Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel has admitted that we are slow off the mark on revenue mobilization in the current fiscal year. Inaugurating a building of Balaram-Tara Pradhan Energy Lab at Kathmandu University here today, Finance Minister Poudel reiterated that revenue mobilization this year is ineffective as compared to the last year.
“There is only 14 to 15 percent capital expenditure. It is also worrying,” he said, adding that homework was going on to improve the situation and prepare the next year budget accordingly. Entire economy is facing challenges, he added. Interest rate, inflation, trade balance are some challenges which need to be addressed. The Finance Minister sought cooperation from all stakeholders to restore economy.
Minister Poudel also expressed worry over exodus of youths for higher education and foreign jobs. “Numerous youths are leaving countries for quality education, which has dented State coffers,” he observed. He pointed out the need for providing quality education for the overall development of country. On the occasion, he urged everyone to adhere to the ideals of the late hydro engineer Balram Pradhan.
The programme was attended by Vice Chancellor of Kathmandu University, Bhola Thapa, Registrar Dr Achyut Wagle and others. The two-story green hydrogen lab was constructed at a cost of Rs 26 million. Among the total cost, Pradhan’s family had provided Rs 4.5 million in assistance. —–
