Nepal

Nepal is experiencing a significant political shift with the rise of Balendra Shah, also known as Balen, a rapper and engineer, to the position of Prime Minister. His Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), founded just four years ago, achieved a landslide victory in recent elections, marking a dramatic change in the country's political landscape. This victory follows youth-led protests that toppled the previous government. The RSP's platform focuses on addressing corruption and improving governance, meeting the high expectations of its supporters. The new government signals a potential recalibration of Nepal's foreign policy, aiming for a more balanced approach to relations with both India and China, prioritizing national interests and economic diplomacy. However, tragedy struck as a bus carrying Indian pilgrims crashed, resulting in fatalities and injuries, highlighting the dangers of mountain roads in the region. Simultaneously, Nepal celebrated a milestone with Bhumika Shrestha becoming the nation's first transgender woman lawmaker.