Biratnagar: Nepali Congress Treasurer, educationist and businessman Umesh Shrestha has stressed the need to bring forward new, educated, enterprising and subject-matter experts in the party’s leadership, moving away from old styles and familiar faces. He said the country’s changing political, economic and social realities demand fresh thinking and capable leadership.

Gen-G Movement Reflects Youth Discontent
Shrestha linked the recent Gen-G movement to growing frustration among the youth, attributing it mainly to unemployment and policy shortcomings. He said the movement reflects both disappointment with the current system and a strong desire for meaningful change.

Education as the Foundation of National Transformation
Highlighting education as the backbone of national progress, Shrestha said Nepal’s existing education system is not employment-oriented, forcing young people to seek opportunities abroad. He emphasized the need for skill-based and practical education from the school level to prepare youths for domestic employment and entrepreneurship.

Private Sector-Friendly Policies Needed
Shrestha called on the government to adopt policies that encourage the private sector rather than discourage business. He stressed that negative perceptions toward industrialists and entrepreneurs must change to create a healthy investment climate and generate jobs.

Healthy Competition and Unity Within the Party
He underlined the importance of both healthy competition and cooperation within the Nepali Congress, urging leaders to rise above factions and sub-groups while taking decisions in the party’s broader interest.

Agriculture Holds Vast Potential
Sharing his recent involvement in agriculture, Shrestha described Nepal’s heavy reliance on agricultural imports—worth over four trillion rupees annually—as alarming. He called for a shift toward modern, commercial and technology-friendly agriculture, with a focus on hybrid crops, zonal specialization and export-oriented production.

Investment in Cold Storage and Value Addition
Shrestha emphasized the role of cold storage in adding value to agricultural products. He informed that a state-of-the-art multi-chamber cold storage center is under construction in Chitwan, with plans to expand similar facilities in Kathmandu, Bhairahawa, Itahari and other locations.

Politics as a Tool for Policy Reform
Concluding his remarks, Shrestha said politics should be viewed as a means for policy reform and institutional strengthening rather than merely a race for positions and elections. He identified education, entrepreneurship and agriculture as the three core pillars of Nepal’s prosperity.

The Nepali Congress is scheduled to hold its general convention later this year.