President Presents Policy and Program for Fiscal Year 2083/84

Kathmandu. President Ram Chandra Paudel has presented the policy and program for the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84 in the joint meeting of the Federal Parliament. In the process, he has made public ambitious plans to transform Nepal from a traditional labor-based economy to a digital and technology-oriented economy. The government has also announced new financial and administrative models focusing on good governance, physical infrastructure, and information technology.
Focus on Information Technology and 'Remote Work'
The government has declared the information technology sector as a 'national strategic industry'. President Paudel stated that software development, AI computation, and cloud computing will be promoted as export-oriented industries to develop Nepal as a regional 'tech hub'. Specifically, a legal framework for 'remote work', enabling people to work for foreign employers while staying in Nepal, has been announced. For this, IT exporting companies will be provided with tax incentives and financial concessions.
Modern Technology in Border Management and Security
An integrated border management information system, including a 'face recognition system', will be installed at border crossings for the first time. The policy and program mention the construction of automated surveillance infrastructure using drones and night vision cameras to prevent illegal activities at the border.
Integrated Master Plan for Infrastructure and Transportation
An 'Integrated National Master Plan' will be prepared to bring road, rail, air, and water transportation under a single umbrella. The investment modality for the Kathmandu-Kerung and Kathmandu-Raxaul railway lines will be determined, prioritizing them. Similarly, the government aims to connect all local levels with 12-month accessible road networks and expedite the construction of the Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track. A new policy has also been introduced to offer shares as an alternative to compensation for citizens affected by projects.
Reverse Migration and Integrated Package
The government has announced an integrated package for 'reverse migration' for Nepalis returning from foreign employment. Specific production areas will be developed to attract returnees into agricultural entrepreneurship. Similarly, arrangements will be made to provide company registration and seed capital in a single day through the Startup Nepal portal. A 'investment visa' policy has also been introduced for those making large investments. Furthermore, the government has also introduced a policy of dismissing employees involved in party activities.
Administrative Reform and Good Governance
Adopting a policy of zero tolerance against corruption, the government has announced extensive reforms in public services. A policy will be adopted to not arbitrarily transfer project chiefs and to have direct performance agreements with them. Similarly, land survey and land revenue services will be integrated, and services will be provided digitally from the local level.
Education, Social, and Environment
The government plans to review the curriculum at all levels of education, provide high-speed internet to 10,000 community schools, and regulate private schools healthily. In the social sector, the country will be declared 'street child-free' within one year. For environmental conservation, a 'Nepal Carbon Authority' will be formed, and a policy will be adopted to directly benefit community forests from carbon credits.
Parliamentary Scene
Some interesting scenes were also witnessed while the President was presenting the policy and program. Prime Minister Balen Shah left the meeting hall before the program ended, while the Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle was seen sleeping during the President's address, which garnered attention. Through this policy and program, the government has expressed its commitment to taking Nepal into a new era of a borderless economy and balanced trade.

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