Pledges transparency and accountability

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Mar. 20: In Tuesday’s session of the House of Representatives, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' engaged in a comprehensive interaction, responding to queries raised by Members of Parliament. The exchange highlighted the government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and addressing pressing issues facing the nation.

"We are dedicated to fostering transparency, notably through the innovative direct question-and-answer format. It is imperative to uphold open dialogue in parliamentary proceedings, avoiding politicisation, and preserving the integrity of the legislative process," said PM Prachanda.

Various MPs raised crucial questions spanning infrastructure development, education, land distribution, health insurance, poverty alleviation, and other pertinent topics. PM Prachanda provided detailed insights into each area, outlining the government's strategies and initiatives to address prevailing challenges.

MP Gokul Baskota's queries covered a wide range of issues, including infrastructure development, education, and land distribution. 

"I am making strides in infrastructure development like the Mid-hill Highway, with plans for technological advancements. The government is committed to expediting construction and upgrading key sections for better connectivity," said PM Prachanda. 

Regarding education, he noted progress in Madan Bhandari University construction and pledged to address land distribution issues swiftly.

MP Chandra Bahadur Bishwakarma raised concerns about incomplete projects and development of marginalized communities. Prime Minister Prachanda responded by outlining efforts to reinitiate contracts and expedite construction on stalled projects like the Bheri River Bridge and Chaurjahari Airport. He also highlighted plans for a Dalit Development Authority and reiterated the government's commitment to addressing historical discrimination.

MP Ganga Prasad Yadav expressed concerns about desertification in Terai-Madhes due to budget cuts in the Chure Conservation Programme. 

"The government is committed to revising the conservation plan, bolstering the Chure Upliftment Project, and launching bamboo plantation initiatives," said PM Prachanda. 

The PM stressed the importance of infrastructure projects like the Kathmandu-Tarai-Madhes Expressway for regional development and vowed to address social injustices impacting Madhesi communities.

MP Dr. Chanda Karki Bhandari highlighted challenges in the health insurance programme, particularly low coverage rates in certain provinces. PM Prachanda outlined measures to enhance the Social Health Insurance Programme, including simplifying access to medicines, ensuring timely hospital payments, and expanding insurance services to basic healthcare facilities.

MP Dr. Chandrakanta Bhandari raised concerns about Nepal's poverty rate and delayed infrastructure projects like the Burn Hospital. Prime Minister Prachanda emphasized good governance and socialist-oriented policies to address poverty and vowed to expand burn treatment facilities, providing subsidies and training for health workers.

MP Chanda Chaudhary focused on Pokhara International Airport's increasing debt and sought solutions to alleviate the burden. Prime Minister Prachanda assured efforts to explore public-private partnerships and convert loans into grants. He emphasized the importance of boosting internal tourism to generate revenue and repay debts sustainably.

MP Chiring Dumdul Lama Bhote highlighted the delayed connection of the national road and transmission line in the 77th district. 

"I am dedicated to connecting Simikot to the national road network and have prioritised budget allocations for infrastructure projects and electrification in Karnali Province," said PM Prachanda.

MP Janardan Sharma queried about the delay in effective federalism due to pending legislation and sluggish implementation. Prime Minister Prachanda assured prioritization of laws for federalism and prompt action on earthquake reconstruction projects in affected regions.

MP Chabilal Bishwakarma raised concerns about landless squatters and rights of Dalits, as well as efforts to rescue Bipin Joshi. 

"The National Land Commission is actively working on land distribution, and I am focused on border area development and implementing Lumbini's master plan. Additionally, I am committed to diplomatic efforts for the release of Bipin Joshi from captivity," said PM Prachanda.

MP Ganga Karki commended corruption investigations like Lalita Niwas and fake Bhutanese refugees. She queried the PM about opening the remaining corruption files and addressing farmers’ struggles and Dolakha's tourism potential. PM Prachanda expressed zero tolerance for corruption, farmer support, and strategic infrastructure development.

MP Chiring Lamu Lama Tamang emphasised economic and social progress over 15 years and urged prioritization of neglected regions like Jumla and Upper Karnali. 

PM Prachanda affirmed the government's commitment to Karnali's transformation and highlighted budget allocations for development initiatives.

MP Goma Labh Sapkota raised concerns about recent arrests and security incidents. 

"The arrests during Posak Diwas celebrations and the university event were not due to attires but for breaching restricted zones. The government has taken steps to prevent clashes and ensure peace, and no formal complaints were lodged in both cases," said PM Prachanda.

Lastly, MP Chitra Bahadur KC raised concerns about the delayed relocation of the Galkot service centre. Prime Minister Prachanda assured the House of ongoing preparations to establish an area administration office in Galkot, Baglung district, underscoring the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises.