Karnali Province presents Rs 35.39 billion budget with strong focus on social welfare and inclusion for FY 2026/27

The Karnali Provincial Government has prioritized social welfare and inclusive development in its budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2026/27, with a strong focus on empowering disadvantaged, marginalized, and vulnerable communities.

The province recently unveiled its annual estimates of income and expenditure totaling Rs 35.39 billion during a meeting of the Provincial Assembly.

Minister for Economic Affairs and Planning Rajiv Bikram Shah stated that the government will further strengthen social security and protection programmes while promoting gender equality, social inclusion, and human rights across the province.

He said the budget places special emphasis on Dalits, ethnic minorities, women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and low-income communities.

The provincial government has allocated Rs 120 million for the Chief Minister Dalit Income Generation Programme, aimed at improving livelihoods and social status of the Dalit community through skill enhancement and the modernization and commercialization of traditional occupations.

Similarly, budget provisions have been made for skills development and employment-oriented training, as well as technology transfer programmes targeting women, gender and sexual minorities, and highly marginalized groups including the Raute community.

A budget of Rs 10 million has been allocated for a disability partnership programme focusing on prevention, rehabilitation, and support services for persons with disabilities.

The province will also continue supporting short-term service centres for women and children affected by gender-based violence, along with grants for long-term rehabilitation programmes.

According to Minister Shah, special programmes have been introduced for skills development, shelter management, and livelihood support targeting survivors of violence, single women, conflict victims, and mothers residing in temporary shelters to support their children’s education.

The provincial government has also pledged continued commitment to child protection, elderly care, and initiatives aimed at integrating the endangered Raute community while preserving its cultural identity.