Nepal Trust: Vast assets, little to show
Summary
The Nepal Trust controls vast landholdings, cash reserves and shares across Nepal, but questions remain over how effectively the assets are being managed and used. The Trust says its properties are leased, maintained and invested transparently to generate revenue for public purposes.
Key Points
- The Nepal Trust owns more than 21,633 ropanis of land, over Rs 2.18 billion in cash and large shareholdings in banks and companies.
- Officials say income from leases, rent, dividends and interest is used for administration, maintenance of historic sites and further investment.
- Major holdings include Darbar Mall in Kathmandu, Gokarna Royal Forest, Kathmandu Plaza and other leased properties across the country.
- The Trust was created after the abolition of the monarchy to manage royal assets, but questions continue over its returns and public-interest value.
