moderate rain. Skies will stay generally cloudy tonight in specific hilly sectors, with light rain expected in select spots.
Sportswear manufacturer Nike faces difficulties after experiencing strategic errors and high-profile athlete departures. Kylian Mbappé ended a long-standing association to partner with Swiss competitor On, while Yamal joined Adidas. Furthermore, the company was removed from the S&P 100 index, and financial results prompted a share price decline of over 8 percent during after-hours trading in New York.
Global delegates are gathering in the Pacific to address climate challenges and observe rising sea levels. Officials are convening for discussions scheduled from 5 October to 8 October in Nadi, setting the agenda for the COP31 summit in Antalya. Reports indicate a significant financing deficit for developing nations, alongside warnings regarding displacement risks and coral damage.
The Kathmandu District Police Range has introduced a security blueprint for the Dashain, Tihar and Chhath festivals, deploying 3,506 personnel across the Valley. Officials released a thirteen-point safety guide advising residents leaving their properties to store valuables in bank lockers, lock doors securely and alert neighbours or law enforcement. The public was warned against scams involving quick earnings and lucky prizes, while authorities urged residents to report suspicious activities.
Security measures have been intensified across the valley as the festive period approaches. Law enforcement agencies have mobilised thousands of officers alongside mobile teams, pickets, foot patrols and checkpoints to protect property, manage travel and prevent illegal activities such as the use of firecrackers. Authorities will also utilise drones and public announcement systems while establishing citizen assistance desks in major transit locations. Citizens have been advised to remain cautious and report suspicious behavior.
Dhanusha Police have introduced a special security arrangement to maintain public safety during upcoming seasonal festivals. District authorities have arranged numerous patrols, disaster response units, market inspections, and vehicle checks across the region. Officials also outlined recent performance data, including missing persons investigations, traffic safety programs, and the successful rescue of an abducted child.
Traffic authorities in Kathmandu questioned a driver who amassed 729 traffic penalties over a six-year period. Ram Bahadur Bista of Makwanpur, operating a vehicle registered as Ba 16 Cha 8064, was summoned to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office on Thursday. Traffic Police Superintendent Naresh Raj Subedi held a discussion with Bista lasting about thirty minutes to examine the situation and provide counsel on adhering to transport regulations. Officials noted that Bista incurred roughly 122 fines annually.
Streaming platform Peacock has greenlit a new scripted television series based on the Fast & Furious franchise. The project was previously mentioned earlier in the year at NBCUniversal's Upfronts event. Co-showrunners will include Mike Daniels and Wolfe Coleman, with production involvement from various figures associated with the original films and Chris Morgan Productions. The show's premiere is expected to align with the release of the upcoming film Fast Forever in March 2028.
Kumari Bank Limited and Ramada Encore by Wyndham Kathmandu-Thamel have reached an agreement to offer reduced rates on various hospitality services. Cardholders can benefit from cuts on food, beverages and spa packages, alongside monthly instalment options and yearly loyalty perks based on spending thresholds. The bank operates numerous branches and service desks across the nation.
Ukraine rejected reports of a maintenance crisis affecting its F-16 fighter jets following a report about support failures and inspection delays. Foreign ministry spokesman Georgiy Tykhy noted that certain components are no longer in production, while maintaining confidence in optimization efforts. Sabena Engineering also refuted claims of significant delays. Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Belgium will supply three additional jets by the end of the year.
Global stock markets displayed mixed results on 2 October 2026, following a deepening bond sell-off and ahead of upcoming U.S. employment figures. European indexes saw modest gains as investors evaluated rising yields on government debt and persistent inflationary pressures. Meanwhile, oil prices dropped despite increased military deployments by the United States to West Asia and recent statements from President Donald Trump concerning Iran. Market participants are closely watching the employment data for indications regarding potential interest rate adjustments by the Federal Reserve.
NIC Asia Bank has rolled out a new digital payment option for its e-commerce merchant customers, permitting them to accept transactions from Visa and Mastercard holders via Apple Pay and Google Pay. This launch represents the initial service of its kind in the country. Businesses linked with the institution's CyberSource Payment Gateway can process global transactions securely through mobile devices. Sectors including tourism, hospitality, IT, handicrafts, and export-oriented industries are expected to benefit by increasing foreign currency revenue and facilitating cross-border trade.
United States President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a summit last week to reduce friction between the two largest economies globally. Although the meeting addressed multiple issues, deep disagreements persist regarding Taiwan, technological competition, and strategic rivalries within the Indo-Pacific. Analysts note that the administration in Washington is maintaining a transactional stance toward Beijing while simultaneously increasing diplomatic engagement with Pakistan and China, carrying implications for India.
Asian Cricket Council chief Mohsin Naqvi will remain absent from the 2026 Asian Games men's cricket final in Japan. India and Pakistan prepare to battle for the gold medal on Saturday, while Sri Lanka and Bangladesh contest the bronze fixture. An official release on Friday stated that Naqvi cannot make the journey to Nagoya due to heavy commitments. He concurrently heads the Pakistan Cricket Board and sent supportive messages to all four contending squads.
Photographer Ajay Narsingh Rana has released a new book titled The Wild Wonders of Nepal, showcasing the natural world of the country. Growing up in Kathmandu with an artistic background, Rana developed an interest in documenting local wildlife, focusing heavily on macro photography during travel restrictions in 2020. The 131-page publication features various creatures, starting with small insects and birds before moving to larger mammals. The volume launches on 2 October 2026.
Nepal has requested Malaysia to exclude 25 local employment firms from the Foreign Worker Centralized Management System following disagreement over a recruitment framework that designated a limited number of agencies as principal handlers and others in supporting roles. Labour Ministry officials stated that discussions are ongoing at senior political levels to address labour relations between the two countries.
Work to install a Bailey bridge has started at Betrawati on the flood-affected Galchhi-Betrawati road corridor in Rasuwa. Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal stated that foundation work on both ends of the bridge concluded following the opening of a temporary bypass track. Equipment deliveries are underway as construction progresses. The project aims to reconnect the primary route to Rasuwa and alleviate transport disruptions caused by severe flooding, while permanent rebuilding efforts proceed in parallel.
Industrial nations in the Group of Seven have agreed to release 100 million barrels of petroleum and diesel products following high fuel costs in the United States. President Donald Trump announced that the fuel distribution would begin immediately. The decision follows a video conference led by French President Emmanuel Macron. Members of the alliance will distribute the reserves over four months, with a heavy emphasis on diesel during the first 20 days.
Following recent flood damage, a temporary track has opened on the Galchhi-Betrawati road section in Rasuwa, facilitating the transport of equipment for a new bailey bridge. Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal stated that foundation work and bridge installation are underway to fully restore the blocked transport network. Officials are pursuing short-term transport solutions alongside long-term infrastructure repairs to ease travel to and from the affected district.
The Nepal Handicraft Federation held an event to celebrate 22 women entrepreneurs involved in different sectors, including Nepal Pashmina Industry director Laloo Shrestha. Bagmati Province Chief Minister Kiran Thapa Magar praised the contributions of women business owners to the national economy. Federation Chairman Rabindra Shakya noted that this marks the first time women entrepreneurs have received such recognition from the organization. Founded in 2029 BS, the Federation currently includes 4,500 members.
Recent floods along the Kaligandaki River forced the suspension of test electricity generation at the 40-megawatt Rahughat hydropower project in Myagdi. High waters washed away part of the tailrace duct, endangered the switchyard transformer, and blocked the project dam and access road. In addition, the flooding destroyed transmission towers, halting power supply from several other energy facilities in the region.
Malaysia is set to host the sub-regional qualifying tournaments for the 2028 T20 World Cup starting next week. Running from 5 October to 14 October, tournaments A and B will feature thirteen teams competing across thirty-six matches at three venues. The top three squads from each group will advance to the subsequent stage of the Asia qualifiers in 2027.
A new report from the Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore shows that 44.6 percent of respondents view rising energy prices and the cost of living as their primary worry. This figure marks a decrease from 2024, when 52.4 percent of participants reported similar concerns. The findings stem from a study involving 3,706 individuals across 11 Southeast Asian nations, capturing regional anxieties tied to recent geopolitical events and energy disruptions.
Recent figures published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicate a decrease in employment openings across the country over a three-month period ending in August. While certain areas such as financial and insurance services saw increases, overall private sector opportunities experienced a reduction. When evaluating the annual situation up to August, total job openings dropped.
Asian Cricket Council President Mohsin Naqvi will not travel to Japan for the Asian Games cricket final. According to a statement issued by the council, Naqvi sent his best wishes to the finalists and the teams competing for the bronze medal. The gold medal match is scheduled for Saturday between India and Pakistan, while another fixture will decide the bronze. Naqvi also serves as the head of the Pakistan Cricket Board.
South Africa and Namibia will jointly host the ten-team tournament for the final qualification stage of the men's one-day world cup. The competition features the top four sides from cricket league two alongside four teams advancing from the qualification playoff. Teams currently positioned in the top four of league two include Scotland, the United States, Netherlands and Oman.
Internet service providers have declared an inability to offer affordable and low-speed internet packages. Further details regarding the policy shift and its implementation timeline remain pending.
Kamana Sewa Bikas Bank has distributed visibility jackets to city safari drivers. The financial institution handed over the safety gear during a recent program.
Recent matches in the sports competition held in Kailali saw Ghodaghodi, Morning Glory and Birendra Sports claim wins. Ghodaghodi triumphed by 36 runs, while Birendra Sports successfully chased a target set by Khaptad.
Pokhara is scheduled to host a Dashain Tourism and Cultural Festival on October 25 to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of national customs and traditions. Organised by the Women Tourism Entrepreneurs Forum, the programme at Barahi Ghat in Lakeside coincides with Kojagrat Purnima. Attendees can take part in kite-flying competitions, taste traditional dishes, and experience local music and artistic performances. Tourism figures note the initiative will help connect traditional festivities with the local tourism sector.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has published routine self-disclosure updates covering various periods, including information from Kartik 2081 through Baishakh 2083. These publications form part of ongoing institutional transparency measures by the department.
Two large energy facilities in Lamjung district restarted electricity production on Monday after a temporary halt prompted by rising water levels in the Marsyangdi river. The 70-MW Madhya Marsyangdi and 50-MW Upper Marsyangdi 'A' hydropower Projects had suspended output on Sunday morning due to potential safety risks. Operations recommenced after river flow returned to normal and technical checks were completed.
Virat Kohli has reached 15,000 runs in ODI cricket, setting a record by completing the milestone in 303 innings. Sachin Tendulkar previously held the record, taking 377 innings. Kohli also equaled Tendulkar's record for List A centuries with his 60th century during a match in Thiruvananthapuram. Additionally, Shubman Gill scored his tenth ODI century in his 67th innings, and Kuldeep Yadav claimed four or more wickets for the twelfth time.
The Nepali Congress has established fifteen committees, including a central direction committee, to manage its upcoming fifteenth general convention. Acting chief secretary Krishna Prasad Dulal issued a statement detailing the formation of these panels to ensure the event runs smoothly. Specific coordinators were assigned to oversee financial management, communication, venue operations, and other logistical requirements. Additionally, the party has extended invitations to political figures including Rabi, Oli, and Prachanda.
Tourism entrepreneurs in Myagdi report a significant downturn in visitor numbers at the beginning of the peak season. Floods in areas like Bhote Koshi and ongoing heavy rainfall have prompted many international travellers to cancel trips. Road and footpath blockages further restrict movement, while climbing teams descend to lower camps due to severe weather forecasts. Operators note that despite unaffected regions remaining safe, failure to communicate this globally has hurt local businesses.
Nepal Rastra Bank has published the official exchange rates for foreign currencies. Commercial banks may apply different rates, and updated figures remain available on the central bank website.
Nepal is set to play Sri Lanka in the men's cricket quarterfinal of the 20th Asian Games on Tuesday morning, marking their first meeting in the tournament at this stage in 16 years. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee stated that the squad aims for a medal finish. The match is scheduled at Korogi Sports Park in Nishina, Japan, but continuous rain forecasts raise concerns that the game could be called off. Previous quarterfinal exits occurred against Sri Lanka in 2010, Afghanistan in 2014, and India in 2023.
Electricity and internet connections in Mustang stopped working for a day and a half following heavy downpours that caused floods and landslides. Power lines originating in Parbat suffered damage from river erosion and falling trees, forcing a local substation to shut down. Officials stated that optical-fiber networks also broke down across multiple locations, though some areas maintained mobile communications through alternative radio links. Repair crews have been dispatched to inspect the affected electricity lines and substations.
Traffic movement along the Prithvi Highway is slated to resume normally from 1 pm on Wednesday, assuming no further debris or obstructions block the route. The Dhading District Administration Office reported that teams are working to clear road collapses and landslides triggered by persistent rainfall. While single-lane transit is presently permitted across damaged areas, authorities caution that landslip hazards persist despite the cessation of rain. Travelers and motorists are advised to exercise vigilance and adhere strictly to safety protocols.
Bajaj has chosen Rabindra Dhant as the official brand ambassador for the Pulsar NS motorcycle lineup. Officials stated that the collaboration seeks to reinforce the performance-oriented identity and street-fighter design of the Pulsar NS series by linking it with Dhant's personal attributes. Operating under the theme Raw Power Meets Raw Power, the initiative aims to connect with young riders and performance enthusiasts. Customers can expect upcoming campaigns across official digital channels.
The Cricket Association of Nepal revealed the team roster for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series in Oman. Sandeep Lamichhane will lead the fifteen-member squad, which includes opening batters Arjun Kumal and Aasif Sheikh. Kushal Bhurtel and Sompal Kami remain omitted from the lineup. The fixtures involve matches against Canada and the host nation, starting on 7 October. Nepal currently occupies the seventh position in the league standings.
The Tulsipur distribution centre will close its physical counters starting on the first of Mangsir to transition entirely to online utility bill payments. Centre head Suresh Kumar Mahato stated that the move follows government digitalisation goals and authority directives for the fiscal year 2083/84. Currently, forty-two percent of customers use digital channels. Officials noted that visiting the office incurs travel expenses and wastes time, whereas payments up to NPR 100 carry no extra fee. The branch currently serves fifty-five thousand users, who can now complete transactions via mobile banking or applications.
A newly constructed city hall in Nepalgunj, Banke, remains unused despite significant state investment. Local residents and business leaders have urged the sub-metropolitan city leadership to take immediate action to bring the facility into operation.
Rescue teams have mobilised three cranes to dislodge the Rhino cruise ship after swollen waters in the Narayani River pushed it against the Narayani Bridge. The vessel was torn from its moorings near Hotel River Crown on Sunday evening when strong currents severed two 20-millimetre lines. Built for approximately NPR 150 million [15 crore], the 70-tonne craft is being shifted towards Gaindakot after resting against a bridge pillar.
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