KATHMANDU: The government, last week, unveiled the 16th Five-Year Plan, scheduled to begin from the upcoming month of Shrawan and extend over the next five years.

This plan, presented by the National Planning Commission, outlines 40 national goals aimed at fostering prosperity across various sectors.

These goals are categorized into three main areas: 10 for good governance, 10 for social justice, and 20 for economic prosperity.

Notable targets include achieving an economic growth rate of 7.1 percent by the end of the plan, with specific aims to increase GDP and per capita income.

The government’s strategic vision through this plan underscores a commitment to comprehensive national development.

In a significant diplomatic move, the government decided to recall ambassadors from 11 countries, including India, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

This decision, made in a Cabinet meeting, reflects a recalibration of diplomatic representation in line with the current ruling coalition’s objectives. Prime Minister Dahal’s realignment with the CPN-UML and the Rastriya Swatantra Party has influenced this diplomatic reconfiguration, signaling a shift in Nepal’s international relations strategy.

Allegations of financial impropriety concerning gravel and sand procurement underscore the CIAA’s vigilance in combating corruption at various administrative levels.

Meanwhile, Nepal’s participation in the ICC T20 World Cup saw a challenging start as the national cricket team faced a defeat against the Netherlands.

Despite setting a target of 107 runs, Nepal was unable to defend against the Dutch team’s pursuit, resulting in a six-wicket loss.

This outcome underscores the competitive nature of the tournament and highlights areas for improvement for Nepal’s cricket team as they progress in the competition.

On the other hand, Finance Minister Barshaman Pun reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) project within the stipulated timeframe.

Assurances provided during discussions with MCC Vice President Jonathan Brooks underscore the government’s determination to adhere to project timelines.

Minister Pun’s emphasis on addressing logistical challenges such as land acquisition and regulatory hurdles demonstrates proactive measures to ensure the project’s efficacy and timely completion.

Additionally, a parliamentary committee was convened to investigate alleged cooperative fraud cases, following pressure from the opposition alliance.

Led by CPN-UML lawmaker Surya Bahadur Thapa Chhetri, the committee aims to scrutinize financial misconduct within cooperative entities. Its establishment and operationalization demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability within governance structures.

Meanwhile, the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has initiated legal action against nine individuals, including the Mayor of Godawari Municipality, on corruption charges.

In a bid to enhance healthcare standards, Kathmandu Metropolitan City also directed hospitals within its jurisdiction to establish and operate in-house pharmacies within a specified timeframe.

Allegations of financial impropriety concerning gravel and sand procurement underscore the CIAA’s vigilance in combating corruption at various administrative levels.

Legal proceedings against implicated officials indicate a concerted effort to uphold integrity and fiscal probity within public institutions.

Similarly, last week, the Ministry of Home Affairs sanctioned a uniform policy for immigration personnel across 15 offices, aimed at enhancing organizational identity and professionalism.

The directive mandates the adoption of distinct uniforms to streamline visual identification of immigration staff, underscoring a commitment to improving service standards and reinforcing the department’s public-facing image.

Likewise, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority introduced the ‘Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan 2081 BS’ to mitigate the impact of seasonal rains.

Endorsed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Rabi Lamichhane, the plan outlines measures to address anticipated challenges and safeguard vulnerable communities. Its launch underscores proactive disaster management strategies and a commitment to ensuring public safety during the monsoon season.

The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) revoked the license of CG Communications Limited, owned by Binod Chaudhary, for failure to comply with renewal requirements.

Meanwhile, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) allocated 374 beds across 52 hospitals to provide free healthcare to economically disadvantaged individuals.

Spearheaded by KMC’s health department, this initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens on vulnerable populations and enhance access to medical services.

The provision of free treatment underscores KMC’s commitment to equitable healthcare delivery and social welfare initiatives.

In a bid to enhance healthcare standards, Kathmandu Metropolitan City also directed hospitals within its jurisdiction to establish and operate in-house pharmacies within a specified timeframe.

This measure seeks to improve quality control and affordability of pharmaceuticals by minimizing reliance on third-party vendors.

Reinforcement of a Supreme Court mandate underscores KMC’s resolve to streamline healthcare services and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.

In another development, police arrested four Chinese nationals in possession of a significant sum of undisclosed currency, signaling potential illicit financial activity.

The arrest underscores law enforcement’s vigilance in combating financial irregularities and enforcing compliance with regulatory frameworks.

With a diverse coalition backing his leadership, Singh assumes responsibility for steering Madhesh Province through its developmental agenda and addressing regional priorities.

Further investigation by relevant authorities aims to elucidate the source and purpose of the confiscated funds, ensuring accountability and deterrence against financial crimes.

The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) revoked the license of CG Communications Limited, owned by Binod Chaudhary, for failure to comply with renewal requirements.

This regulatory action underscores NTA’s commitment to upholding licensing standards and enforcing regulatory compliance within the telecommunications sector.

The revocation serves as a cautionary precedent for telecom operators to adhere to regulatory obligations and maintain operational transparency.

Meanwhile, last week, Satish Kumar Singh was appointed as the Chief Minister of Madhesh Province, following the failure of the previous CM to secure a vote of confidence.

Singh’s appointment, supported by a coalition of political parties, reflects the evolving dynamics of provincial governance and coalition politics.

With a diverse coalition backing his leadership, Singh assumes responsibility for steering Madhesh Province through its developmental agenda and addressing regional priorities.