Kathmandu: The upcoming 16th periodic plan in Nepal will prioritize good governance, social justice, and prosperity. The National Planning Commission, responsible for planning in the country, aims to ensure social justice in various aspects, including health, education, employment, and housing. Additionally, good governance will be emphasized in political, administrative, and judicial realms.

NPC Vice Chairman, Dr. Min Bahadur Shrestha, stressed the importance of building capacity at all levels of government and among stakeholders to facilitate smooth coordination and collaboration for effective plan implementation. The plan will address structural barriers that have arisen during previous strategic development efforts.

The key areas for achieving national development and prosperity include promoting self-reliance in agricultural production, boosting exports, developing tourism and industries, expanding power trade and irrigation, establishing metal industries, and fully utilizing the labor force.

Other essential aspects covered in the plan are service delivery reform, infrastructure development, economic foundation strengthening, creation of inclusive and decent employment opportunities, providing quality education, efficient urban management, social empowerment, social security, and capacity enhancement for capital spending.

Environmental concerns, biodiversity, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), prioritizing trade and industry, controlling corruption, adopting result-oriented approaches, and strict project implementation will also be given due attention in the plan.

The 16th periodic plan comes after a history of periodic plans that started in 2013 BS (1956/1957). Currently, Nepal is implementing the 15th periodic plan and a 25-year long-term plan to guide its developmental efforts. With the upcoming plan's focus on good governance, social justice, and prosperity, the government aims to address critical challenges and foster sustainable growth in the nation.