April 20, Kathmandu – Indian policy expert and planner Amitabh Kant emphasized the need for bold policy reforms, investment in digital infrastructure, and the promotion of high-value tourism to achieve economic prosperity in Nepal. Addressing the seminar titled ‘Nepal’s Economy: Unveiling Possibilities,’ organized by Barakhari Media in Kathmandu on Saturday, Kant urged the government to adopt the role of a facilitator rather than a regulator. “Excessive licensing, frequent inspections, and discretionary powers of bureaucracy foster corruption,” he said. “The government must act as an enabler, not a regulator. Nepal should be made one of the easiest countries in the world to do business in.” He recommended that Nepal set a target of 9 to 10 percent annual economic growth for the next three decades.
Recalling the recent elections and aspirations of the youth, Kant noted that the new generation is seeking good governance, integrity, and economic transformation. Wishing success to Prime Minister Balendra Shah in fulfilling the people’s mandate, he also stressed the importance of further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Nepal and India.
Reflecting on India’s transformation from one of the world’s five fragile economies a decade ago, Kant highlighted that structural reforms, widespread digitalization, and infrastructure development have helped India become the world’s fifth-largest economy today. He asserted that these experiences are relevant to Nepal as well. Given Nepal’s geographic complexities, he identified digital infrastructure as the most effective tool to simplify challenges. Kant cited India’s example of utilizing its Digital Public Infrastructure to deliver benefits of more than 710 government programs directly to citizens’ bank accounts, effectively eliminating corruption and leakage.
He urged Nepal to prioritize the telecom and IT sectors and make leaps forward with 5G technology, which would bring transformative changes in health, education, and employment. Kant proposed deregulation by eliminating outdated laws, rules, and cumbersome procedures that hinder Nepal’s development.
Describing tourism as Nepal’s “force multiplier,” he recommended elevating Nepal’s status from a “budget trekking destination” to a “luxury destination.” “Nepal’s unique tourist attractions should not be sold at low prices,” he stated. “Infrastructure development and branding should focus on attracting tourists who spend at least $1,500 per night.” He pointed to cross-border tourism projects like the ‘Ramayana Circuit,’ connecting Ayodhya and Janakpur, as opportunities to be leveraged. Kant also emphasized Nepal’s need to adopt 100 percent electric vehicles and become a global model for sustainable green development.
He urged Nepal to focus on sectors with comparative advantage, such as hydroelectricity, agricultural processing, and information technology. While asserting that economic development must be led by the private sector, he emphasized the indispensability of integrity in this process. Given that opaque collaborations between politicians and businessmen impede national development, Kant advocated for promoting young entrepreneurs and increasing women’s participation.
Reaffirming India’s full support for Nepal’s development, Kant encouraged Nepal to move forward by integrating its geographic and cultural heritage with modern technology.
