Government is actively working to develop and promote industries: Minister Bhandari

KATHMANDU: Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, has asserted that the government is actively working to develop and promote industries.

During a meeting with office-bearers of the Federation of Nepal Cottage and Small Industries (FNCSI) on Saturday, Minister Bhandari mentioned that continuous collaboration and cooperation between the Industry Ministry and the FNCSI would aid the country's industrial development.

He opined that micro, cottage, small, and middle-scale industries are the basis for a self-reliant economy, adding that the government is ready to facilitate cottage and small industries.

Minister Bhandari explained that the government is committed to encouraging industrialists and entrepreneurs to spur industrial growth.

Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Krishna Bahadur Raut, shared that 'startup' programmes were launched for small industrialists and added that such programmes will continue in the coming days.

He urged the FNCSI to support the ministry by preparing an annual book for the development of industries and appreciating the role of micro, cottage, and small-scale industries in the country's development.

Similarly, FNCSI President Umesh Prasad Singh pointed out the need to formulate an industrial policy with clear jurisdiction and responsibility for local, provincial, and federal governments to suit the federal structure.

Singh stressed the need for a timely revision of the Industrial Enterprises Act based on experiences gained during the operation of three-tier governments.

FNCSI's former presidents and vice-presidents were also present at the meeting.

By RSS