‘National budget in Nepal should come after India’s Union Budget is announced.’

Former Finance Minister Surendra Pandey arguing that Nepal should announce the new budget after India does so as the Indian economy influences the Nepali economy to a great extent. Such a step would make it easier for Nepal, he further argued, to adjust tariff rates and make relevant policy changes depending upon similar changes made by India through its budget. It would be appropriate to announce the budget towards April end and commence the new fiscal year from May, advised the former minister.

 

‘There is need for a big and capable merchant bank in the Nepali market.’

Bhisma Raj Chalise, CEO of Civil Capital Markets underscoring the need for a big and strong merchant bank in Nepal. He further claimed that none of the 11 merchant banks currently operational in Nepal have enough capital. 

 

‘Agricultural entrepreneurs should be provided Pride of Agriculture Pass.’

Prof Dr Govind Raj Pokhrel, vice-chairman of the National Planning Commission, arguing that entrepreneurs who are engaged in the agriculture sector should be provided such passes in the same manner as renowned businessmen are provided with the Commercially Important Person (CIP) card. 

 

‘Licenses of oil exploration companies who have done nothing except holding the license will not be renewed from now on.’

Industry Minister Karna Bahadur Thapa making it clear that the government will not renew the licenses of oil exploration companies which have not made any progress towards oil exploration in the country except for acquiring the license.