KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has claimed that Nepal has remained under the influence of vested interest groups for the past 10 to 15 years and said the current government is working to dismantle that network.
Speaking at an event in the capital on Sunday, Wagle said facts are gradually emerging showing that political leadership and various state institutions had been influenced by interest groups.
He also stated that what he described as the largest financial scandal case in Nepal’s history, involving claims exceeding Rs 100 billion, is currently under judicial process.
According to the finance minister, the government has launched efforts to address economic challenges and counter the growing narrative that young people must leave the country because Nepal cannot offer opportunities.
Wagle said the government is moving ahead with a clear five-year roadmap aimed at establishing good governance and building the foundation for economic prosperity so that young people would not feel compelled to seek opportunities abroad.
Speaking at the same event, Labour, Employment and Youth Minister Ramji Yadav said nearly 80 percent of his ministry’s work is currently focused on addressing issues related to foreign employment.
He said the government plans to amend the Foreign Employment Act within 100 days as part of broader policy reforms and to promote domestic employment opportunities.
Yadav encouraged young people not only to look for jobs but also to identify opportunities and start entrepreneurial ventures, even at a small scale, without fearing failure.
He also emphasized the need to expand exports to global markets in sectors ranging from ginger and tea to information technology (IT).
Additionally, Yadav said the government has adopted a policy of not granting labour approval for workers travelling to Gulf countries and other destinations if the offered salary is below USD 500 per month.
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