Rapper-turned-politician and former Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah, a frontrunner for prime minister, cast his vote in Nepal’s parliamentary elections on Thursday (March 5). Approximately 19 million voters are eligible to elect 275 members of parliament through a mixed system, including 165 first-past-the-post seats and 110 proportional representation seats. Voting opened at 7 a.m. local time and closes at 5 p.m., with counting scheduled soon after.

Nepal Elections 2026: PM Frontrunner Balendra Shah Casts Ballot in Nepal’s General Election 

Nepal goes to the polls in its first parliamentary elections since the Gen Z uprising of 2025, a period marked by widespread protests and political unrest. Citizens across the country are voting for representatives in a high-stakes election that could reshape the nation’s political landscape. Young voters are playing a decisive role, reflecting the demands of the previous year’s demonstrations.

Nepal Parliamentary Elections 2026: First Vote After Gen Z Uprising

Nepal has suspended the issuance of labour approvals (work permits) for foreign employment to 12 Middle Eastern and Gulf countries amid escalating tensions in West Asia following the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict. The decision was taken by the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security in view of deteriorating security conditions in the region, and will remain in effect until further notice.


Nepal Suspends Job Approvals For West Asian Nations

Gagan Kumar Thapa, President of the Nepali Congress, has expressed optimism about the country’s future, stating that the next five years will be a “golden period” for Nepal. Thapa highlighted economic reforms, political stability, and development initiatives as key priorities, emphasizing unity and long-term growth to strengthen Nepal’s democratic and economic framework.


Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa Next Five Years Will Be Golden Period for Nepal 

Nepal’s youth voters are increasingly vocal about the need for job opportunities and economic growth, putting pressure on political parties ahead of elections. Parties have responded with ambitious promises, pledging employment programs, entrepreneurship support, and reforms to address unemployment. Analysts note that addressing young voters’ demands will be critical for shaping Nepal’s political landscape and ensuring long-term development amid rising aspirations and social change.


Nepal Elections: Nepal heading for the first post-uprising election

Nepal's Young Voters Demand Job Opportunities, Political Parties Make Tall Promises

Nepal’s veteran political leaders are once again contesting elections, with familiar faces returning to the political forefront despite growing calls for youth representation. Analysts note that the continued dominance of established politicians highlights challenges in generational change, party reforms, and citizen demands for fresh leadership, as Nepal navigates a critical phase in its democratic evolution and governance landscape.


Nepal's Veteran Leaders Line Up for Another Vote, Familiar Faces Return Despite Youth Pressure 

In Nepal’s upcoming elections, popular youth leader Balendra Shah is locked in a high-stakes contest against former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The race has attracted national attention, highlighting generational divides and debates over governance, development, and political reforms. Analysts say the outcome could reshape Nepal’s political landscape, signaling shifts in voter preferences and the influence of emerging leaders in the country’s democratic process.


Nepal Elections: Youth Leader Balendra Shah Locked in a Tough Battle With Former PM KP Sharma Oli

Nepal’s Election Commission has issued a stern warning to political parties to strictly follow electoral codes of conduct ahead of upcoming elections. The EC cautioned against violations such as hate speech, misuse of state resources, and campaign irregularities, stressing that strict action will be taken against offenders. The move aims to ensure free, fair, and transparent polls as the country prepares for a crucial electoral exercise amid heightened political activity.

Nepal Elections: Nepal EC Issues Stern Warning to Political Parties

The second edition of the Indo-Nepal Trade Festival opened in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to deepen economic ties, boost tourism and cultural exchanges between the two close neighbours. Held from 20-22 February at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Hauz Khas, the event is organised by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ECCI), an umbrella body of Nepali entrepreneurs in India, in partnership with the Embassy of Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre.&nbsp;The festival, under the theme “Connecting People, Enhancing Bilateral Trade”, was inaugurated by Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad&nbsp;Sharma, and Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs (North Division).&nbsp;Building on its inaugural edition, this year's gathering features more than ten high-level sessions and policy dialogues involving over 60 experts from both countries.Discussions will cover key areas including hydropower and energy cooperation, cross-border trade and connectivity, tourism integration along the Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits, banking, fintech and digital economy collaboration, media and cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, education, innovation, the startup ecosystem, and a broader “Vision 2030” for Indo-Nepal cooperation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-donald-trump-s-global-tariffs-1771601310479">US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs</a>

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.&nbsp;Alongside policy and commerce, the festival showcases Nepal's cultural heritage through musical performances, film screenings, including the documentary 'Gurkha Warriors' on day one, traditional arts and authentic Nepali cuisine.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference at the Press Club of India on Tuesday, ECCI President Yubaraj Baral described the event as a “transformative platform”.&nbsp;“The festival will further support the expansion of investment opportunities, foster meaningful partnerships across various sectors between Nepal and India, and deepen the historic friendship between the two nations,” Mr Baral said. “This landmark bilateral event will further reinforce India-Nepal economic diplomacy and promote long-term regional cooperation.”&nbsp;Organisers say the initiative addresses the need to expand trade and reduce imbalances, while promoting people-to-people contacts rooted in shared history, open borders and cultural affinities. The three-day event is expected to serve as a key platform for advancing bilateral economic diplomacy amid ongoing efforts to strengthen connectivity and mutual prosperity.

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.

The second edition of the Indo-Nepal Trade Festival opened in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to deepen economic ties, boost tourism and cultural exchanges between the two close neighbours. Held from 20-22 February at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Hauz Khas, the event is organised by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ECCI), an umbrella body of Nepali entrepreneurs in India, in partnership with the Embassy of Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre. The festival, under the theme “Connecting People, Enhancing Bilateral Trade”, was inaugurated by Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad Sharma, and Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs (North Division). Building on its inaugural edition, this year's gathering features more than ten high-level sessions and policy dialogues involving over 60 experts from both countries. Discussions will cover key areas including hydropower and energy cooperation, cross-border trade and connectivity, tourism integration along the Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits, banking, fintech and digital economy collaboration, media and cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, education, innovation, the startup ecosystem, and a broader “Vision 2030” for Indo-Nepal cooperation. Also Read: US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.

Delhi hosts Indo-Nepal Trade Festival to boost trade, tourism and cultural links

Nepal’s Jhapa-5 constituency grabs attention as mayor Balendra Shah enters the fray, challenging former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The high-stakes contest highlights shifting political dynamics in Nepal, with voters closely watching this pivotal seat. Get the latest updates, candidate insights, and election developments from Jhapa-5.


Nepal Polls: Jhapa-5 Seat Takes the Center Stage | Balendra Shah Challenges Ex-PM Oli 

Nepali candidates launch their campaigns on Monday (Feb 16) for next month's parliamentary elections, the first since deadly anti-corruption protests toppled the previous government in 2025.


Campaigning Begins for Nepal's First Election After Gen-Z Led Uprising

Child marriages remain widespread in Nepal, with surveys showing that 42% of the poorest families marry off their children. Experts highlight poverty and lack of education as key drivers of this ongoing social challenge, raising concerns about children’s health, education, and future opportunities.


Nepal: One In Three Girls Married Before 18, Poverty And Education Drive Child Marriages 

Just weeks to go for the elections in Nepal the mountain country is witnessing a remarkable political showdown is taking shape where rhymes, rebellion and raw youth power are colliding with old-guard politics. Balen shah challenges Ex-PM Oli at his home turf.

Nepal Polls: Balen Ditches Safe Seat to Fight on Ex-PM Oli's Turf

The death toll in a bus accident in Nepal has risen to 13 after a vehicle carrying a wedding party tumbled off a mountainous road. Emergency responders rushed to the scene as rescue operations continued in the difficult terrain.


Nepal Bus Accident Death Toll Rises to 13 as Wedding Party Vehicle Plunges Off Road

A passenger bus plunged 200 meters off a mountain road in western Nepal's Baitadi district, killing 13 wedding guests.



Nepal Bus Tragedy: Death Toll Hits 13 in Baitadi Crash

Nepal gears up for March 5, 2026 general elections with Gen-Z youth leading poll preparations, including mass enrollment for temporary police service to bolster security.



Nepal Elections: Youngsters Lead Security Prep 

Nepal’s Election Commission has signed an MoU with TikTok to promote transparency and fairness ahead of upcoming elections. The agreement aims to create a safe digital space, curb misinformation, and engage citizens in the democratic process.


Nepal Election Commission Signs MoU With TikTok to Ensure Fair Polls Ahead of Voting

Authorities in Nepal have arrested six travel and mountain rescue executives accused of conducting fake rescues on the Himalayan nation's high mountains to scam millions of dollars from international insurance companies, officials said Monday.


Nepal's 'Fake Rescue Scam' From 2018 Resurfaces

Nepal's 'Fake Rescue Scam' From 2018 Surfaces; 6 Arrested From 3 Rescue Agencies

India and Nepal are in discussions to establish a cross-border interbank channel, aiming to facilitate smoother transactions, trade, and financial cooperation between the two countries. Officials from New Delhi and Kathmandu are exploring ways to strengthen banking connectivity, payment systems, and bilateral economic ties. This move could boost trade efficiency, reduce transaction costs, and improve financial collaboration in South Asia.

India and Nepal Explore Interbank Channel for Cross-Border Banking

India has deployed over 250 vehicles to Kathmandu, supporting Nepal’s election-related operations. This initiative is part of India’s efforts to assist neighboring countries in ensuring smooth poll logistics, highlighting cooperation and regional partnership.


New Delhi Sends Over 250 Vehicles to Kathmandu

India has deployed over 250 vehicles to Kathmandu, supporting Nepal’s election-related operations. This initiative is part of India’s efforts to assist neighboring countries in ensuring smooth poll logistics, highlighting cooperation and regional partnership.

India Sends 250+ Vehicles to Nepal for Poll Support 

India gifted Nepal the second tranche of election aid for the 2026 polls, delivering over 250 vehicles to Kathmandu to support logistical preparations.


Nepal Visa: India Gifts Nepal 250+ Vehicles for 2026 Elections

Nepal is gearing up for its upcoming elections as political parties accelerate preparations and finalise their election manifestos.


Nepal's Election Commission Says the Country Is Ready to Hold Elections as Planned 

Nepal is gearing up for its upcoming elections as political parties accelerate preparations and finalise their election manifestos.

Nepal Elections: Preparations Underway As Parties Finalise Manifestos

Nepal's former monarch Gyanendra Shah on Monday began a pilgrimage in Madhesh, performing Pooja at the Janaki Temple ahead of the House of Representatives elections scheduled in March. Shah was welcomed by a sea of followers at the historic temple complex, at a time when the nation is still transitioning after the Gen-Z protests in September last year. 

Former Nepal Monarch Starts Pilgrimage in Madhesh Ahead of the March Elections |

In Nepal’s upcoming elections, LGBTQ candidates are running for office in a historic move that highlights growing political inclusion in the predominantly conservative nation. 


Nepal Elections: LGBTQ Candidates In The Fray | WION

Nepali Congress and CPN-UML dominated Nepal’s National Assembly elections, jointly sweeping 17 of 18 seats, with the Nepali Congress emerging as the largest party in the Upper House following the January 25 polls.


Nepal Election: Nepali Congress & CPN-UML Alliance Sweeps Upper House Polls

Nepal Election: Nepali Congress Wins Eight, CPN-UML Wins Seven Seats

nepal

Nepal, News on Nepal, stories on Nepal, articles on Nepal, Nepal stories at Wion, Nepal news, Nepal latest news