Kathmandu, August 6 :

In an attempt to control the increased incidents of terror and insecurity, government is all set to bring a special security action plan for the industry, commerce and business sector.

Addressing a special session of the FNCCI 40th annual general meeting, home minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula today said that the government is serious about the recent incidents of extortions and other terror activities, particularly along the border areas.

“Keeping in mind of such unwanted activities, government is planning to strengthen to security measures through the proposed special action plan,” he added.

Sitaula asked the private sector to come up with suggestions for making the proposed mechanism effective and result oriented. He added that security for the industry and business would be beefed up in Birgunj, Biratnagar, Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj areas.

Referring to the increased incidents of extortions and tax collection by the Maoists, Sitaula said that such activities are illegal. “These activities are against the spirit of 25-point code of conduct and eight-point agreement,” he said.

Finance Minister Dr Ram Sharan Mahat said that the government’s attempts are concentrated at creating conducive environment for legitimate trade and businesses. “Institutional and administrative reforms have already been expedited so the business, trade and commerce sector could work in friendly environment,” he added.

Mahat further added that necessary works have been initiated to computerise the whole tax administration and system, including tax assessment and dissemination of information.

Stating that the loans taken from the banks must be repaid, he added that the central bank is authorised to devise necessary policy measures for timely repayment of the loans. “If the loans are not repaid on time, the banks cannot sustain. As a result, some of the private banks could collapse,” he said.

“To make aviation sector more competitive, a new national aviation policy with necessary reforms and amendment to the existing legislation will be brought soon,” said Pradeep Gyawali, minister for culture, tourism and civil aviation. He further added that the government plans to bring a tourism master plan by October this year.

Hridayesh Tripathi, minister for industry, commerce and supplies and Ramesh Lekhak, state minister for labour and transport management said that their respective ministries are open to the suggestions of private sector.

They also assured that the government would work as a facilitator to promote business, industry and commerce in the country.