Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has instructed the National Planning Commission (NPC) to prioritize poverty alleviation by boosting production, productivity, and entrepreneurship.
During a meeting with NPC officials, including Vice Chairperson Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, at Singha Durbar, Oli emphasized the need to invest in skill development, entrepreneurship, and employment creation, stating that infrastructure development activities are nearing completion.
“We must advance towards self-reliance by enhancing production. People should be encouraged to work hard, and concrete measures should be identified to reduce poverty. Ministries must present specific plans to increase production and productivity, which will positively impact the national economy,” Oli stated.
The Prime Minister also urged the NPC to strengthen monitoring and evaluation of national-pride projects, entrepreneurship development, and improvements in service delivery and governance.
NPC Vice Chairman Adhikari briefed Oli on the implementation of the 16th Plan, its challenges, and revisions to the National Project Bank.
He highlighted the importance of a systematic review of incomplete projects and adjustments to project evaluation criteria, supplementary grants, and special grants. Adhikari further stressed the need to empower local levels for the effective implementation of fiscal federalism.
Economic and Development Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister Dr. Yuba Raj Khatiwada and Chief Secretary Eaknarayan Aryal were also present at the meeting.