The council members, including economists and professionals, pointed out that the current political situation in the country was unique as it was not envisaged in the interim constitution.[break]
“In such a context, we suggested to the prime minister to follow what governments of different countries have done in similar situations,” said Rameshore Prasad Khanal, the prime minister"s economic advisor.
The council members suggested that the government come up with a full-fledged budget, allocating funds only to the programs that were endorsed by parliament in the past.
“Instead of announcing new programs, we suggested to the government to funnel all the fund to the programs that have already been identified as national priority projects,” said Khanal.
The council members were of the view that the government already has enough development projects to work on, like the mid-hills highway, Kathmandu-Tarai fast track, Kathmandu metro train, second international airport, Sikta irrigation project and Rani-Jamara irrigation project, West Seti and five other mega hydropower projects.
“These projects are pretty important and are reeling under under-financing. Hence, we told the prime minister that it was the perfect time for the government to consolidate those projects, increase finances and speed up implementation,” said Khanal.
According to the council members, such approach will make development effort more focused and make the people feel the change.
Apart from that, the council members also suggested to the government to come up with policies that would not require funds for implementation, but can make difference in the lives of the people.
The meeting headed by Prime Minister Bhattarai also held discussion on agriculture, infrastructure and education sectors, which are top in government"s priority. Discussions were also held on ways to inject new life into the real estate market, which has remained stagnant for almost three years.
Related story
Three advisors appointed in Prime Minister's secretariat
