KATHMANDU: The government has formed a task force to study options for reopening the Biratnagar Jute Mill.
A decision to form a task force comprising experts was taken at a meeting held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Monday to assess the mill’s existing financial, technical and legal condition and recommend suitable options for its revival.
According to Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers Birendra Kumar Yadav, the meeting reviewed the current condition of the mill, previous government decisions and study reports prepared by various agencies before deciding to form the task force.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Yadav, the Finance Secretary, Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, officials from relevant ministries and representatives of concerned agencies. Discussions focused on the management of the mill, prospects for its operation, existing challenges and possible options for its revival.
According to Secretary Yadav, the task force will conduct an objective assessment of the financial, technical, legal and other aspects required for reopening the mill. A decision will be taken based on its study and recommendations.
The task force has been given one month to submit its report.
Joint secretary to coordinate task force
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, a joint secretary overseeing public enterprises at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies will coordinate the task force.
A deputy secretary from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, a deputy secretary from the Ministry of Finance and a deputy secretary from the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs will serve as members.
Two experts will also be nominated by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. A deputy secretary from the ministry’s Government Industries and Public Enterprises Division will serve as member-secretary.
The task force will submit its report to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies within one month.
It will also review previous decisions concerning the mill and reports, suggestions and recommendations submitted by earlier task forces formed by various government agencies.
The study will cover the current condition of buildings, factory facilities, machinery and spare parts located within the mill premises. The task force has also been tasked with recommending legal and practical measures for settling issues related to the mill’s assets and liabilities.
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