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Kathmandu: Nepali newspapers on Friday covered a wide range of political, economic and infrastructure issues, with major dailies highlighting concerns over sluggish investment, parliamentary conduct, energy security and cross-border cooperation.

Annapurna Post reports that deposits in banks and financial institutions continue to rise, but the growing liquidity has not translated into productive investment. According to data from Nepal Rastra Bank, deposits in the banking system have increased steadily, while investment in the industrial, commercial, manufacturing and service sectors has failed to expand at the expected pace.

The daily also reports growing concern over the conduct of lawmakers and ministers in Parliament. It says there has been an increasing tendency among elected representatives and government officials to make irresponsible and inappropriate public statements, while some have allegedly used their positions to intimidate others, undermining the dignity of public office. The paper also carries a report on the resurfacing of intra-party disputes within major political parties.

Naya Patrika highlights Nepal's continued vulnerability to disruptions in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies, noting that the decade-long plan to construct LPG storage facilities remains stalled. The report says that had such infrastructure been completed, the Nepal Oil Corporation could have released stored supplies to ease shortages during crises like the current one. Instead, consumers are forced to search for cooking gas by carrying empty cylinders from one outlet to another whenever imports are disrupted. The daily recalls that the need for strategic LPG storage became evident after the devastating 2015 earthquake and the subsequent unofficial Indian blockade, which triggered a severe fuel shortage.

Nagarik revisits the devastating Koshi floods of 18 years ago, reporting that many affected families are still waiting for compensation. The newspaper highlights the plight of residents of Koshi Rural Municipality in Sunsari, where floodwaters from the Saptakoshi River inundated settlements and deposited large amounts of gravel and sediment on farmland, rendering much of it uncultivable. Despite repeated appeals to the authorities, many victims say they have yet to receive a clear response regarding compensation.

Gorkhapatra reports that the operation of the Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel marks Nepal's entry into the era of modern tunnel transportation. Besides the completed project, eight tunnel roads are currently under construction, while another 23 projects are in different stages of study and planning. The government has allocated Rs 670.1 million in the current fiscal year for feasibility studies, detailed project reports and other preparatory work related to the proposed tunnel projects. The daily also reports that the government is preparing to expand the Hello Sarkar public grievance service.

Kantipur reports that Nepal and India are set to resume discussions on the long-delayed Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project after a four-year gap. According to the newspaper, the two countries plan to hold a series of meetings to resolve the remaining contentious issues of the project, with discussions scheduled under the India–Nepal Joint Committee on Water Resources and the Joint Standing Technical Committee on Water Resources in September.

Dear Readers,

It has been more than 100 days since landless squatters were forcefully removed from their informal settlement, yet the government has still to provide them with shelter. On August 3, they staged a protest at Maitighar, demanding a permanent solution to their problems. Earlier, the government had pledged to resettle them within 100 days.

The March 5 elections wiped out several fringe political parties, which are now trying to rebuild their strength through new alliances. Leaders such as C.K. Raut, Janardan Sharma, Upendra Yadav, and Prabhu Sah, among others, are preparing to declare a coalition, though it is unlikely to have a major impact on national politics. Meanwhile, two communist parties—led by K.P. Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal—have already begun collaborating to form provincial governments. Madhav Kumar Nepal, a senior leader of the Communist Party of Nepal, stated that talks are also underway to forge a broader Left alliance.

Although the situation in Terai-Madhes has returned to normal, underlying tensions remain. The Nepali Congress has demanded the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the communal violence that originated in Sunsari before spreading to other districts.

In legal news, the court has ordered the release of medical entrepreneur Durga Prasai, who was detained by police on August 2 for making provocative statements. Police had requested authorization to detain him for seven days. Over the past few years, successive governments have repeatedly detained Prasai for delivering provocative statements and spreading unverified information.

Meanwhile, Nepal–India border checkpoints have been tightened following the outbreaks of communal violence in Sunsari and other parts of the country. Security forces from both nations are currently conducting joint patrols along the border.

Nepal’s cooking gas distribution and management system continues to expose serious structural flaws. Although the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) imported from India has increased, local markets are suffering from shortages, leaving citizens scrambling to secure fuel. Despite India providing LPG as requested, government authorities have failed to ensure smooth distribution. Although the government claims to be improving governance, public service delivery continues to face major hurdles.

The Nepal Teachers’ Association has announced plans to hit the streets to pressure the government into fulfilling its demands. Teacher-led demonstrations have a long history in Nepal, with successive governments repeatedly promising to resolve their grievances. Following major protests in 2018, 2021, 2023, and last year, the next wave of demonstrations is set to begin in mid-August. This will likely pose a major challenge for the government. Ever since Nepal adopted a federal structure, little has been done to address systemic issues in the education sector—with teachers' demands being a primary example.

Turning to tourism, a vital pillar of Nepal’s economy, there is encouraging news. In July, Nepal welcomed 71,775 international tourists, a 2.3 percent increase compared to the same period last year. India was the largest source market, accounting for 23,490 visitors, followed by China with 11,099. Although Chinese tourist arrivals dropped significantly following last year's GenZ movement, numbers are rebounding as both Nepal and China conduct joint promotional activities to attract Chinese travelers. The United States ranked third.

Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Editor

Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand: India-China border trade officially resumed on Saturday as the first Indian trading contingent crossed the historic Lipulekh Pass and reached Taklakot, marking the revival of cross-border commercial activities.

The inaugural delegation comprised 20 members, including 16 registered traders, four helpers, and India-Tibet Trade Association president Jeevan Singh Raukali. The group successfully arrived at the Taklakot market after completing all mandatory immigration and customs formalities on both sides of the border.

According to Dharchula Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Ashish Joshi, the traders completed immigration procedures at the Gunji Immigration Office on Friday evening before halting overnight at Nabhidhang.

"On Saturday at around 10:15 am, Chinese officials completed all required formalities at the Lipulekh Pass. The Indian traders then entered Tibetan territory and proceeded to the Taklakot market, where trading activities officially commenced," Joshi said.

He added that, in the initial phase, only previously registered traders with prior experience in border trade have been permitted to cross into Tibet, in line with directives issued by the Chinese authorities.

The reopening of border trade through the Lipulekh Pass is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy in Uttarakhand's border regions, benefiting traders and communities that have traditionally depended on cross-border commerce.

Communal violence between the Muslim and Hindu communities, which began in Sunsari District in eastern Nepal, has spread to other parts of the Tarai-Madhesh region, raising fears that the situation could spiral out of control. Curfews have been imposed in several areas across the Tarai-Madhesh as authorities struggle to contain the unrest.

One person was killed after the Armed Police Force opened fire during clashes between the two communities, while 22 others were injured. The death toll in Sunsari later rose to two after one of the injured succumbed to their injuries. The violence occurred in Ward No. 3 of Kaptanganj, Dewanganj Rural Municipality. The area remains tense, while protests have also erupted in Janakpur, Siraha, and other parts of Madhesh.

On Thursday afternoon, fresh clashes broke out in Siraha District. Fifteen-year-old Ganesh Yadav was killed after police opened fire to disperse the conflicting groups. The Nepal Army has since been deployed in parts of the Madhesh region to assist in maintaining law and order. Meanwhile, incidents of arson and vandalism have been reported in Siraha, prompting the local administration to impose curfews in several areas of the district.

President Ram Chandra Paudel and other senior political leaders have appealed to the public to maintain peace, social harmony, and communal unity. Janakpur has remained tense since early Thursday morning, with authorities also enforcing a curfew in the city.

In an address to the nation on Thursday evening, PM Balen Shah assured the public that investigations into the incidents in Sunsari and other affected districts of Madhesh would be conducted in an impartial and transparent manner.

"I want to assure you that this investigation will be completely impartial and transparent," Prime Minister Shah said. "The government is committed to bringing anyone found responsible for these incidents under the full purview of the law."

Former King Gyanendra Shah expressed sorrow over the recent communal violence and extended condolences over the loss of lives and property in Sunsari. In a public statement, he appealed to all sides to exercise restraint and preserve peace and social harmony.

Prime Minister Balen Shah and Home Minister Sudan Gurung have come under public criticism for allegedly failing to take adequate measures to contain the violence. Both leaders were absent from Parliament and had not made any public statements earlier in the day.

Earlier on Thursday, PM Shah convened a meeting of the National Security Council to discuss the escalating communal unrest in various parts of the country. During the parliamentary session, lawmakers criticized both the Prime Minister and the Home Minister for what they described as an inadequate response to the crisis and demanded that they address Parliament.

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) stated that it had taken serious note of the growing unrest, repeated incidents of violence, and rising public anxiety in Kaptanganj of Sunsari District and several other districts across the Tarai region.

Highlighting Nepal's long-standing tradition as a multi-ethnic, multilingual, multi-religious, and multicultural nation, the Federation noted that the Tarai-Madhesh region has historically been a symbol of mutual brotherhood, social harmony, and tolerance among diverse communities.

"Social unrest, clashes, violence, and confrontation under any pretext serve no one's interest," the Federation said in its statement. "Such incidents not only disrupt social harmony but also severely affect the daily lives of the people, industries, businesses, and the country's overall economic activities. Social harmony and peace are essential prerequisites for national prosperity and economic development.

Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Editor

The District Administration Office (DAO), Jhapa has urged district people, political parties, media professionals, and social organizations to contribute to maintaining social harmony, religious tolerance, and peace and security in the district.

In an appeal issued today by Assistant Chief District Officer Bhumishwor Pokhrel, everyone has been requested not to engage in any activity capable of jeopardising social harmony, and peace and security of the district. It wants everyone to refrain from sharing such content on social sites. 

The DAO has urged all to rely on information verified by official authorities and to maintain social unity.

Earlier, the DAO Jhapa had also organized a 'harmony meeting' with the participation of representatives of various religious organizations, local governments, political parties, security agencies, and social leaders.

Sixty-two disaster-related incidents were reported across the country in the last 24 hours, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). 

NDRRMA spokesperson Shanti Mahat said two people have died and 15 were injured in those incidents.

During this period, natural disasters such as floods, landslides, drowning, and snake bites occurred in different parts of the country.

“Two people have died due to snake bites and 11 others have been injured. Nine districts have been affected by the disaster-related incidents. Two people were injured due to the landslide and 11 districts are affected,” she said.

NDRRMA said 11 roads have been blocked in the past 24 hours due to landslides and floods.

According to the daily disaster bulletin released by the authority today, the estimated economic loss due to the disaster is about Rs 1.27 million. Six livestock were also lost in the incident.

The NDRRMA bulletin recorded 26 landslide incidents in 18 districts, 13 snake bite cases, eight fires, seven instances of continuous rain, five animal attacks, and three flood incidents in the last 24 hours.

It stated that 47 districts were affected by those incidents and 267 personnel from security agencies were deployed for rescue.

NDRRMA had made extensive preparations for disaster response in view of the moderate, heavy, and very heavy rainfall in different parts of the country on Saturday and Sunday, warning the public to take precaution against floods and landslides.

Annapurna Media Network has taken a major step toward the future with the launch of 'Sampurna', the country's first AI-powered digital super app. Unveiled on July 17 in Lalitpur, the platform represents more than the introduction of a new mobile application—it reflects how artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape journalism while preserving the values of credible reporting.

Launched under the slogan "Tradition and Technology Together," Sampurna combines the strengths of traditional journalism with the possibilities offered by artificial intelligence. Developed in collaboration with Singapore-based Akin Technologies, the app is designed to provide users with a comprehensive digital experience, bringing together news, financial information, weather updates, and other everyday services on a single platform.

One of the most talked-about moments of the launch event was the appearance of 'Wani,' an AI-generated virtual presenter, who hosted the main ceremony. After television presenter Sabika Shrestha welcomed guests, Wani took over the program, introducing speakers and conducting the event in fluent and natural Nepali. The AI host's smooth delivery and human-like interaction impressed attendees, offering a glimpse into how artificial intelligence can be integrated into public communication.

Former Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University Suresh Raj Sharma, a chief guest, described the launch as an important milestone in Nepal's technological journey. He stressed that countries should not wait until technologies become widespread before adopting them. Instead, they should embrace innovation early while ensuring it is used responsibly. Sharma also emphasized that AI should always be guided by skilled professionals, noting that human expertise remains essential despite rapid technological advancement.

Press Council Nepal Chairperson Umesh Shrestha praised Annapurna Media Network for introducing an innovation that could attract younger audiences to trusted news platforms at a time when media credibility and readership are under pressure. At the same time, he cautioned against relying entirely on AI-generated content.

Referring to a recent example in which AI incorrectly identified Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah as Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Shrestha stressed the importance of maintaining a "human-in-the-loop" system. He said journalists and editors must verify AI-generated content before publication, reminding media organizations that responsibility for accuracy ultimately rests with human editors.

Annapurna Post Editor-in-Chief Balkrishna Basnet described Sampurna as a bridge connecting traditional journalism with the digital future. He reaffirmed the organization's commitment to factual, ethical, and investigative reporting, saying journalism remains relevant as long as it adapts to technological change without compromising its core values.

Basnet emphasized the need to distinguish between information and journalism, noting that while social media provides an abundance of information, genuine news requires verification, context, and public responsibility. He expressed confidence that the new platform would help reduce misinformation by strengthening the connection between citizens and reliable sources of information.

Akin Technologies Chairperson Suren Amarasekera called the launch of Nepali-language AI services a significant achievement. He announced that support for four to five additional languages would be added in the coming months and pledged to improve the platform continuously based on user feedback rather than forcing technology upon users.

Unlike conventional news applications, Sampurna has been designed as a daily digital companion. In addition to providing news coverage, the app offers live updates on gold and silver prices, foreign exchange rates, fuel prices, weather forecasts, stock market activities, and horoscope services, including daily, monthly, and yearly horoscope. 

As artificial intelligence continues to transform media industries worldwide, the launch of Sampurna demonstrates Nepal's willingness to embrace digital innovation while maintaining the principles of responsible journalism.

The investigation into the assets of three former Prime Ministers–Sher Bahadur Deuba, KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal–has moved forward. 

The probe gained momentum after the Department of Money Laundering Investigation directed the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) to move ahead with it. 

According to the CIB’s correspondence,Congress leader and former Energy Minister Deepak Khadka was arrested on Sunday to investigate the case.