The demand to provide citizenship as per the provisions of the constitution.
Investment Environment in Nepal: NRNs Demand Legal Reforms and Citizenship as per Constitution
Assurance from Industry Minister to Shift Processes Online
Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) have emphasized the need for clear investment laws and citizenship provisions as per the constitution to foster a favorable investment climate in Nepal.
During the second day of the 16th European Regional Conference, participants drew the Nepali government's attention to the necessity of political stability and a conducive investment environment.
At the conference held in Malta, attendees raised their concerns and queries with Nepal’s Industry Minister, Damodar Bhandari.
Key Demands and Concerns Raised by NRNs:
1. Political Stability and Infrastructure Development
- Dr. Sunil Shah, Coordinator of the NRN Health Committee, stressed that political stability is crucial for investment, noting that Nepal still lacks adequate infrastructure development.
2. Investment Beyond Traditional Sectors
- NRN Secretary Swatantra Pratap Shah argued that merely having an investment-friendly environment is not enough. He pointed out that investment opportunities exist even during crises, citing examples of businesses that thrived during the conflict and COVID-19.
- He urged a shift in mindset, stating, *"Why limit investments to hydropower and hotels? There are other sectors too."*
3. Citizenship and Investment Policies
- Rajendra Pudashaini, an NRN honorary council member, criticized the government for not being proactive in granting rights through citizenship, leading to uncertainty for investors.
- Ramsharan Shingh Khada, NRN Vice President, expressed dissatisfaction over delays in granting citizenship as per constitutional provisions.
4. Bureaucratic Hurdles
- Entrepreneur Chhatra Shrestha (Czech Republic) highlighted the difficulties in dealing with labor unions and employee transfers in Nepal.
- Businessman Santos Bhattarai (Germany) pointed out complications in business registration due to mandatory national ID requirements.
5. Security and Political Stability
- Bodhraj Paudel (Belgium) stated that investors seek secure environments and that political instability makes business operations difficult.
Government’s Response:
- Industry Minister Damodar Bhandari acknowledged the need for further reforms, admitting that Nepal’s laws are cumbersome.
- He assured that the government is working to simplify processes, including allowing online business registration and reducing file processing time to seven days.
- Rajeshwar Gyawali, Director-General of the Industry Department, admitted legal complexities but assured efforts to ease investment procedures.
- Himal Chandra Aryal, Deputy Secretary of the Investment Board, mentioned plans for a one-door policy to streamline investment processes.
Additional Concerns:
- Women’s Safety: Rosina Pradhan Rai (NRN Vice President) raised concerns about increasing exploitation of Nepali women in Europe.
- Fraud Awareness: Mukta Gurung (Spain) warned against scams under the pretext of taking people abroad.
- NRN Law: NRN President Badri KC demanded equal investment rights for NRNs as given to foreigners and urged the government to address citizenship issues.
Conclusion:
While the government has pledged reforms, NRNs continue to push for a more transparent, stable, and legally secure investment environment in Nepal. The Industry Minister’s assurance to shift processes online is a step forward, but stakeholders demand faster implementation and policy clarity.
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