Submit your Article

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said good governance can be made meaningful only by delivering services through the 'paperless and faceless' system in the coming age.

Addressing the scientists' conference entitled 'AI for Prosperous Nepal, Employment for the Future', today he stressed on the need of giving priority to the use of technology for providing public services.

"The government will take the necessary initiatives that it needs to take from its side for the development of computer technology, robotic technology, data science, machine learning, internet of things and computational infrastructures," the PM said, adding that the government would move ahead coordinating the policy related to AI with the National Science and Technology and Innovation Policy, 2076 BS and the Digital Nepal Framework, 2019.

Stating that the government has pursued various studies and research works in the emerging technology sector, he said that the budget has been allocated for setting up the Science Technology Innovation Fund, attaching importance to the science and technology sector.

On the occasion, PM Dahal directed the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology for creating the opportunities of self-reliance in the technology sector. According to him, special importance would be given to science technology research and innovation in the policy and programmes, and the budget for the upcoming financial year. "This sector has been included with due importance in the proposed 16th Periodic Plan as well, " he added.

The Prime Minister expressed the belief that the government bodies will emphasise on developing projects increasing the role of AI from the next year alone for enhancing innovation and productivity, the PM's Private Secretariat stated.

He also made it clear that 'ChatBot' services and projects related to metadata analysis based on AI would be implemented with priority for the information of services provided by the government agencies.

Prime Minister Dahal expressed the confidence that the conference with the theme of 'AI for prosperous Nepal – employment for the future', jointly organized by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and various stakeholders, will support in materializing the dream of building a prosperous Nepal.

It is time saving and multiple useful for innovation and productivity growth while carrying out the regular works done by people or the works taking long time and those works people cannot do through the use of AI, the Prime Minister asserted.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that preparations are going on to receive the report of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) on Nepal-India relations.

In a meeting of the National Concern and Coordination Committee under the National Assembly held today, the PM said internal preparations are initiated to receive the report from both countries at a time.

The lawmakers had expressed their concerns on the EPG report against the backdrop of India's reluctance to receive the report.

Responding to the lawmakers' concerns, the PM said a situation could surface to decide on the part of Nepal if there was no condition to receive the EPG report at a time from both sides.

The EPG was formed by the governments of the two countries to review past agreements signed between the two countries.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has assured that the government was seriously working towards addressing the problems of usury, microfinance and cooperatives victims.

In today's meeting of the National Assembly's National Concern and Coordination Committee, PM Dahal asserted that the government was serious towards the issues of the usury victims and was effortful to form a high-powered commission and frame acts and legislations to iron out the problems.

The court was yet to issue a verdict on some cases related to usury, according to the PM. Towards this, he urged the court also to facilitate those cases considering the sensitivity of the issues and cases.

The Head of the Government said, "The problems have emanated on the legal part not on the part of the government. To resolve it, the court process should be completed. As the laws could be in favor of the perpetrators for the transactions based on the old papers and legal evidence (Tamsuk), the government and the court will work in tandem to resolve it according to the nature of the transaction."

The victims of these sectors are staging phase-wise protests in recent months.

On the occasion, the PM said talks were held with the concerned agencies and stakeholders today as well.

Responding to the lawmakers' concerns, the PM said the government was working in a planned fashion to expedite the development of Kathmandu-Tarai Madhes Expressway, advance construction of Sunkoshi Marin Diversion, take initiatives to resolve the issues of British Gurkhas, rescue the Nepali youths recruited illegally in Russian military service and table the Civil Servant Bill.

Concerned agencies are directed to formulate upcoming 16th periodic plan, government's policy and programmes, and prepare budget by giving priority to the Committee's directives, according to the PM.

During the meeting, Committee Chairperson Dil Kumari Rawal (Parbati) reminded the PM about the Committee's directives on intergovernmental relations, national heritage, human rights, foreign affairs, national pride projects, national security, constitutional commissions and others.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the contribution of veteran singer and composer Bhakta Raj Acharya to the field of music will inspire and guide the country's music industry for long.

Dahal, who visited the Nepal Academy of Music and Drama today to pay his tributes to the late singer, emphasized the significant contribution of Acharya to the music industry.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family.

The mortal remains of the renowned singer have been placed at the Academy since 11 am today for individuals to pay their last tributes.

His last rites will be performed at the Pashupati Aryaghat today itself, it is said.

Kushma Mahara, the Academy's member-secretary, said that people from various walks of life, particularly those from the music field, have assembled at the Academy to pay tributes to the renowned singer, who passed away on Monday at the age of 82.

Acharya's two sons: Satyaraj and Swaroop Raj are also in the music industry.

Born in Dhankuta in 1999 BS, the late Acharya has made significant contributions to over 400 songs.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has pledged to take initiative to address issues pestering microfinance and cooperatives.

During his meeting with representatives of victims of muddled microfinance and cooperatives at Singha Durbar today, the Prime Minister assured addressing the problems.

Acknowledging the contribution of cooperatives and microfinances in connecting the rural people and the people from the indigent community with financial services, the Prime Minister said lately, the sectors were gripped with significant problems. "Some complications were contextual, while some were the consequences of professional dishonesty of members on the board of directors. The problems will be addressed gradually," he added.

He also insisted on collective efforts to sort out the situation.

During the discussions, the representatives thanked the government for its initiation so far to alleviate the situation.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that Nepal’s participation in UN peace operations has always remained an important component of its foreign policy, aimed at achieving and strengthening global peace and stability which has been well praised by the global society. "I feel extremely proud as I assert the fact that Nepal presently contributes the highest number of troops and police personnel in the United Nations Peacekeeping missions and has further pledged to deploy up to 10, 000 well-trained and equipped personnel for UN Peace operations on request of the United Nations", he said.

In his statement at the opening ceremony of exercise "Shanti Prayas IV" at a function held at Army Officer's Club in Bhadrakali this morning, he said Nepal contributes the highest number of women troops among all the UN member countries in its Peacekeeping missions. The government of Nepal will continue to give highest priority to the United Nations Peace Operations and continue to support the United Nations in its every endeavors, he assured.

Stating Nepal has and will always vehemently advocate for peace and equality in international forums, he said Nepal’s commitments are rooted in its desire for peace and harmony in the world and are expressed through her participation in international treaties and agreements that promote disarmament and peaceful resolution of conflicts. "This is further manifested through our participation in the UN peace operations, where our peacekeepers have distinctly demonstrated bravery, compassion, and selflessness in their noble mission to protect and restore hope in regions torn apart by conflict."

In the contemporary global landscape, peacekeepers face heightened and multiple threats due to the complex and multi-layered nature of conflicts, driven by various factors from ethnic tensions to terrorism among others, he said and noted that adapting to this changing scenario is a must as peacekeeping operations have evolved into complex politico-military-humanitarian efforts demanding a greater understanding and preparation on the part of peacekeepers. "It has thus become crucial to reassess how we deliver peace amid new complex challenges to maintain trust and legitimacy of the UN Peacekeeping."

The Prime Minister noted that the significance of peacekeeping cannot be overstated, as it requires a deep sense of humanity, a profound commitment, and a readiness to intervene to protect the vulnerable. Peacekeepers have been embodying these principles, and their efforts have made a profound impact, often in the face of great peril.

He said that the multinational exercise emphasizes and reminds us of the necessity to continually train, refine strategies, and build strong partnerships among nations for the successful conduct of peacekeeping operations.

Extending a warm welcome to all esteemed delegates and friends from friendly foreign countries gathered in Kathmandu, the Prime Minister also extended honor and paid tributes to the brave peacekeepers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace worldwide.

He also took the opportunity to admire the steadfast commitment and dedication of all peacekeepers, who despite facing formidable challenges, continue to serve with valor and compassion. "Their contributions and sacrifices have not only brought honor to their nations but have also played a crucial role in the pursuit of global peace and stability."

Prime Minister Dahal expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Defence, the Nepali Army for hosting the event, while also appreciating the support of the US Indo-Pacific Command - Global Peace Operations Initiative for co-sponsoring this significant event.

The onus of preparing credible peacekeepers lies on the contributing countries, thus apart from regular peacekeeping training; Nepal has been participating in and hosting similar kinds of multinational peacekeeping exercises in the past, the Prime Minister noted.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that the School Education Bill under consideration in the Federal Parliament will be endorsed with necessary amendments.

Speaking at a workshop on 'Nepal's Educational Movement and School Education Bill' organized by the Samajbadi Educational Forum here today, the Prime Minister said that the Bill will be further enriched with amendments.

Stating that the Bill was discussed with the ruling coalition partners and the opposition parties, Prime Minister Dahal said that the bill will be amended based on the amendment proposals registered in the Parliament. "Necessary amendments to the Bill will be made by including the feedback of teachers, trade unions, academicians, students' organizations, stakeholders and the parents," he said.

He also said the government is committed to implementing the agreements made by the state in the past with teachers' associations and other stakeholders.

The Prime Minister called for developing a positive narrative that it is possible to do something in the country, and thereby to prevent the brain drain, for which he emphasized on producing competitive and quality human resources.

Noting that the basis to achieve qualitative progress in the development of quality, competitive, innovation-oriented education should be developed, the Prime Minister said that emphasis has been placed on reward and punishment, along with meritocracy in order to bring about qualitative improvement in the educational sector. "Appointments will be made on the basis of meritocracy in academic institutions, including universities, and that reward and punishment will be enforced in the education sector.”

On the occasion, CPN (Unified Socialist) Vice President Rajendra Pandey said that the forum should focus its debate on socialism-oriented education.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that the immense potential brought about by the federal democratic system of governance should be realized into opportunities.

Speaking at the official ceremony held this morning to mark the National Democracy Day at Sainik Manch Tundikhel in Kathmandu, he emphasized the need to build a strong foundation for socialism while strengthening the federal democratic republic.

Nepal has to be upgraded from a least developed nation to a developing nation by 2030 and for this qualitative development in the gross domestic production is the responsibility of the state. "The traditional model of development will be reviewed to focus on manufacturing and job creation", the Prime Minister said, "Creating employment opportunities will prevent brain drain."

Stating that democracy is a system that builds the foundation for political, economic, social and cultural advancement along with people's participation, Prime Minister Dahal expressed his belief that the democratic system in which the people elect their own representatives will create a basis for progress and development of the nation.

'As the only alternative to democracy is progressive democracy, the solution to the limitations and weaknesses seen will be possible only within the system', Prime Minister Dahal said, "With the strengthening of the democratic republic, effective implementation of federalism and the active participation of citizens in the state management process, people's rights and livelihood can be strengthened along with a foundation of socialism."

The Prime Minister noted that continuous development and sustainability of democracy is possible only with people's sensitization and ownership. Public interest and welfare-based society can be built through rule of law, recognition and realization of human rights, gender equality, proportional inclusion, participation and social justice.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the 'economic outflow' from Nepal-like countries of South Asia for higher education should be stopped.

Addressing the inauguration programme of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) - North Zone Vice Chancellors' Meet 2024 & Bharat-Nepal Higher Education Summit today, he underscored on making efforts for retaining within the country itself a majority of the youths and the resources they have. 

"There is a huge outflow of money from countries like Nepal on higher education and this trend should now be reversed. We should create an environment conducive for those youths seeking opportunities globally," PM Dahal said, pointing out the need of re-evaluating the internationalization of higher education.

Stating the education sector is struggling against the challenges brought by global forces, the Prime Minister said the latest trend of students and intellectuals getting drawn to the universities of the North is seen as they have invested much resources in skill and education development.

"The balance of higher education is seen tilted towards the North.  Although the education system of the North has attracted international students due to the expensive budget, this situation cannot last long," PM Dahal further added.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said the rich intellectual heritage founded on native and indigenous knowledge systems of the South can help provide answers to the global problems today, be it the question of medicine, lifestyle or peace.

In his address to the Association of Indian Universities AIU-North Zone Vice-Chancellors’ Meet and the Bharat-Nepal Higher Education Summit, in Dhulikhel today, the Prime Minister made this remark.

In the meet themed "Globalization and internalization of higher education" and hosted by the Kathmandu University, he said, "We must do away with the south versus north divide purely based on economic parameters. Rather, we must think of ways to connect the south and north by finding common grounds."

 According to the Prime Minister and the University Chancellor, the gathering, therefore, has great significance to devise a higher education manifesto for the global south.

"I believe that this meet will be a starting point for harnessing our own resources to contribute to the global order, which is changing anyway. 

Kathmandu University is leading the way from Nepal in writing such a manifesto. In its 32-year history, Kathmandu University has served as a beacon in this endeavor, with its commendable efforts in internationalization and the expansion of academic programs, he added.

Prime Minister and CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that time demands all forces that advocated for and contributed to bring about change to unite.

In his address to a party program on the occasion of the 29th People's War Day here today, leader Dahal was of the view that institutionalization of the political achievements so far is possible only through unity among progressive forces.

He also utilized the moment to call on Maoist leaders and cadres to take responsibility for protecting the achievements of the people's war. Highlighting the challenges faced, he warned that some forces are attempting to reverse the accomplishments made in the areas of socialism, good governance, social justice, and prosperity.

Party Chair Dahal also welcomed newcomers to the party from Dang and Surkhet who formally joined the party.

Party Standing Committee member and Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, was also present on the occasion.

The party observed Falgun 1 each year in the Nepali calendar as the People's War Day in commemoration of the formal commencement of the people's war (1996-2005).

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also the Chair of the National Security Council, called on President Ramchandra Paudel today to present the Council's annual report.

Upon receiving the report, President Paudel expressed hope that the Council would consistently act with caution in promoting the interests of nationality, sovereignty, independence, integrity, and national security.

During the meeting, the President spoke of the need of enhancing the nation's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and autonomy.

He also stressed the need for promoting cultural, religious, linguistic, and communal harmony, social tolerance and unity, and strengthening the national social security system. Furthermore, he underscored the effective implementation of the national security policy.

President Paudel commended the Council for presenting the report with a strategic outlook concerning nationality, sovereignty, integrity, and security.

According to Article 266(3) of the Constitution, the Council is mandated to submit its annual report to the President.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Purna Bahadur Khadka, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha and Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat were present on the occasion.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has directed federal government ministers to promptly address concerns relating to the implementation of federalism coming from provincial governments. 

Addressing a meeting of chief ministers of all seven provinces with the Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar on Thursday, the PM said, “Full implementation of federalism is our collective responsibility. You (ministers at the Center) have well understood the worries and concerns of chief ministers. Take them seriously.”

He expressed confidence that active and energetic chief ministers will make a significant contribution toward implementation of federalism, adding that his government has accorded it special priority.

Chief Minister of Gandaki Province Surendra Raj Pandey said federal ministers and lawmakers should be equally responsible for the implementation of federalism by taking the PM’s steps toward that end seriously. He thanked the PM for his initiation in operating the Korala transit point and drew the attention of the Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport toward a prompt construction of Muglin-Pokhara and Narayangadh-Butwal roadways.

Madhes Province’s Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Yadav urged the Ministry of Finance for the operation of Chhoti customs offices on the border with India. Pointing out to the acute problem of irrigation and drinking water in Madhes, he urged the federal government to take initiatives for resolving these problems. “Let us run irrigation projects with joint investment from the Center and provinces, and increase the productivity in Tarai-Madhes,” he suggested.

Karnali Province’s Chief Minister Raj Kumar Sharma sought a review regarding delays in the implementation of federalism.  

Stating that Karnali is still grappling with problems of electrification, reliable irrigation facilities and weak telecom services, Sharma advised all federal ministries to focus more on addressing these problems.

Chief Minister of Sudurpaschim Province Kamal Bahadur Shah, lauding the ‘PM’s initiatives in implementing federalism’, said federal ministers should match the PM’s efforts with theirs. He said a centralized mindset is mainly responsible for the delay in implementing federalism.

“Important agreements have been made regarding the development of Sudur Paschim during the Prime Minister’s official visit to India. Development of the province has been given due priority in the incumbent government’s term alone. I thank the Prime Minister for this,” he said.

Bagmati Province Chief Minister Shalikram Jamkattel said federal ministries should delegate powers to provinces sooner than later, urging the bureaucracy to unlearn the ‘unitary mindset’ while implementing federalism.

Lumbini Province Chief Minister Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary applauded the PM’s initiation toward effective enforcement of federalism. “Federalism is our collective achievement and we have to shoulder the responsibility of implementing it.” 

Koshi Province Chief Minister Kedar Karki urged federal ministers to internalize the PM’s spirit regarding the implementation of federalism. He urged the ministers not to hesitate to devolve power to the provinces.

Provincial wants

• Shedding of unitary mindset and devolution of powers
• Steady electricity supply, reliable irrigation, telecom and water supply services
• Irrigation projects with joint investment from the Center and provinces 
• Revival of Chhoti customs offices

Prime Minister and CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has instructed the lawmakers from his party to play an effective role in the parliament.

During a meeting of the CPN (Maoist Center) Parliamentary Party convened at the Party's office in Singha Durbar today, he urged the party's all lawmakers to go on refining their roles.

Stating that the government has preparations to table important bills in the current session of Parliament, Chair Dahal urged the lawmakers to play an active role in the law making, said Rupa Soshi Chaudhary, the Maoist Centre Whip.

The meeting also held discussions on formation of parliamentary friendship groups, formulation of the policy and programmes and the budget for the next fiscal year, the 16th periodic plan, the parliament work schedule and the parliament's and committees' meetings as well.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) bill should be endorsed on the basis of political consensus.

A Parliamentary Party meeting of the CPN (Maoist Center) held in Singhadurbar on Monday morning, party Chairman Dahal mentioned that the Bill related to Enforced Disappearances Enquiry, Truth and Reconciliation Commission would be endorsed by consensus in this session.

“All the people will be benefited if the TRC bill is endorsed on the basis of consensus as much as possible. We should go through the same process,” he said.

Chairman Dahal directed the party leaders and cadres to present themselves ideologically against those who are against the federal system.

Saying that federal democracy was brought in the country with their active participation, he issued a directive to play a constructive role in favor of the system.

“We have brought this system. It is our responsibility to protect and strengthen this system. That is why, we should present ourselves ideologically against the people who are against this system,” he further said.

Prime Minister Dahal also directed the party lawmakers to play a strong role in favor of the people in the Parliament.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has pledged to further protect and promote the knowledge and skills of indigenous nationalities, utilizing them to enhance national income.

In his address to a program organized on the third anniversary of the Indigenous Nationalities Commission here today, the Prime Minister assured that the government would exert maximum efforts to inscribe the cultural heritages of indigenous nationalities in UNESCO and implement the Indigenous and Tribal People's Convention.

Acknowledging the resource constraints faced by the Commission and a delay in establishing provincial offices as demanded by the relevant Act, the Prime Minister promised necessary initiatives to address the absence of proportional representation of indigenous nationalities in decision-making levels.

The formation of the Commission was a result of the struggles and sacrifices made by the indigenous community against the prolonged suppression and discrimination by the then State authority, the Prime Minister said, recognizing that such achievements were hard-won. He also praised the Commission's role in building an inclusive and just Nepal.

The establishment of the Commission aimed to promote the identity and representation of the indigenous population in the state apparatus, utilizing their skills and experiences to contribute to the development of a prosperous Nepal, he added.