Kathmandu, March 16: Nepali Congress Chief Whip Shyam Kumar Ghimire has urged opposition parties not to create confusion by downplaying the country’s achievements and the positive changes in people’s living standards.
Speaking during the ‘special time’ session in the House of Representatives today, he emphasized that Nepal has undergone a significant transformation since adopting the federal democratic republican system. “Development and good governance have improved, instilling hope and confidence among the people,” he said.
Ghimire criticized efforts to spread the notion that no progress has been made under the new system, calling such claims misleading. He urged opposition parties to focus on constructive criticism rather than promoting narratives that portray the country as being in decline.
“It is the duty of the opposition to propose corrections if they disagree with any bill. Why is there resistance to formulating laws that allow hemp farming? Many development projects are being obstructed due to forest-related regulations. Instead of misleading the people, the opposition should raise concerns on such pressing issues,” he asserted.
The NC Chief Whip also highlighted the need for increased investment in infrastructure, including roads, drinking water, and sports. He pointed out that restrictions on private-sector involvement in medical colleges and engineering institutions are hindering educational expansion, arguing that the government alone cannot manage such institutions effectively.
Ghimire further stressed the importance of boosting capital expenditure and curbing youth migration. He underlined the significant contribution of remittances to the national economy, questioning whether those bringing in over Rs 15 billion in remittances should be overlooked.
“In the past, countries like Japan and Korea sent their citizens abroad for employment. Today, Chinese citizens are present in every country. Nepal’s tourism sector has yet to generate Rs 100 billion in foreign exchange, and earnings from energy and IT remain insufficient. Given this reality, should we ignore those contributing billions through remittances?” he asked.
Reflecting on the past 19 years since the peace process began, Ghimire noted that Nepali society has evolved significantly, leading to an improved standard of living.
“Access to technology has expanded, and both the system and circumstances have changed. Therefore, I urge everyone to refrain from making overly negative comments,” he concluded. #nepal #expenditure
