Headlines of the hour: - Biden vows to finish the job - Biden's slip-up saga continues - NATO allies divided over Ukraine - Netanyahu: Hamas war until victory - US MIlitary destroys Houthi vessels - Nepal PM to take vote of confidence

Nepal PM to take vote of confidence | US MIlitary destroys Houthi vessels

Headlines of the hour: - Biden voes to finish the job - Biden's slip-up saga continues - NATO allies divided over Ukraine - Netanyahu heckled during a ceremony - Nepal PM to take vote of confidence - Albania: Protesters hurl petrol bombs

Netanyahu heckled during ceremony | NATO allies divided over Ukraine

Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' will be stepping down from the position after less than 20 months in power, after he lost the fifth vote of confidence in Parliament on Friday. Watch in for more details!

Nepal Prime Minister Prachanda loses fifth floor test

At least 63 people were missing in Nepal on Friday after a landslide triggered by heavy monsoon rains swept two buses off a highway and into a river. Watch in for more details!

63 missing after Nepal landslide sweeps two buses into river

A landslide in central Nepal swept two buses into the Trishuli River. The incident caused approximately 63 passengers to be swept away. A search operation is ongoing for the missing buses.

Massive landslide in Nepal triggered by incessant rains, PM Dahal directs agencies for rescue ops

Nepal's political landscape is witnessing yet another twist as Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'&nbsp;faces the fifth&nbsp;round of the floor test on Friday (Jul 12), with a possible defeat.

In the 275-member lower house, PM Dahal currently holds only the support of 63 lawmakers, falling short of the required 138-seat majority.

This turmoil in Kathmandu arose after the crucial ally, the CPN UML party, withdrew its support from the Prachanda-led government, pushing it into the minority.

The CPN-Maoist Centre party, led by Dahal, holds only 32 seats. Several of his coalition members have left him to join the NC-CPN-UML administration, further compounding his setbacks.

He currently only has support from two political groups, totalling 63 seats: the Rastriya Swatantra Party, which has 21 seats, and the CPN-US which holds&nbsp;10 seats.

Nepal's political unrest continues to pose a problem. Just four months after forming a coalition with the ruling CPN-MC to form a government, the CPN-UML and its former rival, the Nepali Congress, agreed to share power in order to create a "national consensus government" at midnight on July 1.

Given the current numbers, it seems unlikely that Prime Minister Dahal would win this floor test.

President Ram Chandra Poudel would then issue a call to the parties to emerge with a majority and establish a new government. It is expected that KP Sharma Oli will prove his majority and provide the signatures of the MPs who support him.

Oli, CPN-UML chair with 78 seats is likely to lead another coalition government with the Nepali Congress, which has&nbsp;89 seats, as his key ally.

Many other small fringe parties have extended their support to the Oli-led government.

Prachanda had earlier announced to take the floor test rather than resign, as persisted by CPN-UML and Nepali Congress leaders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjM8cSUwJ-HAxUvka8BHTRnBwsQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-asked-to-resign-pushpa-kamal-dahal-prachanda-asked-to-resign-cpn-uml-withdraws-support-737685" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-asked-to-resign-pushpa-kamal-dahal-prachanda-asked-to-resign-cpn-uml-withdraws-support-737685&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjM8cSUwJ-HAxUvka8BHTRnBwsQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal `Prachanda` asked to resign; CPN-UML withdraws support</a>

As per the July 1 power-sharing deal, The CPN-UML's Oli and the NC's Sher Bahadur Deuba will alternate as prime ministers for 18 months each until the next general election in 2027.

The allocation of ministerial portfolios between the NC and CPN-UML has been agreed upon; the NC will oversee ten ministries, and the CPN-UML will oversee nine.

A few significant ministerial positions are anticipated to be taken over by Congress members: Ramesh Lekhak for the Home Ministry, Arzu Deuba Rana for the Foreign Ministry, Gagan Thapa for either the Health and Population Ministry or the Education, Science, and Technology Ministry, and Binod Chaudhary for the Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Ministry.

Watch:&nbsp;Floods, landslides, and inundation wreak havoc across Nepal

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As for the finance ministry, the UML will appoint Bishnu Poudel as the minister.

The government is expected to face several challenges. In terms of geopolitics, there is anticipation that Oli will seek to restore diplomatic ties with China and India, the neighbouring countries.

The upcoming administration's top priorities on the domestic front will be rewriting the nation's constitution, examining its economic plans, and altering the electoral process.

Nepal's political landscape is witnessing yet another twist as Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' faces the fifth round of the floor test on Friday (Jul 12), with a possible defeat.

Nepal's political landscape is witnessing yet another twist as Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' faces the fifth round of the floor test on Friday (Jul 12), with a possible defeat. In the 275-member lower house, PM Dahal currently holds only the support of 63 lawmakers, falling short of the required 138-seat majority. This turmoil in Kathmandu arose after the crucial ally, the CPN UML party, withdrew its support from the Prachanda-led government, pushing it into the minority. The CPN-Maoist Centre party, led by Dahal, holds only 32 seats. Several of his coalition members have left him to join the NC-CPN-UML administration, further compounding his setbacks. He currently only has support from two political groups, totalling 63 seats: the Rastriya Swatantra Party, which has 21 seats, and the CPN-US which holds 10 seats. Nepal's political unrest continues to pose a problem. Just four months after forming a coalition with the ruling CPN-MC to form a government, the CPN-UML and its former rival, the Nepali Congress, agreed to share power in order to create a "national consensus government" at midnight on July 1. Given the current numbers, it seems unlikely that Prime Minister Dahal would win this floor test. President Ram Chandra Poudel would then issue a call to the parties to emerge with a majority and establish a new government. It is expected that KP Sharma Oli will prove his majority and provide the signatures of the MPs who support him. Oli, CPN-UML chair with 78 seats is likely to lead another coalition government with the Nepali Congress, which has 89 seats, as his key ally. Many other small fringe parties have extended their support to the Oli-led government. Prachanda had earlier announced to take the floor test rather than resign, as persisted by CPN-UML and Nepali Congress leaders. Also read: Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal `Prachanda` asked to resign; CPN-UML withdraws support As per the July 1 power-sharing deal, The CPN-UML's Oli and the NC's Sher Bahadur Deuba will alternate as prime ministers for 18 months each until the next general election in 2027. The allocation of ministerial portfolios between the NC and CPN-UML has been agreed upon; the NC will oversee ten ministries, and the CPN-UML will oversee nine. A few significant ministerial positions are anticipated to be taken over by Congress members: Ramesh Lekhak for the Home Ministry, Arzu Deuba Rana for the Foreign Ministry, Gagan Thapa for either the Health and Population Ministry or the Education, Science, and Technology Ministry, and Binod Chaudhary for the Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Ministry. Watch: Floods, landslides, and inundation wreak havoc across Nepal × As for the finance ministry, the UML will appoint Bishnu Poudel as the minister. The government is expected to face several challenges. In terms of geopolitics, there is anticipation that Oli will seek to restore diplomatic ties with China and India, the neighbouring countries. The upcoming administration's top priorities on the domestic front will be rewriting the nation's constitution, examining its economic plans, and altering the electoral process.

All eyes on Nepal as new PM likely to take charge

Nepal heavy rainfall continues to wreak havoc in the Himalayan Nation. The death toll in Nepal has risen to 62 since the onset of the monsoon. Watch in for more detail!

Nepal: Storms trap over 130 people in China's Tibet border with Nepal

Nepal Floods: At least 14 killed in Nepal as monsoon rains cause flooding and landslide

Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal lost support from two major alliance partners earlier this week. He is now all set to seek a vote of confidence from the house of representatives on July 12. This will be Prachanda's fifth vote of confidence in 20 months since he took office. Will Dahal's government survive?

Prachanda to face floor test on July 12 | Inside South Asia

Landslides triggered by heavy rains in Nepal cause tremendous damage to life, property, infrastructure, and the environment.

Floods, landslides, and inundation wreak havoc across Nepal

The political landscape in Nepal is once again in limbo the embattled Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has clarified that he will not resign from his post and instead he'll face a floor test. Watch in for more details!

Nepal's PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal calls for fifth vote of confidence

Nepal: Will PM Dahal retain power for fifth time? Dahal calls for fifth Vote of Confidence

What next for Nepal as Dahal government collapses? PM Dahal clings in power

Nepal PM Dahal opts for floor test, numbers stacked against him

Nepal PM Dahal opts for floor test in parliament

Nepal political turmoil: CPN gives 24-hour ultimatum to Nepal's PM to resign

Political turmoil hits Nepal: Prachanda to face floor test

In just four months Nepal is likely to see a new Prime Minister after Pushpa Kamal Dahal led government collapses. Tensions between CPN (UML) and CPN (MC) started to emerge following the recent 2024-25 budget. Watch in for more details!

Nepal: Congress, UML strike deal to form new government

Nepali Congress and CPN-UML have reached an agreement to form a new national consensus government aimed at ousting PM Prachanda. Watch in for more details!

Political turmoil hits Nepal yet again; Congress, UML strike deal to form new govt

Nepali Congress, CPN-UML strike deal to oust PM 'Prachanda'

Nepal: UML ditches CPN-MC, joins hands with Congress

Nepali Congress & CPN-UML strike deal to form new alliance; Oli gets PM post

In a dramatic political development, Nepal's two largest parties - Nepali Congress and CPN-UML - have inked a midnight power-sharing deal to form a new 'national consensus government' to replace the coalition government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.

Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) chairman and former prime minister K P Sharma Oli, reached an understanding on forming a new coalition on Monday midnight, according to former foreign minister Narayan Prakash Saud.

Deuba, 78 and Oli, 72, agreed to share the Prime Ministerial position on a rotation basis for the rest of the term of the Parliament, said Saud, who is also a Nepali Congress central member.

Nepali Congress, the largest party in the House of Representatives (HoR) has 89 seats at present while CPN-UML has 78 seats. The combined strength of the two large parties is 167, which is sufficient for a majority of 138 seats in the 275-member HoR.

The two leaders also met on Saturday to lay the ground for a potential new political alliance between the two parties, following which Oli's CPN-UML ended its association with the Prachanda-led government barely four months after extending support to it.

Under the agreement that is likely to be finalised on Tuesday, the CPN-UML chief Oli will lead the government in the first phase of the remaining term of Parliament.

The two leaders have agreed to share the premiership for one and a half years, turn by turn, Saud said. 
The two leaders tentatively agreed to form a new government, amend the Constitution, and work out a power-sharing formula, which they reportedly shared with a few confidants, media reports said, quoting multiple senior leaders from both parties.

Nepal has had 13 governments in the last 16 years, indicating the fragile nature of the Himalayan nation's political system.

The ministers belonging to the CPN-UML in the Prachanda-led Cabinet are likely to resign en-mass in the afternoon, sources close to the CPN-UML said.

CPN-UML secretary Shanker Pokharel has told media persons that an agreement was reached with the Nepali Congress to form a national government led by Oli, a former prime minister.

The new government will be formed to maintain political stability in the country and make necessary amendments to the Constitution. 
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Prachanda is holding talks with CPN-UML chief Oli to discuss the latest political developments, according to sources close to the CPN-Maoist Centre.

Prachanda is not going to resign from the post at this moment. Nothing can be said before the talk being held between Prachanda and Oli concludes, said Ganesh Shah, CPN-Maoist Centre secretary.

According to the agreement reached, during Oli's tenure, the CPN-UML will take control of ministries, including the Prime Minister's position and the Finance Ministry. Similarly, the Nepali Congress will oversee ten ministries, including the Home Ministry, MyRepublica news portal reported.

According to the agreement, the CPN-UML will lead provincial governments in Koshi, Lumbini and Karnali provinces and the Nepali Congress will lead the provincial governments of Bagmati, Gandaki and Sudurpaschim provinces.

Oli and Deuba have also agreed to involve Madhes-based parties in leading Madhesh Province and have committed to constitutional amendments.

The draft agreement was prepared by a four-member task force, The Kathmandu Post newspaper reported. 
It will detail the power-sharing arrangement, propose amendments to the Constitution, review the electoral system, including proportional representation, change national assembly arrangements, and discuss the size of provincial assemblies, according to a task force member.

Differences between Oli and Prime Minister Prachanda had been steadily building, and Oli was unhappy with the recent budget allocations made by the government for the fiscal year 2024-25, which he had publicly spoken about.

Worried by the closed-door meeting between Deuba and Oli, Prachanda had gone to meet Oli to assure that the government is serious about addressing issues raised by CPN-UML, including its concern about the new budget, observers said.

During their meeting on Monday morning, Oli reportedly requested Prachanda to support him by stepping down, the report said.

Prachanda offered Oli the post of prime minister within the current ruling coalition, which the latter turned down, expressing his desire to lead a consensus government, a CPN-UML leader was quoted as saying. 
Prachanda, 69, won three votes of confidence in Parliament during his one-and-a-half-year term.

In a dramatic political development, Nepal's two largest parties - Nepali Congress and CPN-UML - have inked a midnight power-sharing deal to form a new 'national consensus government' to replace the coalition government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.

In a dramatic political development, Nepal's two largest parties - Nepali Congress and CPN-UML - have inked a midnight power-sharing deal to form a new 'national consensus government' to replace the coalition government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda. Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) chairman and former prime minister K P Sharma Oli, reached an understanding on forming a new coalition on Monday midnight, according to former foreign minister Narayan Prakash Saud. Deuba, 78 and Oli, 72, agreed to share the Prime Ministerial position on a rotation basis for the rest of the term of the Parliament, said Saud, who is also a Nepali Congress central member. Nepali Congress, the largest party in the House of Representatives (HoR) has 89 seats at present while CPN-UML has 78 seats. The combined strength of the two large parties is 167, which is sufficient for a majority of 138 seats in the 275-member HoR. The two leaders also met on Saturday to lay the ground for a potential new political alliance between the two parties, following which Oli's CPN-UML ended its association with the Prachanda-led government barely four months after extending support to it. Under the agreement that is likely to be finalised on Tuesday, the CPN-UML chief Oli will lead the government in the first phase of the remaining term of Parliament. The two leaders have agreed to share the premiership for one and a half years, turn by turn, Saud said. The two leaders tentatively agreed to form a new government, amend the Constitution, and work out a power-sharing formula, which they reportedly shared with a few confidants, media reports said, quoting multiple senior leaders from both parties. Nepal has had 13 governments in the last 16 years, indicating the fragile nature of the Himalayan nation's political system. The ministers belonging to the CPN-UML in the Prachanda-led Cabinet are likely to resign en-mass in the afternoon, sources close to the CPN-UML said. CPN-UML secretary Shanker Pokharel has told media persons that an agreement was reached with the Nepali Congress to form a national government led by Oli, a former prime minister. The new government will be formed to maintain political stability in the country and make necessary amendments to the Constitution. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Prachanda is holding talks with CPN-UML chief Oli to discuss the latest political developments, according to sources close to the CPN-Maoist Centre. Prachanda is not going to resign from the post at this moment. Nothing can be said before the talk being held between Prachanda and Oli concludes, said Ganesh Shah, CPN-Maoist Centre secretary. According to the agreement reached, during Oli's tenure, the CPN-UML will take control of ministries, including the Prime Minister's position and the Finance Ministry. Similarly, the Nepali Congress will oversee ten ministries, including the Home Ministry, MyRepublica news portal reported. According to the agreement, the CPN-UML will lead provincial governments in Koshi, Lumbini and Karnali provinces and the Nepali Congress will lead the provincial governments of Bagmati, Gandaki and Sudurpaschim provinces. Oli and Deuba have also agreed to involve Madhes-based parties in leading Madhesh Province and have committed to constitutional amendments. The draft agreement was prepared by a four-member task force, The Kathmandu Post newspaper reported. It will detail the power-sharing arrangement, propose amendments to the Constitution, review the electoral system, including proportional representation, change national assembly arrangements, and discuss the size of provincial assemblies, according to a task force member. Differences between Oli and Prime Minister Prachanda had been steadily building, and Oli was unhappy with the recent budget allocations made by the government for the fiscal year 2024-25, which he had publicly spoken about. Worried by the closed-door meeting between Deuba and Oli, Prachanda had gone to meet Oli to assure that the government is serious about addressing issues raised by CPN-UML, including its concern about the new budget, observers said. During their meeting on Monday morning, Oli reportedly requested Prachanda to support him by stepping down, the report said. Prachanda offered Oli the post of prime minister within the current ruling coalition, which the latter turned down, expressing his desire to lead a consensus government, a CPN-UML leader was quoted as saying. Prachanda, 69, won three votes of confidence in Parliament during his one-and-a-half-year term.

Nepali Congress & CPN-UML strike deal to oust Prachanda, form new alliance

Nepal celebrated National Paddy Day on Saturday ( June29). It is an annual festival in Nepal which marks the beginning of the rice planting season. Watch in for more details!

National Paddy Day celebrations at Nepal

At least nine people, including three children, were killed after heavy monsoon rains in west&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;triggered&nbsp;landslides, an official said on Saturday.

Five members of a family were sleeping when their house was washed away by a landslide in Malika village in Gulmi district, about 250 km (156 miles) west of Kathmandu, according to Dizan Bhattarai, a spokesman for the National Disaster Rescue and Reduction Management Authority.

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“Bodies of all five have been recovered,” Bhattarai told Reuters, adding that the family included two children.

In neighbouring Syangja district, one woman and her three year old daughter died in a landslide that swept away their house, while in Baglung district, which borders Gulmi, two people were killed in another landslide.

Watch:&nbsp;20 dead in Nepal due to severe rain, floods and landslides

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At least 35 people across&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;have died in&nbsp;landslides, floods and lightning strikes since mid-June when annual monsoon rains started. Rains normally continue until mid-September.

Landslides&nbsp;and flash floods are common in mostly mountainous&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;during the monsoon season and kill hundreds of people every year.

At least nine people, including three children, were killed after heavy monsoon rains in west Nepal triggered landslides, an official said on Saturday. Five members of a family were sleeping when their house was washed away by a landslide in Malika village in Gulmi district, about 250 km (156 miles) west of Kathmandu, according to Dizan Bhattarai, a spokesman for the National Disaster Rescue and Reduction Management Authority.

At least nine people, including three children, were killed after heavy monsoon rains in west Nepal triggered landslides, an official said on Saturday. Five members of a family were sleeping when their house was washed away by a landslide in Malika village in Gulmi district, about 250 km (156 miles) west of Kathmandu, according to Dizan Bhattarai, a spokesman for the National Disaster Rescue and Reduction Management Authority. Also Read: High-level Nepal-China visits continue; outcome elusive “Bodies of all five have been recovered,” Bhattarai told Reuters, adding that the family included two children. In neighbouring Syangja district, one woman and her three year old daughter died in a landslide that swept away their house, while in Baglung district, which borders Gulmi, two people were killed in another landslide. Watch: 20 dead in Nepal due to severe rain, floods and landslides At least 35 people across Nepal have died in landslides, floods and lightning strikes since mid-June when annual monsoon rains started. Rains normally continue until mid-September. Landslides and flash floods are common in mostly mountainous Nepal during the monsoon season and kill hundreds of people every year.

Nepal landslides kill nine, including 3 children

Heavy rainfall has triggered landslides and flash floods in Nepal killing at least 28 people 43 people have suffered serious injuries and authorities say there are fears of more deaths.

Nepal: Heavy rains kills at least 28 in 2 days

Indian pharma company Zydus Healthcare Ltd on Wednesday (June 19) responded to reports that Nepal has suspended sale and distribution of one of its injections 'over serious health risks'.&nbsp;

The Kathmandu Post had reported on Tuesday that Department of Drug Administration (DDA), Nepal's national medicines regulatory authority, suspended the sales and distribution of Biotax 1gm.

Biotax 1gm is an antibiotic injection manufactured by Zydus Healthcare Ltd. The news report claimed that the laboratory testing of the Biotax 1gm batch F300460 revealed that the drug was not in compliance with the production specifications.

It also claimed that it is not safe for use and could risk patients' lives.&nbsp;

The Biotax 1gm injection is an antibiotic medicine, which is often used to treat bacterial infections, including those of the brain, lungs, ear, urinary tract, skin, soft tissues, bones and joints, blood and heart.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-study-uncovers-differences-in-blood-of-those-who-live-to-100-732305">Blood of those who live longer reveals vital differences</a>&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Zydus issues response to reports</h2>

 
Responding to questions by WION on the report, a Zydus spokesperson said, "The news reported is misleading and erroneous as our product batch of Biotax 1g Injection complies with the product specification for product description and all other quality parameters as per approved specification."&nbsp;

"The letter received from the Department of Drug Administration, Nepal, refers to the quantity of Sterile Water for Injection made available with the product," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

The spokesperson also said that Zydus has supplied "5ml of Sterile Water for Injection along with the product" and "the direction for use states, 'Use 3ml for Intra Muscular Injection and 10ml for Intra Venous injection'".&nbsp;

The objection raised by the agency is only with reference to the non-supply of 10ml Sterile water for injection along with the product, the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/infant-formula-revolution-scientists-modify-tobacco-like-plant-to-produce-human-breast-milk-nutrients-732547">Infant formula revolution? Scientists modify tobacco-like plant to produce human breast milk nutrients</a>&nbsp;

"This does not have any impact on product quality nor does it pose any risk to patient safety as stated in the article. For intra muscular injection, the product can be constituted with 3ml of sterile water provided with the product. For Intra Venous Injection, the product should be reconstituted by using 10ml sterile water for injection separately," the spokesperson explained.&nbsp;

"No product complaint or any adverse event because of the usage of the product has been received from Nepal since the product commercialization in 2018. The product Biotax 1g Injection has been renewed every year as per DDA, Nepal regulations," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

<h2>What did Nepal's medicines regulatory authority say?&nbsp;</h2>

As quoted in the Kathmandu Post report, Pramod KC, who is the spokesperson at the department, said, "We have directed the manufacturing company, importers and distributors to immediately suspend sales, import and distribution of the said medicine, until further notice."&nbsp;

"Some serious issues have been detected in the said antibiotic. Decisions about further actions will be taken once the investigation is completed," he added.&nbsp;

"Injections of the same composition manufactured by other companies are available in the market. The suspension of sales will not affect the treatment of patients," said KC.&nbsp;

Zydus spokesperson told WION that "based on the letter received from DDA Nepal, we are amending as per the Agency's requirement, the product will be made available with 10ml sterile water for Injection instead of 5ml so that the product can be administered for Intra Muscular as well as Intra Venous as per the patient's requirement".&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Indian pharma company Zydus Healthcare Ltd on Wednesday (June 19) responded to reports that Nepal has suspended sale and distribution of one of its injections 'over serious health risks'.

Indian pharma company Zydus Healthcare Ltd on Wednesday (June 19) responded to reports that Nepal has suspended sale and distribution of one of its injections 'over serious health risks'. The Kathmandu Post had reported on Tuesday that Department of Drug Administration (DDA), Nepal's national medicines regulatory authority, suspended the sales and distribution of Biotax 1gm. Biotax 1gm is an antibiotic injection manufactured by Zydus Healthcare Ltd. The news report claimed that the laboratory testing of the Biotax 1gm batch F300460 revealed that the drug was not in compliance with the production specifications. It also claimed that it is not safe for use and could risk patients' lives. The Biotax 1gm injection is an antibiotic medicine, which is often used to treat bacterial infections, including those of the brain, lungs, ear, urinary tract, skin, soft tissues, bones and joints, blood and heart. Also read: Blood of those who live longer reveals vital differences Zydus issues response to reports Responding to questions by WION on the report, a Zydus spokesperson said, "The news reported is misleading and erroneous as our product batch of Biotax 1g Injection complies with the product specification for product description and all other quality parameters as per approved specification." "The letter received from the Department of Drug Administration, Nepal, refers to the quantity of Sterile Water for Injection made available with the product," the spokesperson added. The spokesperson also said that Zydus has supplied "5ml of Sterile Water for Injection along with the product" and "the direction for use states, 'Use 3ml for Intra Muscular Injection and 10ml for Intra Venous injection'". The objection raised by the agency is only with reference to the non-supply of 10ml Sterile water for injection along with the product, the spokesperson said. Also read: Infant formula revolution? Scientists modify tobacco-like plant to produce human breast milk nutrients "This does not have any impact on product quality nor does it pose any risk to patient safety as stated in the article. For intra muscular injection, the product can be constituted with 3ml of sterile water provided with the product. For Intra Venous Injection, the product should be reconstituted by using 10ml sterile water for injection separately," the spokesperson explained. "No product complaint or any adverse event because of the usage of the product has been received from Nepal since the product commercialization in 2018. The product Biotax 1g Injection has been renewed every year as per DDA, Nepal regulations," the spokesperson said. What did Nepal's medicines regulatory authority say? As quoted in the Kathmandu Post report, Pramod KC, who is the spokesperson at the department, said, "We have directed the manufacturing company, importers and distributors to immediately suspend sales, import and distribution of the said medicine, until further notice." "Some serious issues have been detected in the said antibiotic. Decisions about further actions will be taken once the investigation is completed," he added. "Injections of the same composition manufactured by other companies are available in the market. The suspension of sales will not affect the treatment of patients," said KC. Zydus spokesperson told WION that "based on the letter received from DDA Nepal, we are amending as per the Agency's requirement, the product will be made available with 10ml sterile water for Injection instead of 5ml so that the product can be administered for Intra Muscular as well as Intra Venous as per the patient's requirement". (With inputs from agencies)

Indian pharma firm says reports of Nepal banning its injection 'misleading, erroneous'

At least 10 people have lost their lives in India and neighbouring Nepal due to severe rainfall, landslides and flooding in Himalayan regions.&nbsp;

Prem Singh Tamang, chief minister of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, took stock of the situation in regions witnessing massive devastation due to incessant rains and landlines.&nbsp;

Officials said that six people died in Sikkim&nbsp;and another four died from a landslide in Nepal's Koshi province.&nbsp;

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More than 1,200 tourists, including 15 foreigners, were stranded as massive landslides triggered by rainfall caused devastation in northern Sikkim's Mangan district, an official said on Friday (Jun 14).&nbsp;

Landslides and heavy rain damaged properties and disrupted road connectivity, power and food supplies and mobile networks in several areas.&nbsp;

While speaking on the situation, Sikkim Chief Secretary cum Cabinet Secretary and Finance Secretary Vijay Bhushan Pathak said, "Around 1,200-1,400 tourists may be stranded in Lachung of North Sikkim. The road connectivity has been disrupted in many places."&nbsp;

"It will take around 5-6 days to restore connectivity. We have requested to Air Force for helicopters and as soon as the weather improves, the evacuation of stranded tourists will be initiated," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-fire-erupts-at-acropolis-mall-several-fire-engines-rushed-731714">Major fire erupts at Kolkata's Acropolis Mall, several fire engines rushed</a>&nbsp;

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STORY | Over 1,200 tourists stranded due to landslides, rain in Sikkim, CM takes stock of situation 
 
READ: <a href="https://t.co/hExzpr2SMP">https://t.co/hExzpr2SMP</a> 
 
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Tamang had also chaired a high-level meeting in Mintokgang to discuss the situation, an official said as reported by the news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Sikkim Tourism &amp; Civil Aviation Department's Principal Secretary CS Rao said in a statement: "As per the ground report, around 1,200 domestic and 15 foreign tourists (Thailand:2, Nepal:3, Bangladesh:10) are stranded in Lachung, Mangan district, due to road blockages caused by heavy rainfall and landslides."&nbsp;

Rao added that the local authorities have requested the stranded tourists to stay put in their respective places and avoid taking risks.&nbsp;

He further noted that there is adequate stock of food supplies and rations to cater to all the stranded tourists.&nbsp;

The office of the chief secretary has already initiated talks with the Centre for airlifting of all the tourists, depending on the weather conditions, he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At least 10 people have lost their lives in India and neighbouring Nepal due to severe rainfall, landslides and flooding in Himalayan regions. Prem Singh Tamang, chief minister of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, took stock of the situation in regions witnessing massive devastation due to incessant rains and landlines.

At least 10 people have lost their lives in India and neighbouring Nepal due to severe rainfall, landslides and flooding in Himalayan regions. Prem Singh Tamang, chief minister of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, took stock of the situation in regions witnessing massive devastation due to incessant rains and landlines. Officials said that six people died in Sikkim and another four died from a landslide in Nepal's Koshi province. Also read: Is Liquid IED a new challenge for the security forces in Jammu and Kashmir? More than 1,200 tourists, including 15 foreigners, were stranded as massive landslides triggered by rainfall caused devastation in northern Sikkim's Mangan district, an official said on Friday (Jun 14). Landslides and heavy rain damaged properties and disrupted road connectivity, power and food supplies and mobile networks in several areas. While speaking on the situation, Sikkim Chief Secretary cum Cabinet Secretary and Finance Secretary Vijay Bhushan Pathak said, "Around 1,200-1,400 tourists may be stranded in Lachung of North Sikkim. The road connectivity has been disrupted in many places." "It will take around 5-6 days to restore connectivity. We have requested to Air Force for helicopters and as soon as the weather improves, the evacuation of stranded tourists will be initiated," he added. Also read: Major fire erupts at Kolkata's Acropolis Mall, several fire engines rushed STORY | Over 1,200 tourists stranded due to landslides, rain in Sikkim, CM takes stock of situation READ: https://t.co/hExzpr2SMP VIDEO: "Around 1,200-1,400 tourists may be stranded in Lachung of North Sikkim. The road connectivity has been disrupted in many places. It will… pic.twitter.com/bG2wwuyh51 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 14, 2024 × Tamang had also chaired a high-level meeting in Mintokgang to discuss the situation, an official said as reported by the news agency PTI. Sikkim Tourism & Civil Aviation Department's Principal Secretary CS Rao said in a statement: "As per the ground report, around 1,200 domestic and 15 foreign tourists (Thailand:2, Nepal:3, Bangladesh:10) are stranded in Lachung, Mangan district, due to road blockages caused by heavy rainfall and landslides." Rao added that the local authorities have requested the stranded tourists to stay put in their respective places and avoid taking risks. He further noted that there is adequate stock of food supplies and rations to cater to all the stranded tourists. The office of the chief secretary has already initiated talks with the Centre for airlifting of all the tourists, depending on the weather conditions, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rains and landslides wreak havoc in Himalayan region, at least 10 dead in India, Nepal

China's DJI has claimed it has completed the world's first successful drone delivery on Mount Everest. This could potentially revolutionise everest mountaineering logistics, facilitate trash cleanup efforts, and improve safety for all involved. Also, we get you highlight of the Nepal Pride Parade.

Nepal: Drone delivery tests on Mount Everest

A Chinese technology company created history in April by making the first successful drone delivery on the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest. Drone maker DJI revealed Wednesday (Jun 5) that it transported cargo from base camp to the top at an altitude above 6,000 metres using its FlyCart 30 drone. During the test flight, it carried 15kg of oxygen cylinders and other supplies to Camp 1, located 1,700 metres above the base camp. During the return flight, the drone carried waste of the same weight. The company said the drone still had 43 per cent battery power remaining after making the full trip and it braved sub-zero temperatures and strong winds during the test flight.

Christina Zhang, DJI’s senior corporate strategy director, in a company release, said, “The ability to safely transport equipment, supplies and waste by drone has the potential to revolutionise Everest mountaineering logistics, facilitate trash clean-up efforts, and improve safety for all involved.”

<h2>Why is it significant?</h2>

Flying drones, or any aircraft for that matter, becomes difficult at higher altitudes because of thinner air and lower air pressure. These conditions also severely limit the amount of payload a drone can carry.

Following the successful test of the Chinese drone, the Nepalese government has launched a drone transport project to clean up the trekking path of the world's tallest summit.

<h2>Everest turning into 'garbage dump'</h2>

Mt Everest is visited by thousands of climbers every year. Last year, a total of 6,600 climbers made it to the top and each of them left an estimated 8kg of waste (average) on their way up and down. According to DJI, this has turned Everest into the “world’s highest garbage dump”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjd3a_t58mGAxXD1zgGHY4ODJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-builds-worlds-first-dedicated-drone-carrier-but-its-shrouded-in-mystery-report-722420" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-builds-worlds-first-dedicated-drone-carrier-but-its-shrouded-in-mystery-report-722420&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd3a_t58mGAxXD1zgGHY4ODJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">China builds world`s first dedicated drone carrier, but it`s shrouded in mystery: Report</a>

The company added that an estimated 140 tonnes of waste have accumulated on the mountain over the past seven decades. This waste includes empty oxygen bottles, abandoned tents and food packaging.

<h2>Why drones?</h2>

The reason why drones are required in cleanliness operations is that local guides must cross the Khumbu Icefall, an unstable river of ice that is one of the most difficult sections of the mountain, to carry waste from Camp 1 to the base camp.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjd3a_t58mGAxXD1zgGHY4ODJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-countries-plan-to-create-protective-drone-wall-along-russian-border-725633" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-countries-plan-to-create-protective-drone-wall-along-russian-border-725633&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd3a_t58mGAxXD1zgGHY4ODJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">NATO countries plan to create protective ‘drone wall’ along Russian border</a>

Some local guides even end up losing their lives here.

“Last year I lost three Sherpas. If we are not lucky, if our time is not right, we lose our life there,” DJI quoted a mountain guide as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Chinese technology company created history in April by making the first successful drone delivery on the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest. Drone maker DJI revealed Wednesday (Jun 5) that it transported cargo from base camp to the top at an altitude above 6,000 metres using its FlyCart 30 drone.

A Chinese technology company created history in April by making the first successful drone delivery on the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest. Drone maker DJI revealed Wednesday (Jun 5) that it transported cargo from base camp to the top at an altitude above 6,000 metres using its FlyCart 30 drone. During the test flight, it carried 15kg of oxygen cylinders and other supplies to Camp 1, located 1,700 metres above the base camp. During the return flight, the drone carried waste of the same weight. The company said the drone still had 43 per cent battery power remaining after making the full trip and it braved sub-zero temperatures and strong winds during the test flight. Christina Zhang, DJI’s senior corporate strategy director, in a company release, said, “The ability to safely transport equipment, supplies and waste by drone has the potential to revolutionise Everest mountaineering logistics, facilitate trash clean-up efforts, and improve safety for all involved.” Why is it significant? Flying drones, or any aircraft for that matter, becomes difficult at higher altitudes because of thinner air and lower air pressure. These conditions also severely limit the amount of payload a drone can carry. Following the successful test of the Chinese drone, the Nepalese government has launched a drone transport project to clean up the trekking path of the world's tallest summit. Everest turning into 'garbage dump' Mt Everest is visited by thousands of climbers every year. Last year, a total of 6,600 climbers made it to the top and each of them left an estimated 8kg of waste (average) on their way up and down. According to DJI, this has turned Everest into the “world’s highest garbage dump”. Also read: China builds world`s first dedicated drone carrier, but it`s shrouded in mystery: Report The company added that an estimated 140 tonnes of waste have accumulated on the mountain over the past seven decades. This waste includes empty oxygen bottles, abandoned tents and food packaging. Why drones? The reason why drones are required in cleanliness operations is that local guides must cross the Khumbu Icefall, an unstable river of ice that is one of the most difficult sections of the mountain, to carry waste from Camp 1 to the base camp. Also read: NATO countries plan to create protective ‘drone wall’ along Russian border Some local guides even end up losing their lives here. “Last year I lost three Sherpas. If we are not lucky, if our time is not right, we lose our life there,” DJI quoted a mountain guide as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese company makes successful drone delivery to Mt Everest, to aid cleanliness operations

Nepali Congress calls for investigation against Home minister, tensions go high between opposition and govt over Rabi Lamichhane. Watch to know more.

Nepali Congress calls for investigation against Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane

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