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.
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