Reforms underway to increase investment: Minister Bhandary

Kathmandu, Mar. 30

Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, said that although the government has created a conducive environment for investment, there is still much work to be done.

Addressing the 16^th European Regional Conference of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in Malta, he cited India and China as examples, emphasising that political stability is essential for investment.

"The government's current priority is policy reform. Our laws are overly cumbersome, and therefore, significant adjustments are required. The ordinance was introduced precisely to address systemic issues," said Minister Bhandari, according a statement issued by the NRNA.

He maintained that with the implementation of the new amendments, no task should take more than seven days to be processed. If a task remains incomplete, an appropriate explanation must be provided.

Minister Bhandari further announced that individuals residing abroad will now be able to register businesses in Nepal remotely. Stressing the shift towards digitalisation, he stated that work will now be conducted online rather than through physical queues.

"He also assured the audience that he would relay their concerns to the Prime Minister and work towards resolving them," read the statement.

NRNA President Badri KC underscored that investment thresholds, whether minimum or maximum, should not be a matter of concern for investors.

"There are numerous Nepalis eager to invest in Nepal. However, when the government organises an investment summit, it often overlooks the NRNA. We have repeatedly called for the enactment of an NRNA-specific law, incorporating economic, social, and cultural rights," he said.

According to KC, no one understands foreign investment better than Non-Resident Nepalis. "To keep our future generations connected to Nepal, we must invest in our homeland. Yet, the government continues to frustrate us with bureaucratic hurdles instead of facilitating our citizenship rights," he said.

NRNA Vice President Rozina Pradhan Rai highlighted the increasing number of women migrating to Europe and stressed the importance of heightened awareness.

"In certain situations, women have been subjected to exploitation and undue pressure at their workplaces. This is why vigilance is crucial," she said.

Stating that mental health issues among women have been rising, she suggested that before coming to Europe, it is essential to thoroughly understand the nature of employment and the credibility of the employing company.

Secretary of the NRNA, Tika Gurung, noted the growing international demand for Nepali products such as dried Gundruk, millet flour, buckwheat, and handicrafts.

She emphasised that branding Nepali products for the global market requires collective effort.

Likewise, Santosh Bhattarai, a businessman based in Germany, criticised the complications involved in registering a business, particularly the mandatory provision of a national identity card. He said that until Nepalis living abroad are provided with a streamlined investment process, significant progress will remain elusive.

Rajeshwar Gyawali, Director General of the Department of Industry, acknowledged that the lengthy legislative process often leads to challenges. Nevertheless, the government is striving to facilitate investment for Non-Resident Nepalis, he said.

Himal Chandra Aryal, Under-Secretary of the Investment Board’s Legal Division, maintained that efforts are under way to establish a streamlined, single-window system for all investment-related procedures.

He urged stakeholders not to confine investment to a limited number of sectors.

"We have been exploring ways to attract investment beyond the usual hotel and hydropower industries. We are making efforts in areas such as cable cars and industrial parks," he stated.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 31 March 2025.    

Minister Paudel proposes co-work to fight malnutrition

Kathmandu, Mar. 30

Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has proposed collaborating with an American charity to reduce malnutrition among pregnant women and newborns in Nepal.

Minister Paudel, who is in Paris, France to participate in a world conference on nutrition, made this request during talks with William Moore, CEO and Research Director of the American aid organisation Eleanor Crook Foundation, at the Nepali Embassy in Paris, informed the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) in a statement.

“In Nepal, pregnant women are currently given iron pills. However, experts say that although they contain iron and folic acid, they are deficient in 15 other nutrients. The government is preparing to replace the iron pills currently being given with a mixture of all 15 deficient nutrients to reduce malnutrition in both pregnant women and newborns,” read the statement.

The American charity has responded positively to Minister Paudel's request for cooperation in this regard. It said that an agreement could be reached shortly to study the additional budget needs of the government, said the Ministry.

"We are trying to identify resources to ensure that maternal and child health care does not weaken due to financial constraints," Minister Paudel said. "This dialogue is a part of that. We are excited about the discussions."

Dr. Bivek Kumar Lal, head of the Family Welfare Division, who was in Minister Poudel’s delegation, said that a blueprint has been developed for collaboration within a few months. He said that positive initiatives have been taken to improve maternal and child malnutrition in Nepal.

The organisation has also responded positively to Minister Paudel's request to collaborate with the Nepali industry in the production of nutrient-rich ingredients.

Dr. Lal said that improvements in this area are of great significance as the role of nutrients provided to pregnant women is crucial in reducing maternal and infant mortality due to malnutrition in Nepal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 31 March 2025.    

FNJ launches probe into journalist's death, attack at media houses

Kathmandu, Mar. 29

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has taken a step in response to the tragic killing of journalist Suresh Rajak and the attack on media houses during violent demonstrations at Tinkune, Kathmandu, on March 28, 2025.

FNJ has formed a seven-member probe team under the coordination of its Vice Chair, Umid Bagchand, to investigate the incident. The team includes Ramesh Khatiwada, Prakash Dhaulakoti, Soni Sharma, Ashok Tiwari, Baikuntha Parajuli and Sabi Priyasan.

This decision was made during the central committee meeting of FNJ, attended by office bearers and central members in the federal capital.

Bagchand said the team will immediately visit the affected media houses, and speak with victims, witnesses, fellow journalists and the families of the deceased journalist. Their objective is to document how the violence unfolded and provide recommendations on how the FNJ should respond. The violent protest, led by pro-monarchy supporters, resulted in Rajak's death when the building he was reporting from was set ablaze.

The office of Kantipur Television and the Annapurna Post daily were attacked.

The FNJ and the wider media community have strongly condemned the killing, organising a protest at Maitighar Mandala on March 29, demanding a thorough investigation and strict legal action against the perpetrators. Journalists from various media organisations and associations reached the venue to protest against Rajak's death. Senior journalists, including former FNJ presidents, have called for justice and compensation for Rajak’s family.

Meanwhile, the FNJ has also canceled its 70th-anniversary celebrations in mourning and is preparing to submit a memorandum to the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung.

Nepalese journalists, backed by international media and human rights organisations, continue to protest against increasing restrictions on press freedom. They urge the government to ensure the protection of journalists and uphold press freedom as a pillar of democracy.

Similarly, journalists organised protest programmes in Hetaunda of Makwanpur, Malangwa of Sarlahi and Rajbiraj of Siraha districts.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 March 2025.    

TechPeak Nepal held in US

Kathmandu, Mar. 29

The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce in Nepal (AmCham Nepal), organised the first-ever international roadshow for Nepal’s IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) industry in the United States.

This initiative, titled ‘Tech Peak Nepal: Orlando 2025’, highlighted Nepal’s emerging potential as a prime destination for IT outsourcing and services on the global stage, the CNI informed in a statement on Friday.

A focal point of the event was the Nepal Pavilion at the Shared Services and Outsourcing Week (SSOW) Conference 2025, the world’s largest gathering of outsourcing professionals. The pavilion introduced Nepal’s growing IT and ITES sector to an international audience, drawing attention from key investors, stakeholders and decision-makers in the outsourcing industry, read the statement.

Leading six Nepali tech companies—Sakchha, Innovate Tech, F1Soft, Simjung, Cynical Technology, and Monal Tech—showcased their innovative solutions, highlighting Nepal’s capacity for outsourcing and technological advancements.

These companies participated alongside global industry giants such as Capgemini, SAP, Infosys, IBM, Cognizant, and others, signaling Nepal’s readiness for significant IT investments.

The delegation was led by Ajit Shah, Chair of the CNI IT Council and Founding Chairman of AmCham Nepal.

According to him, this historic event underscored Nepal’s capabilities, with a strong emphasis on the nation’s skilled workforce, cost-efficiency, and innovative IT solutions.

CNI’s President, Rajesh Kumar Agrawal, said that the ‘Tech Peak Nepal: Orlando 2025’ has made history by showcasing Nepal’s immense potential in the global outsourcing industry.

Likewise, Nirmal Kajee Shrestha, President of AmCham Nepal, highlighted the roadshow as a new milestone for Nepal’s ITES sector, which would open doors for future investments and partnerships.

The SSOW Conference 2025, attended by over 1,000 professionals, provided a unique platform for Nepali firms to connect with international clients, investors, and strategic partners, further positioning Nepal as a competitive ITES outsourcing hub, read the statement.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 March 2025.    

FNCCI, FENIE condemn destruction of private and public property

Kathmandu, Mar. 29

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has expressed deep concern over the recent protests and demonstrations that have severely impacted the general public, business community, and private enterprises.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the business body strongly condemned the acts of violence, looting, and arson that have resulted in the destruction of both private and public property.

The protests that took place in Kathmandu on Friday, March 27 led to unfortunate incidents of human casualties and significant loss of property, which FNCCI describes as deeply saddening.

A journalist and a protestor were killed in the incidents while businesses and properties were vandalised and set to fire. The Federation has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished for a swift recovery to the injured.

Furthermore, the FNCCI has condemned the attacks on private properties, media houses, business establishments, offices, and other commercial activities. The incidents of arson, looting, and violent destruction have caused substantial damage, and the federation has demanded compensation for those affected.

"While FNCCI acknowledges the right to peaceful protest as guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal, it strongly denounces the use of violence, destruction of property, and loss of lives during demonstrations," read the statemen. The federation has urged all concerned stakeholders to ensure public safety and prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.

FNCCI has called upon the government and relevant authorities to take immediate action in safeguarding law and order while protecting the rights of individuals to conduct their business activities without fear or disruption.

Likewise, in a separate statement, Federation of Nepalese Industries and Entrepreneurs (FENIE) strongly condemned the recent attacks on business establishments, financial institutions, and private properties, stating that such violent acts are aimed at destabilising Nepal’s economy and weakening the financial strength of industrialists and the general public. 

"For years, Nepali industrialists and entrepreneurs have faced repeated attacks, with financial institutions being targeted to create economic instability. We have asserted that these actions are part of a regressive agenda orchestrated by former royalists to cripple the economy and push the nation backward. The violent activities carried out in Tinkune Friday by self-proclaimed royalist groups have further exposed this underlying intent," read the statement.

Criminal activities, including the destruction of public and private property, are unacceptable and must be dealt with firmly, it said. 

The FENIE has called on all relevant stakeholders to ensure a safe, transparent, and fear-free business environment in Nepal. It has urged business communities and the general public to remain vigilant against such activities and work together to protect life and property.  

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 March 2025.    

Litmus Industries begins aluminum rod production

Kathmandu, Mar. 28

Litmus Industries Limited has inaugurated Nepal’s first aluminum rod manufacturing plant as part of its new initiative, Litmus 2.0.

The production plant in Ramgram, Hakui of Nawalparasi, will help in reducing the import of aluminum rods, the company said in a statement.

A furnace firing ceremony was held on Wednesday to mark the launch of the production.

Currently, Nepal imports aluminum rods to meet the growing demand in the wires, cables, and conductors sector. “The establishment of this plant will significantly reduce import dependency by ensuring a steady and high-quality supply of aluminum rods within the country. By localising production, Litmus Industries aims to help decrease Nepal’s trade deficit and retain valuable revenue within the national economy,” read the statement.

The company also said that the plant is expected to develop skills and technical expertise in Nepal’s aluminum and electrical industries.

It termed the industrial initiative a major achievement for Litmus Industries Limited as well as a strategic milestone for the nation’s manufacturing sector.

By promoting local production and industrialisation, this initiative is poised to attract both domestic and foreign investments, further strengthening Nepal’s economic stability, it said. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 29 March 2025.    

MoF stresses fiscal discipline and policy focus for FY 2024/25 budget

Kathmandu, Mar. 27

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has concluded discussions with 16 ministries regarding the formulation of budget for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2024/25.

As part of this process, a discussion was held with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation on Thursday, the MoF informed in a statement.

During these discussions, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel urged that policy shifts be prioritised over mere budget figures.

According to the statement, he emphasised the core principles and spirit of federalism, the roles of the federal, provincial, and local governments, and the need to transfer programmes and projects currently under the federal government to the appropriate provincial and local levels.

He noted that federalism cannot be strengthened if the federal government continues to carry out tasks meant for the provincial and local levels.

Likewise, DPM Paudel called for a review of all past programmes and plans, focusing on federal projects while discontinuing, reducing, or adjusting certain programmes. He stressed the importance of continuing only essential programmes and incorporating smart initiatives that align with the changing times and public needs. He also requested that projects costing less than Rs. 30 million should not be included in the budget.

Similarly, DPM Paudel highlighted the need to prioritise projects and programmes that are ready for study and implementation. He urged ministries to submit realistic proposals that do not require reallocation or adjustments in funds.

He assured that the upcoming budget would be disciplined and realistic, taking into account available resources while addressing public aspirations and national priorities.

About a couple of days ago, the MoF had held discussions with sectoral ministries, emphasising budget allocation and capital expenditure.

The ministry has been conducting separate consultations with relevant ministries, and the National Planning Commission. It believes that better coordination among these three entities—ministries, the commission, and the MoF—will enhance a sense of ownership in implementation and yield better outcomes.

Previously, the MoF had held discussions with ministries related to physical and urban development, communications, education, defence, home affairs, sports, land reforms, agriculture, drinking water, federal affairs, industry, health, energy, and women and children.

Further discussions will be conducted with the remaining ministries as part of the budget preparation process.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 March 2025.