New FY Budget is realistic: Finance Minister Poudel

Kathmandu, June 2: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel has said that the budget (estimates of income and expenditure) for the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26 is realistic.

At a discussion organised by the Economic Media Society of Nepal (EMSON) on the upcoming fiscal year budget, Finance Minister Poudel said that the budget for the next FY has been prepared based on reality rather than for popularity. “As a Finance Minister representing the CPN (UML), there is a perception that I will introduce a popular budget, but this time I have tried to deliver a realistic budget rather than seeking popularity,” said Finance Minister Poudel.

The budget is focused on maintaining fiscal discipline, increasing the scope of resource management and managing expenses. He claimed that the budget has been presented to boost the morale of the private sector and increase areas of investment. It will add impetus to the economy and will also work to increase production and create employment.

Stating that he has become optimistic from the feedback received over the budget, the Finance Minister said that he now must ensure its implementation. “I will focus on fulfilling the objectives set by the budget,” said Finance Minister Poudel. National Planning Commission Vice Chair Dr Shivraj Adhikari said that the budget for the upcoming fiscal year is a tool for restructuring the economy, and if the budget is implemented the target of six percent economic growth will be met.

Former Finance Ministers Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat and Janardan Sharma, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Former Chief Secretary Dr Baikuntha Aryal and other speakers shared their opinions about the new FY budget presented by the government.