Nepal Allocates NPR 4.88 Trillion to Provinces with Karnali Receiving Largest Share

Nepal's central government has allocated a substantial budget of NPR 4.88 trillion to its provinces and local governments for the upcoming fiscal year 2081/82. This significant financial distribution aims to bolster regional development and support local governance.

Among the provinces, Karnali Province stands out, receiving the largest share of NPR 16.38 billion. This allocation highlights the government's commitment to addressing the unique developmental needs of this region.

This allocation of funds has significant implications for the development of Nepal's provinces and local governments, and will likely impact the country's overall economic growth and stability. The effective use of these funds will be essential in addressing regional disparities and promoting inclusive development.

Despite the substantial allocation, the budget formulation process has faced criticism. Chairperson KP Sharma Oli of the Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML) party voiced strong concerns over the lack of adequate consultation during the budget's development. He highlighted that many important topics were overlooked because of insufficient consultation.

Oli emphasized the importance of thorough study and inclusive deliberation in the budgetary process. He stated, "Many important topics have been overlooked in the budget because of insufficient consultation. It is imperative to undertake a thorough study to discern the allocation of budget heads to respective ministries, and to address both new inclusions and exclusions."

The criticisms were part of a broader discussion during a UML Parliamentary Party meeting held in New Baneshwor. Oli stressed the need for coordination among Members of Parliament (MPs) to raise pertinent issues during budget discussions. He also pointed out discrepancies between the budget and the constitutional provisions aimed at advancing the nation towards socialism.

In a related development, a collective action plan for disaster preparedness and response was formulated for Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces. This plan, developed through a three-day discussion, includes key components such as risk reduction, information management, rescue and search operations, health treatment, and relief distribution.

The disaster preparedness plan also incorporates inter-province mock rescue exercises to enhance disaster response capabilities. The initiative was facilitated by experts and supported by organizations including the European Union, UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, and the Nepal Red Cross Society Banke Chapter.

This significant allocation and the development of a comprehensive disaster preparedness and response plan reflect the Nepalese government's commitment to regional development and disaster risk management. However, the concerns raised by Chairperson Oli highlight the need for more inclusive and consultative budgetary processes in the future.

Key Takeaways

• Nepal's central government allocates NPR 4.88 trillion to provinces and local governments for FY 2081/82.
• Karnali Province receives the largest share of NPR 16.38 billion for regional development.
• Chairperson KP Sharma Oli criticizes the budget formulation process for lacking adequate consultation.
• A collective action plan for disaster preparedness and response is developed for Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces.
• The government's allocation and disaster plan reflect its commitment to regional development and disaster risk management.