Lawmakers and entrepreneurs underlined the need to focus on economic and development related agendas to ensure prosperity at the grass-roots level. They expressed their views during an interaction organised by the Kantipur Media Group on Thursday.

Speaking at the programme, Lawmaker and Entrepreneur Moti Dugad urged the media sector to highlight the issues related to economic sectors at the local levels. Dugad sought the effective role of media to disseminate information mainly related to the agricultural sector. Rajendra Raut, vice-president of the Provincial Committee of Nepal Chambers of Commerce and Industry said, the government needs to bring in investment friendly laws to promote the country’s production businesses.

“If economic debate is promoted, the government will also be compelled to consider the people’s voice,” said Raut. He also welcomed the investment at the provincial level at a time when the government has allowed provinces to bring in investment of up to Rs10 billion themselves.

President of Morang Merchant Association Pawan Sarda blamed banks and insurance companies for failing to address the needs at the grass-roots level. He sought simplification of customs clearance procedures to minimise the cost of doing business.