President Paudel Stresses Strengthening Federalism Through Economic Growth at Nagarkot Visit Year 2082 Launch

Nagarkot: President Ramchandra Paudel has emphasized that strengthening Nepal’s federal democratic republic hinges on improving the national economy, and called for collective responsibility in fulfilling the aspirations for rapid development.

Speaking at the inauguration of ‘Nagarkot Visit Year 2082’ held at Batase Danda, Nagarkot, President Paudel outlined five sectors—tourism, agriculture, water resources, information technology, and industry—as the backbone of economic transformation. He urged the state to address challenges in these sectors through effective policies, laws, and an enabling environment.

“There is a need to promote industrialization by fostering employment opportunities, attracting investment, and reducing production costs,” the President stated.

Highlighting Nepal’s cultural, historical, and religious assets, he said these should be transformed into economic opportunities through infrastructure development. He called for positioning Nagarkot, known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and sunrises, as a prominent destination in domestic and international tourism markets.

“Nagarkot’s proximity to Kathmandu, natural beauty, and cultural richness give it a unique edge,” he said, adding that collaboration among the federal, provincial, and local governments—especially the four municipalities involved—is crucial for making Nagarkot more modern and attractive.

He praised the joint initiative of Changunarayan, Mandan Deupur, Banepa, and Shankharapur municipalities, and urged the government to officially recognize Nagarkot as a tourist hub. President Paudel also expressed hope that the Nepali New Year would inspire unity in the pursuit of peace, inclusive growth, and national prosperity.

At the event, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey spoke about expanding tourism in nearby destinations such as Dhulikhel, Panauti, Namobuddha, Shivapuri, and Chandragiri, and stated that efforts are underway to recover the sector from the impact of the earthquake and COVID-19 pandemic.

Former Minister and MP Gokul Baskota envisioned starting sky tourism and water tourism in Kavre, while Bagmati Province Minister Bimal Thakuri hailed the visit year as a milestone.

Changunarayan Mayor Jeevan Khatri remarked that the event would stimulate economic momentum, and Banepa and Mandan Deupur mayors echoed optimism about its regional development impact. — RSS