KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress has called on Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel to allocate a dedicated budget for promoting startup entrepreneurship in the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26.
The party emphasized the importance of supporting innovation and new enterprises during a policy and budget dialogue program held in Kathmandu.
The event was jointly organized by the Nepali Congress Department of Library and Party Study Resource Center and the Entrepreneurial Congress. During the program, key budget suggestions were formally submitted to Finance Minister Paudel.
Ajay Babu Shivakoti, a central member of the Nepali Congress and head of the Library and Study Resource Center, stated that the party urged the full implementation of Nepal’s startup policy, the provision of low-interest loans for entrepreneurs, and tax exemptions to encourage innovation.
Shivakoti also stressed the need for tax system reform, including the removal of double taxation, the implementation of a one-window system, increased accountability in tax offices, and the development of a digital taxation framework.
The submitted report includes strategic recommendations on improving education, supporting agriculture, tax reform, and promoting entrepreneurship.
In response, Finance Minister Paudel assured that the upcoming budget will incorporate measures to empower startups, innovation, and micro-enterprises. He added that efforts will be made to create an enabling environment and ensure effective implementation of related policies.
During the submission, Ashwin Sitaula, President of Entrepreneurial Congress, emphasized the importance of building consensus among stakeholders on entrepreneurship issues through effective dialogue.
General Secretary Mohan Gajurel added that the organization will continue to push the government for the effective implementation of entrepreneurship-related initiatives.
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