Nepal’s death toll from the devastating floods has climbed to 475 as rescue teams continue efforts to reach hundreds of people trapped in affected areas. Amid the crisis, Prime Minister Balendra Shah and his council of ministers decided on Friday to contribute one month of their salaries to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund.&nbsp;Shah also chaired a cabinet meeting on Friday, with ministers expected to discuss steps to improve relief operations in flood-hit areas and speed up the reconstruction of damaged physical infrastructure.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Nepal Prime Minister’s Office said in a Facebook post, "The government has decided to deposit one month's salary/wages of all members of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers in the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting held at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers today."&nbsp;The cabinet also gave in-principle approval to Krishi Samagri Company Limited to procure 25,000 metric tons of DAP fertiliser from India through government-to-government procurement.&nbsp;The government said, "Similarly, the meeting has decided to direct the Ministry of Finance to prepare a relief and rehabilitation package for individuals and business organisations affected by the floods that occurred in the districts of Rasuwagadhi and Bhotekoshi River and lower coastal areas on Wednesday.&nbsp;The meeting has also decided to give in-principle approval to the Krishi Samagri Company Limited to purchase 25,000 metric tons of DAP fertiliser from India through G2G procurement."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/defence-pulse/india-s-defence-push-must-focus-on-make-in-india-and-design-in-india-says-puneet-kaura-1787911529015">India’s defence push must focus on ‘Make in India’ and ‘Design in India’, says Puneet Kaura</a><h3>India steps up relief efforts</h3>India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also reviewed the rescue and relief operations in Nepal following the devastating flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River area of Rasuwa. He said India is giving the issue its "highest priority".&nbsp;In a post on X, Jaishankar said he had discussed the situation with Indian embassies in Kathmandu and Beijing. He added that the concerned divisions of the Ministry of External Affairs had briefed him about additional relief supplies that will be sent to Nepal.&nbsp;"Discussed the relief and rescue efforts underway in Nepal today. Our Embassies in Kathmandu &amp; Beijing provided an updated picture in respect of the status and well-being of Indian nationals. The concerned MEA Divisions apprised us of the further relief supplies to be sent to Nepal. We give highest priority to this issue," the X post read.&nbsp;Indians account for the largest number of missing foreign nationals in Nepal, with 288 people still untraced. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the 288 "uncontactable citizens" include 73 Indians working at the Trishuli-1 hydropower project.<h3>Flash floods leave widespread devastation</h3>The crisis began after a catastrophic flash flood hit the Tibet-Nepal border on August 26. A powerful surge of water, sediment and boulders moved through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems, causing widespread destruction.&nbsp;Nepal is now dealing with the aftermath of the major flash flood that struck Rasuwa district on Wednesday morning as rescue and relief efforts continue across the affected areas.

Nepal’s Prime Minister and Cabinet have pledged a month’s salary to the disaster relief fund as the flood death toll crosses 450, while India calls rescue and relief efforts its ‘highest priority’

Nepal’s death toll from the devastating floods has climbed to 475 as rescue teams continue efforts to reach hundreds of people trapped in affected areas. Amid the crisis, Prime Minister Balendra Shah and his council of ministers decided on Friday to contribute one month of their salaries to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund. Shah also chaired a cabinet meeting on Friday, with ministers expected to discuss steps to improve relief operations in flood-hit areas and speed up the reconstruction of damaged physical infrastructure. The Nepal Prime Minister’s Office said in a Facebook post, "The government has decided to deposit one month's salary/wages of all members of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers in the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting held at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers today." The cabinet also gave in-principle approval to Krishi Samagri Company Limited to procure 25,000 metric tons of DAP fertiliser from India through government-to-government procurement. The government said, "Similarly, the meeting has decided to direct the Ministry of Finance to prepare a relief and rehabilitation package for individuals and business organisations affected by the floods that occurred in the districts of Rasuwagadhi and Bhotekoshi River and lower coastal areas on Wednesday. The meeting has also decided to give in-principle approval to the Krishi Samagri Company Limited to purchase 25,000 metric tons of DAP fertiliser from India through G2G procurement." Also Read: India’s defence push must focus on ‘Make in India’ and ‘Design in India’, says Puneet Kaura India steps up relief efforts India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also reviewed the rescue and relief operations in Nepal following the devastating flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River area of Rasuwa. He said India is giving the issue its "highest priority". In a post on X, Jaishankar said he had discussed the situation with Indian embassies in Kathmandu and Beijing. He added that the concerned divisions of the Ministry of External Affairs had briefed him about additional relief supplies that will be sent to Nepal. "Discussed the relief and rescue efforts underway in Nepal today. Our Embassies in Kathmandu & Beijing provided an updated picture in respect of the status and well-being of Indian nationals. The concerned MEA Divisions apprised us of the further relief supplies to be sent to Nepal. We give highest priority to this issue," the X post read. Indians account for the largest number of missing foreign nationals in Nepal, with 288 people still untraced. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the 288 "uncontactable citizens" include 73 Indians working at the Trishuli-1 hydropower project. Flash floods leave widespread devastation The crisis began after a catastrophic flash flood hit the Tibet-Nepal border on August 26. A powerful surge of water, sediment and boulders moved through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems, causing widespread destruction. Nepal is now dealing with the aftermath of the major flash flood that struck Rasuwa district on Wednesday morning as rescue and relief efforts continue across the affected areas.

Nepal’s Prime Minister and Cabinet have pledged a month’s salary to the disaster relief fund as the flood death toll crosses 450, while India calls rescue and relief efforts its ‘highest priority’

Nepal floods: PM, ministers pledge a month’s salary to relief fund; India calls relief efforts ‘highest priority’

The youngest voters of Nepal, mainly those belonging to Generation Z who helped Balendra Shah become the prime minister of Nepal, now seem to be protesting against him, demanding an apology and resignation. The drastic shift came after the controversy over the remarks Shah made in Parliament regarding the long-running Nepal-India border dispute involving Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-role-for-third-parties-why-india-rejected-nepal-pm-s-call-for-china-uk-involvement-in-border-issues-wion-decodes-1780461403211">India rejects Nepal PM's call for foreign involvement in border issues</a>&nbsp;From Kathmandu's mayor to Nepal's youngest prime minister, the credit for Balen Shah's rise goes primarily to the Gen Z-led youth movement that overthrew the previous government. Political observers viewed the 2025-26 youth mobilisation as a key factor behind the landslide victory of Shah’s party in the 2026 elections. For first-time voters and the young population of Nepal, Shah appeared to be a break from decades of conventional politics in the country. During his election campaign, Gen Z played a pivotal role.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-is-missing-a-lot-of-different-parts-says-trump-claims-his-involvement-in-peace-deal-talks-1780495632221">Mojtaba Khamenei is 'missing a lot of different parts,’ says Trump</a><h2>What went wrong?</h2>In his speech, Shah said that Nepal had learned that “not only has India encroached on Nepal’s land, but Nepal has also encroached on Indian land in many places." Moreover, he said that countries like the UK should help resolve the issue. And this particular comment of his drew massive backlash across the country. Witnessing continuous parliament disruptions, legislators are now demanding his apology as well as his resignation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mea-issues-sharp-statement-after-indian-national-dies-in-iranian-drone-strike-at-kuwait-airport-1780489790647">Indian national killed at Kuwait airport; MEA condemns Iran's drone strike</a>&nbsp;A coalition of ten student organisations has publicly demanded Shah's resignation and has said that the issue was not merely a verbal mistake but reflected what they described as a political mindset contrary to Nepal’s national interests.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-tricked-trump-to-start-war-with-iran-this-is-what-us-president-reveals-1780486226262">Netanyahu 'tricked' Trump to start war with Iran? This is what US president says</a>

Nepal’s youngest Prime Minister, Balendra Shah, faces intense backlash, protests, and calls for resignation from student groups after stating in parliament that Nepal has also encroached on Indian territory.

The youngest voters of Nepal, mainly those belonging to Generation Z who helped Balendra Shah become the prime minister of Nepal, now seem to be protesting against him, demanding an apology and resignation. The drastic shift came after the controversy over the remarks Shah made in Parliament regarding the long-running Nepal-India border dispute involving Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. Also read: India rejects Nepal PM's call for foreign involvement in border issues From Kathmandu's mayor to Nepal's youngest prime minister, the credit for Balen Shah's rise goes primarily to the Gen Z-led youth movement that overthrew the previous government. Political observers viewed the 2025-26 youth mobilisation as a key factor behind the landslide victory of Shah’s party in the 2026 elections. For first-time voters and the young population of Nepal, Shah appeared to be a break from decades of conventional politics in the country. During his election campaign, Gen Z played a pivotal role. Also read: Mojtaba Khamenei is 'missing a lot of different parts,’ says Trump What went wrong? In his speech, Shah said that Nepal had learned that “not only has India encroached on Nepal’s land, but Nepal has also encroached on Indian land in many places." Moreover, he said that countries like the UK should help resolve the issue. And this particular comment of his drew massive backlash across the country. Witnessing continuous parliament disruptions, legislators are now demanding his apology as well as his resignation. Also read: Indian national killed at Kuwait airport; MEA condemns Iran's drone strike A coalition of ten student organisations has publicly demanded Shah's resignation and has said that the issue was not merely a verbal mistake but reflected what they described as a political mindset contrary to Nepal’s national interests. Also read: Netanyahu 'tricked' Trump to start war with Iran? This is what US president says

Nepal’s youngest Prime Minister, Balendra Shah, faces intense backlash, protests, and calls for resignation from student groups after stating in parliament that Nepal has also encroached on Indian territory.

Why Gen Z protestors, who helped make Balen Shah Nepal PM, now want him to resign | WION Decodes

India on Tuesday (June 3) firmly ruled out any role for third parties in resolving its boundary dispute with Nepal. India's response came as its Ministry of External Affairs was bombarded with question on the comments made Nepalese Prime Minister Balen Shah suggesting involvment of China and the United Kingdom in resolving the border issues. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India and Nepal already have established bilateral mechanisms to address all aspects of their border matters. He clarified that nearly the entire boundary between the two countries has been settled. New Delhi also pointed at the subsequent statement by Nepal Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-pm-balendra-shah-backs-dialogue-diplomatic-efforts-to-resolve-border-dispute-with-india-1780226135482">Nepal PM Balendra Shah backs dialogue, diplomatic efforts to resolve border dispute with India</a>&nbsp;“We have established bilateral mechanisms to deal with all aspects of boundary matters. It should be clear to all concerned that there is no role for any third parties in a bilateral matter between India and Nepal," Jaiswal said at the ministry’s weekly media briefing. He added that New Delhi had taken note of Shah’s remarks as well as a subsequent clarification issued by Nepal’s Foreign Ministry. “We have seen the remarks of the prime minister of Nepal concerning India-Nepal boundary as well as the subsequent statement issued by Nepali foreign ministry on this matter," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-pm-s-first-parliamentary-address-sparks-debate-on-border-issues-with-india-1780255747249">Nepal PM’s first parliamentary address sparks debate on border issues with India</a><h2>What Nepal PM said?</h2>On Sunday, Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah in his first address in Parliament, raised border issues with India. He said, “It may be surprising to you, but after becoming Prime Minister, I recently learned that not only has India encroached on Nepal’s territory, but Nepal has also encroached on some areas of India. As two friendly nations, we have decided to take this forward through diplomatic channels.” He told lawmakers that Kathmandu has also taken up the matter with China and the United Kingdom, the latter due to its colonial legacy in the region. The remarks came in response to a question from an opposition lawmaker seeking answers on the government’s approach to longstanding border disputes with India.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-nepal-ties-rabi-lamichhane-meets-bjp-chief-in-delhi-amid-border-tensions-1780391516961/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-nepal-ties-rabi-lamichhane-meets-bjp-chief-in-delhi-amid-border-tensions-1780391516961/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Nepal’s foreign ministry issues clarification</h2>Hours later, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry issued a clarification. The statement in Nepali stated, “Studies conducted by the technical committee have indicated that in some locations, land currently being used and occupied by Nepal may actually fall on the Indian side, while land currently being used and occupied by India may fall on the Nepali side." The Prime Minister’s statement in Parliament that “in some places, Indian land may be located on Nepal’s side” should be understood in the context of this technical reality and the issue of cross-border occupation.” Earlier in 2002, the previous Oli government issued a new political map of Nepal, staking claim to Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura after India opened a road through Lipulekh to Kailash Mansarovar. This was categorically rejected by India.&nbsp;

India rejected any third-party role in resolving its border dispute with Nepal after Nepal PM Balen Shah suggested involving China and the UK. New Delhi said boundary issues must be addressed through existing bilateral mechanisms

India on Tuesday (June 3) firmly ruled out any role for third parties in resolving its boundary dispute with Nepal. India's response came as its Ministry of External Affairs was bombarded with question on the comments made Nepalese Prime Minister Balen Shah suggesting involvment of China and the United Kingdom in resolving the border issues. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India and Nepal already have established bilateral mechanisms to address all aspects of their border matters. He clarified that nearly the entire boundary between the two countries has been settled. New Delhi also pointed at the subsequent statement by Nepal Foreign Ministry. Also Read: Nepal PM Balendra Shah backs dialogue, diplomatic efforts to resolve border dispute with India “We have established bilateral mechanisms to deal with all aspects of boundary matters. It should be clear to all concerned that there is no role for any third parties in a bilateral matter between India and Nepal," Jaiswal said at the ministry’s weekly media briefing. He added that New Delhi had taken note of Shah’s remarks as well as a subsequent clarification issued by Nepal’s Foreign Ministry. “We have seen the remarks of the prime minister of Nepal concerning India-Nepal boundary as well as the subsequent statement issued by Nepali foreign ministry on this matter," he said. Also Read: Nepal PM’s first parliamentary address sparks debate on border issues with India What Nepal PM said? On Sunday, Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah in his first address in Parliament, raised border issues with India. He said, “It may be surprising to you, but after becoming Prime Minister, I recently learned that not only has India encroached on Nepal’s territory, but Nepal has also encroached on some areas of India. As two friendly nations, we have decided to take this forward through diplomatic channels.” He told lawmakers that Kathmandu has also taken up the matter with China and the United Kingdom, the latter due to its colonial legacy in the region. The remarks came in response to a question from an opposition lawmaker seeking answers on the government’s approach to longstanding border disputes with India. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-nepal-ties-rabi-lamichhane-meets-bjp-chief-in-delhi-amid-border-tensions-1780391516961/embed Nepal’s foreign ministry issues clarification Hours later, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry issued a clarification. The statement in Nepali stated, “Studies conducted by the technical committee have indicated that in some locations, land currently being used and occupied by Nepal may actually fall on the Indian side, while land currently being used and occupied by India may fall on the Nepali side." The Prime Minister’s statement in Parliament that “in some places, Indian land may be located on Nepal’s side” should be understood in the context of this technical reality and the issue of cross-border occupation.” Earlier in 2002, the previous Oli government issued a new political map of Nepal, staking claim to Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura after India opened a road through Lipulekh to Kailash Mansarovar. This was categorically rejected by India.

India rejected any third-party role in resolving its border dispute with Nepal after Nepal PM Balen Shah suggested involving China and the UK. New Delhi said boundary issues must be addressed through existing bilateral mechanisms

'No role for third parties': Why India rejected Nepal PM's call for China, UK involvement in border issues | WION Decodes

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah said in the parliament on Sunday that both India and Nepal had encroached on each other’s territory, drawing strong protests from the opposition and renewing focus on the long-running Lipulekh-Kalapani border dispute.Shah, the Himalayan country’s youngest prime minister, was addressing Parliament for the first time since assuming office earlier this year.&nbsp;Shah acknowledged that the border dispute involving Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani remains a sore point in bilateral ties and struck a conciliatory note, saying both countries should seek the help of historians, surveyors and experts to resolve the issue.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-45-people-killed-in-blast-at-mining-explosives-warehouse-in-myanmar-rescuers-1780242466825">More than 45 people killed in blast at mining explosives warehouse in Myanmar: Rescuers</a>&nbsp;“You will be surprised to know a fact that I have learnt recently, only after becoming prime minister. India has not only encroached Nepali territory, but Nepal has also encroached Indian territory in many places,” the 35-year-old leader said.“Both countries should study the facts and sit together as friends and resolve the issue,” he added.He told lawmakers that Kathmandu has also taken up the matter with China and the United Kingdom, the latter due to its colonial legacy in the region.&nbsp;<h2>PM Shah’s remark triggers controversy in Nepal</h2>&nbsp;Shah’s remarks on Nepal encroaching Indian territory triggered a political controversy in Kathmandu, as opposition lawmakers, including Basana Thapa of the Nepali Congress and Ramesh Malla of the Nepali Communist Party, objected to his comment and demanded they be expunged from the parliamentary record. They said the PM should either provide evidence or withdraw his statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-to-lead-protest-in-kolkata-on-june-2-against-attacks-on-abhishek-kalyan-banerjee-1780237783417">Mamata to lead protest in Kolkata on June 2 against attacks on Abhishek, Kalyan Banerjee</a>&nbsp;Buddhi Narayan Shrestha, who is a Nepal-India border expert, said Nepal has never encroached on Indian territory and added that in some regions, farmers from both sides have used each other’s land due to cross-border movement and missing boundary pillars.&nbsp;<h2>Nepal’s foreign ministry issues clarification</h2>&nbsp;Hours later, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry issued a clarification regarding statements made by Prime Minister Balen Shah on the border issue with India.&nbsp;&nbsp;A machine translation of the statement said, “Studies conducted by the technical committee have indicated that in some locations, land currently being used and occupied by Nepal may actually fall on the Indian side, while land currently being used and occupied by India may fall on the Nepali side. The Prime Minister’s statement in Parliament that “in some places, Indian land may be located on Nepal’s side” should be understood in the context of this technical reality and the issue of cross-border occupation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-used-a-shoulder-fired-chinese-missile-to-shoot-down-us-fighter-jet-report-1780173318236">Iran likely used a shoulder-fired Chinese missile to shoot down US fighter jet: Report</a>&nbsp;“In accordance with the spirit and sentiment of the close relationship between Nepal and India, the Government of Nepal remains firmly committed to resolving border-related issues through diplomatic dialogue based on historical treaties, agreements, and maps,” it added.&nbsp;It reiterated that Nepal’s international boundary remains firmly guided by the 1816 Sugauli Treaty.&nbsp;<h2>Kailash Mansarovar Yatra announcement triggered row</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, Nepal had formally objected to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh and sent diplomatic protests to both India and China.“The Government of Nepal remains clear and firm that, as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal,” Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had said.India rejected the objection, terming Nepal’s claims a “unilateral artificial enlargement” and “untenable”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/22-afghans-killed-36-injured-as-truck-carrying-refugees-returning-from-pakistan-crashes-in-afghanistan-1780160860194">22 Afghans killed, 36 injured as truck carrying refugees returning from Pakistan crashes in Afghanistan</a><h2>What is India-Nepal border dispute?</h2>&nbsp;India maintains that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani are part of Uttarakhand and has said the issue should be resolved through bilateral dialogue.The three locations lie near the tri-junction of India, China and Nepal.The earlier KP Sharma Oli-led government had escalated tensions by releasing a new political map showing all three territories as part of Nepal.India rejected the act and called it a “unilateral cartographic assertion”.

PM Balendra Shah’s remarks on Nepal encroaching Indian territory triggered a controversy, as opposition lawmakers, including Basana Thapa of the Nepali Congress and Ramesh Malla of the Nepali Communist Party, objected to them and demanded they be expunged from the parliamentary record.

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah said in the parliament on Sunday that both India and Nepal had encroached on each other’s territory, drawing strong protests from the opposition and renewing focus on the long-running Lipulekh-Kalapani border dispute. Shah, the Himalayan country’s youngest prime minister, was addressing Parliament for the first time since assuming office earlier this year. Shah acknowledged that the border dispute involving Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani remains a sore point in bilateral ties and struck a conciliatory note, saying both countries should seek the help of historians, surveyors and experts to resolve the issue. Also Read: More than 45 people killed in blast at mining explosives warehouse in Myanmar: Rescuers “You will be surprised to know a fact that I have learnt recently, only after becoming prime minister. India has not only encroached Nepali territory, but Nepal has also encroached Indian territory in many places,” the 35-year-old leader said. “Both countries should study the facts and sit together as friends and resolve the issue,” he added. He told lawmakers that Kathmandu has also taken up the matter with China and the United Kingdom, the latter due to its colonial legacy in the region. PM Shah’s remark triggers controversy in Nepal Shah’s remarks on Nepal encroaching Indian territory triggered a political controversy in Kathmandu, as opposition lawmakers, including Basana Thapa of the Nepali Congress and Ramesh Malla of the Nepali Communist Party, objected to his comment and demanded they be expunged from the parliamentary record. They said the PM should either provide evidence or withdraw his statement. Also Read: Mamata to lead protest in Kolkata on June 2 against attacks on Abhishek, Kalyan Banerjee Buddhi Narayan Shrestha, who is a Nepal-India border expert, said Nepal has never encroached on Indian territory and added that in some regions, farmers from both sides have used each other’s land due to cross-border movement and missing boundary pillars. Nepal’s foreign ministry issues clarification Hours later, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry issued a clarification regarding statements made by Prime Minister Balen Shah on the border issue with India. A machine translation of the statement said, “Studies conducted by the technical committee have indicated that in some locations, land currently being used and occupied by Nepal may actually fall on the Indian side, while land currently being used and occupied by India may fall on the Nepali side. The Prime Minister’s statement in Parliament that “in some places, Indian land may be located on Nepal’s side” should be understood in the context of this technical reality and the issue of cross-border occupation.” Also Read: Iran likely used a shoulder-fired Chinese missile to shoot down US fighter jet: Report “In accordance with the spirit and sentiment of the close relationship between Nepal and India, the Government of Nepal remains firmly committed to resolving border-related issues through diplomatic dialogue based on historical treaties, agreements, and maps,” it added. It reiterated that Nepal’s international boundary remains firmly guided by the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra announcement triggered row Earlier, Nepal had formally objected to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh and sent diplomatic protests to both India and China. “The Government of Nepal remains clear and firm that, as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal,” Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had said. India rejected the objection, terming Nepal’s claims a “unilateral artificial enlargement” and “untenable”. Also Read: 22 Afghans killed, 36 injured as truck carrying refugees returning from Pakistan crashes in Afghanistan What is India-Nepal border dispute? India maintains that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani are part of Uttarakhand and has said the issue should be resolved through bilateral dialogue. The three locations lie near the tri-junction of India, China and Nepal. The earlier KP Sharma Oli-led government had escalated tensions by releasing a new political map showing all three territories as part of Nepal. India rejected the act and called it a “unilateral cartographic assertion”.

PM Balendra Shah’s remarks on Nepal encroaching Indian territory triggered a controversy, as opposition lawmakers, including Basana Thapa of the Nepali Congress and Ramesh Malla of the Nepali Communist Party, objected to them and demanded they be expunged from the parliamentary record.

PM Balendra Shah’s ‘Nepal encroached Indian territory too’ remark draws backlash; foreign ministry clarifies

Public anger is mounting in Nepal against the government led by Balen Shah, less than a month after it assumed office with a two-thirds majority, as protests intensify across the country over a series of contentious decisions. Demonstrations have spread from the streets of Kathmandu to Singha Durbar, the country’s administrative nerve centre, with students, political groups and ordinary citizens joining rallies in growing numbers. Protesters have also gathered in other major cities, signalling widening unrest.&nbsp;One of the key triggers for the protests is the government’s decision to impose a mandatory customs duty on goods worth over ₹100 brought in from India. Residents in Nepal’s border regions have criticised the move, saying it directly affects their daily lives as they depend heavily on cross-border purchases for essential goods. Demonstrators argue that the policy imposes an additional financial burden on ordinary citizens and fails to reflect the realities of border communities.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/global-refinery-fires-sabotage-energy-crisis-oil-supply-1776848760096">From India to Australia: Why are oil refineries across the globe burning simultaneously?</a>&nbsp;The unrest has been further fuelled by a row over student unions, with the government accused of rejecting or sidelining unions affiliated with political parties. Student leaders have alleged that authorities have adopted a repressive approach instead of engaging in dialogue, prompting a strong backlash from the youth.&nbsp;Thousands of students have taken part in protests nationwide, many of them from schools and colleges. Visuals from demonstrations show students in uniform holding placards and raising slogans against government policies, underlining how the agitation has spread beyond political circles into wider society.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-hormuz-dry-run-us-china-conflict-balakrishnan-1776843695292">Singapore warns Hormuz crisis was a 'dry run' for US-China conflict</a>&nbsp;Calls are also growing for the resignation of Home Minister Sudan Gurung, who is facing allegations of possessing disproportionate assets and engaging in questionable financial dealings. Protesters and opposition groups have accused Gurung of links to suspicious business transactions, including alleged connections to individuals implicated in financial crimes.&nbsp;According to multiple media reports in Nepal, documents point to investments and shareholdings linked to controversial entities, intensifying demands for his resignation on moral grounds. Political parties and civil society groups have continued to stage demonstrations over the issue, making it a central focus of the ongoing protests.

Less than a month in, Balen Shah’s government faces nationwide protests over border customs duties, the sidelining of student unions, and corruption allegations involving Home Minister Sudan Gurung’s assets.

Public anger is mounting in Nepal against the government led by Balen Shah, less than a month after it assumed office with a two-thirds majority, as protests intensify across the country over a series of contentious decisions. Demonstrations have spread from the streets of Kathmandu to Singha Durbar, the country’s administrative nerve centre, with students, political groups and ordinary citizens joining rallies in growing numbers. Protesters have also gathered in other major cities, signalling widening unrest. One of the key triggers for the protests is the government’s decision to impose a mandatory customs duty on goods worth over ₹100 brought in from India. Residents in Nepal’s border regions have criticised the move, saying it directly affects their daily lives as they depend heavily on cross-border purchases for essential goods. Demonstrators argue that the policy imposes an additional financial burden on ordinary citizens and fails to reflect the realities of border communities. Also read: From India to Australia: Why are oil refineries across the globe burning simultaneously? The unrest has been further fuelled by a row over student unions, with the government accused of rejecting or sidelining unions affiliated with political parties. Student leaders have alleged that authorities have adopted a repressive approach instead of engaging in dialogue, prompting a strong backlash from the youth. Thousands of students have taken part in protests nationwide, many of them from schools and colleges. Visuals from demonstrations show students in uniform holding placards and raising slogans against government policies, underlining how the agitation has spread beyond political circles into wider society. Also read: Singapore warns Hormuz crisis was a 'dry run' for US-China conflict Calls are also growing for the resignation of Home Minister Sudan Gurung, who is facing allegations of possessing disproportionate assets and engaging in questionable financial dealings. Protesters and opposition groups have accused Gurung of links to suspicious business transactions, including alleged connections to individuals implicated in financial crimes. According to multiple media reports in Nepal, documents point to investments and shareholdings linked to controversial entities, intensifying demands for his resignation on moral grounds. Political parties and civil society groups have continued to stage demonstrations over the issue, making it a central focus of the ongoing protests.

Less than a month in, Balen Shah’s government faces nationwide protests over border customs duties, the sidelining of student unions, and corruption allegations involving Home Minister Sudan Gurung’s assets.

Not even a month in office, Nepal’s Balen Shah govt already facing protests - Here’s why

&nbsp;Nepal's Ambassador to India, Dr Shankar Prasad Sharma, has said preparations are underway for Prime Minister Balen Shah's visit to India following his acceptance of an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Before his visits, several other key visits will happen between the 2 sides. The last prime ministerial visit from Nepal to India was in 2023.&nbsp;"I think, as our foreign minister has said, they are doing the preparation in terms of the several other visits before the Prime Minister's visit to India, plus also setting up the priorities. But I think there are so many things to choose from," he told WION's Sidhant Sibal.&nbsp;Dr Sharma pointed to substantial progress in multiple sectors over the past 18 months. "There are so many things that we have developed over the last one and a half years... whether it's about the investment or health or Ayush or security relationship", adding, 'so probably you will see in the next high-level visit so many MOUs and the inauguration and laying of the foundation stone for new projects and things like that'&nbsp;A health MoU between the two countries has already been finalised and could be signed soon, he noted. On traditional medicine, he said India had offered a partnership in Ayurveda. "Most of the people in Ayurveda, they study in India anyway. So that part, the university, part the medicine, part the medical partnership between the two countries is strong."&nbsp;The remarks come as Nepal's young Prime Minister Balen Shah, who assumed office in late March, accepted Indian PM Modi's invitation to visit India. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal had earlier confirmed to WION that PM Balen Shah has accepted PM Modi's invite.&nbsp;At the Nepali Embassy in New Delhi, efforts to strengthen people-to-people and economic links are intensifying. "At the embassy, we are doing so many activities, both in terms of trade, investment and cultural linkage between the two countries, and trying to see how we can take the Nepal-India relation to a new height," Dr Sharma said.&nbsp;A symbolic initiative underscores the focus on traditional healthcare. On the occasion of the, International Wellness Day, declared by the United Nations on Nepal's proposal and falling on 15 April, the embassy is inaugurated an "Arogya Vatika" or herbal wellness garden.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-nearly-doubles-oil-earnings-to-19-billion-as-west-asia-war-roils-energy-markets-1776171177468">Russia nearly doubles oil earnings to $19 billion as West Asia war roils energy markets</a>&nbsp;Dr Sharma explained: "This is being built on the occasion of the International Wellness Day, which happens to be tomorrow, on the proposal based on Nepal, and then strongly supported by India and other countries... So in that context, what we thought is that, because we have the space at the embassy, and then why don't we start new garden called Vatika, herbal garden here, Arogya Vatika."&nbsp;He emphasised Nepal's rich biodiversity, particularly in the Himalayan region, which is world-renowned for medicinal plants. "In Nepal, I think we also have a lot of people who are practising Ayurveda... Nepal is so rich, I think, world famous in terms of medicinal plants and herbal plants."&nbsp;India's scale in research and its more than 28,000 herbal gardens offer opportunities for collaboration, he added. Establishing the garden at the embassy would "have a kind of strong relation between Nepal and India, so that we can also share the tradition and heritage between the two countries."&nbsp;

The remarks come as Nepal's young Prime Minister Balen Shah, who assumed office in late March, accepted Indian PM Modi's invitation to visit India. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal had earlier confirmed to WION that PM Balen Shah has accepted PM Modi's invite.

Nepal's Ambassador to India, Dr Shankar Prasad Sharma, has said preparations are underway for Prime Minister Balen Shah's visit to India following his acceptance of an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Before his visits, several other key visits will happen between the 2 sides. The last prime ministerial visit from Nepal to India was in 2023. "I think, as our foreign minister has said, they are doing the preparation in terms of the several other visits before the Prime Minister's visit to India, plus also setting up the priorities. But I think there are so many things to choose from," he told WION's Sidhant Sibal. Dr Sharma pointed to substantial progress in multiple sectors over the past 18 months. "There are so many things that we have developed over the last one and a half years... whether it's about the investment or health or Ayush or security relationship", adding, 'so probably you will see in the next high-level visit so many MOUs and the inauguration and laying of the foundation stone for new projects and things like that' A health MoU between the two countries has already been finalised and could be signed soon, he noted. On traditional medicine, he said India had offered a partnership in Ayurveda. "Most of the people in Ayurveda, they study in India anyway. So that part, the university, part the medicine, part the medical partnership between the two countries is strong." The remarks come as Nepal's young Prime Minister Balen Shah, who assumed office in late March, accepted Indian PM Modi's invitation to visit India. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal had earlier confirmed to WION that PM Balen Shah has accepted PM Modi's invite. At the Nepali Embassy in New Delhi, efforts to strengthen people-to-people and economic links are intensifying. "At the embassy, we are doing so many activities, both in terms of trade, investment and cultural linkage between the two countries, and trying to see how we can take the Nepal-India relation to a new height," Dr Sharma said. A symbolic initiative underscores the focus on traditional healthcare. On the occasion of the, International Wellness Day, declared by the United Nations on Nepal's proposal and falling on 15 April, the embassy is inaugurated an "Arogya Vatika" or herbal wellness garden. Also Read: Russia nearly doubles oil earnings to $19 billion as West Asia war roils energy markets Dr Sharma explained: "This is being built on the occasion of the International Wellness Day, which happens to be tomorrow, on the proposal based on Nepal, and then strongly supported by India and other countries... So in that context, what we thought is that, because we have the space at the embassy, and then why don't we start new garden called Vatika, herbal garden here, Arogya Vatika." He emphasised Nepal's rich biodiversity, particularly in the Himalayan region, which is world-renowned for medicinal plants. "In Nepal, I think we also have a lot of people who are practising Ayurveda... Nepal is so rich, I think, world famous in terms of medicinal plants and herbal plants." India's scale in research and its more than 28,000 herbal gardens offer opportunities for collaboration, he added. Establishing the garden at the embassy would "have a kind of strong relation between Nepal and India, so that we can also share the tradition and heritage between the two countries."

The remarks come as Nepal's young Prime Minister Balen Shah, who assumed office in late March, accepted Indian PM Modi's invitation to visit India. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal had earlier confirmed to WION that PM Balen Shah has accepted PM Modi's invite.

PM Balen Shah’s India visit to feature new projects, MOUs and foundation stones, says Nepal envoy Sharma

Balendra “Balen” Shah, rapper-turned-politician, became Nepal’s youngest PM after a landslide win by RSP. A former Kathmandu mayor and engineer, he rose on youth anger over corruption, symbolising change and becoming the first PM from the Madheshi community.

Balendra ‘Balen Shah’, rapper-turned-politician, became Nepal’s youngest PM after a landslide win by RSP. A former Kathmandu mayor and engineer, he rose on youth anger over corruption, symbolising change and becoming the first PM from the Madheshi community.

Who is Balen Shah? Rapper-turned-politician takes oath as 47th PM of Nepal

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