Animal Welfare Law: Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture released a draft “Animal Service and Animal Welfare Bill, 2083,” aiming to modernize livestock regulation while tightening rules on cruelty, transport standards, and disease control. Private Sector Governance: Business groups say the government is “harassing” firms through searches and discouraging investment, calling for due process and a better investment climate. Food Safety Enforcement: Bhaktapur’s Department of Food Technology destroyed 4,000 liters of substandard milk after lab tests found low fat and SNF, and also inspected another beverage firm for cleanliness and infrastructure issues. Energy Sector Appointments: Nepal Oil Corporation’s Executive Director post is moving ahead after a ministry recommendation committee shortlisted three candidates for the Council of Ministers to appoint. Film Industry Funding: The government is drafting clear procedures for a Rs 35 million incentive grant to film makers, with a push for transparency and simpler access. Water Crisis in Madhesh: A National Assembly committee report warns groundwater levels are dropping fast, drying up hand pumps and threatening drinking water and agriculture, blaming Chure damage, climate change, and over-extraction. Manufacturing Signals (Regional): India’s manufacturing PMI slipped to a five-year low in July, with slower new orders and weaker job growth, though exports to markets including Nepal stayed resilient. Trade Impact: Nepali tea exports to India via Kakadbhitta fell in both volume and value, citing price swings, quality barriers, and market demand changes. Infrastructure & Cross-border Tension: Nepal and India plan fresh talks over a temporary Susta embankment dispute after an earlier clash. Engineering Focus: The energy minister urged newly recruited engineers to take responsibility for roads, power, irrigation, and industrial structures.