Kathmandu— The Nepalese government is implementing new regulations requiring prior authorization from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers (OPMCM) for all foreign travel undertaken by its employees. The move, announced Friday at a press briefing, aims to streamline processes, increase transparency, and ensure more cost-effective use of public funds when sending staff abroad for studies, training, or conferences. Additionally, the government is emphasizing knowledge sharing upon return from these trips, requiring employees to disseminate their learnings within their respective offices.

New Travel Approval Process

OPMCM Spokesperson Hemraj Aryal announced that a circular has been issued to all ministries and government entities making pre-approval mandatory for any employee nominated for foreign travel. The intention is to create a more systematic and austere approach to international engagements, ensuring responsible spending of public resources. This new system seeks to improve oversight and accountability in the planning and execution of official trips.

Knowledge Sharing Initiative

Beyond simply controlling costs, the government is also focused on maximizing the benefits derived from foreign visits. Employees participating in overseas studies, training sessions, meetings, or conferences are now required to share their acquired knowledge with colleagues upon returning to Nepal. This initiative aims to institutionalize learning within the government system and improve overall capacity building.

Healthcare System Standardization

Alongside travel regulations, the OPMCM also highlighted efforts to strengthen the country’s healthcare system. A meeting chaired by Prime Minister's Health Advisor Dr Jagadish Prasad Agrawal, attended by 18 health specialists, focused on effectively implementing the Standard Treatment Protocol (STP). The goal is to ensure uniformity in basic healthcare services and treatment across Nepal, linking it with existing health insurance programs to improve affordability and quality.

The OPMCM expects these measures will contribute to a more efficient, transparent, and effective government operation. Further details on the implementation of these policies are expected to be released by individual ministries.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.