KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has emphasized the importance of prioritizing the expansion of integrated infrastructure and the utilization of information technology (IT) in the 16th plan. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Development Council meeting in Kathmandu, Prime Minister Dahal outlined key areas of focus for the plan, including advancing commercial agriculture, promoting employment-oriented education, fostering productive industries, and enhancing quality healthcare services.

Prime Minister Dahal highlighted the need for prioritizing tourism promotion, internal employment growth, and integrated settlement development in the 16th Plan. He emphasized the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among youth through initial capital investment and encouraging both domestic and foreign investments to achieve these objectives.

Acknowledging the supportive roles of cooperative, community, and non-governmental sectors, Prime Minister Dahal emphasized the involvement of development partners and positioning the private sector as a key facilitator of economic prosperity.

Prime Minister Dahal stressed the importance of cooperation and coordination among all levels of government to ensure prudent mobilization of revenue for adequate investment and public expenditure. He anticipated significant investments from various sources, including the private sector, during the planning period, leading to increased investment, production, productivity, and employment.

Advocating for the development and implementation of a robust monitoring and evaluation system involving all stakeholders, Prime Minister Dahal expressed confidence that sustainable economic growth, alongside social and environmental objectives, could be achieved through effective strategies and collaboration among all parties, including government levels, private sector, cooperatives, and development partners.