The National Planning Commission (NPC) has outlined the objectives of the 16th Periodic Plan (2024/25-2028/29), aiming to reduce the population below the poverty line by 8 percent and elevate per capita income by USD 1,000 over the span of five years. Presented during the National Development Council meeting held on Thursday, the plan is slated for submission to the Cabinet. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal emphasized the government's overarching goal of fostering a 'Happy Nepali and Prosperous Nepal' during the meeting. The NPC projects a robust economic growth of 7.3 percent in the final year of the 16th plan, with a targeted increase in per capita income to USD 2,413 from the current USD 1,410. Additionally, it aims to reduce the population below the absolute poverty line to 12 percent, down from the current 20.3 percent, while also maintaining consumer inflation within 5 percent. Furthermore, the plan envisions an enhancement in the average life expectancy of Nepalese to 73 years, compared to the current average of 70.5 years.