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Prime Minister Balendra Shah is currently responding to the lawmakers' queries in the House of Representatives (HoR) meeting.

In response to Nepali Congress lawmaker Arjun Narsing KC's query over delayed official release of the Gauri Bahadur Karki-led commission report on Gen Z movement, PM Shah said government would not only officially make public the Karki-led report on Gen Z movement but all other issues of human rights violations perpetrated in different agitations and related reports. 

PM Shah said that the government is committed to human rights, so it studies well and makes public all reports.

In the very beginning of the HoR meeting today, PM Shah sought time with Speaker Dor Prasad Aryal to give responses to lawmakers' concern.

Speaker Aryal then allowed lawmakers to put forth their queries with party representation before the PM. 

Speaker of the House of Representatives Dol Prasad Aryal has said that Prime Minister Balendra Shah is preparing to come to the House soon.

After opposition parties continuously demanded Prime Minister Shah's presence and his response to their questions, Speaker Aryal said during an informal conversation that he had been informed the Prime Minister is preparing to attend the House. 

Aryal also said that he would fix the date for Prime Minister Shah's presence and response after receiving a formal letter from the government.

Speaker Aryal also urged opposition lawmakers not to obstruct the House as there is a lot of work left in the lawmaking process.

Earlier in the meeting, Chief Whip of the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party, Kabindra Burlakoti, had informed the House that Prime Minister Shah would come to the House within a week.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives meeting resumed and entered the regular agenda amid protests from opposition parties. 

The meeting, which was adjourned for 15 minutes, resumed after about an hour.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said that the government is committed to delivering real, visible improvements to daily life of the citizens.

He said so in a joint meeting with the European Union (EU) countries’ ambassadors based in Kathmandu and New Delhi as well as ambassadors of other countries based in Kathmandu.

The meeting took place today at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singhadurbar.

PM Shah stated that he fully recognizes the urgency of the present moment and the profound responsibility entrusted to him.

“We are meeting today at a historic juncture in Nepal’s political journey. The recent election results have delivered a clear and decisive mandate for good governance and inclusive economic prosperity. The mandate we have received carries immense hope for our citizens. Our commitment is clear. We are committed to delivering real, visible improvements to daily life of our citizens,” he said on the occasion, according to Deepa Dahal, the Prime Minister’s Press and Research Expert.

Noting that being new does not necessarily mean a complete break from the past, the PM said, “We are fully committed to protecting democratic values and maintaining political stability while ensuring that Nepal’s policy direction remains clear, consistent and predictable.”

The Prime Minister said that at a time when conflicts continue to affect different parts of the world, it is ordinary people who suffer the most, stressing on dialogue, diplomacy and international law should prevail over military confrontation to maintain peace and tranquility.

“Nepal continues to pursue a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy. Our engagement with our neighbors, development partners and friendly countries is guided by the principles of mutual respect, sovereign equality, and shared prosperity. We also hope for an enhanced level of cooperation with the EU member states and all the friendly countries you represent in realizing our national aspiration,” he added.

Stating that the government is committed to good governance and inclusive growth of the country’s economy, he said, “We aim to benefit from global markets to create new opportunities for our people. To attract greater investment, we are streamlining procedures, encouraging innovation, and promoting sustainable development.”

In the joint meeting, the PM also expressed sincere appreciation to all our development partners and friends for their steadfast goodwill and support toward Nepal’s development and prosperity.

“We are eager to deepen our partnership across key sectors, including trade, investment, green energy, climate action and tourism,” PM Shah said. “We deeply value our engagement with each of the friendly countries you represent and look forward to working together in the days ahead. Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs will remain in close contact with all of you,” he added. 

At the meeting, the ambassadors praised Nepal for peacefully conducting the elections.

They also congratulated Prime Minister Shah on reaching the helm of leadership of the new government with a mandate for good governance, economic development and prosperity.

The ambassadors and heads of missions stated that they are ready to collaborate with and promote investments in Nepal in various sectors for its economic growth and prosperity.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah is holding a joint meeting with non-resident ambassadors and heads of missions of countries of the European Union (EU) on Tuesday. 

The joint meeting and discussion will take place at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers at 11:30 am, it is stated.

According to Deepa Dahal, the Prime Minister's press and research advisor, the collective meeting will focus on providing information about Nepal's current priorities, further strengthening bilateral relations, and discussing various areas of cooperation.

Earlier, on April 8, Prime Minister Shah had a joint meeting and dialogue with ambassadors of various countries and heads of diplomatic missions in Nepal.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah will hold a joint meeting tomorrow with non-resident ambassadors and heads of missions of countries of the European Union (EU).

Prime Minister Shah is scheduled to have a group meeting and discussion with them at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers at 11:30 am, it is stated.

According to Deepa Dahal, the Prime Minister's press and research advisor, the joint meeting will focus on providing information about Nepal's current priorities, further strengthening bilateral relations, and discussing various areas of cooperation.

Earlier, on April 8, Prime Minister Shah had a collective meeting and dialogue with ambassadors of various countries and heads of diplomatic missions in Nepal.

Barely a month into office, the Balen Shah administration has placed digital governance at the center of its reform agenda. From speeches to policy documents, “Digital Nepal” has been framed not merely as a long-term vision, but as an immediate transformation in how the state interacts with citizens. The government’s 100-point agenda reinforces that emphasis, with roughly a fifth of its priorities directly tied to digitalization. Yet an assessment of ministry websites and social media platforms reveals a more uneven reality—one where ambition is evident, but execution remains fragmented, inconsistent, and at times neglected.

Across ministries, one of the most striking patterns is uniformity without functionality. Nearly all ministry websites use the same interface, suggesting a centralized template, but that standardization has not translated into quality. English-language versions, crucial for accessibility, transparency, and international engagement, are generally weak, incomplete, poorly translated, or outdated. Equally notable is the absence of basic political transparency: most ministries do not include biographies of their ministers on official websites, leaving a glaring gap in public-facing leadership information.

Nowhere is this contradiction more visible than at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers (OPMCM). Despite serving as the nerve center of governance, its digital presence appears uneven. The website has a weak English version, lacks a biography of Prime Minister Balen Shah, and continues to display outdated notices on its homepage. Its photo gallery is updated irregularly, reinforcing the impression of a platform that is not actively maintained.

Outside the website, however, the Prime Minister’s digital reach tells a different story. The official “PMO Nepal” Facebook page, with around 82,000 followers, is regularly updated, while Shah’s personal Facebook page, “Balen,” commands an audience of more than 4.6m. The contrast highlights a broader issue: institutional platforms lag behind the personal digital influence of political leaders. The PMO also maintains accounts on TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Messenger channels, but most are either inactive or inconsistently maintained. Even its X account, despite having more than 700,000 followers, has not been updated since late March.

The OPMCM website does host one of the government’s more functional digital tools: the “Hello Sarkar Complaint Management System,” which allows citizens to register and track complaints. The platform signals an attempt to improve digital service delivery. Yet even here, gaps are visible. The publicly displayed complaint status appears to be at least a year old, raising questions about whether backend systems are being updated as actively as the interface suggests.

At the Ministry of Home Affairs, the situation is somewhat more balanced, though still imperfect. While the English version remains weak and the biography of Home Minister Balen Shah is absent, the website is otherwise updated regularly. Notices and photo galleries are current, and the homepage integrates multiple citizen-facing tools, including complaint forms, tenders, directives, and thematic portals such as the Drug Portal and Peace Portal. These features indicate an effort to centralize services digitally.

However, the ministry’s social media presence lacks originality. Official accounts largely reshare updates from subordinate agencies, including the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority and the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, rather than producing distinct institutional communication.

The Ministry of Defense presents a more static digital presence. While notices and photographs are updated, key details such as office hours remain outdated. More notably, its social media presence appears almost dormant. Official Facebook and X accounts are neither active nor integrated into the website, reflecting a disconnect between the ministry and contemporary digital communication practices.

At the Ministry of Finance, the contrast between innovation and neglect is particularly stark. On one hand, the homepage includes a QR code for lodging complaints and a budget suggestion form, signaling openness toward participatory governance. On the other hand, the English version remains weak, a biography of Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle is absent, and the photo gallery is outdated.

Social media integration is also inconsistent. While the ministry’s X account (@mofnepal) is active and followed by more than 57,000 users, its Facebook page has effectively been abandoned since its creation in 2022, with no posts beyond initial profile and cover updates. Adding to the inconsistency, the website inexplicably integrates the X handle of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority.

In contrast, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stands out as a relative exception. Its English-language website is comparatively well developed, likely reflecting the ministry’s international mandate. It includes a biography of Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, while press releases, notices, and updates are maintained regularly. Its social media platforms are integrated and active, with around 80,000 followers on Facebook and more than 267,000 on X. Even here, however, the photo gallery remains outdated, suggesting that no ministry is entirely free from lapses in digital upkeep.

The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation presents a mixed picture. While notices are updated regularly and the homepage usefully lists national pride projects with relevant details and links, other aspects lag behind. The English version is weak, a biography of Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha is missing, and the photo gallery is outdated. Its Facebook page, despite having a small following, remains active. Its X account, created in April, has just two followers and no posts.

The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport provides only a one-line biography of Minister Sunil Lamsal, and that too only in Nepali. While notices are updated regularly and Facebook remains active, the ministry’s X account has been dormant since 2024 and has minimal followers.

The Ministry of Urban Development mirrors this inconsistency. Although notices and photographs are updated, its newly created Facebook page has negligible reach, while its X account has remained inactive for years and is not even linked to the official website.

At the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, the absence of a biography of Minister Sobita Gautam continues the broader trend. Although notices and photographs are updated, newly created social media accounts remain inactive, suggesting that digital presence is being treated more as a formality than a functional communication tool.

The Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens provides a biography of Minister Sita Badi, but only in Nepali, limiting accessibility. While its Facebook presence is active, the absence of an identifiable official X account reflects incomplete platform integration.

Similarly, the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration lacks a biography of Minister Pratibha Rawal and has not updated its X account in more than a year, despite maintaining an active Facebook page.

The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation presents an even weaker digital profile, with no ministerial biography, poor English-language content, an outdated photo gallery, and minimal activity across social media platforms.

The Ministry of Health and Population also lacks a biography of Minister Nisha Meheta, while its English-language content remains weak. The photo gallery and notices section are not updated regularly. However, the ministry stands out in terms of digital services and social media presence. Its Facebook page, with around 782,000 followers, is updated regularly, while its X account is also active.

The ministry’s homepage features several public-facing digital services, including the Nepal Health Facility Registry, the Free Health Dashboard, and Digital Mapping of Health INGOs. It also provides real-time data on hospitals, beds, ICU beds, ventilators, and available free beds across the country.

Similarly, the Ministry of Water Supply does not include a biography of Minister Meheta, while its English-language content remains poor. The photo gallery and notices section are outdated, and Facebook and X accounts are not integrated into the website. During the assessment, no official Facebook or X accounts linked to the ministry could be identified.

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology also lacks a biography of Minister Sasmit Pokharel, while the English version of its website remains weak. The photo gallery contains outdated material, though notices are updated regularly.

Despite this, the ministry provides several useful digital services on its homepage, including career guidance tools, e-learning resources, and services targeted at students, teachers, guardians, and local governments. Its Facebook page, followed by around 40,000 users, is regularly updated. Although the X account “@MoEST_Nepal” is linked on the website, the link redirects to a page stating that the account does not exist.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports also does not feature a biography of Minister Pokharel, while the English-language version of the website remains poor. Although the photo gallery is outdated, the notices section is updated regularly. The ministry’s Facebook page is active and has around 15,000 followers. However, its X account, “@youthmoys,” appears largely inactive, with the last post published on 7 May 2025.

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation does not feature a biography of Minister Ganess Paudel, while the English-language version of its website remains weak, similar to many other ministries. However, both the photo gallery and notices section are updated regularly. The ministry’s Facebook page, with around 30,000 followers, is also actively maintained, though no official X account could be identified.

The homepage includes several useful public services and features, including an air accident hotline, QR codes for complaints and suggestions, a “scan to meet the minister” feature, the Tourism Product Sharing Program, and access to Nepal’s tourism statistics from 1962 to 2021.

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology includes a detailed biography of Minister Bikram Timilsina in both English and Nepali. However, like most ministries, the website’s overall English-language content remains weak. While the photo gallery is updated regularly, the notices section is not.

The ministry’s Facebook page is active, and its official X account, “@Hello_MoCIT,” has around 14,000 followers, though it has not been updated since 20 June 2025. Notably, the last post from the ministry’s official X handle was a YouTube link to a song produced by Beest Production. The ministry’s homepage also provides several digital services, including foreign film development permission and movie licensing services.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development also lacks a biography of Minister Gita Chaudhary, while its English-language version remains poor. However, both the photo gallery and notices section are updated regularly, and the ministry’s Facebook page is active. No official X account appears to exist. The homepage includes several important digital services, including the Farmers Listing Management System, Fertilizer Management System, and Agromet Advisory Bulletin.

The Ministry of Forests and Environment similarly does not include a biography of Minister Gita Chaudhary, while its English-language version remains weak. However, the ministry performs comparatively well in digital updates, with both the photo gallery and notices section maintained regularly. Its Facebook page and X account are also actively updated. The homepage features several key services, including the Forest Fire Detection and Monitoring System in Nepal, Air Quality Monitoring, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Portal.

The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies does not feature a biography of Minister Gauri Yadav, while its English-language version remains poor. Although the notices section is updated regularly, the photo gallery is not. Facebook is not integrated into the website, though an X account is linked. However, the account has not been updated since 12 Sept 2024.

Likewise, the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security does not provide a biography of Minister Ramji Yadav, while the English-language version of its website remains weak. Despite this, both the notices section and photo gallery are updated regularly, and the ministry’s Facebook page and X account are actively maintained.

Taken together, the emerging picture is one of a government that has embraced the language and framework of digital governance but has yet to translate it into a coherent and functional ecosystem. Websites exist, but many are poorly maintained. Social media accounts are created, but often left inactive or underutilized. Digital tools are introduced, but not consistently updated or integrated into a broader service-delivery framework.

For an administration that has made digital transformation a defining feature of its governance agenda, these shortcomings carry broader implications. Digital presence is not merely about communication; it reflects transparency, efficiency, and institutional seriousness. A poorly maintained website, an inactive social media account, or the absence of basic public information such as a minister’s biography may appear minor in isolation, but together they reveal a persistent gap between policy ambition and administrative execution.

The main opposition party, Nepali Congress, has warned of boycotting the House if the Prime Minister does not take part in the discussion on the government's policies and programs.

Opposition parties disrupted the Parliament meeting on Wednesday demanding the Prime Minister Balendra Shah's presence in the discussions.

Following the disruption, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal gave floor to Congress lawmaker Arjun Narsingh KC.

Speaking at the House, lawmaker KC insisted that the Prime Minister himself should answer questions raised on the government's policies and programs.

He also warned of boycotting the parliamentary proceedings if the Prime Minister remained absent from the discussions. 

The main opposition party, Nepali Congress (NC), has sought a response regarding Prime Minister Balendra Shah's leaving from the assembly hall while President Ram Chandra Paudel was addressing the joint sitting of the Federal Parliament on Monday.

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal allocated the NC Chief Whip Basana Thapa time to speak at the outset of today's meeting of the House of Representatives after the MPs stood up from their seats.

Chief Whip Thapa said, "It is not a trivial matter but a serious issue that Prime Minister Shah left the House during the President's address; a clear response from the government is needed on this."

She also urged the Head of Government to respect the constitutional position and not to weaken the parliamentary tradition.

President Paudel had presented the government's policies and programs for the fiscal year 2083/84 in a joint meeting of both houses of the Federal Parliament on Monday.

The government has appointed senior doctor and medical professor Prof Dr Jagadish Prasad Agrawal as health advisor to Prime Minister Balendra Shah. 

A Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday took the decision in this regard. 

Also the former Dean of Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine, Dr Agrawal would provide necessary advice to the Prime Minister for health policy, public health challenges and improvement of medical education in the country.

Sharing the information about Dr Agrawal's appointment, PM Shah's press and research expert, Dipa Dahal said that the appointment of experienced personality in education sector Prof Dr Agrawal will provide significant technical support and suggestions to the Prime Minister for the improvement of the country's health policy and services.

Dr Agrawal would support Prime Minister Shah voluntarily in health sector related issues as an expert without taking any remuneration from the state.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has made it clear that abolition of trade unions and party flags was aimed at making bureaucracy and academia clean, free and professional. 

"Banning party flags in schools and bureaucracy will not seize rights of students and employees, but strengthen professional freedoms," he said in a social media post today. 

PM Shah argued party politics in university and bureaucracy, deep rooted in the country for long, has ruined education and administration. So, the ouster of party flags strengthens rights and professional freedoms.

"Many journalists, leaders, activists, businessmen and the general public have been arguing for years that party-o-cracy ruined university study and bureaucracy. Such organizations have become 'sleeper cells' of political parties with brazen adversity to students and employees. Undue access over qualification and sycophancy over competence causes utter public distrust in the system itself,” PM Shah explained. 

It is not because Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is unable to form organizations in academia and bureaucracy from where it is wiping out ill politics, but it is entirely for quality enhancement in university and dignity of employees. "If RSP wants, it can easily form its organization in no time, but adding another organization does not bring reform as the past suggests," PM Shah, also the senior leader of RSP, reminded.  

According to him, the basis for transfers and promotions of civil employees should not be guided by party affiliation but on procedure, competence and delivery. "Our effort is entirely for creating opportunities for students to learn from teachers rather than from politics, and not from mobs of political leaders," he said, wishing employees not to run after leaders' protection but rule. 

He further reminded that students could learn politics but together with culture, thoughts and responsibility. The PM reminded the employees to be servants of citizens not of parties.

PM Shah, however, said the move of this government was not a fight against any party but an attempt to protect the system.

It is an attempt for a secure future where the country would not be under party control but on the path of institutional reform. “This is a move to free the education system and bureaucracy from the party's undue influence. We brought ordinances to remove such ills as per your wish.”

The PM also sought everyone's support and trust in such a bid. “We need your support and trust, for the change is not ensured with mere speeches but through decisions. We are in the government to deliver as per your wishes. Be sure, whatever we do, we do in favour of the Nepali people,” PM Shah added.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said that the government is working on a systematic, transparent and sustainable solution after identifying the real situation of landless citizens in the country.

Taking to his private social media account this morning, Prime Minister Shah has said that arrangements shall be made for safe and organized relocation of citizens living in vulnerable locations. 

In the case of other landless citizens, the Government will take the necessary decision based on the recommendations of the concerned authorities and the collected details.

The government's attention has been drawn towards the various comments and interpretations being made in the public regarding the landless management process initiated by the Government in accordance with the law in areas where there has been clear evidence of encroachment on riverbanks and public-owned land in the Kathmandu Valley. 

"The government has taken serious note of the attempts being made to create suspicions among landless citizens and citizens forced to live in unorganized settlements and to spread fear in a planned manner regarding the said process."

Prime Minister Shah has said that some sections of the Land Act 2021 BS, which were an obstacle to the implementation of a long-term solution, have been repealed through an ordinance in view of the current situation, and with the removal of this legal obstacle, the work of collecting digital data of genuine landless citizens, verifying details, and preparing records on a clear basis has been initiated.

He said that the government would like to clarify that all the steps taken are not with the intention of evicting citizens, but with the aim of ensuring the right to housing and finding a permanent solution to the problem. Therefore, all citizens are requested not to fall into any kind of doubts, not to panic unnecessarily, and not to spread unverified information.

Prime Minister Shah has, in the message, also assured that the government is fully committed to ensuring safe, decent, and permanent housing for every landless citizen, and that no citizen will be left homeless.

Shilapatra.com has announced the winners of its annual awards in eight categories, including the “Red Bull Shilapatra Person of the Year 2082.”

The winners were announced amidst a special ceremony held at a hotel in Kathmandu attended by more than 500 guests. 

This year, Prime Minister Balendra Shah 'Balen' was named as the 'Red Bull Shilapatra Person of the Year 2082'

The Shilapatra said that he was honored for leading the debate on the energy of the new generation and political change.

In the literary category, Dr Navaraj KC’s book ‘Swasparsa’ was awarded “Shilapatra Book of the Year 2082”.

Suraj Subedi became “Worldlink Shilapatra  Content Creator of the year 2082” while Rabindra Dhant, who achieved notable success in international MMA, was named  “Shilapatra Player of the Year 2082”.

Similarly, Jhuma Limbu was honored as “Shilapatra Artist of the Year 2082” for her contribution to the preservation and promotion of Nepali folk music.

Paran received the title of “Shilapatra Cinema of the Year 2082”.

Entrepreneur Ashish Sharma was selected as “Shilapatra Entrepreneur of the Year 2082” for establishing a Nepali brand in the international market.

Likewise, Krishna Prasad Neupane was named “The Governor Shilapatra CEO of the Year  2082” for his special contribution in the hospitality sector. 

Acting Chief Justice Sapna Pradhan Malla presented trophies and certificates to the winners. 

Nepal’s political landscape has entered an unusual and potentially transformative phase with the rise of Balendra Shah. Popularly known as Balen, the 36-year-old leader assumed office on March 27, 2026, following a sweeping electoral victory that delivered his party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), a near two-thirds majority in the 275-member House of Representatives (HoR), the lower house of federal parliament.

This outcome alone would have been remarkable in any context, but in Nepal—where coalition instability has been the norm since the restoration of democracy in 1990—it represents a profound political rupture. The March 5 parliamentary election was shaped by extraordinary circumstances. The protests of September 8–9, which led to the fall of the government led by KP Sharma Oli and the dissolution of Parliament, created a volatile yetdecisive moment. The deaths of 19 students during those protests became a rallying point for public anger and a symbol of state failure.

The election that followed was not merely a contest for power; it was a referendum on an entire political order. Established parties such as Nepali Congress (NC), Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), and Maoistswere voted out, marking the first time since 1990 that they were collectively excluded from power. Their strength declined significantly, putting pressure on long-time leaders to step down. 

This shift was also generational. Out of the 275-member HoR, more than 100 members are below 40. The average age of lawmakers has dropped to 44 from the earlier 54. The cabinet is also dominated by younger faces: out of 15 ministers, 9 are below 40. The rise of Shah reflects the aspirations of a younger electorate—often described as the Gen Z movement—which demands accountability, efficiency, digital freedom, and a break from entrenched political practices.

More importantly, the election results have created a rare sense of optimism about political stability. For decades, Nepal has struggled with short-lived governments and policy inconsistency. The expectation now is that a strong majority government could complete its full five-year tenure—something no administration has achieved in over three decades.

Against this backdrop, the first month of Balen Shah’s government has been closely scrutinized. Early signs suggest a leadership that is energetic and assertive, but still grappling with the complexities of governance. In some areas, the new prime minister has broken from past traditions.

One key signal is that he is not operating under the influence of anyone, including his own party. Although he is a senior leader of the RSP, he appears intent on running an apolitical government, perhaps influenced by his experience as an independent mayor of Kathmandu. Similarly, he has been avoiding public programs and focusing on administrative work in Singha Durbar. Consultations between PM Shah and Party Chairman Rabi Lamichhane on government issues remain a matter of guesswork. PM Balen has not shown interest to attend party meetings. 

PM Shah is communicating more through actions than rhetoric. However, he is under scrutiny for not speaking in Parliament or engaging with the media. Except on a few issues, opposition parties have not taken a hard position on government decisions, and as Prime Minister he has not reached out to opposition parties, except the interaction with lawmakers form all political parties. 

One of the government’s immediate priorities was to ensure accountability for the killings during the September protests. Acting on a report by former justice Gauri Bahadur Karki, the administration initiated action against key figures from the previous government, including Ramesh Lekhak. The arrests of Oli and Lekhak sent a powerful message that even the most influential leaders could be held accountable. For many citizens—especially the families of the victims—this was a long-overdue step toward justice.

However, the manner in which these arrests were carried out has sparked debate. Critics, including legal experts and opposition parties, have questioned whether due process was followed. A month later, the government attorney has yet to file formal charges, reportedly due to insufficient evidence. This delay underscores a critical challenge: while political will is essential for accountability, it cannot substitute for institutional capacity and legal rigor. If the government is to build a credible rule-of-law framework, it must ensure that its actions are not only decisive but also procedurally sound.

On the governance front, the administration has moved quickly to outline its agenda. The first cabinet meeting introduced a 100-point plan to be implemented within 100 days, with a strong emphasis on anti-corruption and administrative reform. This ambitious roadmap is designed to demonstrate urgency and commitment, and there have already been some tangible steps in this direction.

The formation of a high-level commission to investigate the assets of public officials addresses a long-standing public perception that corruption is deeply embedded within the state apparatus. Similarly, law enforcement agencies have launched investigations into businessmen and intermediaries accused of financial misconduct. Prime Minister Shah has also taken action within his own cabinet, dismissing two ministers over allegations of financial misconduct and conflicts of interest.

The resignation of Home Minister Sudan Gurung amid allegations of undisclosed business ties, and the controversy surrounding Labor Minister Deepak Kumar Sah, further highlight the government’s willingness to confront ethical lapses within its ranks. These moves have strengthened the perception that the administration is serious about integrity. 

There have also been modest improvements in public service delivery. Reports suggest that government offices are functioning more efficiently, with shorter waiting times and fewer bureaucratic obstacles. While these changes may seem incremental, they are significant in a context where inefficiency has long been normalized. The challenge will be to sustain and institutionalize these improvements rather than relying on short-term administrative pressure.

The new government has also taken measures to depoliticize state institutions such as universities and civil service, which has drawn mixed reactions. Some have said that it is a positive move, as state institutions over the past four decades were highly politicized, while others argue that the government’s decision to dismantle student unions and trade unions goes against the constitution.

The economic dimension presents a more complex picture. The private sector initially welcomed the emergence of a stable government, viewing it as an opportunity for policy consistency and economic reform. The administration’s emphasis on governance as the foundation for prosperity has resonated with business leaders, and some measures to improve the business environment have been well received.

At the same time, concerns have begun to emerge. The arrest of prominent businessmen as part of anti-corruption investigations has raised fears about the investment climate which is already worse. Business leaders have warned that such actions, if perceived as arbitrary or excessive, could discourage investment and even lead to capital flight. Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has sought to reassure the private sector, emphasizing that enforcement actions will be limited and necessary, particularly in the context of efforts to remove Nepal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

This tension reflects a broader dilemma: how to enforce accountability without undermining economic confidence. A credible reform agenda must strike a balance between strict enforcement and predictability. Investors need assurance that rules will be applied fairly and consistently—not selectively or unpredictably. Nepal’s economy is forecast to grow by 2.7 percent in the fiscal year 2026, down from 4.6 percent in the previous year, according to the Asian Development Bank.

In foreign policy, the government has adopted a cautious and pragmatic approach. It has signaled continuity rather than major changes, with a focus on economic diplomacy and balanced relations with neighboring countries. The idea of transforming Nepal into a “vibrant bridge” between regional powers has generated debate, particularly among analysts who question this conceptual framing.

Engagements with international actors have been relatively low-key. The visit of U.S. Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur and reported interactions with Chinese officials indicate ongoing diplomatic activity, but the government has not yet fully articulated a distinct foreign policy identity. Prime Minister Shah’s decision not to hold individual meetings with foreign ambassadors—at least so far—marks a departure from past practices and may reflect either a deliberate shift or a lack of diplomatic prioritization. 

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal met his Indian Counterpart S. Jaishankar at the Indian Ocean Conference, and both sides have indicated that preparations are underway for Prime Minister Shah’s visit to India.

The international community has responded overwhelmingly, with major countries and development partners showing strong interests in supporting the priority areas outlined by the new government.  While response vary among partners, India and several Western countries have shown strong interests in working with the new government, particularly given its youth-led leadership and internationally educated team. China’s response has been more measured in comparison, reflecting broader strategic consideration. 

Domestically, the government has also initiated discussions on constitutional reform. A panel led by political advisor Ashim Shah has been tasked with exploring possible amendments. While there is broad agreement among political parties on the need for constitutional change, progress has been slow due to limited engagement from opposition groups.

The reluctance of parties like the NC and CPN-UML to participate actively suggests that political polarization remains a significant obstacle. Despite its strong parliamentary majority, the government cannot unilaterally drive constitutional reform without broader consensus. This highlights an important reality: a strong mandate simplifies governance but does not eliminate the need for negotiation and inclusion.

One of the defining characteristics of the current administration is its generational shift. With most cabinet members under 40, this is the youngest government in Nepal’s recent history. The decision to reduce the number of ministries from 24 to fewer than 17 further reflects an effort to streamline governance and enhance efficiency. While these changes are promising, they also come with risks. Younger leaders may bring fresh perspectives, but they may also lack the experience needed to navigate complex institutional and political dynamics.

After one month, it is clear that Balen Shah’s government is active, ambitious, and reform-oriented. It has taken bold steps to signal a break from the past and to address long-standing issues of corruption and inefficiency. However, it is still too early to conclude that it has become truly efficient. Efficiency in governance is not measured solely by speed or decisiveness; it requires consistency, institutional strength, and adherence to due process. The government’s early actions have generated both optimism and concern—hope for change, but also questions about execution.

The coming months will be crucial. If the administration can translate its initial momentum into sustainable reforms, it could mark the beginning of a new era in Nepali politics. If not, it risks becoming another chapter in the country’s long history of unfulfilled promises. For now, the verdict remains open: Nepal’s strong government is moving toward efficiency, but it has not yet fully arrived.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said that service delivery of the government should be made more effective by strengthening institutions like National Planning Commission and Policy Research Institute rather than scrapping them. 

During a discussion with office-bearers and employees of the NPC held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Tuesday, Prime Minister Shah mentioned that it would be easier to the government in service delivery only if formulation of plans and policy research are carried out in an organized manner. "Hence, improvement of such bodies will greatly support in the government's functioning," he argued.  

In the context of the Policy Research Institute, the Prime Minister underlined that we need experts who can do extensive study and present long-term vision. The government will fully own the academic works of the experts.

He directed the both agencies to work for results without any hesitation, adding, "A concrete plan and implementation is necessary while performing any task. The role of subject-matter experts in development is incomparable."  

Prime Minister Shah also warned that budget and legal complexities should not be used as an excuse for non-performance. "Results are possible only from effective study and research. The country cannot be prosperous until some revision are made in old policies and acts," he opined. 

Similarly, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle underscored that the present time should be taken as golden opportunity for reforms. He also instructed to transform the expertise of experts into government policies, programs and budget. 

Minister Wagle laid emphasis on proposals with clear goals, adequate budget, defined responsibilities and measurable output through concerned ministries. 

The government has a strategy of launching innovative program as pilot project and expand them at the national level if successful. 

Likewise, office bearers of the Commission briefed the Prime Minister about the status of work progress, challenges and budget.  

Sharing that study and research conducted so far by the Institute are very important for government functioning system, they demanded additional resources including human resource. 

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has directed University Vice-chancellors to immediately implement the government's decision to remove the structures of political party-aligned student and employees' associations in universities and academic institutions in the health sector. 

During an interaction with the VCs at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers today, Prime Minister Shah, who also serves as the Chancellors of various public universities, said that no law would be an obstacle to removing the structures of student and employee organizations affiliated with political parties.

The Prime Minister was of the view that politics should not be allowed in institutions like hospitals, campuses and schools. If anyone really wants to indulge in politics they should separate themselves from their professional responsibilities and fully engage in politics.

During the discussion, the Vice-Chancellors said that students' political activities have slowed down after the GenZ movement and the March 5 elections, and initiatives are being taken to root out such organizations. 

Nepal Sanskrit University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Dhaneshwor Nepal, however, complained of having to endure threats when efforts were made to remove party-aligned students' organizations as per the instructions of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

In response, Prime Minister Shah instructed that if any security or other problems arise while dissolving any political student and employee organization, they should immediately inform the concerned ministry or his secretariat. 

During the discussion, Minister for Education, Science and Technology Sasmit Pokharel made it clear that what we are trying to abolish immediately is student organizations affiliated with political parties, not organizations like the independent student union that voice for the students.

During the discussion, Tribhuvan University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Deepak Aryal said that student and employee organizations have become inactive after the GenZ movement and the elections. 

Madhyampaschim University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Dhruv Kumar Gautam also said that the political activities of students and employees have been on the decline in his university recently.

Purbanchal University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Biju Kumar Thapaliya said that student groups are engaging in politics in its constituent campuses. 

Vice Chancellors of other universities and institutes, however, stated that students and employees in their institutions are away from political activities. They expressed the view that if universities and institutes present themselves strictly there will be no politics under any pretext.

The government's 100 point agenda on governance reform mentions the removal of party-affiliated student organization structures from schools and universities to address the problem of party interference in the education sector, failure to hear the real voice of students, and decline in educational quality. 

Prime Minister Balendra Shah is holding a discussion with the vice-chancellors of different universities and academies. 

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 12 noon at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers. 

The Prime Minister's Secretariat stated that vice chancellors of 11 universities and seven academies are invited for the meeting.  

The issues of the universities and academies, and the measures to address those challenges would be discussed at the meeting. 

According to the PM's Secretariat, vice chancellors of Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu University, Purbanchal University, Pokhara University, Lumbini Buddhist University, Nepal Sanskrit University, Far Western University and Mid-West University would attend the meeting.

Likewise, vice chancellors of Agriculture and Forestry University, Rajarshi Janak University, Martyr Dasharath Chand University of Health Science, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), Patan Academy of Health Sciences and BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences will also join the meeting. 

Furthermore, the other invitees include vice chancellors of Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences and Rapti Academy of Health Sciences.