Government publishes action plan to implement 16th periodic plan

KATHMANDU: The government has published an action plan to implement the 16th periodic plan (2024/25–2028/29) by aligning policy, strategy and programmes with a clear timeframe and expected results. The National Planning Commission (NPC) released the plan on Tuesday after it was endorsed at a Cabinet meeting a month ago.

The plan identifies 13 transformative sectors and sets out targets, indicators and the current status for each. Economic, social and physical infrastructure, good governance, prosperity and justice are listed as the major sectors regarded as the foundations for achieving the plan’s strategies and targets. Major programmes and activities to achieve those goals are classified and explained.

A key feature of the action plan is that it links each activity to clear responsibilities, a timeframe and expected results. The agencies charged with enforcement, subordinate bodies, funding sources and timelines are specified, and implementation is to be institutionalised.

The document describes risk factors that could hinder enforcement and sets out possible threats and mitigation measures to strengthen coordination. It also includes a roadmap for the allocation of responsibilities and the mobilisation of resources among the federal, provincial and local levels.

The plan says enforcement of federalism will be expedited by identifying problems such as misuse of resources and eliminating overlapping jurisdiction. It stresses the wise use of digital technology, social accountability and citizen participation in government.

It further aims to ensure effective implementation of the 16th periodic plan’s policies and programmes by capacitating the agencies and institutions responsible for enforcement. Scattered issues will be sorted and simplified, and the roles of ministries clarified.

Other priorities include aligning the annual budget with the medium-term expenditure framework, guaranteeing effective mobilisation of resources, and strengthening monitoring, evaluation and reporting of results.

In addition, the physical damage sustained during the Gen Z uprising on September 8–9, 2025 and the need for reconstruction will be evaluated, and a reconstruction framework will be prepared.

The plan places utmost priority on enhancing productive capacity, creating employment, promoting social inclusion, maintaining environmental balance, developing infrastructure and improving governance.