Karnali shelves flagship girls’ savings scheme, leaving 11,000 beneficiaries in limbo
Summary
Karnali Province's flagship social protection scheme for girls has been left in limbo as the government excluded it from the upcoming budget, leaving over 11,000 beneficiaries uncertain about the programme's future.
Key Points
- Karnali Province’s flagship social protection programme for girls has been excluded from the upcoming fiscal year's budget, leaving more than 11,000 beneficiaries uncertain about its continuation.
- No funds have been transferred to local governments for the programme since 2021-22 despite large budget allocations, and no money has been deposited in girls’ accounts for four years.
- Women lawmakers have criticized the government’s decision, urging for resumption and reform of the programme to support girls’ education, delay child marriage, and provide financial security.
- The government is exploring an alternative model to invest funds collectively instead of monthly individual deposits but has yet to finalize implementation plans.
