KATHMANDU: Prime Minister (PM) Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” has underscored the significance of prioritizing the expansion of integrated infrastructure and the utilization of information technology (IT) in the 16th plan.

During the inauguration of the National Development Council meeting in Kathmandu, Prime Minister Dahal highlighted the role of the 16th Plan in advancing commercial agriculture, fostering productive industries, promoting employment-oriented education, and enhancing quality healthcare services.

“Tourism promotion, internal employment growth, and integrated settlement development demand high priority,” stated Prime Minister Dahal.

“To achieve this, the plan must foster innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth through initial capital investment while also encouraging domestic and foreign investments,” he stated.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence in crafting a plan that aligns with appropriate goals and investment estimates, acknowledging the supportive roles of the cooperative, community, and non-governmental sectors, and involving development partners, while positioning the private sector as a key facilitator of economic prosperity.

Emphasizing the indispensable need for cooperation and coordination among all levels of government, Prime Minister Dahal stressed the prudent mobilization of revenue to ensure adequate investment and public expenditure.

“Significant investments from various sources, including the private sector, are anticipated during the planning period,” remarked Prime Minister Dahal, envisioning increased investment, production, productivity, and employment as a result of effective strategies implemented in collaboration with all stakeholders.

The Prime Minister advocated for the development and implementation of a robust monitoring and evaluation system involving all parties to ensure the effectiveness of economic reforms, coordinated by the National Planning Commission in collaboration with relevant agencies.

“I am confident that with the cooperation and effective coordination among all stakeholders, including the three levels of government, private sector, cooperatives, and development partners, we will achieve sustainable economic growth alongside our social and environmental objectives,” Prime Minister Dahal said.