KATHMANDU: Prime Minister (PM) Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” has announced what he said the commencement of a “significant transformation” in the national budget system.

In a discussion with development and planning experts at Singha Durbar on Friday, he expressed his concern about the traditional budget system, labeling it as a hindrance to the country’s overall transformation.

He criticized the prevalent practice of producing a new budget each year that merely serves as a ‘photocopy’ of its predecessor.

Emphasizing a departure from this routine, he highlighted the initiation of a more inclusive and centralized approach to budget creation.

“The new process involves extensive public debates, discussions, and suggestions from various sectors,” he said.

This, according to Prime Minister Dahal, ensures that the budget is formulated based on priorities determined through a collective effort.

Prime Minister Dahal underscored the importance of subject matter experts’ contributions and clarified that the ongoing discussions were integral to the revision of policies, programs, and the budget framework and schedule.

Reflecting on his leadership during a complex period marked by economic challenges and attempts to question the republican system, Prime Minister Dahal remarked, “I assumed the role of Prime Minister amid a crisis, and my constant endeavor is to liberate the country from these challenges.”

“We are actively exploring strategies to enhance the effectiveness of the three-level government system. Strengthening the provincial and local levels is imperative for overall system reinforcement, and we are committed to achieving this goal. It’s time for significant leaps forward,” he stated.