Monetary Policy & Banking: Nepal Rastra Bank says its Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) is working as an effective tool to manage excess liquidity and stabilise the interest-rate corridor floor, after criticism that rates were falling too fast. Public Health & Climate: Heat Action Day 2026 in Kathmandu spotlighted “Indoor Heat,” warning that extreme temperatures inside homes, schools and care facilities can be deadly—urging water, shade and rest for vulnerable groups. Tobacco Use Among Youth: A Nepal Health Research Council survey finds 18% of students aged 13–15 use tobacco products, with new products like shisha/hookah and vapes rising. Health Budget Watch: Nepal’s budget allocates Rs 101.95 billion to health (about 4.85% of total), including support for cancer care, burn and kidney units, and health insurance—still below WHO-recommended levels. Women’s Rights: Rights groups renewed calls for full decriminalisation of abortion, saying legal limits and consent rules push some women toward unsafe options. Health & Safety in the Field: Nepal’s National Population Policy 2082 orientation held in Karnali stressed implementation, coordination and risks like drug addiction, road accidents and suicide. Cross-border Care & Startups: India-Nepal Startup Partnership Network (IN-SPAN) begins an eight-week, fully funded training for 25 Nepali health-tech and other startups at IIT Madras. Citizen Protection: Nepal’s embassy in India reports rescuing 453 Nepalis from alleged networking fraud in Uttar Pradesh, with investigations underway.