April 11: Three former Finance Ministers have drawn the attention of the government to focus to economic stability, development and good governance.     
Former Finance Ministers Bishnu Prasad Poudel, Surendra Pandey and Dr Yuba Raj Khatiwada drew the attention of the government by organizing a press conference on Sunday (April 10). On the occasion, they urged the government not to allow the country's economy to deteriorate.    
In a statement distributed to the media on the occasion, they stated that the external sector is facing crisis. Stating that imports have increased uncontrollably in the current fiscal year and reached around Rs 1500 billion in eight months, the former finance ministers warned that imports will reach Rs 2200 billion if the present situation continues.

The former finance ministers opined that the growing import has not contributed to production except leading to increased consumption. In this backdrop, they urged the government to think about the economic health of the country before it is too late.    
Noting that trade deficit has increased at present, the former finance ministers projected it to exceed Rs 2000 billion by the close of the current fiscal year if the present situation continues.    
They also objected to the government's decision to suspend Nepal Rastra Bank’s Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari. -- RSS