Private sector seeks time-bound implementation

KATHMANDU, June 29:

Private sector has sought time-bound implementation of government´s policies and programs for 2014/15 unveiled by President Dr Ram Baran Yadav on Sunday.

Business leaders say they are satisfied with the government´s policies and programs for the coming fiscal year. They, however, have expressed doubts over implementation of policies and programs.

“We have long been seeking time-bound implementation of the plans and programs incorporated in the policies and programs,” Pradeep Jung Pandey, president of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) told Republica.

 “The 106-point policies and programs have incorporated timeframe for implementation of Dhalkebar-Muzzffarpur 400 KV Cross Border Transmission Line project only.”

The policies and programs prioritize early enactment of Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act and Industrial Enterprises Act. The private sector has long been demanding with the government to enact these crucial laws at the earliest. Though the government has recognized private sector as the engine of economic growth, it has not clearly stated when these laws would be enacted.

“Policies and programs alone don´t give outputs. The major concern is their implementation,” added Pandey. Citing Melamchi Drinking Water Supply Project, which was announced in 1995 but is yet to be completed, Pandey said the government should focus on time-bound implementation of development programs.

Other leading representative of the Nepali private sector Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) has also emphasized on government commitment for time-bound implementation of such policies and programs. “The government should be more action oriented to achieve the desired outcomes,” Hari Bhakta Sharma, senior vice president of CNI said, adding “It would have been better had the government expressed commitment for time-bound implementation of 106-point policies and programs.,”

Similarly, Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) has said the government should provide tax benefits to entrepreneurs for creating more employment opportunity. Talking to Republica, NCC President Suresh Kumar Basnet said the government should stimulate economic growth by providing incentive to entrepreneurs.

Source: Republica