KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has stated that the development of micro, cottage and small industries remains a top priority for the government. During a meeting with a delegation from the Federation of Nepal Cottage and Small Industries, Minister Wagle emphasized that the growth of these sectors is essential for the country’s economic development and pledged government support.
The delegation, led by Federation President Shobha Gurung, proposed declaring the next decade as the decade for the development of micro, cottage and small industries. Their recommendations include providing concessional and collateral-free loans, offering tax incentives for new industries and ensuring that at least 30 percent of public procurement is allocated to domestic micro, small and medium enterprise products.
The Federation also requested government support for the Made in Nepal campaign, export facilitation and subsidies for introducing modern technology. Furthermore, the delegation proposed special entrepreneurship packages for women and youth returning from foreign employment, the 100 startup-100 investor program and the implementation of a fast-track industrial service to expedite government processes.
During the meeting, the Federation contributed Rs 555,555 to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund to support flood-affected families. President Gurung handed over the contribution to Minister Wagle. The delegation included several advisors and office bearers of the Federation, including the senior vice president, vice presidents, the president of the women entrepreneurs committee, the general secretary and the treasurer.
