Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said the country would take the path of economic development and social transformation after institutionalisation of the federal republic.

The PM said that the upcoming central and provincial governments will contribute to institutionalisation of the republican system. Addressing a programme in the Capital on Thursday, Deuba said completion of the two elections will ensure political stability in the country. He said the government was committed to holding all the elections on time.

Addressing a two-day round-table on government action for nutrition in South Asia, organised by the National Planning Commission (NPC) with support from various development agencies, Deuba said Nepal had made significant achievements in reducing stunting among under-five children from 57 percent in 2001 to 36 percent in 2016.

The two-day seminar will review the situation of food security and nutrition in the region. A total of 116 representatives from more than 16 countries are participating in the seminar.

PM Deuba pledged to further streamline the food and nutrition programme, aimed at the girl child bellow five, students and women, more effective. Deuba said implementation of the Multi-Sector Nutrition Program had been gaining desired results. Speaking at the event, Deputy PM and Education Minister Gopal Man Shrestha said the government treats the food and nutrition security in a right-based approach on humanitarian ground.

NPC Vice-chairman Swarnim Wagle underlined food and nutrition security for the country’s social and economic transformation. Wagle said the Planning Commission was preparing the second phase of action plan on food and nutrition security.