Describe the objectives and strategies of current plan of Nepal. GROUP: C Long answer questions 5x5=25

Objectives and Strategies of the Current Five-Year Plan of Nepal (2073–2078)

The 14th Five-Year Plan (2073–2078) of Nepal, also known as the Current Plan, was formulated to accelerate economic growth, reduce poverty, and achieve sustainable development. Its key objectives and strategies are as follows:

Objectives

1. Economic Growth and Employment

   • Achieve an average annual GDP growth of 7.5% to create employment opportunities.
   • Reduce unemployment by improving industrialization and skill development.

2. Poverty Reduction and Inclusive Growth

   • Reduce poverty from 23.8% (2018) to below 15% by 2025.
   • Focus on inclusive growth, particularly in rural and marginalized communities.

3. Infrastructure Development

   • Improve connectivity through road, rail, and air transport networks.
   • Expand electricity access to 100% of households.

4. Human Resource Development

   • Enhance education and healthcare services to improve human capital.
   • Increase enrollment in secondary and higher education.

5. Environmental Sustainability

   • Promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.
   • Protect biodiversity and natural resources.

Strategies

1. Industrialization and Job Creation

   • Encourage private sector investment in manufacturing and services.
   • Develop Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to attract foreign and domestic investments.

2. Agricultural Modernization

   • Improve irrigation, storage, and market linkages for farmers.
   • Promote high-value agriculture (e.g., organic farming, horticulture).

3. Infrastructure Expansion

   • Complete major road projects (e.g., East-West Highway, Prithvi Highway).
   • Develop hydropower projects to meet energy demands.

4. Social Inclusion and Gender Equality

   • Increase women’s participation in the workforce and decision-making.
   • Provide targeted support to Dalits, Janajatis, and other marginalized groups.

5. Digital Transformation

   • Expand broadband and digital literacy programs.
   • Promote e-governance and digital payments.

6. Climate Resilience

   • Strengthen disaster risk management.
   • Implement climate-smart agriculture and forest conservation.

The plan emphasizes public-private partnerships (PPPs) and international cooperation to achieve these goals. By focusing on inclusive growth, infrastructure, and sustainability, Nepal aims to build a resilient and prosperous economy.