Prime Minister Shah Emphasizes Strengthening Policy Bodies Over Dissolution

Kathmandu. Prime Minister Balendra Shah has clarified that instead of dissolving bodies like the National Planning Commission and the Policy Research Institute, the government will focus on strengthening them through reforms to make service delivery more effective.

During a discussion with officials and staff of the commission at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Tuesday, Prime Minister Shah stated that government service delivery can only be facilitated if planning and policy research are well-organized. "If these bodies can be reformed, it will provide significant support in running the government," he said.

Regarding the Policy Research Institute, he said, "We know the importance of subject experts and researchers. We need such excellent expertise that can present deeper studies and long-term vision than elected representatives. The government will fully embrace the academic work of experts."

Prime Minister Shah directed both bodies to work towards achieving results without any excuses or hesitation. "Solid planning and careful implementation are necessary when performing any task. The role of subject experts in development is incomparable; move forward by internalizing this fact," he said.

Clarifying that the argument of lack of coordination between ministries is unacceptable, he stated that such problems should not exist under a single government.

He also warned against using budget and legal complexities as excuses for not working. "Results are only possible through effective study and research. One might be able to run things for 50 years relying on old policies and acts, but the country cannot prosper without reforms," the Prime Minister remarked.

On this occasion, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle stated that the current time should be taken as a golden opportunity for reform and that work will proceed according to high political commitment.

He directed that the knowledge of experts be transformed into government policies, programs, and budgets. He emphasized that proposals with clear goals, adequate budgets, assigned responsibilities, and measurable results should be brought through the respective ministries.

Finance Minister Wagle informed that the process of strengthening existing institutional structures, repealing irrelevant provisions, and developing policies according to new requirements will be initiated.

He also discussed the strategy of starting innovative programs as 'pilot projects' and expanding them to the national level after they are successful.

During the discussion, commission officials briefed the Prime Minister on the progress, challenges, and budget status of their respective areas.

Staff of the institute mentioned that the studies and research conducted so far are very important for the government's working system and also demanded additional manpower and resources.

They stated that this direct dialogue with the Prime Minister has inspired them to work with more energy and effort.