As Nepal enters its annual budget preparation period, Singha Durbar—usually bustling with activity—appears unusually quiet this year.
Although the constitutional deadline requires the government to present the budget to the federal parliament by Jestha 15, the usual rush of political leaders, local representatives, and stakeholders seeking budget allocations is largely absent. In previous years, ministers would be actively engaged, and delegations from across the country would crowd ministry offices with proposals and demands.
This time, however, most ministries are operating without ministers. Many resigned to contest the recent elections held on Falgun 21, leaving a situation where a single minister is handling multiple portfolios. As a result, budget preparation is currently being handled primarily at the bureaucratic level, with limited political involvement.
The absence of ministers has also slowed administrative processes. Citizens visiting ministries for official work report delays, especially in cases requiring ministerial approval. Balram Acharya from Baglung shared that he has been waiting in Kathmandu for days, unable to complete his education-related work due to the lack of a minister.
Inside ministries, the contrast from previous years is stark. Offices that once saw heavy foot traffic during budget season are now nearly empty. Staff at the Ministry of Education noted that policy-level decisions have stalled, while only routine administrative work continues.
Similarly, the Ministry of Health and Population, still operating from temporary structures after past damage, has also seen reduced activity. Officials there admit that the absence of ministerial leadership during such a crucial period has created challenges in effective budget planning.
Employees recall that during past budget seasons, Singha Durbar would be vibrant, with long queues at entry gates, crowded canteens, and constant interactions between officials and visitors. Now, the environment feels unusually subdued.
With newly elected members of parliament set to take their oath soon and a new prime minister expected to form a cabinet shortly, officials anticipate that normal activity—and the typical budget-season buzz—will return to Singha Durbar in the coming days.
About the Author
