Pokhara, June 10

Chief Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung of Province 4 today blamed government and political parties for failure to alleviate poverty in the country.

Speaking at an interaction organised by Poverty Alleviation Fund in Pokhara, CM Gurung charged political parties of maintaining double standards regarding poverty alleviation. “During the election, parties and their leaders pledge to alleviate poverty. Once they reach the corridors of power, they forget the commitments.”

Gurung said incidents of murder had increased due to financial crunch in the country. “The incumbent government has to work for sustainable development. Otherwise, people will not forgive us after five years,” Gurung cautioned.

CM Gurung said his government had accorded top priority to development and economic prosperity of the country. “This fiscal, we spent much time making polices, rules and regulations. We shall begin expediting development work from the next fiscal,” he added.

He further said his government would make policies and programmes in collaboration with the local levels to reduce poverty. “Local levels should be given priority to tap local resources. Micro-industry, small and cottage industry have to be set up,” Gurung added.

He also said his government was planning to develop 300 home stays at various rural municipalities. “We are working to set up home stay even in Dalit settlements to improve the financial condition of Dalit people,” he stated. He said the government was working to grow crops and fruit in Manang, Mustang and Gorkha to better people’s financial condition.