The Rising Nepal | Nepal's First English Broadsheet Daily.

The Nepali film 'Elephant in the Fog,' directed by Abinash Bikram Shah, has won the Jury Prize in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a historic achievement for Nepali cinema. Acting Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Sunita Dangol, stated that Nepal's presence and recognition at the festival have elevated the stature of the nation's film and creative industries on a global stage.

Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has declared reservoir-based hydropower projects as a high priority for the government, emphasizing their crucial role in Nepal's long-term energy security, industrial development, and economic transformation. Following an inspection of the Kulekhani Hydropower Project, Shrestha stated that these projects are vital for electricity generation, water management, flood control, irrigation, and tourism, especially in light of climate change impacts.

A probe committee has recommended departmental action against 10 police personnel, including a Superintendent of Police, in connection with the death of 23-year-old Shreekrishna BK while in custody at the Area Police Office in Khurkot, Sindhuli. The committee, led by Deputy Inspector General Dinesh Kumar Acharya, suggested various disciplinary measures ranging from reprimands to demotion.

The Supreme Court has issued an interim order preventing the arrest of former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife Arzu Rana Deuba. The court ruled that the arrest warrant issued by the Kathmandu District Court was invalid because jurisdiction for such cases now lies with the Special Court, especially after an ordinance on May 1. The Deuba couple is currently abroad.

Minister for Information and Communications Bikram Timilsina expressed optimism about the government's performance, stating that recent initiatives have instilled hope among the public and that citizens will witness significant changes in public service delivery over the next five years. Meanwhile, Nepali Congress general secretary Gagan Thapa demanded the immediate formation of a judicial commission to investigate violence and destruction that occurred on September 9, 2025, accusing the government of attempting to cover up events.

Nepal's smartphone imports have surpassed the total value of the previous fiscal year within the first 10 months of fiscal year 2025/26, reaching Rs. 39.39 billion. This surge, driven by increased demand for higher-priced devices and currency depreciation, has also led to a significant rise in customs revenue.

Prime Minister Balen Shah held a joint meeting with ambassadors from 22 European Union member states in Kathmandu. The delegation, including ambassadors based in Kathmandu and New Delhi, aimed to congratulate the new government, reaffirm support for Nepal's development priorities, and explore new avenues for cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and climate action. Discussions also touched upon Nepal's human rights situation, political stability, and economic development.

Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched the 'MOFA Mitra' mobile application to provide online consular services to citizens abroad and their families. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal stated the app aims to make public services more convenient and citizen-friendly by allowing online registration of concerns and tracking of requests. The application is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has reiterated his government's commitment to delivering "real and visible improvements" in citizens' daily lives, emphasizing good governance and inclusive economic growth. Speaking to European Union ambassadors and other diplomats, Shah stated that while the new government represents a new phase, it upholds democratic values and political stability with a clear policy direction. He also highlighted Nepal's pursuit of a balanced foreign policy based on mutual respect and shared prosperity.

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has announced a 14-member national squad for the Men's Asian Games Qualifier 2026, scheduled to be held in Singapore from May 31 to June 9. Dipendra Singh Airee has been appointed as the captain of the team, which includes prominent players like Rohit Paudel and Sandeep Lamichhane.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah met with non-resident ambassadors and heads of missions from European Union member nations to discuss Nepal's current priorities, strengthen bilateral relations, and explore areas of cooperation. The meeting, held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, was described by press advisor Deepa Dahal as an opportunity to inform diplomats about Nepal's objectives.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited India to reinforce strategic and economic ties, meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The discussions focused on cooperation in trade, energy, defense, and maritime security, with Rubio expressing optimism about a broader trade deal and India's role as a key strategic partner.