KATHMANDU, MAY 12
The government has unveiled its policy and programme for the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84, outlining an ambitious reform agenda focused on economic transformation, digital governance, infrastructure expansion and social sector improvements.
President Ramchandra Paudel presented the policy document at a joint meeting of the Federal Parliament on Monday.
Economic reform and investment push
The government has pledged to achieve an average annual economic growth rate of around seven percent over the next decade through a new phase of structural reforms. It plans to improve the business environment, reduce production costs and attract domestic, foreign and diaspora investment.
Measures include legal and institutional reforms, predictable economic policies and development of long-term capital markets. The policy also emphasises strengthening the stock market, expanding institutional investment and promoting bonds and infrastructure financing tools.
A shift towards a formal, cashless economy has been prioritised, with plans to digitise transactions, reform tax structures and make revenue administration more business-friendly.
Digital economy and IT sector focus
The policy identifies information technology as a strategic sector, with plans to promote software, digital services, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence exports. The government aims to develop digital parks, data centres and public digital infrastructure to position Nepal as a regional tech hub.
A "digital governance blueprint" will be implemented, integrating public services into a unified platform and expanding the use of the Nagarik App.
Agriculture and rural economy
Revitalising the rural economy and modernising agriculture remain key priorities. The government plans to promote mechanisation, digital technology and agri-tech, while ensuring minimum support prices for key crops, and policy to connect agricultural production with industry and market.
Land banks will be introduced to utilise fallow land, and farmers will gain access to concessional finance through identification systems and credit cards.
Infrastructure and energy development
The policy sets an ambitious target of producing 30,000 MW of electricity within the next decade. It prioritises hydropower, irrigation expansion and integrated water resource management.
Large infrastructure projects will be implemented under strict timelines with improved project management, while alternative financing models, including diaspora investment, will be mobilised.
Transport infrastructure, including highways, tunnels, railways and public transit systems, will be expanded, with plans to introduce electric mass transit and begin work on bus rapid transit in Kathmandu.
Tourism and aviation
Tourism development will focus on promoting Nepal as a global spiritual and adventure destination. The government plans to expand air connectivity, modernise airports and fully operationalise international airports.
A digital tourism system and preparations for "Visit Nepal 2085" have also been announced.
Industrialisation and employment
A new industrial policy will be introduced, with support for startups, small and medium enterprises, and export-oriented industries. The government will implement a "30-day investment approval" mechanism and provide incentives for women-led enterprises.
Employment generation will be prioritised through a new national employment policy, apprenticeship programmes and a legal framework for remote work.
Social sectors: education, health and inclusion
The policy guarantees free education up to secondary level and expansion of digital learning systems. The government will implement minimum service standards in the health sector, reform health insurance, and expand tele-health services.
Targeted programmes will be introduced for women, children, senior citizens and marginalised groups, with a commitment to eliminate gender-based violence and strengthen social protection systems.
Environment and climate action
Climate resilience and green growth form a core component of the policy. Plans include carbon trading mechanisms, green bonds and achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.
Efforts will also be made to improve air quality, manage forest resources and strengthen disaster preparedness through early warning systems and technology-driven monitoring.
Governance and anti-corruption measures
The government has reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, with plans to strengthen oversight bodies, digitise public services and enforce accountability mechanisms.
Civil service reforms, performance-based evaluation and expansion of e-governance systems are also included to improve service delivery.
