Kathmandu, May 9: An inter-ministerial high-level task force has recommended the government immediately create digital profiles and geolocation mapping of Nepali migrant workers living in conflict-affected and high-risk countries, particularly in West Asia.
The task force, formed under the government’s 100-day governance reform agenda and coordinated by Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, submitted its report to the government with a series of short-, medium-, and long-term policy recommendations.
The report calls for continuous risk assessment and preparedness for the safe relocation or repatriation of Nepalis from affected regions. It also recommends establishing 24-hour emergency hotlines and dedicated help desks at Nepali embassies.
The task force included secretaries from the ministries of Foreign Affairs, Labour, Finance, Industry, Energy, and Tourism. Its mandate was to study the impact of regional conflicts, especially in West Asia, on Nepali migrant workers and the national economy.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, around 1.72 million Nepali migrant workers are currently employed across 13 countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman and Iraq. The report noted that the ongoing regional tensions, including the Israel-Iran conflict, have increased safety concerns, transportation costs, and economic pressures on Nepali workers and their families.
Joint Secretary Ram Kaji Khadka said prolonged instability could force many workers to return home, increasing unemployment and pushing families into debt.
The task force recommended launching skill-mapping and employment-matching programmes for returning migrants and fast-track certification of foreign-acquired skills through the National Skill Testing Board.
It also proposed programmes such as “cash-for-work,” entrepreneurship training, concessional loans, seed funding for small businesses and startups, and commercial farming support. As a medium-term measure, local governments have been advised to establish reintegration funds in their annual budgets to support returnee workers.
Other recommendations include creating digital skill banks, promoting collective investment projects through cooperatives, and developing local market hubs for returnees. Amid rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and increasing petroleum prices, the task force urged the government to ensure at least three months of strategic fuel reserves.
It also recommended expanding electric vehicle use, promoting electric cooking, blending ethanol into petrol, and converting industrial systems from petroleum-based fuel to electricity.
To support tourism, the report suggested simplifying online visa procedures, coordinating with airlines to keep airfares affordable, and offering incentives for airlines operating from Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara International Airport.
Meanwhile, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri clarified that ambassadors would continue to be appointed through the existing government process, dismissing social media rumours about a competitive appointment system.
He also reiterated that Nepal remains committed to resolving the Lipulek Pass dispute through dialogue with India and China based on historical evidence. #Nepal
