NCP lawmaker Pun advocates structural reform to boost economy

Kathmandu, May 14: A lawmaker of the Nepali Communist Party (NCP), Barshaman Pun, has underlined the urgency of structural reforms in economy, arguing that mere economic growth was not enough to break socio-economic barriers of national development. 

In the House of Representatives deliberation held on Thursday on the government's annual policies and programmes, Pun called for comprehensive policy reforms in order to ensure equitable benefits to all sectors in society and equal access to public services. A clear strategy is imperative to determine classes, communities and areas that require additional attention for economic advancement. 

He saw lack of clarity and direction in the policies and programmes for that end. So, the government must make proper address for structural adjustment and effective execution of policies. 

Lawmaker Pun who was also the former Finance Minister urged the government to accelerate national pride projects such as Budhi Gandaki and ensure scientific revenue-sharing among the three tiers of government. The government should also implement the policies to address challenges facing agricultural sector, he said, adding that production, processing, supply and marketing are equally important.

The former Finance Minister demanded establishment of a powerful Dalit Development Authority and the continuous encouragement to Dalit and marginalized communities for linking their skills to entrepreneurship. 

His suggestions included development of the postal highway to prop up agriculture-based rural industry and the central highway as a fruit-based industrial corridor. These initiatives would help spur economic growth in these regions, according to Pun. (RSS)