Opposition lawmakers propose budget cuts, cite neglect of key sectors

KATHMANDU: In Friday’s House of Representatives meeting, lawmakers from opposition parties proposed symbolic budget cuts of one rupee in various ministries, expressing dissatisfaction over the 2082 Appropriation Bill.

Ram Kumar Rai of the CPN (Maoist Centre) proposed a one-rupee reduction in the expenditure title of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.

He criticized the government for failing to allocate funds for local liquor marketing, traditional industries like jute and dhaka, and modern agricultural tools, stressing the lack of budget for self-reliance initiatives.

Similarly, Maoist Centre MP Devendra Paudel proposed a cut to the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation.

He expressed concern over the absence of a clear budget plan to distribute land to Dalits, landless, squatters, and the displaced. “It’s unclear whether land will be provided from riverbanks, buffer zones, or elsewhere,” Paudel said.

Prem Suwal of the Nepal Workers and Peasants Party tabled proposals to reduce expenditures across several ministries, including Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation; Physical Infrastructure and Transport; Industry, Commerce and Supplies; and Land Management.

Suwal argued that priority was not given to boosting agricultural output or recognizing tenancy rights.

He also emphasized the need for increased investment in hydropower development.