Joining Hands
PRIME Minister Lokendra Bahadur Chand, inaugurating a
function organised by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the
other day, said that in the present context trade is the basis for economic progress and
Nepal too should bring about changes in its concept of development. This was a valid point
raised as it is the thrust to develop trade that can bring about the needed economic
prosperity which is the urgent need today. When the focus is on trade, it is necessary to
link it with the industrial sector. The state of the industrial development is a
reflection of the economic development of the country. Unlike in the past, the private
sector has a greater role to play in the development of any aspect of the economy. Prime
Minister Chand, however, admitted that though the industrial sector's development and
expansion have been given priority the expected contribution has not come about in the
past few years due to various reasons. The development of the industry sector can help as
it will lead to the generation of employment opportunities and sustainable promotion of
exports.
This is true for a developing agricultural country like Nepal
where greater efforts have to be made for industrial development. It is true that there is
a lack of resources mainly financial which means that enough investments are not
forthcoming easily. Moreover, political stability and peace are necessary for industrial
development to take place at the rate desired. Towards this direction, the government is
doing all it can so that the industrial scene improves. In this respect the government has
provisions under the open and liberal economic policy to free the industry from
administrative complexities and thereby attract investors. The past had been somewhat
uncertain but now with the cease-fire holding good and optimism rising for durable peace
the entrepreneurs feel that they can contribute to the extent desired for the economic
prosperity of the country. It is now time to put the pieces together so that the economic
growth rate can be increased and benefits of which can percolate down to the people. For
this the government policies regarding trade and industry must be reviewed at regular
intervals and, if necessary, timely reforms must be made. With government and the private
sector working together there is no reason why the future will not see the revival of the
country's economy.
Other Story
|
