Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has emphasized that the government is actively implementing numerous schemes to enhance child and maternal health through hospitals and health facilities across federal, provincial, and local levels. Addressing the House of Representatives, PM Oli detailed ongoing efforts and future plans aimed at boosting health, infrastructure, and agriculture sectors.
According to National News Agency Nepal, PM Oli announced a collaborative feasibility study with the Government of Nepal, the Thai International Cooperation Agency, and UNFPA Nepal for the establishment of a specialized ‘birthing hospital’ in Lumbini province. This initiative is part of the broader Lumbini Master Plan, approved in 1978, which aims to tap into the region’s religious and tourism potential.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s strategy to ensure the sustainable operation of Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA). Measures such as concessions on passenger service fees, ground handling, and navigation fees are being implemented. Currently, airlines including Al Jazeera, Fly Dubai, Air Asia, and Nepal Airlines are operating international flights from GBIA, with additional services like labour permits, banking, and currency exchange available on-site.
On the agricultural front, PM Oli reiterated the government’s commitment to setting minimum support prices for key crops like paddy, wheat, and sugarcane to boost local production. He mentioned ongoing revisions to the agriculture modernization project to foster self-reliance and address trade imbalances by enhancing export capacity.
In disaster management, a Japanese team is conducting studies to mitigate flood damage in the Morang and Sunsari districts, with technical support from the Japanese government. This is part of a broader effort to reduce the annual loss of life and property due to natural calamities.
Finally, PM Oli stated that the government is in consultation with provincial and local authorities to align plans and programs with local needs, ensuring they are integrated into the upcoming fiscal year’s budget and initiatives.