Health

Member of Parliament Rajib Khatri alleged that the Department of Drug Administration (DDA) engaged in irregularities leading to billions of rupees in pharmaceutical price increases. Following his parliamentary speech, the DDA's Director General was recalled to the Ministry of Health and Population. Medicine manufacturers contend that current fixed prices are unsustainable due to rising industrial input costs.

The Ministry of Health and Population is prioritizing the clearance of over Rs 5 billion in arrears, primarily focusing on major hospitals like BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences and Bir Hospital. Secretary Bikash Devkota stated that a special review and targeted clearance mechanism will be implemented, with reforms in procurement and financial management being essential to reduce future arrears. The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers also emphasized the need for a structured action plan to significantly reduce arrears.

The Veterinary Laboratory in Dhangadhi, Sudurpaschim Province, has been designated as the National Rabies Referral Laboratory. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has tasked the facility with collecting and testing suspected rabies samples nationwide and conducting related research. This expansion broadens the lab's scope from its previous regional focus.

HAMS Hospital is undertaking a significant expansion, investing 50 crore NPR to double its bed capacity to 200 and construct a new 8-story facility. This expansion aims to manage high patient volumes, integrate advanced medical technologies, and consolidate services. The project is funded through private investment and an upcoming IPO.

Experts are urging the government to increase cigarette excise duty by 55% in the upcoming 2026/27 budget, alongside annual tax increases above inflation for all tobacco products. This measure is projected to boost government revenue by Rs. 11-12 billion and significantly reduce tobacco consumption. They also recommended simplifying the current 5-tier tax structure towards a uniform specific excise tax system.