KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said the government will strengthen the National Planning Commission of Nepal and the Policy Research Institute Nepal through reforms rather than abolishing them in order to make public service delivery more effective.
Speaking at a discussion with officials and staff of the commission at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Tuesday, Shah said the government’s work can only become effective if planning and policy research are systematic.
“If these institutions can be reformed, they will significantly support the functioning of the government,” he said.
Referring to the Policy Research Institute Nepal, the prime minister said the role of subject experts is crucial, stressing the need for in-depth study and long-term vision. He also clarified that the government would fully embrace the academic contributions of experts.
Prime Minister Shah also instructed officials to deliver results through concrete planning and effective implementation without making excuses. He warned that lack of coordination among ministries or legal and budgetary complexities should not be used as reasons for inaction.
On the occasion, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle said the current period should be taken as an opportunity for reform. He urged officials to translate expert knowledge into policies, programmes and budgets, and to bring forward proposals with clear targets, adequate budgets and measurable outcomes.
Wagle also said institutional structures would be strengthened, irrelevant provisions removed and policy development processes advanced in line with new needs. Innovative programmes would be launched as pilot projects and expanded after successful implementation, he added.
During the meeting, officials of the commission briefed the prime minister on their progress, challenges and budget situation. Staff of the institute also highlighted the need for additional manpower and resources, saying the interaction with the prime minister had encouraged them further.
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