Nepal Prime Minister Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah has agreed to visit India following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit is currently in the works, with both sides coordinating through official channels.
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal confirmed the development, stating, “The Nepal govt has accepted the invitation, and the foreign ministries of both countries are now making preparations for the visit.” He also noted that the upcoming trip to New Delhi will mark Shah’s first major diplomatic outreach since assuming office.
The last time a Nepali Prime Minister travelled to India on an official visit was in June 2023, when Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ visited.
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Ambitious reform agenda at home
Alongside diplomatic engagement, Shah has launched a wide-ranging 100-point governance plan in Nepal. The reform blueprint focuses on curbing VIP culture, reducing political interference in institutions, and improving public service delivery.
Key areas of focus include ensuring timely services, expanding free healthcare access for economically weaker sections, enhancing safety in public transport for women, and easing academic pressure on young students.
The government is also considering structural changes, including reducing the number of federal ministries and limiting political affiliations within parts of the state machinery.
Crackdown on political influence in campuses
A significant aspect of the reform drive targets political activity in educational institutions. The government has proposed removing party-linked student organisations from schools and universities within a 90-day timeframe.
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These groups are expected to be replaced by non-partisan student platforms described as “Voice of students” councils. Announcing the move, Shah said, “Schools and colleges will no longer serve as arenas for political activity but will function solely as centres of learning.”
As per a report by Times of India, the measure aims to shift the focus of campuses back to academics while reducing the influence of political groups in education and administration.
