KATHMANDU, June 25: The Biratnagar Metropolitan City has announced a comprehensive budget of Rs 3.28 billion for the upcoming fiscal year 2023/24.
During the 12th session of the Municipal Assembly held on Sunday, Deputy Mayor Shilpa Karki presented the budget, outlining the allocation of funds across various sectors. Notably, a budget of Rs 680 million has been designated for office operations and administrative activities, while a sum of Rs 1.65 billion has been allocated for infrastructure development. The economic development sector will receive Rs 39.6 million.
The metropolis has allocated Rs 852 million for social development, including Rs 136.7 million dedicated to healthcare and Rs 679.4 million allocated for education. Additionally, Rs 30.5 million will be invested in governance and inter-related areas, while Rs 27.2 million will be allocated for environmental conservation and disaster management.
What is missing in budget for agriculture?
Key projects to be implemented in the next fiscal year include ward-level projects for which a budget of Rs 380 million has been allocated. Likewise, Rs 200 million has been allocated for city-level projects, and Rs 650 million for multi-year payments, pride projects, and subsequent plans. Furthermore, Rs 100 million has been earmarked for the maintenance of blacktopped roads, including those built under the RUDP program.
Other budgetary allocations include Rs 15.3 million for street lighting, Rs 263.7 million for additional infrastructure initiatives, Rs 26.5 million for a wastewater treatment center, and Rs 20 million for the supplementary fund.
The metropolis is expected to generate Rs 802.4 million in revenue from distribution, Rs 995 million in internal sources, and an additional Rs 100 million each from public participation and internal debt.
The policies and programs for the upcoming fiscal year prioritize agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. The metropolis aims to boost meat and milk production through commercial animal breeding, poultry farming, and animal husbandry. Additionally, subsidies for agricultural machinery, seeds for crops like rice, wheat, and corn, agricultural insurance programs, and services for farmers at the ward office will continue.
To preserve the cultural heritage of the Koshi region, the budget includes plans for constructing an ethnic museum, developing Biratnagar as a tourist circuit, and launching campaigns such as "Visit Biratnagar" and "Enjoy in Biratnagar."
Other notable initiatives in the budget include the implementation of the "One Ward One Park" concept, the continuation of the "Educate Daughter, Save Daughter" campaign, the provision of free ambulance services for senior citizens of over 80 years, and the provision of health insurance for underprivileged citizens.
