Kathmandu: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Bishnu Prasad Paudel emphasized that the newly introduced budget for the fiscal year 2025/26 is designed to ensure the efficient use of resources and advance infrastructure development. During a discussion hosted by the Society of Infrastructure Journalists (SIJ-Nepal) on the topic of ‘Infrastructure sector in budget and its implementation’, DPM Paudel reiterated the budget’s focus on preventing resource misuse in infrastructure projects.
According to National News Agency Nepal, DPM Paudel stated that the budget was crafted with a realistic approach, aligning with the nation’s requirements and available resources. He mentioned that several reform measures have been implemented to tackle persistent challenges in the infrastructure sector, with the expectation that these will produce effective outcomes.
Paudel remarked, “Budget is only a single digit document. The budget is prepared in a realistic so that the credibility of the budget is not questioned,” highlighting the absence of criticism regarding the newly introduced fiscal plan, which features an annual budget of Rs 1.964 trillion for the year 2025/26, introduced by the government on May 29.
The DPM further noted that fiscal discipline is a priority, with a dedicated focus on capital expenditure to ensure efficient resource management and timely utilization of budget allocations. He pointed out that measures are in place to limit general expenditure and curb excessive recurrent spending.
Regarding the Public Procurement Act, Paudel mentioned that the 14th amendment has addressed certain issues, and he expressed openness to further amendments if needed to boost the construction sector. Addressing concerns over material shortages impacting construction timelines, he confirmed that mining and aggregate material excavation would proceed only from suitable locations, following environmental impact assessments.
Paudel also highlighted the introduction of alternative development financing for large-scale projects, expressing confidence that the necessary legislative support would be secured to facilitate these provisions.