Budget Execution Watch: Sudurpaschim Province left Rs 12.59 billion unspent in FY 2025/26, with only 62% of its Rs 33.43 billion budget used—recurrent and capital spending both lagged, raising questions on implementation capacity. Inflation Pressure: Nepal’s consumer price inflation doubled to 5.22% in mid-June, driven by food and non-food services, with analysts pointing to higher petroleum prices and weak monitoring. National Pride Projects: The National Planning Commission urged downsizing “national pride” projects to a maximum of 10 from 27, citing cost escalations and delays flagged by the Auditor General. Press Freedom Row: Suspicious vehicles were parked to block media houses and even the residence of NC leader Gagan Thapa; parties including RSP and UML demanded impartial probes, while police removed the vehicles. Burn Care Push: PM Balendra Shah ordered plans for well-equipped burn treatment centres in all seven provinces and upgrades in major hospitals. Gen-Z Rehabilitation Package: Cabinet-approved support for families of those killed or injured in the Gen-Z movement was set for rollout within a week, including education and health insurance. Ganesh Nepali Case: His family filed a police complaint after his death following self-immolation; his body was cremated at Pashupati Aryaghat. Media Sector Leadership: Arjun Ghimire appointed NTA chair and Umesh Shrestha appointed Press Council chair, with the information minister stressing action against fake news and deepfakes. Finance Law Update: Government registered a bill to repeal and amend several finance-related acts and regulations to reduce duplication and align with federal governance.