Karnali Province aims for an economic growth target of 9.9 percent.

The Karnali Province Planning Commission has initiated discussions on the final draft of its second five-year plan (2081/82 to 2085/86). The draft outlines a vision for establishing good governance by fostering a productive and employment-oriented economy, ultimately leading to a prosperous Karnali through social justice.

The second five-year plan aims for an economic growth rate of 9.9% over the next five years, in contrast to the first five-year plan's target of 8.8%, which was not met. The region achieved a growth rate of only 4.1% during the first plan period, which ends this year.

The Commission has also introduced a five-year investment framework, which projects an investment of NPR 5,202 billion in the agriculture, industry, and service sectors to drive the province's prosperity.

In agriculture, 17% of the total investment is planned, with 62.2% coming from public investment, 33% from the private sector, and 5% from cooperatives. For the industrial sector, the Commission aims to invest 36% of the total funds, with 48% from the public sector, 49% from the private sector, and 3% from cooperatives. In the service sector, 46.6% of the total investment will be allocated, with 49% from public investment, 46% from the private sector, and 5% from cooperatives.

To ensure a prosperous Karnali, the Commission has identified key "game-changer" projects, focusing on six main areas: green economy-based production and employment, land management and cooperatives, minerals, industry and commerce, and tourism. Vice Chair of the Commission, Surya Nath Yogi, shared these insights as part of the draft plan.