Kathmandu: Nepali Congress (NC) lawmaker Gyanendra Bahadur Karki has highlighted the urgent need to develop the information technology sector into a productive industry. During a session of the House of Representatives focusing on the Annual Estimates of Revenue and Income for the fiscal year 2082-83 BS, Karki emphasized the potential of IT to address unemployment and economic reform.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Karki noted that while approximately 70 percent of Nepal’s population has access to mobile and internet services, a significant number of youths remain unemployed. He pointed out that neighboring countries are capitalizing on IT services to earn substantial foreign income and suggested that Nepal adopt similar strategies.
Karki expressed his support for the fiscal budget, asserting that it is aligned with the aspirations of the people and has the potential to drive sustainable economic reforms. He praised the budget for its focus on achieving high economic growth, poverty alleviation, entrepreneurship development, and the expansion of both public and private investment to create jobs.
He further recommended that the Finance Minister assess allocation capacity, implementation capacity, accountability, and targeted interventions to ensure the budget achieves its intended outcomes. “Unless the budget commitments are not implemented, it will be hard to achieve goals,” Karki warned.
Lawmaker Padam Giri echoed similar sentiments, claiming that the budget is geared towards economic recovery and meeting the aspirations of the people for a “happy Nepali, prosperous Nepal.” He advised the government to prioritize reducing public expenditures and managing loss-making public entities.
Udaya Shamsher JBR described the budget for the upcoming fiscal year as practical and implementable, noting its positive impact on the private sector. He highlighted a provision granting a five-year tax exemption for startups, which he said would encourage new entrepreneurs.
Bhagawati Chaudhary emphasized the importance of balancing realism, resource assurance, and effectiveness to achieve meaningful outcomes from the budget. She praised the plan to attract youth to the information technology sector as a commendable strategy for providing opportunities within the country.
Nagina Yadav, however, pointed out challenges in the budget’s implementation, particularly the need for federal laws to simplify the tax system. She criticized the budget allocation for neglecting the Madhesh Province, despite its aim to solve the country’s economic issues.