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This is probably a first of its type in the history of Nepal. I am really delighted to welcome the former prime ministers, who are at the helm of the country, in Birgung- a city known as the main entrance as well as the economic capital of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> We are not going to hold a political debate by bringing top leaders of the political parties in this economic and industrial hub. Rather, we are seeking a political commitment for the nation’s economic development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Water, as a form of white gold, is flowing from our rivers. Provided that we utilize this water, we can easily get rid of the chronic power deficit. This will also ensure high economic growth, trade balance and earning of foreign currencies. However, instead of considering the hydropower as a matter of business, it’s a bitter reality that hydropower projects are facing political hindrances. </div> <div> </div> <div> On the other hand, Nepal is projected as a best destination for tourism by United Nations including other international organizations. However, the number of tourists in our markets has not exceeded one million per annum yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The major reason behind all these economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies. It is obvious that there exist of many political parties with diverse orientations in a country with multiparty democratic system. But complete and frequent changes in the whole policy resulting from the government changes is rarely see in any other country.</div> <div> </div> <div> The investors shy away from investing in the countries with instable politics and economy. Apart from these problems, our country is reeling under the power deficit and labour unrest, among other economic ordeals. Despite a high minimum wage compared to other South Asian countries, Nepal is yet to observe the normalcy in the labour sector. Thus, if productions are to be increased and investment is to be lured, a high level consensus is imperative on the fundamental issues of the economy. I would like to request to all former prime ministers from this forum for a common agreement on the fundamental agenda of the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> Birgunj is a strong pillar of our economy. 70 per cent of country’s total industrial investments are in Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor. But the government has inflicted injustice to the Birgunj-Pathlaiya region by not declaring this region as an industrial corridor. Along with a demand to declare this region as industrial corridor, we demand with the government that Birgunj be declared as economic capital. We have also brought a concept of a greater Birgunj to develop this city as the country’s economic capital. The concept brought for the overall development of Birgunj aims to increase the economic and industrial activities at a high rate and build infrastructures to the par of complete metropolitan by 2080. I would like to request former prime ministers to realize the importance of this comprehensive plan and act towards materializing it. This program would not been a success without the participation of prime ministers. I would like to thank you from my inner heart for your presence. </div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Baidya during Nepal Leadership Summit.)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The major reason behind economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies.', 'sortorder' => '1635', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 1 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1773', 'article_category_id' => '145', 'title' => 'There Is No Investment Friendly Environment', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By Madan Lamsal</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> Dignitaries present in this Nepal Leadership summit are much concerned over economic future of the country. But the vibes of this positive thinking has not been circulated to the common people. This platform intends to reach to those people with a hope to develop a common economic commitment.</div> <div> </div> <div> It has already been late to discuss about country’s economy because its growth barely hovering over 3 to 4.5 per cent in last three years.</div> <div> </div> <div> Entrepreneurs and businessmen along with the capital and human resource are moving abroad in large numbers. There is no investment friendly environment in our country. There is a public blame over the government’s indifferent attitude towards the economic agenda. It is now important for a common and practical mindset regarding the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Challenges of Nepali Economy</span></strong></div> <div> Productivity of the economy is declining and new investment is almost zero.</div> <div> Alarmingly, annual trade embalance is Rs 479 billion and inflation is approximately 10 percent. Nearly, 500 thousand youths are going abroad for employment and the number of those going for education and other purposes is critically high. Nepali currency depreciated by 22 per cent in last six months. Hydel projects are the victim of indecisiveness and are politicised. This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans. The air of uncertainty and the fear have not receded.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">People’s expectations from Leaders</span></strong></div> <div> People are tired of opinions and blame game. Now they want a clear and common commitment to solve the existing problems and its immediate implementation. There should not be any disagreement over the common problems.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Right Time</span></strong></div> <div> This is the right time for a common commitment because political parties are gearing high in preparing their manifesto. There is an expectation to make the country federal. It may take time, there might be differences but constitution would be drafted and there would be political outlet. However, the days without economic progress are the days squandered. Result is what we are desperately seeking now.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The Clock is Ticking</span></strong></div> <div> We should quickly act on it because the state can’t remain without long term plans for infinite period. It has been imperative to develop a national concept about the local currency peg with the Indian currency.</div> <div> </div> <div> Remittance income has not been able to utilised in productive sector. Thus, there is no alternative to make Nepal’s economy as a part of world market system. It has been imperative to provide relief to the people and industrial sector by ending energy crisis. Economic literacy is must for the political parties. And it is necessary to spread the message of industrial sector’s progress.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The way Ahead</span></strong></div> <div> The way ahead is co-operation. An initiative has been taken in this summit and it has to be strengthened. We are making a common commitment for coming decade. And this is not a formality but a necessity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Let’s adopt and implement it.</div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Lamsal in the Nepal Leadership Summit)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans.', 'sortorder' => '1634', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 2 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1772', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Glimpses Of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries" src="/userfiles/images/1%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal exchanging their views" src="/userfiles/images/2%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <div> <strong>Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal</strong></div> <div> <strong>exchanging their views</strong></div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration" src="/userfiles/images/3%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/4%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 336px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI family during the event" src="/userfiles/images/5%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI family during the event</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit" src="/userfiles/images/6%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI president Ashok Baidya" src="/userfiles/images/7%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI president Ashok Baidya</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma (second from the right)" src="/userfiles/images/8%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma </strong><strong>(second from the right)</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Glimpses of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sortorder' => '1633', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 3 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1771', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit At A Glance', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<h2> <strong style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size:14px;">Participants Former PMs</span></strong></h2> <ul> <li> Sher Bahadur Deuba </li> <li> Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</li> <li> Madhav Kumar Nepal</li> <li> Jhala Nath Khanal </li> <li> Dr Baburam Bhattarai </li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Organizer</span></strong></div> <div> Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Management </span></strong></div> <div> New Business Age Group </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Outcome </span></strong></div> <div> Former PMs singed a 12-point agreement vowing to let private sector lead the country’s economic front </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Why Birgunj?</span></strong></div> <div> Because Birgunj is one of the major trade hubs of the country and Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor has been suffered from political volatile situation. So, it would be better to seek commitment from PMs at the same place. </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Major Issues Raised</span></strong></div> <ul> <li> Political Instability</li> <li> Need of economic revolution</li> <li> Promotion of tourism</li> <li> Commitment for hydropower </li> <li> Agriculture focused development </li> <li> Inclusive growth</li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Feedback </span></strong></div> <div> It is indeed a good initiative that politicians signed a 12-point declaration. But signing is just a beginning. We should regularly put pressure on politicians to stick to their commitment in days ahead. The agreement should be translated into action. We want sincere commitment from former PMs and their respective political parties. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Ashok Baidya</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>President, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The programme is a very successful event since it was successful to bring politicians from different ideologies into a single platform. Also, it help reenergize discourse of making Birgunj a major industrial hub of the country. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Rabindra Kr Baranwal</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>Secretary, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The event will have a very positive impact on country’s economy. Commitment from top guns of major political parties for the economic development of the country will help boost morale of business community. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Prabesh Pandey, Banker</strong></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit at a Glance', 'sortorder' => '1632', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 4 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1770', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Roadmap Of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div> <span style="font-size:26px;"><strong>Nepal Leadership summit 2013</strong></span></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS</span></strong></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Birgunj Declaration </span></strong></div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>September 5, 2013</strong></span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution, we former prime ministers of Nepal assembled in this “Nepal Leadership Summit” organized by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) with help from Aarthik Abhiyan Daily, pledge our commitment to following common points: </strong></span></div> <div> </div> <div> 1.We commit to give priority to the national economic agenda above our respective party agenda for the protection of overall national interests while making any individual and party level decision.</div> <div> </div> <div> 2.We commit to discuss national economic agenda within our respective parties in a democratic manner and through that forge a consensus of all parties in the development of a common economic agenda of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 3.We are committed to bring to an end the existing uneasy industrial relations and to maintain a peaceful industrial situation for industrial development of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> 4.We are committed to bring out new labour policy and industrial policy conducive for overall national interests and industrial development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 5.We are committed to make Nepal free from the problem of power outage by removing the obstacles faced in the generation and supply of electricity. </div> <div> </div> <div> 6.We are committed to secure individual property rights of the people.</div> <div> </div> <div> 7.We are committed to create an environment conducive for attracting investment by discouraging all the activities that may disturb the investment climate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 8.We are committed to uplift Nepal from the current status of a Least Developed Country within the coming 10 years by removing the prevalent poverty and inequality and by achieving high economic growth rate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 9.We are committed to internalize that the private sector has to play the leading role in the economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 10.We are committed to get Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor officially declared an industrial corridor that fulfils a set of specified standards.</div> <div> </div> <div> 11.We are committed to get Birgunj recognised as the economic capital of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 12.We are committed to transform Birgunj town into Greater Birgunj.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution', 'sortorder' => '1631', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 5 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1769', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Green Economy For Economic Development’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/mkn.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 195px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> To meet the targets of proposed Economic Revolution Roadmap: Vision 2080, all the concerned parties must be committed. These objectives must be incorporated as economic agenda by all. When everyone is determined for political, economic and social progress, economic revolution is not an unattainable pursuit. But, sustainable economic development is possible only with political stability and rule of law. To establish political stability and rule of law, Constituent Assembly election slated for November 19 must be conducted peacefully. Then the economic development can gain momentum.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our economy is dependent on imports. To lower the high trade deficit, export oriented policies and programmes must be made. Likewise, investment in export oriented industries must be encouraged. For this, internal resources and external opportunities must be well coordinated and productive sectors must be developed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, employment must be generated through stable and long term investments. For this to happen, government, industrialists and workers must rise above their vested interests and serve the national interest. A favourable environment for running industries and making investments must be created. If these can be ensured, the campaign to achieve economic development and lifting country from the status of least developed to developing country is not overambitious.</div> <div> </div> <div> There must be committed focus on policy stability, power development, investment in employment oriented productive sector and expansion of the service sector. If we want to build new Nepal and make sure all people are prosperous, we must prioritise certain things first. They could be restructuring the society, overhauling the administrative structure, eradicating social discriminations and anomalies and prioritising the development of skilled human resources. Similarly, the physical infrastructure and power development must be prioritised as the water resource is being wasted. These targets are not unachievable but the only need is of the national commitment and positive thinking.</div> <div> </div> <div> Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development. Whether it is international airport at Nijgadh or fast track road, they are the basis for economic revolution. Development of agriculture, service sector and tourism industry can make Nepal leap towards economic prosperity within a decade. Similarly, green economy must be prioritised. Criminalisation of politics and politicisation of crime must come to an end. End of corruption and good governance must be ensured. </div> <div> </div> <div> The Birgunj-Pathlaiya industrial corridor development with minimum standards must be declared soon. The concept of Greater Birgunj must be implemented and Birgunj should be announced as the financial capital. Sincere implementation of these initiatives can put Nepal in the path to economic revolution.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development.', 'sortorder' => '1630', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 6 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1768', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Agriculture, Regional Market And Infrastructure Development For Economic Prosperity’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Jhala Nath Khanal" src="/userfiles/images/jnk.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 238px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Jhala Nath Khanal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Nepal holds numerous potentials for achieving economic prosperity as the country is bestowed with valuable natural resources. Nepal needs to develop various sectors by setting priorities on them. Nepal must promote tourism based economy and we should not neglect the fact that Nepal is suitable for off-season and all season agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country has passed through major political changes from 1950s to 1990s. However, these changes couldn’t lay foundation for economic transformation. Therefore, these political changes could not be institutionalised. In 2006 it was a historic change but unfortunately, that too has not been institutionalised yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The political stability has an important role in establishing democracy, rule of law and optimum utilisation of resources. There are no doubts about the successful completion of upcoming elections on time. Election is a milestone for creating a base for economic development. Every political party must have commitment for polls. And, the upcoming Constituent Assembly election is also a basis for state restructuring.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal has to be transformed into a developing country from the present status of least developed country. If all the concerned stakeholders express determination towards this goal, Nepal can be upgraded into a developing country within a decade. The country had to experience major ups and downs during the last 15 years. During that time, a huge investment made an exit from Nepal and many industries were closed. Similarly, many industries were announced sick during that period. </div> <div> </div> <div> At present, around 400,000 people enter into the labour market each year. To provide jobs for them, the agriculture must be mechanised, modernised and co-operatised. Economic development cannot happen without development of agriculture. The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment in addition to other similar programmes. If the agro productivity can be increased, Nepal can achieve economic prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal is a country with more than 30 million population. If China in the north and South Asia are considered, the population accounts to almost half of the global population. thus there is a huge market for us next door. We do not have to look at Europe, USA or Australia in search of market. If we can tap this market by enhancing our capacity to produce products with competitive advantage in these markets, we can progress towards prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nestled between India and China, Nepal must devise its economic strategies, policies and programmes to explore the benefits of this unique geographical position. Similarly, we must revise our economic diplomacy. Development of physical infrastructure is another integral part of achieving economic development. Physical infrastructures such as mid-hill highway, international airport at Nijgadh and north-south highways to connect China and India must be given prime importance. Similarly, social infrastructures such as hospitals and universities too must be taken into high consideration. With these infrastructures, we can push the country towards development and prosperity.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment among other similar programmes.', 'sortorder' => '1629', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 7 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1767', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Foreign Investment Required’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Dr Baburam Bhattarai" src="/userfiles/images/bb.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 226px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Dr Baburam Bhattarai</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> We have spent a long time focusing on the political revolution and now we need to shift the focus to the economic side. But all we have to understand the interrelation between political and economical revolution. In order to have economic development, we have to trace out our shortcomings - what are our strengths and what are the hindrances to economic development?</div> <div> </div> <div> One of our major problems is absolute poverty and absolute backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development, and which has led the country to a sluggish pace of development of not more the 2 per cent average growth in 50 years. There has not been much change in the real income level of the people, and this small economic growth is wiped away by the constant population growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, we need a vision to see where we will be in the upcoming 10 years. For that, we have to bring in foreign investment and utilize our domestic resources to stimulate economic development</div> <div> </div> <div> During our government, we had focused on taking growth to a double digit rate. For ten per cent growth rate 40 per cent of the GDP has to be invested. As the GDP being NRs 1700billion we have to invest 700bilion per year. One of the basic sources for it is internal tax revenue - which approximately generates NRs. 300bn out of which NRs. 150bn can be invested fordevelopment - the other source is remittance which is approximately NRs 600bn out of which if we invest NRs 200bn, we can still arrange another 200-300 billion form other internal sources. we should be able to bring in another 200 billion from foreign investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, it is important to mobilize the national capital as well as foreign investment in order to reach the economic growth of double digit. And if we follow this economic strategy and invest in basic economic infrastructure like electricity, road, airports and social infrastructure like education and health, not only will we witness growth in GDP but also growth in per capita income from USD750 to USD3000. In order to achieve this growth, there also has to be a political commitment, consensus and most importantly, a stable government for five years to govern the country - whether it is the nepali Congress, the UML or the unified CPN Maoist or any other party. As far as the UCPN (M) is concerned, it is totally committed towards inclusive development to reduce economic and social disparities.</div> <div> </div> <div> Secondly, we have to maintain a stable policy with the two rapidly developing neighbouring countries India and China. We have to turn into an investment pool for these countries in order to stimulate our development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Lastly, we have to eradicate political and institutional corruption and until we eradicate this, there will always be hindrances in development and investment. In order to mitigate this problem, we have to be transparent. Forceful donation has to stop and the system should be able to bring some budget to the political parties which will give rise to a transparent political party system.</div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'One of our major problems is absolute poverty and backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development', 'sortorder' => '1628', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 8 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1766', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Time For Economic Revolution’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’" src="/userfiles/images/pkd.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 212px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Until the political goals are not achieved, economic activities will remain eclipsed during the process. We had to spend many years for the political transformation, which was required. But now, it is high time that we move towards economic revolution. </div> <div> </div> <div> We made some attempts to drive the country towards an economic revolution when we led the first government of the democratic republic of Nepal. Despite our ambitious plans for economic growth in the country, we did not get the opportunity because unfortunately, we had to quit the government in nine months. </div> <div> </div> <div> The general convention of our party was held recently in Hetauda from where we made an official declaration that we should now adopt the economic agenda of production, distribution and development. We believe that only the party which employs its entire strength for economic development can lead the country to prosprity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nineteen years ago in a convention, we had said that the political revolution has not been completed yet and that it needed the abolishment of feudalism and the feudal system. </div> <div> </div> <div> In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation. Despite many ups and downs, now political consensus among major parties is being forged for the economic development </div> <div> of the nation. </div> <div> </div> <div> We want to focus on economic development at this point. Agriculture should be the foremost basis of economic development of our country. Along with the increase of agro products, we should emphasize on industrialization based on agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> Commercialisation of agriculture and industrialization based on agriculture should be our top priority. Similarly, we should make hydropower and tourism the leading sectors for economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> The vision of a double-digit economic growth rate and revolutionary economic development for 10 years is possible.</div> <div> </div> <div> After our party officially declared in the Hetauda general convention that we should all employ our strengths for the development of infrastructure, production and economy, I fortunately got the opportunity to visit our neighbouring countries China and India.</div> <div> </div> <div> While talking with the Chinese and Indian governments, they repeatedly told me that they were ready for the support needed for Nepal’s economic development after the elections are held and political stability is restored.</div> <div> </div> <div> This is the reality of Nepal. This is the requirement of the nation. We need an economic revolution. However, the need for political stability is also equally important. We are heading towards the election for which we are forging a suitable environment. We should take the election as a solid basis for the economic revolution of </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation.', 'sortorder' => '1627', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 9 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1765', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Power Supply: Pre-condition For Economic Development', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Sher Bahadur Deuba" src="/userfiles/images/sbd(1).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 222px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Sher Bahadur Deuba</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> After the Nepali Congress government was formed following the success of the People’s Movement in 1990, the financial economic situation of the government did not allow us to increase the salary of the government employees. The democratically elected government was not able to take economic reform measures. Even in that situation, we had managed to take some initiatives on basic sectors like drinking water and health services.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our priorities were to build high schools, health posts and drinking water facilities in each Village Developing Committee (VDC). We had privatized various factories owned by the government and still we hold the view that industries should be run by industrialists and businessmen while the government should focus on other things. The government should build the infrastructure where it is needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Economic liberalization in the country happened after 1990. As a result, the economic growth was reached to eight percent. However, violence was launched when the economy was gradually reviving. We also had to face interventions from the then King. We have not been able to completely recover from the impact of the war.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Rana oligarchy was overthrown in Nepal a few years after India got independence from British rule. India went ahead with a system and is now going to be a powerful democratic country. However, we have not been able to come up with a constitution as yet. Drafting the constitution of the federal democratic republic is now urgently needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Last year, we failed to draft the constitution and we all, including me and my party, are responsible for this failure. We will now draft the constitution at any cost by holding the Constituent Assembly polls, and by rectifying our mistakes.</div> <div> </div> <div> There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a pre-condition for investment and the establishment of factories. Our factories are reeling under a power shortage. Labour unrest has become a perennial problem. How can there will be an economic growth, when there are so many hindrances? Nepal has a huge trade deficit with India. An Indian minister has even agreed to provide duty free access to India for various Nepali products. However, we could not capitalise as long we afford such trade deficit?</div> <div> </div> <div> You can bring investment here in Nepal with partnership with Indian businessmen. This would help mitigate trade deficit in Nepal. Once the elections are held, a better environment would be forged for investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> I want to put forth a proposal to end the power crisis. You all have a captive power generator in your factories.if you pool all your resources, a big power plant could be installed. The government should give some incentives for such initiatives. We have immense possibilities of harnessing hydro-electricity and we can talk with India to bring in investment for hydro-electricity projects. Unlike a political revolution, an economic revolution takes time. There should be a clear investment policy in the country. Nepal could be a rich country within 5-10 years by selling electricity to neighbouring countries if we bring big investment here. Similarly, we have many sectors like tourism, agriculture, and herbal products through which we can develop </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a precondition for investment and the establishment of factories.', 'sortorder' => '1626', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 10 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1764', 'article_category_id' => '160', 'title' => 'Corptoon Vol 3 Issue 30', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-09-08', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Corptoon', 'sortorder' => '1625', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 11 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1763', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Korean Company To Bring Light In Rasuwa', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.</div> <div> </div> <div> The $550 million project is promoted by Nepal Water and Energy Development Company Ltd (NWEDC) and will generate 1456GWh of energy per year after its commissioning scheduled in March 2019. The construction of its access road will start within this month and the main project development is expected to begin in December.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Engineering Design and Environment Impact Assessment Report have been already approved by the government authorities and drilling and drifting works, company registration, financial arrangement of equity capitalhave been made, says the company.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, tree cutting approval has been received and land acquisition has already been done, it adds. “The project, once completed, will help in reducing daily load shedding by three to four hours,” said CEO of NWEDC Kim Kyung Sik. </div> <div> </div> <div> NWEDC is predominantly a South Korean group of three companies with 75 per cent of the total equity share, which includes Korea South East Power Company Ltd (KOSEP), Daelim Industrial Company Ltd, and Kyeryong Construction Industrial Company Ltd.</div> <div> </div> <div> The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has joined as a co-developer for the project while Daelim and Kyerong will be the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor. The operation and maintenance will be done by KOSEP.</div> <div> </div> <div> Sik said, “This is a reason for hope and optimism in the midst of serious crisis that has debilitating effect on Nepal economy. The project once completed, will help reduce daily load shedding by 3 to 4 hours. We are maintaining a good relation with the local people and with the administration. They are very much interested in the project and we are thankful for their support and cooperation.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The successful completion of the project means technology transfer of operation and management, employment creation of 300 to 500 people for construction, substituting annually diesel imports equivalent to 20 million US dollar and helping grow Nepali economy, he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Upper Trishuli-I project will be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. It will increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal by almost one third (216 MW), and will add around 50 per cent (1455 GWh) to the annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> “It will help meet the huge unfulfilled demand of electricity in Nepal. We have a strong and committed list of sponsors for the project, which bring together a mix of local understanding and technical competence of setting up similar projects in other parts of the world,” Sik said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “The project will help in attracting International investors in Nepal’s hydropower development, including South Korean Investors. It will also help to further strengthen the cordial relationship between Nepal and South Korea. We look for forward Nepal Electricity Authority’s support in future,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> •Expected to be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. </div> <div> • Increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal (651 MW) by almost one third (216 MW).</div> <div> • It will add around 50 per cent (1533 GWh) of electricity to the current annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> • Project site 70 km away from Katmandu, which makes it ideal for supply to the load center.</div> <div> •More Korean investment in the pipeline.</div> <div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.', 'sortorder' => '1624', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 12 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1762', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Time To Focus On Economic Revolution: Former PMs', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside. </div> <div> </div> <div> During Nepal Leadership Summit which was jointly organised by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) and New Business Age Group under the banner of ‘Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS’, five former PMs of past 1990 era pledged to speed up economic reform.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PMs Sher Bahadur Deuba, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachand’, Madhav Nepal, Jhalanath Khanal and Dr Baburam Bhattarai signed a 12-point Birgunj Declaration and admitted that the path of prosperity is only possible through private sector-led economic growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the summit, chairman of UCPN Maoist and former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, said that the time has come to be engaged in production, construction and development.</div> <div> </div> <div> “In fact, our party has come to a conclusion that political stability is not possible without economic revolution,” he informed.</div> <div> </div> <div> He stressed that promoting economic activities and adopting the approach of inclusive growth is the only option to overcome vicious circle of poverty.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PM and Nepali Congress senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba said that the government should not engage in trading or operating industries.</div> <div> </div> <div> “The country had been facing the problem of financial crunch when NC formed the government after 1990 revolution. Situation has changed now as we have much better finacial resources. The problem is we have been unable to invest due to lack of infrastructure and energy crisis,” he said.</div> <div> He stressed for a common commitment to end the existing energy crisis. “The country will head in the direction of economic prosperity if we will be able to address the problem of infrastructure, industrial security and energy,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal should attract Indian investment and should promote export to reduce trade deficit, he opined. </div> <div> </div> <div> He said, that the government should reduce all bureaucratic hassles and should vow to provide tax rebate to companies which create employment opportunities to more than 100 persons. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country’s economy remains in a state of confusion, with expanding budget, energy crisis, trade deficit, inflation, unemployment problem and lack of resources, said former Prime Minister and CPN UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> He blamed the revenue-centered government, short-term profit oriented private sector and belligerent labour for the slow economic growth. “We need to improve our educational system and ensure that we have the skills to pursue the opportunities,” he said.</div> <div> </div> <div> He suggested that clarity in policy, investment friendly environment and investment in service and production sector will ensure country’s development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Chairman of CPN-UML and former PM Jhala Nath Khanal emphasized the need of policy stability for the economic growth. Modernisation of agriculture sector will have positive impact for the development, he said, adding that the banking sector should increase investment in the agricultural sector.</div> <div> </div> <div> Absolute poverty and backwardness are main problems of the country at present, UCPN Maoist leader and former PM Dr Baburam Bhattarai said. The country can achieve the target of 10 per cent growth by increasing investment in productive sector, he opined.</div> <div> </div> <div> “Key factors that affected all sectors of the economy are poor governance and corruption in the country. One of most important negative factor is decline in investment to GDP ratio, which is one the of the root cause of the slowdown in GDP growth,” Dr Bhattarai said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “At least 40 per cent amount of GDP should be invested every year in productive sector to achieve the double digit growth. This means, the government should ensure that at least Rs 700 billion is invested. As internal resources will not be sufficient to arrange this fund, we should invite foreign investment,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Dr Bhattarai call for a need to build capacity at all levels to meet the target. “We need to make the building of robust private sectors an urgent priority and promote true entrepreneurship because that is how jobs are created,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> He said that Nepal must focus on developing its skills and human resources, especially by harnessing the talents of Nepali people from around the world.</div> <div> </div> <div> He also suggested all political parties to keep balance between China and India for maximum benefit from the neighbouring economic giants.</div> <div> </div> <div> President of Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries Ashok Baidya, said that political commitment is a must to create an environment of wealth creation through investment, alleviate poverty, increase the annual GDP growth rate, contain inflation, promote entrepreneurship and generate employment.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the programme, editor-in-chief and chairman of New Business Age Group Madan Lamsal asked politicians to address economic concerns and map out a strategy with business community and international support to address country’s economic problems.</div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Former PMs’ Common Points:</span></strong></div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Nepal is in the dire need of economic revolution now that it is a democratic republic</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Energy, agriculture and tourism sectors should be prioritized </div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Private sector should lead the country’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Government should play the role of catalyst</div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Nepal should focus on turning the optimism about the country’s future into real action</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Inclusive growth must be the main goal for Nepal’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The mood should be changed from thinking of Nepal as a poor country to as a country that holds hope</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-10-01', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside.', 'sortorder' => '1623', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 13 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1761', 'article_category_id' => '149', 'title' => 'PLO: A Local Power', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By Bhawani Timilsina </strong></div> <div> </div> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Krishna P. Dulal, Director, Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd" src="/userfiles/images/kd.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 207px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"> <div> <strong>Krishna P. Dulal</strong></div> <div> Director</div> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company finalised a brand logo and name after conducting a small research. Krishna Prasad Dulal, Director of the company says, “We did not have to make a huge effort to select a brand name and logo. We simply chose a name that would represent the eastern region. As our initiation was from Morang district, the brand name PLO helps to maintain our originality among customers.” </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has taken up the challenge to reach out to people across all economic levels with its product – it claims that the main target of its brand is the farmer population in Nepal. According to Dulal, the initial phase of business was rather challenging as people were reluctant to use a local product. “We struggled hard to convince our customers and have been constantly attempting to overcome difficulties through innovative marketing strategies and powerful team unity,” Dulal says.</div> <div> </div> <div> He assures that the company has been using base oil and additives like LITHIUM, HCO, and VI. “The base oil and additives are similar in quality to those used in popular international brands,” Dulal claims, assuring that the company does not compromise with quality. With a total market share of 8 per cent, other products of PLO include 2T Oil, 4T Extra Power, AP-3 Grease, APF Dextron-III, Gear Treat GL-5, GMP Oil, Hydraulic Oil, Mission 2T, PLO Multipurpose III, Active Coolant and Super Plus, PLO Super Multi Grade, Gear Oil (Non-Grade) and PLO Super SAE 40. </div> <div> </div> <div> Over these 12 years, the marketing team and its strategies have been the company’s strength to prop up the brand. Dulal claims that marketing plays a significant role in generating trust among people.“We believe that business can prosper when a brand wins the confidence of its customers,”he says. </div> <div> </div> <div> “About 85 per cent of the lubricants market has been occupied by foreign brands, but 32 per cent of the market still remains with domestic brands,” informs Dulal. “We have a target to win over 20 per cent of the total market of lubricant in Nepal so that 50 per cent of the market will be among Nepali brands.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The company has covered 75 districts, 86 dealers, more than 5000 retailer counters and more than 200,000 customers till date. The cost of the grease and lubricants is priced between Rs 300 to Rs 500 per bottle. Over the years since its inception, the sales and turnover of the company has been increasing annually and the company has been able to expand to markets all over the country. “There is cut-throat completion in the market and domestic lubricant brands have been working together to compete with international products,” says Dulal. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has also got suggestions from some customers that its focus should now be in manufacturing high-class lubricants that can be used in high-end vehicles. “This will create a possibility for Nepali lubricants to enter the international market, and if that happens, Bhutan and Bangladesh among other countries could be our target markets,” Dulal explains. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has yet to achieve a lot and the launching of the new ‘Star’ brand for high-end vehicles is a step ahead towards its ultimate goal.</div> <div> </div> <div> <img alt="PLO" src="/userfiles/images/plo1.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 220px;" /></div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now.', 'sortorder' => '1622', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 14 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1760', 'article_category_id' => '150', 'title' => 'Business Briefs (2 - 8 September 2013)', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Asian Paints Dream Home Contest" src="/userfiles/images/ap.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 114px;" />Asian Paints’ Dream Home Contest </span></strong></div> <div> Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’. To participate in the contest, customers have to paint the exterior of their home with Apex Ultima and upload the photos of their home in Asian paints Facebook page app ‘Dream Home Contest’. Top 50 maximum liked photographs will be judged for their aesthetic appeal. Details of the contest can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/AsianPaints.NP. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign" src="/userfiles/images/jw.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 105px;" />Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign</span></strong></div> <div> Johnnie Walker has launched a new campaign ‘Double the Intensity’ for the award-winning Johnnie Walker Double Black whiskey. The campaign will have variety of materials including print advertising and advertising at point of purchase. Johnnie Walker Double Black was introduced in Nepal in 2012.</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer" src="/userfiles/images/lgfd.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 125px; height: 46px;" />LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer</span></strong></div> <div> LG has announced a new offer named ‘Father’s Day Celebration Offer’. With this offer, customers will be entitled to win a 32” Cinema 3D TV through a lucky draw on purchase of any LG products. On every LG purchase, customers need to SMS LG<space>Product Model No.<space>Product Serial No in the warranty card. </space></space></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Xfactor Shine 1" src="/userfiles/images/lgx.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; height: 110px; width: 62px;" />Colors Launches Xfactor Shine 1 </span></strong></div> <div> Colors mobile has introduced new Xfactor Shine 1 in the market. According to the company official, the handset is loaded with the best of the features, comes with a faster processor and beautiful sleek design and Android version 4.0.3. The phone is powered by a 1.2 GHz Dual Core Processor and has 4 GB ROM and 512 MB of RAM. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Samsung’s New Smart Cameras" src="/userfiles/images/smsg.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; width: 68px; height: 110px;" />Samsung’s New Smart Cameras</span></strong></div> <div> Him Electronics Private Limited, authorized distributor of Samsung Cameras in Nepal has introduced three new ranges of cameras – WB200F, ST150F and ST72. WB200F features a Hybrid Touch User Interface and enhanced Wifi connectivity with 14.2 MP sensor, 18x zoom and 24mm ultra-wide angle lens. ST150F comes with 16 MP sensor, 5x zoom, 3” screen. ST72 features a f2.5 lens, 5x zoom and 16.2 Megapixels. The prices of WB200F, ST150F and ST72 are Rs 24,990, Rs 14,990 and Rs 13,990 respectively.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’.', 'sortorder' => '1621', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ) ) $current_user = null $logged_in = falseinclude - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 60 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224 View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418 include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117
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$viewFile = '/var/www/html/newbusinessage.com/app/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'articles' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 1 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 2 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 3 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 4 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 5 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 6 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 7 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 8 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 9 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 10 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 11 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 12 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 13 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 14 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ) ), 'current_user' => null, 'logged_in' => false ) $articles = array( (int) 0 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1774', 'article_category_id' => '145', 'title' => 'Political Commitment Necessary For Development', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By Ashok Baidya</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> We have made an effort to bring the former prime ministers in the same platform for a meaningful dialogue and discourse on country’s overall economic development. This is probably a first of its type in the history of Nepal. I am really delighted to welcome the former prime ministers, who are at the helm of the country, in Birgung- a city known as the main entrance as well as the economic capital of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> We are not going to hold a political debate by bringing top leaders of the political parties in this economic and industrial hub. Rather, we are seeking a political commitment for the nation’s economic development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Water, as a form of white gold, is flowing from our rivers. Provided that we utilize this water, we can easily get rid of the chronic power deficit. This will also ensure high economic growth, trade balance and earning of foreign currencies. However, instead of considering the hydropower as a matter of business, it’s a bitter reality that hydropower projects are facing political hindrances. </div> <div> </div> <div> On the other hand, Nepal is projected as a best destination for tourism by United Nations including other international organizations. However, the number of tourists in our markets has not exceeded one million per annum yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The major reason behind all these economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies. It is obvious that there exist of many political parties with diverse orientations in a country with multiparty democratic system. But complete and frequent changes in the whole policy resulting from the government changes is rarely see in any other country.</div> <div> </div> <div> The investors shy away from investing in the countries with instable politics and economy. Apart from these problems, our country is reeling under the power deficit and labour unrest, among other economic ordeals. Despite a high minimum wage compared to other South Asian countries, Nepal is yet to observe the normalcy in the labour sector. Thus, if productions are to be increased and investment is to be lured, a high level consensus is imperative on the fundamental issues of the economy. I would like to request to all former prime ministers from this forum for a common agreement on the fundamental agenda of the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> Birgunj is a strong pillar of our economy. 70 per cent of country’s total industrial investments are in Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor. But the government has inflicted injustice to the Birgunj-Pathlaiya region by not declaring this region as an industrial corridor. Along with a demand to declare this region as industrial corridor, we demand with the government that Birgunj be declared as economic capital. We have also brought a concept of a greater Birgunj to develop this city as the country’s economic capital. The concept brought for the overall development of Birgunj aims to increase the economic and industrial activities at a high rate and build infrastructures to the par of complete metropolitan by 2080. I would like to request former prime ministers to realize the importance of this comprehensive plan and act towards materializing it. This program would not been a success without the participation of prime ministers. I would like to thank you from my inner heart for your presence. </div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Baidya during Nepal Leadership Summit.)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The major reason behind economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies.', 'sortorder' => '1635', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 1 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1773', 'article_category_id' => '145', 'title' => 'There Is No Investment Friendly Environment', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By Madan Lamsal</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> Dignitaries present in this Nepal Leadership summit are much concerned over economic future of the country. But the vibes of this positive thinking has not been circulated to the common people. This platform intends to reach to those people with a hope to develop a common economic commitment.</div> <div> </div> <div> It has already been late to discuss about country’s economy because its growth barely hovering over 3 to 4.5 per cent in last three years.</div> <div> </div> <div> Entrepreneurs and businessmen along with the capital and human resource are moving abroad in large numbers. There is no investment friendly environment in our country. There is a public blame over the government’s indifferent attitude towards the economic agenda. It is now important for a common and practical mindset regarding the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Challenges of Nepali Economy</span></strong></div> <div> Productivity of the economy is declining and new investment is almost zero.</div> <div> Alarmingly, annual trade embalance is Rs 479 billion and inflation is approximately 10 percent. Nearly, 500 thousand youths are going abroad for employment and the number of those going for education and other purposes is critically high. Nepali currency depreciated by 22 per cent in last six months. Hydel projects are the victim of indecisiveness and are politicised. This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans. The air of uncertainty and the fear have not receded.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">People’s expectations from Leaders</span></strong></div> <div> People are tired of opinions and blame game. Now they want a clear and common commitment to solve the existing problems and its immediate implementation. There should not be any disagreement over the common problems.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Right Time</span></strong></div> <div> This is the right time for a common commitment because political parties are gearing high in preparing their manifesto. There is an expectation to make the country federal. It may take time, there might be differences but constitution would be drafted and there would be political outlet. However, the days without economic progress are the days squandered. Result is what we are desperately seeking now.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The Clock is Ticking</span></strong></div> <div> We should quickly act on it because the state can’t remain without long term plans for infinite period. It has been imperative to develop a national concept about the local currency peg with the Indian currency.</div> <div> </div> <div> Remittance income has not been able to utilised in productive sector. Thus, there is no alternative to make Nepal’s economy as a part of world market system. It has been imperative to provide relief to the people and industrial sector by ending energy crisis. Economic literacy is must for the political parties. And it is necessary to spread the message of industrial sector’s progress.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The way Ahead</span></strong></div> <div> The way ahead is co-operation. An initiative has been taken in this summit and it has to be strengthened. We are making a common commitment for coming decade. And this is not a formality but a necessity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Let’s adopt and implement it.</div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Lamsal in the Nepal Leadership Summit)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans.', 'sortorder' => '1634', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 2 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1772', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Glimpses Of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries" src="/userfiles/images/1%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal exchanging their views" src="/userfiles/images/2%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <div> <strong>Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal</strong></div> <div> <strong>exchanging their views</strong></div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration" src="/userfiles/images/3%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/4%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 336px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI family during the event" src="/userfiles/images/5%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI family during the event</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit" src="/userfiles/images/6%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI president Ashok Baidya" src="/userfiles/images/7%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI president Ashok Baidya</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma (second from the right)" src="/userfiles/images/8%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma </strong><strong>(second from the right)</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Glimpses of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sortorder' => '1633', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 3 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1771', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit At A Glance', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<h2> <strong style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size:14px;">Participants Former PMs</span></strong></h2> <ul> <li> Sher Bahadur Deuba </li> <li> Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</li> <li> Madhav Kumar Nepal</li> <li> Jhala Nath Khanal </li> <li> Dr Baburam Bhattarai </li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Organizer</span></strong></div> <div> Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Management </span></strong></div> <div> New Business Age Group </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Outcome </span></strong></div> <div> Former PMs singed a 12-point agreement vowing to let private sector lead the country’s economic front </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Why Birgunj?</span></strong></div> <div> Because Birgunj is one of the major trade hubs of the country and Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor has been suffered from political volatile situation. So, it would be better to seek commitment from PMs at the same place. </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Major Issues Raised</span></strong></div> <ul> <li> Political Instability</li> <li> Need of economic revolution</li> <li> Promotion of tourism</li> <li> Commitment for hydropower </li> <li> Agriculture focused development </li> <li> Inclusive growth</li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Feedback </span></strong></div> <div> It is indeed a good initiative that politicians signed a 12-point declaration. But signing is just a beginning. We should regularly put pressure on politicians to stick to their commitment in days ahead. The agreement should be translated into action. We want sincere commitment from former PMs and their respective political parties. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Ashok Baidya</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>President, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The programme is a very successful event since it was successful to bring politicians from different ideologies into a single platform. Also, it help reenergize discourse of making Birgunj a major industrial hub of the country. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Rabindra Kr Baranwal</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>Secretary, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The event will have a very positive impact on country’s economy. Commitment from top guns of major political parties for the economic development of the country will help boost morale of business community. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Prabesh Pandey, Banker</strong></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit at a Glance', 'sortorder' => '1632', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 4 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1770', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Roadmap Of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div> <span style="font-size:26px;"><strong>Nepal Leadership summit 2013</strong></span></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS</span></strong></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Birgunj Declaration </span></strong></div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>September 5, 2013</strong></span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution, we former prime ministers of Nepal assembled in this “Nepal Leadership Summit” organized by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) with help from Aarthik Abhiyan Daily, pledge our commitment to following common points: </strong></span></div> <div> </div> <div> 1.We commit to give priority to the national economic agenda above our respective party agenda for the protection of overall national interests while making any individual and party level decision.</div> <div> </div> <div> 2.We commit to discuss national economic agenda within our respective parties in a democratic manner and through that forge a consensus of all parties in the development of a common economic agenda of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 3.We are committed to bring to an end the existing uneasy industrial relations and to maintain a peaceful industrial situation for industrial development of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> 4.We are committed to bring out new labour policy and industrial policy conducive for overall national interests and industrial development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 5.We are committed to make Nepal free from the problem of power outage by removing the obstacles faced in the generation and supply of electricity. </div> <div> </div> <div> 6.We are committed to secure individual property rights of the people.</div> <div> </div> <div> 7.We are committed to create an environment conducive for attracting investment by discouraging all the activities that may disturb the investment climate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 8.We are committed to uplift Nepal from the current status of a Least Developed Country within the coming 10 years by removing the prevalent poverty and inequality and by achieving high economic growth rate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 9.We are committed to internalize that the private sector has to play the leading role in the economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 10.We are committed to get Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor officially declared an industrial corridor that fulfils a set of specified standards.</div> <div> </div> <div> 11.We are committed to get Birgunj recognised as the economic capital of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 12.We are committed to transform Birgunj town into Greater Birgunj.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution', 'sortorder' => '1631', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 5 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1769', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Green Economy For Economic Development’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/mkn.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 195px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> To meet the targets of proposed Economic Revolution Roadmap: Vision 2080, all the concerned parties must be committed. These objectives must be incorporated as economic agenda by all. When everyone is determined for political, economic and social progress, economic revolution is not an unattainable pursuit. But, sustainable economic development is possible only with political stability and rule of law. To establish political stability and rule of law, Constituent Assembly election slated for November 19 must be conducted peacefully. Then the economic development can gain momentum.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our economy is dependent on imports. To lower the high trade deficit, export oriented policies and programmes must be made. Likewise, investment in export oriented industries must be encouraged. For this, internal resources and external opportunities must be well coordinated and productive sectors must be developed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, employment must be generated through stable and long term investments. For this to happen, government, industrialists and workers must rise above their vested interests and serve the national interest. A favourable environment for running industries and making investments must be created. If these can be ensured, the campaign to achieve economic development and lifting country from the status of least developed to developing country is not overambitious.</div> <div> </div> <div> There must be committed focus on policy stability, power development, investment in employment oriented productive sector and expansion of the service sector. If we want to build new Nepal and make sure all people are prosperous, we must prioritise certain things first. They could be restructuring the society, overhauling the administrative structure, eradicating social discriminations and anomalies and prioritising the development of skilled human resources. Similarly, the physical infrastructure and power development must be prioritised as the water resource is being wasted. These targets are not unachievable but the only need is of the national commitment and positive thinking.</div> <div> </div> <div> Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development. Whether it is international airport at Nijgadh or fast track road, they are the basis for economic revolution. Development of agriculture, service sector and tourism industry can make Nepal leap towards economic prosperity within a decade. Similarly, green economy must be prioritised. Criminalisation of politics and politicisation of crime must come to an end. End of corruption and good governance must be ensured. </div> <div> </div> <div> The Birgunj-Pathlaiya industrial corridor development with minimum standards must be declared soon. The concept of Greater Birgunj must be implemented and Birgunj should be announced as the financial capital. Sincere implementation of these initiatives can put Nepal in the path to economic revolution.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development.', 'sortorder' => '1630', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 6 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1768', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Agriculture, Regional Market And Infrastructure Development For Economic Prosperity’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Jhala Nath Khanal" src="/userfiles/images/jnk.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 238px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Jhala Nath Khanal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Nepal holds numerous potentials for achieving economic prosperity as the country is bestowed with valuable natural resources. Nepal needs to develop various sectors by setting priorities on them. Nepal must promote tourism based economy and we should not neglect the fact that Nepal is suitable for off-season and all season agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country has passed through major political changes from 1950s to 1990s. However, these changes couldn’t lay foundation for economic transformation. Therefore, these political changes could not be institutionalised. In 2006 it was a historic change but unfortunately, that too has not been institutionalised yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The political stability has an important role in establishing democracy, rule of law and optimum utilisation of resources. There are no doubts about the successful completion of upcoming elections on time. Election is a milestone for creating a base for economic development. Every political party must have commitment for polls. And, the upcoming Constituent Assembly election is also a basis for state restructuring.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal has to be transformed into a developing country from the present status of least developed country. If all the concerned stakeholders express determination towards this goal, Nepal can be upgraded into a developing country within a decade. The country had to experience major ups and downs during the last 15 years. During that time, a huge investment made an exit from Nepal and many industries were closed. Similarly, many industries were announced sick during that period. </div> <div> </div> <div> At present, around 400,000 people enter into the labour market each year. To provide jobs for them, the agriculture must be mechanised, modernised and co-operatised. Economic development cannot happen without development of agriculture. The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment in addition to other similar programmes. If the agro productivity can be increased, Nepal can achieve economic prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal is a country with more than 30 million population. If China in the north and South Asia are considered, the population accounts to almost half of the global population. thus there is a huge market for us next door. We do not have to look at Europe, USA or Australia in search of market. If we can tap this market by enhancing our capacity to produce products with competitive advantage in these markets, we can progress towards prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nestled between India and China, Nepal must devise its economic strategies, policies and programmes to explore the benefits of this unique geographical position. Similarly, we must revise our economic diplomacy. Development of physical infrastructure is another integral part of achieving economic development. Physical infrastructures such as mid-hill highway, international airport at Nijgadh and north-south highways to connect China and India must be given prime importance. Similarly, social infrastructures such as hospitals and universities too must be taken into high consideration. With these infrastructures, we can push the country towards development and prosperity.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment among other similar programmes.', 'sortorder' => '1629', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 7 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1767', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Foreign Investment Required’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Dr Baburam Bhattarai" src="/userfiles/images/bb.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 226px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Dr Baburam Bhattarai</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> We have spent a long time focusing on the political revolution and now we need to shift the focus to the economic side. But all we have to understand the interrelation between political and economical revolution. In order to have economic development, we have to trace out our shortcomings - what are our strengths and what are the hindrances to economic development?</div> <div> </div> <div> One of our major problems is absolute poverty and absolute backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development, and which has led the country to a sluggish pace of development of not more the 2 per cent average growth in 50 years. There has not been much change in the real income level of the people, and this small economic growth is wiped away by the constant population growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, we need a vision to see where we will be in the upcoming 10 years. For that, we have to bring in foreign investment and utilize our domestic resources to stimulate economic development</div> <div> </div> <div> During our government, we had focused on taking growth to a double digit rate. For ten per cent growth rate 40 per cent of the GDP has to be invested. As the GDP being NRs 1700billion we have to invest 700bilion per year. One of the basic sources for it is internal tax revenue - which approximately generates NRs. 300bn out of which NRs. 150bn can be invested fordevelopment - the other source is remittance which is approximately NRs 600bn out of which if we invest NRs 200bn, we can still arrange another 200-300 billion form other internal sources. we should be able to bring in another 200 billion from foreign investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, it is important to mobilize the national capital as well as foreign investment in order to reach the economic growth of double digit. And if we follow this economic strategy and invest in basic economic infrastructure like electricity, road, airports and social infrastructure like education and health, not only will we witness growth in GDP but also growth in per capita income from USD750 to USD3000. In order to achieve this growth, there also has to be a political commitment, consensus and most importantly, a stable government for five years to govern the country - whether it is the nepali Congress, the UML or the unified CPN Maoist or any other party. As far as the UCPN (M) is concerned, it is totally committed towards inclusive development to reduce economic and social disparities.</div> <div> </div> <div> Secondly, we have to maintain a stable policy with the two rapidly developing neighbouring countries India and China. We have to turn into an investment pool for these countries in order to stimulate our development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Lastly, we have to eradicate political and institutional corruption and until we eradicate this, there will always be hindrances in development and investment. In order to mitigate this problem, we have to be transparent. Forceful donation has to stop and the system should be able to bring some budget to the political parties which will give rise to a transparent political party system.</div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'One of our major problems is absolute poverty and backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development', 'sortorder' => '1628', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 8 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1766', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Time For Economic Revolution’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’" src="/userfiles/images/pkd.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 212px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Until the political goals are not achieved, economic activities will remain eclipsed during the process. We had to spend many years for the political transformation, which was required. But now, it is high time that we move towards economic revolution. </div> <div> </div> <div> We made some attempts to drive the country towards an economic revolution when we led the first government of the democratic republic of Nepal. Despite our ambitious plans for economic growth in the country, we did not get the opportunity because unfortunately, we had to quit the government in nine months. </div> <div> </div> <div> The general convention of our party was held recently in Hetauda from where we made an official declaration that we should now adopt the economic agenda of production, distribution and development. We believe that only the party which employs its entire strength for economic development can lead the country to prosprity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nineteen years ago in a convention, we had said that the political revolution has not been completed yet and that it needed the abolishment of feudalism and the feudal system. </div> <div> </div> <div> In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation. Despite many ups and downs, now political consensus among major parties is being forged for the economic development </div> <div> of the nation. </div> <div> </div> <div> We want to focus on economic development at this point. Agriculture should be the foremost basis of economic development of our country. Along with the increase of agro products, we should emphasize on industrialization based on agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> Commercialisation of agriculture and industrialization based on agriculture should be our top priority. Similarly, we should make hydropower and tourism the leading sectors for economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> The vision of a double-digit economic growth rate and revolutionary economic development for 10 years is possible.</div> <div> </div> <div> After our party officially declared in the Hetauda general convention that we should all employ our strengths for the development of infrastructure, production and economy, I fortunately got the opportunity to visit our neighbouring countries China and India.</div> <div> </div> <div> While talking with the Chinese and Indian governments, they repeatedly told me that they were ready for the support needed for Nepal’s economic development after the elections are held and political stability is restored.</div> <div> </div> <div> This is the reality of Nepal. This is the requirement of the nation. We need an economic revolution. However, the need for political stability is also equally important. We are heading towards the election for which we are forging a suitable environment. We should take the election as a solid basis for the economic revolution of </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation.', 'sortorder' => '1627', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 9 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1765', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Power Supply: Pre-condition For Economic Development', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Sher Bahadur Deuba" src="/userfiles/images/sbd(1).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 222px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Sher Bahadur Deuba</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> After the Nepali Congress government was formed following the success of the People’s Movement in 1990, the financial economic situation of the government did not allow us to increase the salary of the government employees. The democratically elected government was not able to take economic reform measures. Even in that situation, we had managed to take some initiatives on basic sectors like drinking water and health services.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our priorities were to build high schools, health posts and drinking water facilities in each Village Developing Committee (VDC). We had privatized various factories owned by the government and still we hold the view that industries should be run by industrialists and businessmen while the government should focus on other things. The government should build the infrastructure where it is needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Economic liberalization in the country happened after 1990. As a result, the economic growth was reached to eight percent. However, violence was launched when the economy was gradually reviving. We also had to face interventions from the then King. We have not been able to completely recover from the impact of the war.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Rana oligarchy was overthrown in Nepal a few years after India got independence from British rule. India went ahead with a system and is now going to be a powerful democratic country. However, we have not been able to come up with a constitution as yet. Drafting the constitution of the federal democratic republic is now urgently needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Last year, we failed to draft the constitution and we all, including me and my party, are responsible for this failure. We will now draft the constitution at any cost by holding the Constituent Assembly polls, and by rectifying our mistakes.</div> <div> </div> <div> There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a pre-condition for investment and the establishment of factories. Our factories are reeling under a power shortage. Labour unrest has become a perennial problem. How can there will be an economic growth, when there are so many hindrances? Nepal has a huge trade deficit with India. An Indian minister has even agreed to provide duty free access to India for various Nepali products. However, we could not capitalise as long we afford such trade deficit?</div> <div> </div> <div> You can bring investment here in Nepal with partnership with Indian businessmen. This would help mitigate trade deficit in Nepal. Once the elections are held, a better environment would be forged for investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> I want to put forth a proposal to end the power crisis. You all have a captive power generator in your factories.if you pool all your resources, a big power plant could be installed. The government should give some incentives for such initiatives. We have immense possibilities of harnessing hydro-electricity and we can talk with India to bring in investment for hydro-electricity projects. Unlike a political revolution, an economic revolution takes time. There should be a clear investment policy in the country. Nepal could be a rich country within 5-10 years by selling electricity to neighbouring countries if we bring big investment here. Similarly, we have many sectors like tourism, agriculture, and herbal products through which we can develop </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a precondition for investment and the establishment of factories.', 'sortorder' => '1626', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 10 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1764', 'article_category_id' => '160', 'title' => 'Corptoon Vol 3 Issue 30', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-09-08', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Corptoon', 'sortorder' => '1625', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 11 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1763', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Korean Company To Bring Light In Rasuwa', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.</div> <div> </div> <div> The $550 million project is promoted by Nepal Water and Energy Development Company Ltd (NWEDC) and will generate 1456GWh of energy per year after its commissioning scheduled in March 2019. The construction of its access road will start within this month and the main project development is expected to begin in December.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Engineering Design and Environment Impact Assessment Report have been already approved by the government authorities and drilling and drifting works, company registration, financial arrangement of equity capitalhave been made, says the company.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, tree cutting approval has been received and land acquisition has already been done, it adds. “The project, once completed, will help in reducing daily load shedding by three to four hours,” said CEO of NWEDC Kim Kyung Sik. </div> <div> </div> <div> NWEDC is predominantly a South Korean group of three companies with 75 per cent of the total equity share, which includes Korea South East Power Company Ltd (KOSEP), Daelim Industrial Company Ltd, and Kyeryong Construction Industrial Company Ltd.</div> <div> </div> <div> The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has joined as a co-developer for the project while Daelim and Kyerong will be the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor. The operation and maintenance will be done by KOSEP.</div> <div> </div> <div> Sik said, “This is a reason for hope and optimism in the midst of serious crisis that has debilitating effect on Nepal economy. The project once completed, will help reduce daily load shedding by 3 to 4 hours. We are maintaining a good relation with the local people and with the administration. They are very much interested in the project and we are thankful for their support and cooperation.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The successful completion of the project means technology transfer of operation and management, employment creation of 300 to 500 people for construction, substituting annually diesel imports equivalent to 20 million US dollar and helping grow Nepali economy, he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Upper Trishuli-I project will be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. It will increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal by almost one third (216 MW), and will add around 50 per cent (1455 GWh) to the annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> “It will help meet the huge unfulfilled demand of electricity in Nepal. We have a strong and committed list of sponsors for the project, which bring together a mix of local understanding and technical competence of setting up similar projects in other parts of the world,” Sik said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “The project will help in attracting International investors in Nepal’s hydropower development, including South Korean Investors. It will also help to further strengthen the cordial relationship between Nepal and South Korea. We look for forward Nepal Electricity Authority’s support in future,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> •Expected to be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. </div> <div> • Increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal (651 MW) by almost one third (216 MW).</div> <div> • It will add around 50 per cent (1533 GWh) of electricity to the current annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> • Project site 70 km away from Katmandu, which makes it ideal for supply to the load center.</div> <div> •More Korean investment in the pipeline.</div> <div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.', 'sortorder' => '1624', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 12 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1762', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Time To Focus On Economic Revolution: Former PMs', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside. </div> <div> </div> <div> During Nepal Leadership Summit which was jointly organised by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) and New Business Age Group under the banner of ‘Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS’, five former PMs of past 1990 era pledged to speed up economic reform.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PMs Sher Bahadur Deuba, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachand’, Madhav Nepal, Jhalanath Khanal and Dr Baburam Bhattarai signed a 12-point Birgunj Declaration and admitted that the path of prosperity is only possible through private sector-led economic growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the summit, chairman of UCPN Maoist and former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, said that the time has come to be engaged in production, construction and development.</div> <div> </div> <div> “In fact, our party has come to a conclusion that political stability is not possible without economic revolution,” he informed.</div> <div> </div> <div> He stressed that promoting economic activities and adopting the approach of inclusive growth is the only option to overcome vicious circle of poverty.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PM and Nepali Congress senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba said that the government should not engage in trading or operating industries.</div> <div> </div> <div> “The country had been facing the problem of financial crunch when NC formed the government after 1990 revolution. Situation has changed now as we have much better finacial resources. The problem is we have been unable to invest due to lack of infrastructure and energy crisis,” he said.</div> <div> He stressed for a common commitment to end the existing energy crisis. “The country will head in the direction of economic prosperity if we will be able to address the problem of infrastructure, industrial security and energy,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal should attract Indian investment and should promote export to reduce trade deficit, he opined. </div> <div> </div> <div> He said, that the government should reduce all bureaucratic hassles and should vow to provide tax rebate to companies which create employment opportunities to more than 100 persons. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country’s economy remains in a state of confusion, with expanding budget, energy crisis, trade deficit, inflation, unemployment problem and lack of resources, said former Prime Minister and CPN UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> He blamed the revenue-centered government, short-term profit oriented private sector and belligerent labour for the slow economic growth. “We need to improve our educational system and ensure that we have the skills to pursue the opportunities,” he said.</div> <div> </div> <div> He suggested that clarity in policy, investment friendly environment and investment in service and production sector will ensure country’s development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Chairman of CPN-UML and former PM Jhala Nath Khanal emphasized the need of policy stability for the economic growth. Modernisation of agriculture sector will have positive impact for the development, he said, adding that the banking sector should increase investment in the agricultural sector.</div> <div> </div> <div> Absolute poverty and backwardness are main problems of the country at present, UCPN Maoist leader and former PM Dr Baburam Bhattarai said. The country can achieve the target of 10 per cent growth by increasing investment in productive sector, he opined.</div> <div> </div> <div> “Key factors that affected all sectors of the economy are poor governance and corruption in the country. One of most important negative factor is decline in investment to GDP ratio, which is one the of the root cause of the slowdown in GDP growth,” Dr Bhattarai said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “At least 40 per cent amount of GDP should be invested every year in productive sector to achieve the double digit growth. This means, the government should ensure that at least Rs 700 billion is invested. As internal resources will not be sufficient to arrange this fund, we should invite foreign investment,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Dr Bhattarai call for a need to build capacity at all levels to meet the target. “We need to make the building of robust private sectors an urgent priority and promote true entrepreneurship because that is how jobs are created,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> He said that Nepal must focus on developing its skills and human resources, especially by harnessing the talents of Nepali people from around the world.</div> <div> </div> <div> He also suggested all political parties to keep balance between China and India for maximum benefit from the neighbouring economic giants.</div> <div> </div> <div> President of Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries Ashok Baidya, said that political commitment is a must to create an environment of wealth creation through investment, alleviate poverty, increase the annual GDP growth rate, contain inflation, promote entrepreneurship and generate employment.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the programme, editor-in-chief and chairman of New Business Age Group Madan Lamsal asked politicians to address economic concerns and map out a strategy with business community and international support to address country’s economic problems.</div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Former PMs’ Common Points:</span></strong></div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Nepal is in the dire need of economic revolution now that it is a democratic republic</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Energy, agriculture and tourism sectors should be prioritized </div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Private sector should lead the country’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Government should play the role of catalyst</div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Nepal should focus on turning the optimism about the country’s future into real action</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Inclusive growth must be the main goal for Nepal’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The mood should be changed from thinking of Nepal as a poor country to as a country that holds hope</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-10-01', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside.', 'sortorder' => '1623', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 13 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1761', 'article_category_id' => '149', 'title' => 'PLO: A Local Power', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By Bhawani Timilsina </strong></div> <div> </div> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Krishna P. Dulal, Director, Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd" src="/userfiles/images/kd.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 207px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"> <div> <strong>Krishna P. Dulal</strong></div> <div> Director</div> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company finalised a brand logo and name after conducting a small research. Krishna Prasad Dulal, Director of the company says, “We did not have to make a huge effort to select a brand name and logo. We simply chose a name that would represent the eastern region. As our initiation was from Morang district, the brand name PLO helps to maintain our originality among customers.” </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has taken up the challenge to reach out to people across all economic levels with its product – it claims that the main target of its brand is the farmer population in Nepal. According to Dulal, the initial phase of business was rather challenging as people were reluctant to use a local product. “We struggled hard to convince our customers and have been constantly attempting to overcome difficulties through innovative marketing strategies and powerful team unity,” Dulal says.</div> <div> </div> <div> He assures that the company has been using base oil and additives like LITHIUM, HCO, and VI. “The base oil and additives are similar in quality to those used in popular international brands,” Dulal claims, assuring that the company does not compromise with quality. With a total market share of 8 per cent, other products of PLO include 2T Oil, 4T Extra Power, AP-3 Grease, APF Dextron-III, Gear Treat GL-5, GMP Oil, Hydraulic Oil, Mission 2T, PLO Multipurpose III, Active Coolant and Super Plus, PLO Super Multi Grade, Gear Oil (Non-Grade) and PLO Super SAE 40. </div> <div> </div> <div> Over these 12 years, the marketing team and its strategies have been the company’s strength to prop up the brand. Dulal claims that marketing plays a significant role in generating trust among people.“We believe that business can prosper when a brand wins the confidence of its customers,”he says. </div> <div> </div> <div> “About 85 per cent of the lubricants market has been occupied by foreign brands, but 32 per cent of the market still remains with domestic brands,” informs Dulal. “We have a target to win over 20 per cent of the total market of lubricant in Nepal so that 50 per cent of the market will be among Nepali brands.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The company has covered 75 districts, 86 dealers, more than 5000 retailer counters and more than 200,000 customers till date. The cost of the grease and lubricants is priced between Rs 300 to Rs 500 per bottle. Over the years since its inception, the sales and turnover of the company has been increasing annually and the company has been able to expand to markets all over the country. “There is cut-throat completion in the market and domestic lubricant brands have been working together to compete with international products,” says Dulal. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has also got suggestions from some customers that its focus should now be in manufacturing high-class lubricants that can be used in high-end vehicles. “This will create a possibility for Nepali lubricants to enter the international market, and if that happens, Bhutan and Bangladesh among other countries could be our target markets,” Dulal explains. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has yet to achieve a lot and the launching of the new ‘Star’ brand for high-end vehicles is a step ahead towards its ultimate goal.</div> <div> </div> <div> <img alt="PLO" src="/userfiles/images/plo1.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 220px;" /></div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now.', 'sortorder' => '1622', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 14 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1760', 'article_category_id' => '150', 'title' => 'Business Briefs (2 - 8 September 2013)', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Asian Paints Dream Home Contest" src="/userfiles/images/ap.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 114px;" />Asian Paints’ Dream Home Contest </span></strong></div> <div> Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’. To participate in the contest, customers have to paint the exterior of their home with Apex Ultima and upload the photos of their home in Asian paints Facebook page app ‘Dream Home Contest’. Top 50 maximum liked photographs will be judged for their aesthetic appeal. Details of the contest can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/AsianPaints.NP. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign" src="/userfiles/images/jw.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 105px;" />Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign</span></strong></div> <div> Johnnie Walker has launched a new campaign ‘Double the Intensity’ for the award-winning Johnnie Walker Double Black whiskey. The campaign will have variety of materials including print advertising and advertising at point of purchase. Johnnie Walker Double Black was introduced in Nepal in 2012.</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer" src="/userfiles/images/lgfd.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 125px; height: 46px;" />LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer</span></strong></div> <div> LG has announced a new offer named ‘Father’s Day Celebration Offer’. With this offer, customers will be entitled to win a 32” Cinema 3D TV through a lucky draw on purchase of any LG products. On every LG purchase, customers need to SMS LG<space>Product Model No.<space>Product Serial No in the warranty card. </space></space></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Xfactor Shine 1" src="/userfiles/images/lgx.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; height: 110px; width: 62px;" />Colors Launches Xfactor Shine 1 </span></strong></div> <div> Colors mobile has introduced new Xfactor Shine 1 in the market. According to the company official, the handset is loaded with the best of the features, comes with a faster processor and beautiful sleek design and Android version 4.0.3. The phone is powered by a 1.2 GHz Dual Core Processor and has 4 GB ROM and 512 MB of RAM. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Samsung’s New Smart Cameras" src="/userfiles/images/smsg.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; width: 68px; height: 110px;" />Samsung’s New Smart Cameras</span></strong></div> <div> Him Electronics Private Limited, authorized distributor of Samsung Cameras in Nepal has introduced three new ranges of cameras – WB200F, ST150F and ST72. WB200F features a Hybrid Touch User Interface and enhanced Wifi connectivity with 14.2 MP sensor, 18x zoom and 24mm ultra-wide angle lens. ST150F comes with 16 MP sensor, 5x zoom, 3” screen. ST72 features a f2.5 lens, 5x zoom and 16.2 Megapixels. The prices of WB200F, ST150F and ST72 are Rs 24,990, Rs 14,990 and Rs 13,990 respectively.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’.', 'sortorder' => '1621', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ) ) $current_user = null $logged_in = falsesimplexml_load_file - [internal], line ?? include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 60 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224 View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418 include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117
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$viewFile = '/var/www/html/newbusinessage.com/app/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'articles' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 1 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 2 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 3 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 4 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 5 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 6 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 7 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 8 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 9 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 10 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 11 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 12 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 13 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), (int) 14 => array( 'Article' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ) ), 'current_user' => null, 'logged_in' => false ) $articles = array( (int) 0 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1774', 'article_category_id' => '145', 'title' => 'Political Commitment Necessary For Development', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By Ashok Baidya</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> We have made an effort to bring the former prime ministers in the same platform for a meaningful dialogue and discourse on country’s overall economic development. This is probably a first of its type in the history of Nepal. I am really delighted to welcome the former prime ministers, who are at the helm of the country, in Birgung- a city known as the main entrance as well as the economic capital of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> We are not going to hold a political debate by bringing top leaders of the political parties in this economic and industrial hub. Rather, we are seeking a political commitment for the nation’s economic development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Water, as a form of white gold, is flowing from our rivers. Provided that we utilize this water, we can easily get rid of the chronic power deficit. This will also ensure high economic growth, trade balance and earning of foreign currencies. However, instead of considering the hydropower as a matter of business, it’s a bitter reality that hydropower projects are facing political hindrances. </div> <div> </div> <div> On the other hand, Nepal is projected as a best destination for tourism by United Nations including other international organizations. However, the number of tourists in our markets has not exceeded one million per annum yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The major reason behind all these economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies. It is obvious that there exist of many political parties with diverse orientations in a country with multiparty democratic system. But complete and frequent changes in the whole policy resulting from the government changes is rarely see in any other country.</div> <div> </div> <div> The investors shy away from investing in the countries with instable politics and economy. Apart from these problems, our country is reeling under the power deficit and labour unrest, among other economic ordeals. Despite a high minimum wage compared to other South Asian countries, Nepal is yet to observe the normalcy in the labour sector. Thus, if productions are to be increased and investment is to be lured, a high level consensus is imperative on the fundamental issues of the economy. I would like to request to all former prime ministers from this forum for a common agreement on the fundamental agenda of the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> Birgunj is a strong pillar of our economy. 70 per cent of country’s total industrial investments are in Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor. But the government has inflicted injustice to the Birgunj-Pathlaiya region by not declaring this region as an industrial corridor. Along with a demand to declare this region as industrial corridor, we demand with the government that Birgunj be declared as economic capital. We have also brought a concept of a greater Birgunj to develop this city as the country’s economic capital. The concept brought for the overall development of Birgunj aims to increase the economic and industrial activities at a high rate and build infrastructures to the par of complete metropolitan by 2080. I would like to request former prime ministers to realize the importance of this comprehensive plan and act towards materializing it. This program would not been a success without the participation of prime ministers. I would like to thank you from my inner heart for your presence. </div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Baidya during Nepal Leadership Summit.)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The major reason behind economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies.', 'sortorder' => '1635', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 1 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1773', 'article_category_id' => '145', 'title' => 'There Is No Investment Friendly Environment', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By Madan Lamsal</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> Dignitaries present in this Nepal Leadership summit are much concerned over economic future of the country. But the vibes of this positive thinking has not been circulated to the common people. This platform intends to reach to those people with a hope to develop a common economic commitment.</div> <div> </div> <div> It has already been late to discuss about country’s economy because its growth barely hovering over 3 to 4.5 per cent in last three years.</div> <div> </div> <div> Entrepreneurs and businessmen along with the capital and human resource are moving abroad in large numbers. There is no investment friendly environment in our country. There is a public blame over the government’s indifferent attitude towards the economic agenda. It is now important for a common and practical mindset regarding the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Challenges of Nepali Economy</span></strong></div> <div> Productivity of the economy is declining and new investment is almost zero.</div> <div> Alarmingly, annual trade embalance is Rs 479 billion and inflation is approximately 10 percent. Nearly, 500 thousand youths are going abroad for employment and the number of those going for education and other purposes is critically high. Nepali currency depreciated by 22 per cent in last six months. Hydel projects are the victim of indecisiveness and are politicised. This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans. The air of uncertainty and the fear have not receded.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">People’s expectations from Leaders</span></strong></div> <div> People are tired of opinions and blame game. Now they want a clear and common commitment to solve the existing problems and its immediate implementation. There should not be any disagreement over the common problems.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Right Time</span></strong></div> <div> This is the right time for a common commitment because political parties are gearing high in preparing their manifesto. There is an expectation to make the country federal. It may take time, there might be differences but constitution would be drafted and there would be political outlet. However, the days without economic progress are the days squandered. Result is what we are desperately seeking now.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The Clock is Ticking</span></strong></div> <div> We should quickly act on it because the state can’t remain without long term plans for infinite period. It has been imperative to develop a national concept about the local currency peg with the Indian currency.</div> <div> </div> <div> Remittance income has not been able to utilised in productive sector. Thus, there is no alternative to make Nepal’s economy as a part of world market system. It has been imperative to provide relief to the people and industrial sector by ending energy crisis. Economic literacy is must for the political parties. And it is necessary to spread the message of industrial sector’s progress.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The way Ahead</span></strong></div> <div> The way ahead is co-operation. An initiative has been taken in this summit and it has to be strengthened. We are making a common commitment for coming decade. And this is not a formality but a necessity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Let’s adopt and implement it.</div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Lamsal in the Nepal Leadership Summit)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans.', 'sortorder' => '1634', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 2 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1772', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Glimpses Of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries" src="/userfiles/images/1%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal exchanging their views" src="/userfiles/images/2%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <div> <strong>Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal</strong></div> <div> <strong>exchanging their views</strong></div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration" src="/userfiles/images/3%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/4%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 336px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI family during the event" src="/userfiles/images/5%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI family during the event</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit" src="/userfiles/images/6%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI president Ashok Baidya" src="/userfiles/images/7%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI president Ashok Baidya</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma (second from the right)" src="/userfiles/images/8%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma </strong><strong>(second from the right)</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Glimpses of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sortorder' => '1633', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 3 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1771', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit At A Glance', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<h2> <strong style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size:14px;">Participants Former PMs</span></strong></h2> <ul> <li> Sher Bahadur Deuba </li> <li> Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</li> <li> Madhav Kumar Nepal</li> <li> Jhala Nath Khanal </li> <li> Dr Baburam Bhattarai </li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Organizer</span></strong></div> <div> Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Management </span></strong></div> <div> New Business Age Group </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Outcome </span></strong></div> <div> Former PMs singed a 12-point agreement vowing to let private sector lead the country’s economic front </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Why Birgunj?</span></strong></div> <div> Because Birgunj is one of the major trade hubs of the country and Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor has been suffered from political volatile situation. So, it would be better to seek commitment from PMs at the same place. </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Major Issues Raised</span></strong></div> <ul> <li> Political Instability</li> <li> Need of economic revolution</li> <li> Promotion of tourism</li> <li> Commitment for hydropower </li> <li> Agriculture focused development </li> <li> Inclusive growth</li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Feedback </span></strong></div> <div> It is indeed a good initiative that politicians signed a 12-point declaration. But signing is just a beginning. We should regularly put pressure on politicians to stick to their commitment in days ahead. The agreement should be translated into action. We want sincere commitment from former PMs and their respective political parties. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Ashok Baidya</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>President, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The programme is a very successful event since it was successful to bring politicians from different ideologies into a single platform. Also, it help reenergize discourse of making Birgunj a major industrial hub of the country. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Rabindra Kr Baranwal</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>Secretary, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The event will have a very positive impact on country’s economy. Commitment from top guns of major political parties for the economic development of the country will help boost morale of business community. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Prabesh Pandey, Banker</strong></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit at a Glance', 'sortorder' => '1632', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 4 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1770', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Roadmap Of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div> <span style="font-size:26px;"><strong>Nepal Leadership summit 2013</strong></span></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS</span></strong></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Birgunj Declaration </span></strong></div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>September 5, 2013</strong></span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution, we former prime ministers of Nepal assembled in this “Nepal Leadership Summit” organized by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) with help from Aarthik Abhiyan Daily, pledge our commitment to following common points: </strong></span></div> <div> </div> <div> 1.We commit to give priority to the national economic agenda above our respective party agenda for the protection of overall national interests while making any individual and party level decision.</div> <div> </div> <div> 2.We commit to discuss national economic agenda within our respective parties in a democratic manner and through that forge a consensus of all parties in the development of a common economic agenda of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 3.We are committed to bring to an end the existing uneasy industrial relations and to maintain a peaceful industrial situation for industrial development of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> 4.We are committed to bring out new labour policy and industrial policy conducive for overall national interests and industrial development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 5.We are committed to make Nepal free from the problem of power outage by removing the obstacles faced in the generation and supply of electricity. </div> <div> </div> <div> 6.We are committed to secure individual property rights of the people.</div> <div> </div> <div> 7.We are committed to create an environment conducive for attracting investment by discouraging all the activities that may disturb the investment climate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 8.We are committed to uplift Nepal from the current status of a Least Developed Country within the coming 10 years by removing the prevalent poverty and inequality and by achieving high economic growth rate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 9.We are committed to internalize that the private sector has to play the leading role in the economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 10.We are committed to get Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor officially declared an industrial corridor that fulfils a set of specified standards.</div> <div> </div> <div> 11.We are committed to get Birgunj recognised as the economic capital of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 12.We are committed to transform Birgunj town into Greater Birgunj.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution', 'sortorder' => '1631', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 5 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1769', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Green Economy For Economic Development’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/mkn.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 195px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> To meet the targets of proposed Economic Revolution Roadmap: Vision 2080, all the concerned parties must be committed. These objectives must be incorporated as economic agenda by all. When everyone is determined for political, economic and social progress, economic revolution is not an unattainable pursuit. But, sustainable economic development is possible only with political stability and rule of law. To establish political stability and rule of law, Constituent Assembly election slated for November 19 must be conducted peacefully. Then the economic development can gain momentum.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our economy is dependent on imports. To lower the high trade deficit, export oriented policies and programmes must be made. Likewise, investment in export oriented industries must be encouraged. For this, internal resources and external opportunities must be well coordinated and productive sectors must be developed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, employment must be generated through stable and long term investments. For this to happen, government, industrialists and workers must rise above their vested interests and serve the national interest. A favourable environment for running industries and making investments must be created. If these can be ensured, the campaign to achieve economic development and lifting country from the status of least developed to developing country is not overambitious.</div> <div> </div> <div> There must be committed focus on policy stability, power development, investment in employment oriented productive sector and expansion of the service sector. If we want to build new Nepal and make sure all people are prosperous, we must prioritise certain things first. They could be restructuring the society, overhauling the administrative structure, eradicating social discriminations and anomalies and prioritising the development of skilled human resources. Similarly, the physical infrastructure and power development must be prioritised as the water resource is being wasted. These targets are not unachievable but the only need is of the national commitment and positive thinking.</div> <div> </div> <div> Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development. Whether it is international airport at Nijgadh or fast track road, they are the basis for economic revolution. Development of agriculture, service sector and tourism industry can make Nepal leap towards economic prosperity within a decade. Similarly, green economy must be prioritised. Criminalisation of politics and politicisation of crime must come to an end. End of corruption and good governance must be ensured. </div> <div> </div> <div> The Birgunj-Pathlaiya industrial corridor development with minimum standards must be declared soon. The concept of Greater Birgunj must be implemented and Birgunj should be announced as the financial capital. Sincere implementation of these initiatives can put Nepal in the path to economic revolution.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development.', 'sortorder' => '1630', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 6 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1768', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Agriculture, Regional Market And Infrastructure Development For Economic Prosperity’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Jhala Nath Khanal" src="/userfiles/images/jnk.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 238px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Jhala Nath Khanal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Nepal holds numerous potentials for achieving economic prosperity as the country is bestowed with valuable natural resources. Nepal needs to develop various sectors by setting priorities on them. Nepal must promote tourism based economy and we should not neglect the fact that Nepal is suitable for off-season and all season agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country has passed through major political changes from 1950s to 1990s. However, these changes couldn’t lay foundation for economic transformation. Therefore, these political changes could not be institutionalised. In 2006 it was a historic change but unfortunately, that too has not been institutionalised yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The political stability has an important role in establishing democracy, rule of law and optimum utilisation of resources. There are no doubts about the successful completion of upcoming elections on time. Election is a milestone for creating a base for economic development. Every political party must have commitment for polls. And, the upcoming Constituent Assembly election is also a basis for state restructuring.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal has to be transformed into a developing country from the present status of least developed country. If all the concerned stakeholders express determination towards this goal, Nepal can be upgraded into a developing country within a decade. The country had to experience major ups and downs during the last 15 years. During that time, a huge investment made an exit from Nepal and many industries were closed. Similarly, many industries were announced sick during that period. </div> <div> </div> <div> At present, around 400,000 people enter into the labour market each year. To provide jobs for them, the agriculture must be mechanised, modernised and co-operatised. Economic development cannot happen without development of agriculture. The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment in addition to other similar programmes. If the agro productivity can be increased, Nepal can achieve economic prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal is a country with more than 30 million population. If China in the north and South Asia are considered, the population accounts to almost half of the global population. thus there is a huge market for us next door. We do not have to look at Europe, USA or Australia in search of market. If we can tap this market by enhancing our capacity to produce products with competitive advantage in these markets, we can progress towards prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nestled between India and China, Nepal must devise its economic strategies, policies and programmes to explore the benefits of this unique geographical position. Similarly, we must revise our economic diplomacy. Development of physical infrastructure is another integral part of achieving economic development. Physical infrastructures such as mid-hill highway, international airport at Nijgadh and north-south highways to connect China and India must be given prime importance. Similarly, social infrastructures such as hospitals and universities too must be taken into high consideration. With these infrastructures, we can push the country towards development and prosperity.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment among other similar programmes.', 'sortorder' => '1629', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 7 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1767', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Foreign Investment Required’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Dr Baburam Bhattarai" src="/userfiles/images/bb.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 226px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Dr Baburam Bhattarai</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> We have spent a long time focusing on the political revolution and now we need to shift the focus to the economic side. But all we have to understand the interrelation between political and economical revolution. In order to have economic development, we have to trace out our shortcomings - what are our strengths and what are the hindrances to economic development?</div> <div> </div> <div> One of our major problems is absolute poverty and absolute backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development, and which has led the country to a sluggish pace of development of not more the 2 per cent average growth in 50 years. There has not been much change in the real income level of the people, and this small economic growth is wiped away by the constant population growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, we need a vision to see where we will be in the upcoming 10 years. For that, we have to bring in foreign investment and utilize our domestic resources to stimulate economic development</div> <div> </div> <div> During our government, we had focused on taking growth to a double digit rate. For ten per cent growth rate 40 per cent of the GDP has to be invested. As the GDP being NRs 1700billion we have to invest 700bilion per year. One of the basic sources for it is internal tax revenue - which approximately generates NRs. 300bn out of which NRs. 150bn can be invested fordevelopment - the other source is remittance which is approximately NRs 600bn out of which if we invest NRs 200bn, we can still arrange another 200-300 billion form other internal sources. we should be able to bring in another 200 billion from foreign investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, it is important to mobilize the national capital as well as foreign investment in order to reach the economic growth of double digit. And if we follow this economic strategy and invest in basic economic infrastructure like electricity, road, airports and social infrastructure like education and health, not only will we witness growth in GDP but also growth in per capita income from USD750 to USD3000. In order to achieve this growth, there also has to be a political commitment, consensus and most importantly, a stable government for five years to govern the country - whether it is the nepali Congress, the UML or the unified CPN Maoist or any other party. As far as the UCPN (M) is concerned, it is totally committed towards inclusive development to reduce economic and social disparities.</div> <div> </div> <div> Secondly, we have to maintain a stable policy with the two rapidly developing neighbouring countries India and China. We have to turn into an investment pool for these countries in order to stimulate our development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Lastly, we have to eradicate political and institutional corruption and until we eradicate this, there will always be hindrances in development and investment. In order to mitigate this problem, we have to be transparent. Forceful donation has to stop and the system should be able to bring some budget to the political parties which will give rise to a transparent political party system.</div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'One of our major problems is absolute poverty and backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development', 'sortorder' => '1628', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 8 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1766', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Time For Economic Revolution’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’" src="/userfiles/images/pkd.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 212px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Until the political goals are not achieved, economic activities will remain eclipsed during the process. We had to spend many years for the political transformation, which was required. But now, it is high time that we move towards economic revolution. </div> <div> </div> <div> We made some attempts to drive the country towards an economic revolution when we led the first government of the democratic republic of Nepal. Despite our ambitious plans for economic growth in the country, we did not get the opportunity because unfortunately, we had to quit the government in nine months. </div> <div> </div> <div> The general convention of our party was held recently in Hetauda from where we made an official declaration that we should now adopt the economic agenda of production, distribution and development. We believe that only the party which employs its entire strength for economic development can lead the country to prosprity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nineteen years ago in a convention, we had said that the political revolution has not been completed yet and that it needed the abolishment of feudalism and the feudal system. </div> <div> </div> <div> In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation. Despite many ups and downs, now political consensus among major parties is being forged for the economic development </div> <div> of the nation. </div> <div> </div> <div> We want to focus on economic development at this point. Agriculture should be the foremost basis of economic development of our country. Along with the increase of agro products, we should emphasize on industrialization based on agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> Commercialisation of agriculture and industrialization based on agriculture should be our top priority. Similarly, we should make hydropower and tourism the leading sectors for economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> The vision of a double-digit economic growth rate and revolutionary economic development for 10 years is possible.</div> <div> </div> <div> After our party officially declared in the Hetauda general convention that we should all employ our strengths for the development of infrastructure, production and economy, I fortunately got the opportunity to visit our neighbouring countries China and India.</div> <div> </div> <div> While talking with the Chinese and Indian governments, they repeatedly told me that they were ready for the support needed for Nepal’s economic development after the elections are held and political stability is restored.</div> <div> </div> <div> This is the reality of Nepal. This is the requirement of the nation. We need an economic revolution. However, the need for political stability is also equally important. We are heading towards the election for which we are forging a suitable environment. We should take the election as a solid basis for the economic revolution of </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation.', 'sortorder' => '1627', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 9 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1765', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Power Supply: Pre-condition For Economic Development', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Sher Bahadur Deuba" src="/userfiles/images/sbd(1).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 222px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Sher Bahadur Deuba</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> After the Nepali Congress government was formed following the success of the People’s Movement in 1990, the financial economic situation of the government did not allow us to increase the salary of the government employees. The democratically elected government was not able to take economic reform measures. Even in that situation, we had managed to take some initiatives on basic sectors like drinking water and health services.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our priorities were to build high schools, health posts and drinking water facilities in each Village Developing Committee (VDC). We had privatized various factories owned by the government and still we hold the view that industries should be run by industrialists and businessmen while the government should focus on other things. The government should build the infrastructure where it is needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Economic liberalization in the country happened after 1990. As a result, the economic growth was reached to eight percent. However, violence was launched when the economy was gradually reviving. We also had to face interventions from the then King. We have not been able to completely recover from the impact of the war.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Rana oligarchy was overthrown in Nepal a few years after India got independence from British rule. India went ahead with a system and is now going to be a powerful democratic country. However, we have not been able to come up with a constitution as yet. Drafting the constitution of the federal democratic republic is now urgently needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Last year, we failed to draft the constitution and we all, including me and my party, are responsible for this failure. We will now draft the constitution at any cost by holding the Constituent Assembly polls, and by rectifying our mistakes.</div> <div> </div> <div> There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a pre-condition for investment and the establishment of factories. Our factories are reeling under a power shortage. Labour unrest has become a perennial problem. How can there will be an economic growth, when there are so many hindrances? Nepal has a huge trade deficit with India. An Indian minister has even agreed to provide duty free access to India for various Nepali products. However, we could not capitalise as long we afford such trade deficit?</div> <div> </div> <div> You can bring investment here in Nepal with partnership with Indian businessmen. This would help mitigate trade deficit in Nepal. Once the elections are held, a better environment would be forged for investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> I want to put forth a proposal to end the power crisis. You all have a captive power generator in your factories.if you pool all your resources, a big power plant could be installed. The government should give some incentives for such initiatives. We have immense possibilities of harnessing hydro-electricity and we can talk with India to bring in investment for hydro-electricity projects. Unlike a political revolution, an economic revolution takes time. There should be a clear investment policy in the country. Nepal could be a rich country within 5-10 years by selling electricity to neighbouring countries if we bring big investment here. Similarly, we have many sectors like tourism, agriculture, and herbal products through which we can develop </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a precondition for investment and the establishment of factories.', 'sortorder' => '1626', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 10 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1764', 'article_category_id' => '160', 'title' => 'Corptoon Vol 3 Issue 30', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-09-08', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Corptoon', 'sortorder' => '1625', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 11 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1763', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Korean Company To Bring Light In Rasuwa', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.</div> <div> </div> <div> The $550 million project is promoted by Nepal Water and Energy Development Company Ltd (NWEDC) and will generate 1456GWh of energy per year after its commissioning scheduled in March 2019. The construction of its access road will start within this month and the main project development is expected to begin in December.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Engineering Design and Environment Impact Assessment Report have been already approved by the government authorities and drilling and drifting works, company registration, financial arrangement of equity capitalhave been made, says the company.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, tree cutting approval has been received and land acquisition has already been done, it adds. “The project, once completed, will help in reducing daily load shedding by three to four hours,” said CEO of NWEDC Kim Kyung Sik. </div> <div> </div> <div> NWEDC is predominantly a South Korean group of three companies with 75 per cent of the total equity share, which includes Korea South East Power Company Ltd (KOSEP), Daelim Industrial Company Ltd, and Kyeryong Construction Industrial Company Ltd.</div> <div> </div> <div> The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has joined as a co-developer for the project while Daelim and Kyerong will be the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor. The operation and maintenance will be done by KOSEP.</div> <div> </div> <div> Sik said, “This is a reason for hope and optimism in the midst of serious crisis that has debilitating effect on Nepal economy. The project once completed, will help reduce daily load shedding by 3 to 4 hours. We are maintaining a good relation with the local people and with the administration. They are very much interested in the project and we are thankful for their support and cooperation.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The successful completion of the project means technology transfer of operation and management, employment creation of 300 to 500 people for construction, substituting annually diesel imports equivalent to 20 million US dollar and helping grow Nepali economy, he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Upper Trishuli-I project will be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. It will increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal by almost one third (216 MW), and will add around 50 per cent (1455 GWh) to the annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> “It will help meet the huge unfulfilled demand of electricity in Nepal. We have a strong and committed list of sponsors for the project, which bring together a mix of local understanding and technical competence of setting up similar projects in other parts of the world,” Sik said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “The project will help in attracting International investors in Nepal’s hydropower development, including South Korean Investors. It will also help to further strengthen the cordial relationship between Nepal and South Korea. We look for forward Nepal Electricity Authority’s support in future,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> •Expected to be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. </div> <div> • Increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal (651 MW) by almost one third (216 MW).</div> <div> • It will add around 50 per cent (1533 GWh) of electricity to the current annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> • Project site 70 km away from Katmandu, which makes it ideal for supply to the load center.</div> <div> •More Korean investment in the pipeline.</div> <div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.', 'sortorder' => '1624', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 12 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1762', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Time To Focus On Economic Revolution: Former PMs', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside. </div> <div> </div> <div> During Nepal Leadership Summit which was jointly organised by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) and New Business Age Group under the banner of ‘Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS’, five former PMs of past 1990 era pledged to speed up economic reform.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PMs Sher Bahadur Deuba, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachand’, Madhav Nepal, Jhalanath Khanal and Dr Baburam Bhattarai signed a 12-point Birgunj Declaration and admitted that the path of prosperity is only possible through private sector-led economic growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the summit, chairman of UCPN Maoist and former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, said that the time has come to be engaged in production, construction and development.</div> <div> </div> <div> “In fact, our party has come to a conclusion that political stability is not possible without economic revolution,” he informed.</div> <div> </div> <div> He stressed that promoting economic activities and adopting the approach of inclusive growth is the only option to overcome vicious circle of poverty.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PM and Nepali Congress senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba said that the government should not engage in trading or operating industries.</div> <div> </div> <div> “The country had been facing the problem of financial crunch when NC formed the government after 1990 revolution. Situation has changed now as we have much better finacial resources. The problem is we have been unable to invest due to lack of infrastructure and energy crisis,” he said.</div> <div> He stressed for a common commitment to end the existing energy crisis. “The country will head in the direction of economic prosperity if we will be able to address the problem of infrastructure, industrial security and energy,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal should attract Indian investment and should promote export to reduce trade deficit, he opined. </div> <div> </div> <div> He said, that the government should reduce all bureaucratic hassles and should vow to provide tax rebate to companies which create employment opportunities to more than 100 persons. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country’s economy remains in a state of confusion, with expanding budget, energy crisis, trade deficit, inflation, unemployment problem and lack of resources, said former Prime Minister and CPN UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> He blamed the revenue-centered government, short-term profit oriented private sector and belligerent labour for the slow economic growth. “We need to improve our educational system and ensure that we have the skills to pursue the opportunities,” he said.</div> <div> </div> <div> He suggested that clarity in policy, investment friendly environment and investment in service and production sector will ensure country’s development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Chairman of CPN-UML and former PM Jhala Nath Khanal emphasized the need of policy stability for the economic growth. Modernisation of agriculture sector will have positive impact for the development, he said, adding that the banking sector should increase investment in the agricultural sector.</div> <div> </div> <div> Absolute poverty and backwardness are main problems of the country at present, UCPN Maoist leader and former PM Dr Baburam Bhattarai said. The country can achieve the target of 10 per cent growth by increasing investment in productive sector, he opined.</div> <div> </div> <div> “Key factors that affected all sectors of the economy are poor governance and corruption in the country. One of most important negative factor is decline in investment to GDP ratio, which is one the of the root cause of the slowdown in GDP growth,” Dr Bhattarai said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “At least 40 per cent amount of GDP should be invested every year in productive sector to achieve the double digit growth. This means, the government should ensure that at least Rs 700 billion is invested. As internal resources will not be sufficient to arrange this fund, we should invite foreign investment,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Dr Bhattarai call for a need to build capacity at all levels to meet the target. “We need to make the building of robust private sectors an urgent priority and promote true entrepreneurship because that is how jobs are created,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> He said that Nepal must focus on developing its skills and human resources, especially by harnessing the talents of Nepali people from around the world.</div> <div> </div> <div> He also suggested all political parties to keep balance between China and India for maximum benefit from the neighbouring economic giants.</div> <div> </div> <div> President of Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries Ashok Baidya, said that political commitment is a must to create an environment of wealth creation through investment, alleviate poverty, increase the annual GDP growth rate, contain inflation, promote entrepreneurship and generate employment.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the programme, editor-in-chief and chairman of New Business Age Group Madan Lamsal asked politicians to address economic concerns and map out a strategy with business community and international support to address country’s economic problems.</div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Former PMs’ Common Points:</span></strong></div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Nepal is in the dire need of economic revolution now that it is a democratic republic</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Energy, agriculture and tourism sectors should be prioritized </div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Private sector should lead the country’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Government should play the role of catalyst</div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Nepal should focus on turning the optimism about the country’s future into real action</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Inclusive growth must be the main goal for Nepal’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The mood should be changed from thinking of Nepal as a poor country to as a country that holds hope</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-10-01', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside.', 'sortorder' => '1623', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 13 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1761', 'article_category_id' => '149', 'title' => 'PLO: A Local Power', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By Bhawani Timilsina </strong></div> <div> </div> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Krishna P. Dulal, Director, Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd" src="/userfiles/images/kd.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 207px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"> <div> <strong>Krishna P. Dulal</strong></div> <div> Director</div> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company finalised a brand logo and name after conducting a small research. Krishna Prasad Dulal, Director of the company says, “We did not have to make a huge effort to select a brand name and logo. We simply chose a name that would represent the eastern region. As our initiation was from Morang district, the brand name PLO helps to maintain our originality among customers.” </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has taken up the challenge to reach out to people across all economic levels with its product – it claims that the main target of its brand is the farmer population in Nepal. According to Dulal, the initial phase of business was rather challenging as people were reluctant to use a local product. “We struggled hard to convince our customers and have been constantly attempting to overcome difficulties through innovative marketing strategies and powerful team unity,” Dulal says.</div> <div> </div> <div> He assures that the company has been using base oil and additives like LITHIUM, HCO, and VI. “The base oil and additives are similar in quality to those used in popular international brands,” Dulal claims, assuring that the company does not compromise with quality. With a total market share of 8 per cent, other products of PLO include 2T Oil, 4T Extra Power, AP-3 Grease, APF Dextron-III, Gear Treat GL-5, GMP Oil, Hydraulic Oil, Mission 2T, PLO Multipurpose III, Active Coolant and Super Plus, PLO Super Multi Grade, Gear Oil (Non-Grade) and PLO Super SAE 40. </div> <div> </div> <div> Over these 12 years, the marketing team and its strategies have been the company’s strength to prop up the brand. Dulal claims that marketing plays a significant role in generating trust among people.“We believe that business can prosper when a brand wins the confidence of its customers,”he says. </div> <div> </div> <div> “About 85 per cent of the lubricants market has been occupied by foreign brands, but 32 per cent of the market still remains with domestic brands,” informs Dulal. “We have a target to win over 20 per cent of the total market of lubricant in Nepal so that 50 per cent of the market will be among Nepali brands.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The company has covered 75 districts, 86 dealers, more than 5000 retailer counters and more than 200,000 customers till date. The cost of the grease and lubricants is priced between Rs 300 to Rs 500 per bottle. Over the years since its inception, the sales and turnover of the company has been increasing annually and the company has been able to expand to markets all over the country. “There is cut-throat completion in the market and domestic lubricant brands have been working together to compete with international products,” says Dulal. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has also got suggestions from some customers that its focus should now be in manufacturing high-class lubricants that can be used in high-end vehicles. “This will create a possibility for Nepali lubricants to enter the international market, and if that happens, Bhutan and Bangladesh among other countries could be our target markets,” Dulal explains. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has yet to achieve a lot and the launching of the new ‘Star’ brand for high-end vehicles is a step ahead towards its ultimate goal.</div> <div> </div> <div> <img alt="PLO" src="/userfiles/images/plo1.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 220px;" /></div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now.', 'sortorder' => '1622', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 14 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1760', 'article_category_id' => '150', 'title' => 'Business Briefs (2 - 8 September 2013)', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Asian Paints Dream Home Contest" src="/userfiles/images/ap.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 114px;" />Asian Paints’ Dream Home Contest </span></strong></div> <div> Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’. To participate in the contest, customers have to paint the exterior of their home with Apex Ultima and upload the photos of their home in Asian paints Facebook page app ‘Dream Home Contest’. Top 50 maximum liked photographs will be judged for their aesthetic appeal. Details of the contest can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/AsianPaints.NP. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign" src="/userfiles/images/jw.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 105px;" />Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign</span></strong></div> <div> Johnnie Walker has launched a new campaign ‘Double the Intensity’ for the award-winning Johnnie Walker Double Black whiskey. The campaign will have variety of materials including print advertising and advertising at point of purchase. Johnnie Walker Double Black was introduced in Nepal in 2012.</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer" src="/userfiles/images/lgfd.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 125px; height: 46px;" />LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer</span></strong></div> <div> LG has announced a new offer named ‘Father’s Day Celebration Offer’. With this offer, customers will be entitled to win a 32” Cinema 3D TV through a lucky draw on purchase of any LG products. On every LG purchase, customers need to SMS LG<space>Product Model No.<space>Product Serial No in the warranty card. </space></space></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Xfactor Shine 1" src="/userfiles/images/lgx.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; height: 110px; width: 62px;" />Colors Launches Xfactor Shine 1 </span></strong></div> <div> Colors mobile has introduced new Xfactor Shine 1 in the market. According to the company official, the handset is loaded with the best of the features, comes with a faster processor and beautiful sleek design and Android version 4.0.3. The phone is powered by a 1.2 GHz Dual Core Processor and has 4 GB ROM and 512 MB of RAM. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Samsung’s New Smart Cameras" src="/userfiles/images/smsg.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; width: 68px; height: 110px;" />Samsung’s New Smart Cameras</span></strong></div> <div> Him Electronics Private Limited, authorized distributor of Samsung Cameras in Nepal has introduced three new ranges of cameras – WB200F, ST150F and ST72. WB200F features a Hybrid Touch User Interface and enhanced Wifi connectivity with 14.2 MP sensor, 18x zoom and 24mm ultra-wide angle lens. ST150F comes with 16 MP sensor, 5x zoom, 3” screen. ST72 features a f2.5 lens, 5x zoom and 16.2 Megapixels. The prices of WB200F, ST150F and ST72 are Rs 24,990, Rs 14,990 and Rs 13,990 respectively.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’.', 'sortorder' => '1621', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ) ) $current_user = null $logged_in = false $xml = falseinclude - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224 View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418 include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117
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This is probably a first of its type in the history of Nepal. I am really delighted to welcome the former prime ministers, who are at the helm of the country, in Birgung- a city known as the main entrance as well as the economic capital of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> We are not going to hold a political debate by bringing top leaders of the political parties in this economic and industrial hub. Rather, we are seeking a political commitment for the nation’s economic development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Water, as a form of white gold, is flowing from our rivers. Provided that we utilize this water, we can easily get rid of the chronic power deficit. This will also ensure high economic growth, trade balance and earning of foreign currencies. However, instead of considering the hydropower as a matter of business, it’s a bitter reality that hydropower projects are facing political hindrances. </div> <div> </div> <div> On the other hand, Nepal is projected as a best destination for tourism by United Nations including other international organizations. However, the number of tourists in our markets has not exceeded one million per annum yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The major reason behind all these economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies. It is obvious that there exist of many political parties with diverse orientations in a country with multiparty democratic system. But complete and frequent changes in the whole policy resulting from the government changes is rarely see in any other country.</div> <div> </div> <div> The investors shy away from investing in the countries with instable politics and economy. Apart from these problems, our country is reeling under the power deficit and labour unrest, among other economic ordeals. Despite a high minimum wage compared to other South Asian countries, Nepal is yet to observe the normalcy in the labour sector. Thus, if productions are to be increased and investment is to be lured, a high level consensus is imperative on the fundamental issues of the economy. I would like to request to all former prime ministers from this forum for a common agreement on the fundamental agenda of the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> Birgunj is a strong pillar of our economy. 70 per cent of country’s total industrial investments are in Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor. But the government has inflicted injustice to the Birgunj-Pathlaiya region by not declaring this region as an industrial corridor. Along with a demand to declare this region as industrial corridor, we demand with the government that Birgunj be declared as economic capital. We have also brought a concept of a greater Birgunj to develop this city as the country’s economic capital. The concept brought for the overall development of Birgunj aims to increase the economic and industrial activities at a high rate and build infrastructures to the par of complete metropolitan by 2080. I would like to request former prime ministers to realize the importance of this comprehensive plan and act towards materializing it. This program would not been a success without the participation of prime ministers. I would like to thank you from my inner heart for your presence. </div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Baidya during Nepal Leadership Summit.)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The major reason behind economic problems is political instability and inconsistent policies.', 'sortorder' => '1635', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 1 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1773', 'article_category_id' => '145', 'title' => 'There Is No Investment Friendly Environment', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By Madan Lamsal</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> Dignitaries present in this Nepal Leadership summit are much concerned over economic future of the country. But the vibes of this positive thinking has not been circulated to the common people. This platform intends to reach to those people with a hope to develop a common economic commitment.</div> <div> </div> <div> It has already been late to discuss about country’s economy because its growth barely hovering over 3 to 4.5 per cent in last three years.</div> <div> </div> <div> Entrepreneurs and businessmen along with the capital and human resource are moving abroad in large numbers. There is no investment friendly environment in our country. There is a public blame over the government’s indifferent attitude towards the economic agenda. It is now important for a common and practical mindset regarding the economy.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Challenges of Nepali Economy</span></strong></div> <div> Productivity of the economy is declining and new investment is almost zero.</div> <div> Alarmingly, annual trade embalance is Rs 479 billion and inflation is approximately 10 percent. Nearly, 500 thousand youths are going abroad for employment and the number of those going for education and other purposes is critically high. Nepali currency depreciated by 22 per cent in last six months. Hydel projects are the victim of indecisiveness and are politicised. This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans. The air of uncertainty and the fear have not receded.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">People’s expectations from Leaders</span></strong></div> <div> People are tired of opinions and blame game. Now they want a clear and common commitment to solve the existing problems and its immediate implementation. There should not be any disagreement over the common problems.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Right Time</span></strong></div> <div> This is the right time for a common commitment because political parties are gearing high in preparing their manifesto. There is an expectation to make the country federal. It may take time, there might be differences but constitution would be drafted and there would be political outlet. However, the days without economic progress are the days squandered. Result is what we are desperately seeking now.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The Clock is Ticking</span></strong></div> <div> We should quickly act on it because the state can’t remain without long term plans for infinite period. It has been imperative to develop a national concept about the local currency peg with the Indian currency.</div> <div> </div> <div> Remittance income has not been able to utilised in productive sector. Thus, there is no alternative to make Nepal’s economy as a part of world market system. It has been imperative to provide relief to the people and industrial sector by ending energy crisis. Economic literacy is must for the political parties. And it is necessary to spread the message of industrial sector’s progress.</div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">The way Ahead</span></strong></div> <div> The way ahead is co-operation. An initiative has been taken in this summit and it has to be strengthened. We are making a common commitment for coming decade. And this is not a formality but a necessity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Let’s adopt and implement it.</div> <div> </div> <div> <em>(Views expressed by Lamsal in the Nepal Leadership Summit)</em></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'This country is functioning for the past six years without any long term plans.', 'sortorder' => '1634', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 2 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1772', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Glimpses Of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries" src="/userfiles/images/1%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Editor-in-Chief & chairman of NBA Madan Lamsal addressing the dignitaries</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal exchanging their views" src="/userfiles/images/2%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <div> <strong>Former Prime Ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba (right) and Jhalnath Khanal</strong></div> <div> <strong>exchanging their views</strong></div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration" src="/userfiles/images/3%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 339px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal signing the Birgunj Declaration</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/4%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 336px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Prachanda (right) shakes hands with Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI family during the event" src="/userfiles/images/5%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI family during the event</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit" src="/userfiles/images/6%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 335px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Guests present at the Nepal Leadership Summit</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="BiCCI president Ashok Baidya" src="/userfiles/images/7%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>BiCCI president Ashok Baidya</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> </div> <table align="center" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma (second from the right)" src="/userfiles/images/8%20(Copy).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 550px; height: 691px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#DDDDDD"> <div align="center"> <strong>Maoist leader Dinanath Sharma </strong><strong>(second from the right)</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Glimpses of Nepal Leadership Summit', 'sortorder' => '1633', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 3 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1771', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit At A Glance', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<h2> <strong style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size:14px;">Participants Former PMs</span></strong></h2> <ul> <li> Sher Bahadur Deuba </li> <li> Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</li> <li> Madhav Kumar Nepal</li> <li> Jhala Nath Khanal </li> <li> Dr Baburam Bhattarai </li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Organizer</span></strong></div> <div> Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Management </span></strong></div> <div> New Business Age Group </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Outcome </span></strong></div> <div> Former PMs singed a 12-point agreement vowing to let private sector lead the country’s economic front </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Why Birgunj?</span></strong></div> <div> Because Birgunj is one of the major trade hubs of the country and Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor has been suffered from political volatile situation. So, it would be better to seek commitment from PMs at the same place. </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Major Issues Raised</span></strong></div> <ul> <li> Political Instability</li> <li> Need of economic revolution</li> <li> Promotion of tourism</li> <li> Commitment for hydropower </li> <li> Agriculture focused development </li> <li> Inclusive growth</li> </ul> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Feedback </span></strong></div> <div> It is indeed a good initiative that politicians signed a 12-point declaration. But signing is just a beginning. We should regularly put pressure on politicians to stick to their commitment in days ahead. The agreement should be translated into action. We want sincere commitment from former PMs and their respective political parties. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Ashok Baidya</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>President, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The programme is a very successful event since it was successful to bring politicians from different ideologies into a single platform. Also, it help reenergize discourse of making Birgunj a major industrial hub of the country. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Rabindra Kr Baranwal</strong></div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>Secretary, BiCCI</strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The event will have a very positive impact on country’s economy. Commitment from top guns of major political parties for the economic development of the country will help boost morale of business community. </div> <div style="text-align: right;"> <strong>- Prabesh Pandey, Banker</strong></div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Nepal Leadership Summit at a Glance', 'sortorder' => '1632', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 4 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1770', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Roadmap Of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div> <span style="font-size:26px;"><strong>Nepal Leadership summit 2013</strong></span></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS</span></strong></div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;">Birgunj Declaration </span></strong></div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>September 5, 2013</strong></span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <span style="font-size:12px;"><strong>Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution, we former prime ministers of Nepal assembled in this “Nepal Leadership Summit” organized by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) with help from Aarthik Abhiyan Daily, pledge our commitment to following common points: </strong></span></div> <div> </div> <div> 1.We commit to give priority to the national economic agenda above our respective party agenda for the protection of overall national interests while making any individual and party level decision.</div> <div> </div> <div> 2.We commit to discuss national economic agenda within our respective parties in a democratic manner and through that forge a consensus of all parties in the development of a common economic agenda of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 3.We are committed to bring to an end the existing uneasy industrial relations and to maintain a peaceful industrial situation for industrial development of the country. </div> <div> </div> <div> 4.We are committed to bring out new labour policy and industrial policy conducive for overall national interests and industrial development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 5.We are committed to make Nepal free from the problem of power outage by removing the obstacles faced in the generation and supply of electricity. </div> <div> </div> <div> 6.We are committed to secure individual property rights of the people.</div> <div> </div> <div> 7.We are committed to create an environment conducive for attracting investment by discouraging all the activities that may disturb the investment climate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 8.We are committed to uplift Nepal from the current status of a Least Developed Country within the coming 10 years by removing the prevalent poverty and inequality and by achieving high economic growth rate. </div> <div> </div> <div> 9.We are committed to internalize that the private sector has to play the leading role in the economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> 10.We are committed to get Birgunj-Pathlaiya corridor officially declared an industrial corridor that fulfils a set of specified standards.</div> <div> </div> <div> 11.We are committed to get Birgunj recognised as the economic capital of the country.</div> <div> </div> <div> 12.We are committed to transform Birgunj town into Greater Birgunj.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Whereas Nepal has now entered the phase of Democratic Republic as a result of several political agitations and there has been a national consensus that the main agenda of the country should be economic revolution', 'sortorder' => '1631', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 5 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1769', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Green Economy For Economic Development’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Madhav Kumar Nepal" src="/userfiles/images/mkn.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 195px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Madhav Kumar Nepal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> To meet the targets of proposed Economic Revolution Roadmap: Vision 2080, all the concerned parties must be committed. These objectives must be incorporated as economic agenda by all. When everyone is determined for political, economic and social progress, economic revolution is not an unattainable pursuit. But, sustainable economic development is possible only with political stability and rule of law. To establish political stability and rule of law, Constituent Assembly election slated for November 19 must be conducted peacefully. Then the economic development can gain momentum.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our economy is dependent on imports. To lower the high trade deficit, export oriented policies and programmes must be made. Likewise, investment in export oriented industries must be encouraged. For this, internal resources and external opportunities must be well coordinated and productive sectors must be developed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, employment must be generated through stable and long term investments. For this to happen, government, industrialists and workers must rise above their vested interests and serve the national interest. A favourable environment for running industries and making investments must be created. If these can be ensured, the campaign to achieve economic development and lifting country from the status of least developed to developing country is not overambitious.</div> <div> </div> <div> There must be committed focus on policy stability, power development, investment in employment oriented productive sector and expansion of the service sector. If we want to build new Nepal and make sure all people are prosperous, we must prioritise certain things first. They could be restructuring the society, overhauling the administrative structure, eradicating social discriminations and anomalies and prioritising the development of skilled human resources. Similarly, the physical infrastructure and power development must be prioritised as the water resource is being wasted. These targets are not unachievable but the only need is of the national commitment and positive thinking.</div> <div> </div> <div> Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development. Whether it is international airport at Nijgadh or fast track road, they are the basis for economic revolution. Development of agriculture, service sector and tourism industry can make Nepal leap towards economic prosperity within a decade. Similarly, green economy must be prioritised. Criminalisation of politics and politicisation of crime must come to an end. End of corruption and good governance must be ensured. </div> <div> </div> <div> The Birgunj-Pathlaiya industrial corridor development with minimum standards must be declared soon. The concept of Greater Birgunj must be implemented and Birgunj should be announced as the financial capital. Sincere implementation of these initiatives can put Nepal in the path to economic revolution.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Investment must be concentrated on infrastructure development.', 'sortorder' => '1630', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 6 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1768', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Agriculture, Regional Market And Infrastructure Development For Economic Prosperity’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Jhala Nath Khanal" src="/userfiles/images/jnk.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 238px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Jhala Nath Khanal</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Nepal holds numerous potentials for achieving economic prosperity as the country is bestowed with valuable natural resources. Nepal needs to develop various sectors by setting priorities on them. Nepal must promote tourism based economy and we should not neglect the fact that Nepal is suitable for off-season and all season agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country has passed through major political changes from 1950s to 1990s. However, these changes couldn’t lay foundation for economic transformation. Therefore, these political changes could not be institutionalised. In 2006 it was a historic change but unfortunately, that too has not been institutionalised yet.</div> <div> </div> <div> The political stability has an important role in establishing democracy, rule of law and optimum utilisation of resources. There are no doubts about the successful completion of upcoming elections on time. Election is a milestone for creating a base for economic development. Every political party must have commitment for polls. And, the upcoming Constituent Assembly election is also a basis for state restructuring.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal has to be transformed into a developing country from the present status of least developed country. If all the concerned stakeholders express determination towards this goal, Nepal can be upgraded into a developing country within a decade. The country had to experience major ups and downs during the last 15 years. During that time, a huge investment made an exit from Nepal and many industries were closed. Similarly, many industries were announced sick during that period. </div> <div> </div> <div> At present, around 400,000 people enter into the labour market each year. To provide jobs for them, the agriculture must be mechanised, modernised and co-operatised. Economic development cannot happen without development of agriculture. The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment in addition to other similar programmes. If the agro productivity can be increased, Nepal can achieve economic prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal is a country with more than 30 million population. If China in the north and South Asia are considered, the population accounts to almost half of the global population. thus there is a huge market for us next door. We do not have to look at Europe, USA or Australia in search of market. If we can tap this market by enhancing our capacity to produce products with competitive advantage in these markets, we can progress towards prosperity within a short time. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nestled between India and China, Nepal must devise its economic strategies, policies and programmes to explore the benefits of this unique geographical position. Similarly, we must revise our economic diplomacy. Development of physical infrastructure is another integral part of achieving economic development. Physical infrastructures such as mid-hill highway, international airport at Nijgadh and north-south highways to connect China and India must be given prime importance. Similarly, social infrastructures such as hospitals and universities too must be taken into high consideration. With these infrastructures, we can push the country towards development and prosperity.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The agriculture sector can be modernised by establishing research centres and increasing investment among other similar programmes.', 'sortorder' => '1629', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 7 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1767', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Foreign Investment Required’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Dr Baburam Bhattarai" src="/userfiles/images/bb.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 226px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Dr Baburam Bhattarai</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> We have spent a long time focusing on the political revolution and now we need to shift the focus to the economic side. But all we have to understand the interrelation between political and economical revolution. In order to have economic development, we have to trace out our shortcomings - what are our strengths and what are the hindrances to economic development?</div> <div> </div> <div> One of our major problems is absolute poverty and absolute backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development, and which has led the country to a sluggish pace of development of not more the 2 per cent average growth in 50 years. There has not been much change in the real income level of the people, and this small economic growth is wiped away by the constant population growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, we need a vision to see where we will be in the upcoming 10 years. For that, we have to bring in foreign investment and utilize our domestic resources to stimulate economic development</div> <div> </div> <div> During our government, we had focused on taking growth to a double digit rate. For ten per cent growth rate 40 per cent of the GDP has to be invested. As the GDP being NRs 1700billion we have to invest 700bilion per year. One of the basic sources for it is internal tax revenue - which approximately generates NRs. 300bn out of which NRs. 150bn can be invested fordevelopment - the other source is remittance which is approximately NRs 600bn out of which if we invest NRs 200bn, we can still arrange another 200-300 billion form other internal sources. we should be able to bring in another 200 billion from foreign investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> Therefore, it is important to mobilize the national capital as well as foreign investment in order to reach the economic growth of double digit. And if we follow this economic strategy and invest in basic economic infrastructure like electricity, road, airports and social infrastructure like education and health, not only will we witness growth in GDP but also growth in per capita income from USD750 to USD3000. In order to achieve this growth, there also has to be a political commitment, consensus and most importantly, a stable government for five years to govern the country - whether it is the nepali Congress, the UML or the unified CPN Maoist or any other party. As far as the UCPN (M) is concerned, it is totally committed towards inclusive development to reduce economic and social disparities.</div> <div> </div> <div> Secondly, we have to maintain a stable policy with the two rapidly developing neighbouring countries India and China. We have to turn into an investment pool for these countries in order to stimulate our development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Lastly, we have to eradicate political and institutional corruption and until we eradicate this, there will always be hindrances in development and investment. In order to mitigate this problem, we have to be transparent. Forceful donation has to stop and the system should be able to bring some budget to the political parties which will give rise to a transparent political party system.</div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'One of our major problems is absolute poverty and backwardness, which is the basic weakness in our economic development', 'sortorder' => '1628', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 8 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1766', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => '‘Time For Economic Revolution’', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’" src="/userfiles/images/pkd.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 212px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Until the political goals are not achieved, economic activities will remain eclipsed during the process. We had to spend many years for the political transformation, which was required. But now, it is high time that we move towards economic revolution. </div> <div> </div> <div> We made some attempts to drive the country towards an economic revolution when we led the first government of the democratic republic of Nepal. Despite our ambitious plans for economic growth in the country, we did not get the opportunity because unfortunately, we had to quit the government in nine months. </div> <div> </div> <div> The general convention of our party was held recently in Hetauda from where we made an official declaration that we should now adopt the economic agenda of production, distribution and development. We believe that only the party which employs its entire strength for economic development can lead the country to prosprity.</div> <div> </div> <div> Nineteen years ago in a convention, we had said that the political revolution has not been completed yet and that it needed the abolishment of feudalism and the feudal system. </div> <div> </div> <div> In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation. Despite many ups and downs, now political consensus among major parties is being forged for the economic development </div> <div> of the nation. </div> <div> </div> <div> We want to focus on economic development at this point. Agriculture should be the foremost basis of economic development of our country. Along with the increase of agro products, we should emphasize on industrialization based on agriculture. </div> <div> </div> <div> Commercialisation of agriculture and industrialization based on agriculture should be our top priority. Similarly, we should make hydropower and tourism the leading sectors for economic development. </div> <div> </div> <div> The vision of a double-digit economic growth rate and revolutionary economic development for 10 years is possible.</div> <div> </div> <div> After our party officially declared in the Hetauda general convention that we should all employ our strengths for the development of infrastructure, production and economy, I fortunately got the opportunity to visit our neighbouring countries China and India.</div> <div> </div> <div> While talking with the Chinese and Indian governments, they repeatedly told me that they were ready for the support needed for Nepal’s economic development after the elections are held and political stability is restored.</div> <div> </div> <div> This is the reality of Nepal. This is the requirement of the nation. We need an economic revolution. However, the need for political stability is also equally important. We are heading towards the election for which we are forging a suitable environment. We should take the election as a solid basis for the economic revolution of </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'In order to propel the country towards economic revolution, we are now in a historically distinct situation to institutionalize the political transformation.', 'sortorder' => '1627', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 9 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1765', 'article_category_id' => '195', 'title' => 'Power Supply: Pre-condition For Economic Development', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" width="100"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Sher Bahadur Deuba" src="/userfiles/images/sbd(1).jpg" style="border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; width: 200px; height: 222px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <div align="center"> <strong>Sher Bahadur Deuba</strong></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> After the Nepali Congress government was formed following the success of the People’s Movement in 1990, the financial economic situation of the government did not allow us to increase the salary of the government employees. The democratically elected government was not able to take economic reform measures. Even in that situation, we had managed to take some initiatives on basic sectors like drinking water and health services.</div> <div> </div> <div> Our priorities were to build high schools, health posts and drinking water facilities in each Village Developing Committee (VDC). We had privatized various factories owned by the government and still we hold the view that industries should be run by industrialists and businessmen while the government should focus on other things. The government should build the infrastructure where it is needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Economic liberalization in the country happened after 1990. As a result, the economic growth was reached to eight percent. However, violence was launched when the economy was gradually reviving. We also had to face interventions from the then King. We have not been able to completely recover from the impact of the war.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Rana oligarchy was overthrown in Nepal a few years after India got independence from British rule. India went ahead with a system and is now going to be a powerful democratic country. However, we have not been able to come up with a constitution as yet. Drafting the constitution of the federal democratic republic is now urgently needed.</div> <div> </div> <div> Last year, we failed to draft the constitution and we all, including me and my party, are responsible for this failure. We will now draft the constitution at any cost by holding the Constituent Assembly polls, and by rectifying our mistakes.</div> <div> </div> <div> There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a pre-condition for investment and the establishment of factories. Our factories are reeling under a power shortage. Labour unrest has become a perennial problem. How can there will be an economic growth, when there are so many hindrances? Nepal has a huge trade deficit with India. An Indian minister has even agreed to provide duty free access to India for various Nepali products. However, we could not capitalise as long we afford such trade deficit?</div> <div> </div> <div> You can bring investment here in Nepal with partnership with Indian businessmen. This would help mitigate trade deficit in Nepal. Once the elections are held, a better environment would be forged for investment.</div> <div> </div> <div> I want to put forth a proposal to end the power crisis. You all have a captive power generator in your factories.if you pool all your resources, a big power plant could be installed. The government should give some incentives for such initiatives. We have immense possibilities of harnessing hydro-electricity and we can talk with India to bring in investment for hydro-electricity projects. Unlike a political revolution, an economic revolution takes time. There should be a clear investment policy in the country. Nepal could be a rich country within 5-10 years by selling electricity to neighbouring countries if we bring big investment here. Similarly, we have many sectors like tourism, agriculture, and herbal products through which we can develop </div> <div> the country.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-09', 'modified' => '2013-09-09', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'There should be an investment climate for the industrialization of the country. Energy is a precondition for investment and the establishment of factories.', 'sortorder' => '1626', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 10 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1764', 'article_category_id' => '160', 'title' => 'Corptoon Vol 3 Issue 30', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-09-08', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Corptoon', 'sortorder' => '1625', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 11 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1763', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Korean Company To Bring Light In Rasuwa', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.</div> <div> </div> <div> The $550 million project is promoted by Nepal Water and Energy Development Company Ltd (NWEDC) and will generate 1456GWh of energy per year after its commissioning scheduled in March 2019. The construction of its access road will start within this month and the main project development is expected to begin in December.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Engineering Design and Environment Impact Assessment Report have been already approved by the government authorities and drilling and drifting works, company registration, financial arrangement of equity capitalhave been made, says the company.</div> <div> </div> <div> Similarly, tree cutting approval has been received and land acquisition has already been done, it adds. “The project, once completed, will help in reducing daily load shedding by three to four hours,” said CEO of NWEDC Kim Kyung Sik. </div> <div> </div> <div> NWEDC is predominantly a South Korean group of three companies with 75 per cent of the total equity share, which includes Korea South East Power Company Ltd (KOSEP), Daelim Industrial Company Ltd, and Kyeryong Construction Industrial Company Ltd.</div> <div> </div> <div> The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has joined as a co-developer for the project while Daelim and Kyerong will be the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor. The operation and maintenance will be done by KOSEP.</div> <div> </div> <div> Sik said, “This is a reason for hope and optimism in the midst of serious crisis that has debilitating effect on Nepal economy. The project once completed, will help reduce daily load shedding by 3 to 4 hours. We are maintaining a good relation with the local people and with the administration. They are very much interested in the project and we are thankful for their support and cooperation.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The successful completion of the project means technology transfer of operation and management, employment creation of 300 to 500 people for construction, substituting annually diesel imports equivalent to 20 million US dollar and helping grow Nepali economy, he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> The Upper Trishuli-I project will be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. It will increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal by almost one third (216 MW), and will add around 50 per cent (1455 GWh) to the annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> “It will help meet the huge unfulfilled demand of electricity in Nepal. We have a strong and committed list of sponsors for the project, which bring together a mix of local understanding and technical competence of setting up similar projects in other parts of the world,” Sik said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “The project will help in attracting International investors in Nepal’s hydropower development, including South Korean Investors. It will also help to further strengthen the cordial relationship between Nepal and South Korea. We look for forward Nepal Electricity Authority’s support in future,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> •Expected to be one of largest hydroelectric power project in Nepal in terms of investment. </div> <div> • Increase existing hydro-electric generation capacity in Nepal (651 MW) by almost one third (216 MW).</div> <div> • It will add around 50 per cent (1533 GWh) of electricity to the current annual electricity generated in Nepal.</div> <div> • Project site 70 km away from Katmandu, which makes it ideal for supply to the load center.</div> <div> •More Korean investment in the pipeline.</div> <div> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '0000-00-00', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'The construction of the much awaited 216 MW Upper Trishuli-I hydroelectricity project at Rasuwa district is to start in September.', 'sortorder' => '1624', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 12 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1762', 'article_category_id' => '91', 'title' => 'Time To Focus On Economic Revolution: Former PMs', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By TC Correspondent </strong></div> <div> </div> <div> It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside. </div> <div> </div> <div> During Nepal Leadership Summit which was jointly organised by Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BiCCI) and New Business Age Group under the banner of ‘Roadmap of Economic Revolution: Vision 2080 BS’, five former PMs of past 1990 era pledged to speed up economic reform.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PMs Sher Bahadur Deuba, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachand’, Madhav Nepal, Jhalanath Khanal and Dr Baburam Bhattarai signed a 12-point Birgunj Declaration and admitted that the path of prosperity is only possible through private sector-led economic growth.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the summit, chairman of UCPN Maoist and former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, said that the time has come to be engaged in production, construction and development.</div> <div> </div> <div> “In fact, our party has come to a conclusion that political stability is not possible without economic revolution,” he informed.</div> <div> </div> <div> He stressed that promoting economic activities and adopting the approach of inclusive growth is the only option to overcome vicious circle of poverty.</div> <div> </div> <div> Former PM and Nepali Congress senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba said that the government should not engage in trading or operating industries.</div> <div> </div> <div> “The country had been facing the problem of financial crunch when NC formed the government after 1990 revolution. Situation has changed now as we have much better finacial resources. The problem is we have been unable to invest due to lack of infrastructure and energy crisis,” he said.</div> <div> He stressed for a common commitment to end the existing energy crisis. “The country will head in the direction of economic prosperity if we will be able to address the problem of infrastructure, industrial security and energy,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Nepal should attract Indian investment and should promote export to reduce trade deficit, he opined. </div> <div> </div> <div> He said, that the government should reduce all bureaucratic hassles and should vow to provide tax rebate to companies which create employment opportunities to more than 100 persons. </div> <div> </div> <div> The country’s economy remains in a state of confusion, with expanding budget, energy crisis, trade deficit, inflation, unemployment problem and lack of resources, said former Prime Minister and CPN UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal.</div> <div> </div> <div> He blamed the revenue-centered government, short-term profit oriented private sector and belligerent labour for the slow economic growth. “We need to improve our educational system and ensure that we have the skills to pursue the opportunities,” he said.</div> <div> </div> <div> He suggested that clarity in policy, investment friendly environment and investment in service and production sector will ensure country’s development.</div> <div> </div> <div> Chairman of CPN-UML and former PM Jhala Nath Khanal emphasized the need of policy stability for the economic growth. Modernisation of agriculture sector will have positive impact for the development, he said, adding that the banking sector should increase investment in the agricultural sector.</div> <div> </div> <div> Absolute poverty and backwardness are main problems of the country at present, UCPN Maoist leader and former PM Dr Baburam Bhattarai said. The country can achieve the target of 10 per cent growth by increasing investment in productive sector, he opined.</div> <div> </div> <div> “Key factors that affected all sectors of the economy are poor governance and corruption in the country. One of most important negative factor is decline in investment to GDP ratio, which is one the of the root cause of the slowdown in GDP growth,” Dr Bhattarai said. </div> <div> </div> <div> “At least 40 per cent amount of GDP should be invested every year in productive sector to achieve the double digit growth. This means, the government should ensure that at least Rs 700 billion is invested. As internal resources will not be sufficient to arrange this fund, we should invite foreign investment,” he added. </div> <div> </div> <div> Dr Bhattarai call for a need to build capacity at all levels to meet the target. “We need to make the building of robust private sectors an urgent priority and promote true entrepreneurship because that is how jobs are created,” he added.</div> <div> </div> <div> He said that Nepal must focus on developing its skills and human resources, especially by harnessing the talents of Nepali people from around the world.</div> <div> </div> <div> He also suggested all political parties to keep balance between China and India for maximum benefit from the neighbouring economic giants.</div> <div> </div> <div> President of Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industries Ashok Baidya, said that political commitment is a must to create an environment of wealth creation through investment, alleviate poverty, increase the annual GDP growth rate, contain inflation, promote entrepreneurship and generate employment.</div> <div> </div> <div> In the programme, editor-in-chief and chairman of New Business Age Group Madan Lamsal asked politicians to address economic concerns and map out a strategy with business community and international support to address country’s economic problems.</div> <div> <table border="0" cellpadding="10" width="99%"> <tbody> <tr> <td bgcolor="#E5E4E2"> <div> <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Former PMs’ Common Points:</span></strong></div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Nepal is in the dire need of economic revolution now that it is a democratic republic</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Energy, agriculture and tourism sectors should be prioritized </div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Private sector should lead the country’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Government should play the role of catalyst</div> <div> •<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Nepal should focus on turning the optimism about the country’s future into real action</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Inclusive growth must be the main goal for Nepal’s development</div> <div> • <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The mood should be changed from thinking of Nepal as a poor country to as a country that holds hope</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-08', 'modified' => '2013-10-01', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'It was a historic day for bleeding Nepal. On September 5, the country’s former Prime Ministers (PMs) came up with a consensus that the country should head towards economic revolution leaving political confrontations aside.', 'sortorder' => '1623', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 13 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1761', 'article_category_id' => '149', 'title' => 'PLO: A Local Power', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> </div> <div> <strong>--By Bhawani Timilsina </strong></div> <div> </div> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <img alt="Krishna P. Dulal, Director, Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd" src="/userfiles/images/kd.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 207px;" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"> <div> <strong>Krishna P. Dulal</strong></div> <div> Director</div> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div> Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company finalised a brand logo and name after conducting a small research. Krishna Prasad Dulal, Director of the company says, “We did not have to make a huge effort to select a brand name and logo. We simply chose a name that would represent the eastern region. As our initiation was from Morang district, the brand name PLO helps to maintain our originality among customers.” </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has taken up the challenge to reach out to people across all economic levels with its product – it claims that the main target of its brand is the farmer population in Nepal. According to Dulal, the initial phase of business was rather challenging as people were reluctant to use a local product. “We struggled hard to convince our customers and have been constantly attempting to overcome difficulties through innovative marketing strategies and powerful team unity,” Dulal says.</div> <div> </div> <div> He assures that the company has been using base oil and additives like LITHIUM, HCO, and VI. “The base oil and additives are similar in quality to those used in popular international brands,” Dulal claims, assuring that the company does not compromise with quality. With a total market share of 8 per cent, other products of PLO include 2T Oil, 4T Extra Power, AP-3 Grease, APF Dextron-III, Gear Treat GL-5, GMP Oil, Hydraulic Oil, Mission 2T, PLO Multipurpose III, Active Coolant and Super Plus, PLO Super Multi Grade, Gear Oil (Non-Grade) and PLO Super SAE 40. </div> <div> </div> <div> Over these 12 years, the marketing team and its strategies have been the company’s strength to prop up the brand. Dulal claims that marketing plays a significant role in generating trust among people.“We believe that business can prosper when a brand wins the confidence of its customers,”he says. </div> <div> </div> <div> “About 85 per cent of the lubricants market has been occupied by foreign brands, but 32 per cent of the market still remains with domestic brands,” informs Dulal. “We have a target to win over 20 per cent of the total market of lubricant in Nepal so that 50 per cent of the market will be among Nepali brands.”</div> <div> </div> <div> The company has covered 75 districts, 86 dealers, more than 5000 retailer counters and more than 200,000 customers till date. The cost of the grease and lubricants is priced between Rs 300 to Rs 500 per bottle. Over the years since its inception, the sales and turnover of the company has been increasing annually and the company has been able to expand to markets all over the country. “There is cut-throat completion in the market and domestic lubricant brands have been working together to compete with international products,” says Dulal. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has also got suggestions from some customers that its focus should now be in manufacturing high-class lubricants that can be used in high-end vehicles. “This will create a possibility for Nepali lubricants to enter the international market, and if that happens, Bhutan and Bangladesh among other countries could be our target markets,” Dulal explains. </div> <div> </div> <div> The company has yet to achieve a lot and the launching of the new ‘Star’ brand for high-end vehicles is a step ahead towards its ultimate goal.</div> <div> </div> <div> <img alt="PLO" src="/userfiles/images/plo1.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 220px;" /></div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Purwanchal Lube Oil (PLO), a leading lubricant in the Nepali market, was launched in 2000 by the Purwanchal Lube Oil Pvt Ltd. The company has been living up to meet the challenges of the market – its demands and changes – for over 12 years now.', 'sortorder' => '1622', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ), (int) 14 => array( 'Article' => array( 'id' => '1760', 'article_category_id' => '150', 'title' => 'Business Briefs (2 - 8 September 2013)', 'sub_title' => '', 'summary' => null, 'content' => '<div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Asian Paints Dream Home Contest" src="/userfiles/images/ap.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 114px;" />Asian Paints’ Dream Home Contest </span></strong></div> <div> Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’. To participate in the contest, customers have to paint the exterior of their home with Apex Ultima and upload the photos of their home in Asian paints Facebook page app ‘Dream Home Contest’. Top 50 maximum liked photographs will be judged for their aesthetic appeal. Details of the contest can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/AsianPaints.NP. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign" src="/userfiles/images/jw.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 100px; height: 105px;" />Johnnie Walker’s Double Black Campaign</span></strong></div> <div> Johnnie Walker has launched a new campaign ‘Double the Intensity’ for the award-winning Johnnie Walker Double Black whiskey. The campaign will have variety of materials including print advertising and advertising at point of purchase. Johnnie Walker Double Black was introduced in Nepal in 2012.</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer" src="/userfiles/images/lgfd.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px;width: 125px; height: 46px;" />LG’s Father’s Day Celebration Offer</span></strong></div> <div> LG has announced a new offer named ‘Father’s Day Celebration Offer’. With this offer, customers will be entitled to win a 32” Cinema 3D TV through a lucky draw on purchase of any LG products. On every LG purchase, customers need to SMS LG<space>Product Model No.<space>Product Serial No in the warranty card. </space></space></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Xfactor Shine 1" src="/userfiles/images/lgx.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; height: 110px; width: 62px;" />Colors Launches Xfactor Shine 1 </span></strong></div> <div> Colors mobile has introduced new Xfactor Shine 1 in the market. According to the company official, the handset is loaded with the best of the features, comes with a faster processor and beautiful sleek design and Android version 4.0.3. The phone is powered by a 1.2 GHz Dual Core Processor and has 4 GB ROM and 512 MB of RAM. </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><img alt="Samsung’s New Smart Cameras" src="/userfiles/images/smsg.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; width: 68px; height: 110px;" />Samsung’s New Smart Cameras</span></strong></div> <div> Him Electronics Private Limited, authorized distributor of Samsung Cameras in Nepal has introduced three new ranges of cameras – WB200F, ST150F and ST72. WB200F features a Hybrid Touch User Interface and enhanced Wifi connectivity with 14.2 MP sensor, 18x zoom and 24mm ultra-wide angle lens. ST150F comes with 16 MP sensor, 5x zoom, 3” screen. ST72 features a f2.5 lens, 5x zoom and 16.2 Megapixels. The prices of WB200F, ST150F and ST72 are Rs 24,990, Rs 14,990 and Rs 13,990 respectively.</div>', 'published' => true, 'created' => '2013-09-04', 'modified' => '2013-09-04', 'keywords' => 'the corporate weekly from Nepal, nepali corporate events – news – interviews – reviews, nepali corporate focus, nepali corporate status and news, news from nepali corporate industry, corporate happenings – events – news from nepal', 'description' => 'Asian Paints has launched a consumer engagement campaign titled ‘Asian Paints Apex Ultima Dream Home Contest’.', 'sortorder' => '1621', 'image' => null, 'article_date' => '0000-00-00 00:00:00', 'homepage' => false, 'breaking_news' => false, 'main_news' => false, 'in_scroller' => false, 'user_id' => '0' ) ) ) $current_user = null $logged_in = false $xml = falsesimplexml_load_file - [internal], line ?? include - APP/View/Elements/side_bar.ctp, line 133 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1224 View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 418 include - APP/View/Articles/index.ctp, line 157 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 968 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 200 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 117
Currency | Unit |
Buy | Sell |
U.S. Dollar | 1 | 121.23 | 121.83 |
European Euro | 1 | 131.65 | 132.31 |
UK Pound Sterling | 1 | 142.47 | 143.18 |
Swiss Franc | 1 | 124.29 | 124.90 |
Australian Dollar | 1 | 71.69 | 72.05 |
Canadian Dollar | 1 | 83.90 | 84.32 |
Japanese Yen | 10 | 10.94 | 11.00 |
Chinese Yuan | 1 | 17.17 | 17.26 |
Saudi Arabian Riyal | 1 | 32.27 | 32.43 |
UAE Dirham | 1 | 33.01 | 33.17 |
Malaysian Ringgit | 1 | 27.36 | 27.50 |
South Korean Won | 100 | 9.77 | 9.82 |
Update: 2020-03-25 | Source: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB)
Fine Gold | 1 tola | 77000.00 |
Tejabi Gold | 1 tola | 76700.00 |
Silver | 1 tola | 720.00 |
Update : 2020-03-25
Source: Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers' Association
Petrol | 1 Liter | 106.00 |
Diesel | 1 Liter | 95.00 |
Kerosene | 1 Liter | 95.00 |
LP Gas | 1 Cylinder | 1375.00 |
Update : 2020-03-25