Kathmandu: The government has unveiled plans to broaden the reach of the social security programme, according to the announcement made by President Ram Chandra Paudel while presenting the government's policies and programmes during a joint meeting of the House of Representatives and National Assembly at the Federal Parliament on Tuesday.

Temporary and salaried workers in both government and organized sectors, along with those in the formal sector, will now be encompassed within the social security programme. The government has emphasized the integration of disparate social security initiatives.

President Paudel further outlined policy adjustments aimed at eliminating redundancy among the Social Security Fund, Employees Provident Fund, and Citizen Investment Trust.

Health insurance programme to be made mandatory for organized sector

The government has made it mandatory for the organized sector to enroll in the health insurance programme. Presenting the government’s policies and programs for the fiscal year 2024/25 on Tuesday, President Ram Chandra Paudel said a provision has been made for mandatory enrollment in health insurance for the organized sector. “The government will make arrangements for mandatory enrollment in health insurance for all organized sectors, including government, non-government, and others across the country,” said Poudel.

Monthly salary payments for teachers starting next fiscal year

The government has declared a significant change in teachers' salary payment procedures, stating that salaries will be disbursed monthly starting from the next fiscal year. President Ramchandra Paudel, in his address outlining the government's policies and programs for the fiscal year 2024/25, highlighted this initiative. Currently, teachers receive their salaries every four months.

Furthermore, the government has announced its intention to establish a legal framework prohibiting teachers from affiliating with political parties.

Govt to provide electric stoves and tubewells to families below the poverty line

The government has announced plans to distribute essential items such as electric stoves and tubewells to families living below the poverty line. President Ramchandra Paudel made this declaration while unveiling the policy and program for the upcoming fiscal year. Additionally, he mentioned that impoverished families will be identified and provided with free insurance through local authorities.