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Silver Linings of the Nepali Economy The cover story of New Business Age’s June 2014 issue presents some of the rising sectors of Nepali economy. Despite not so rosy status of Nepali economy, some of the sectors are showing encouraging trends of growth. In the recent times, one of the growing sectors is construction. The increased household income through remittance has led to construction of houses, has contributed in its growth. Though the real estate bubble burst of some years back has affected the growth curve of this sector to some extent, it continues to grow. This is evident in the ever-increasing construction and development activities in the country.
Similarly, tourism and energy are areas with high potential of registering impressive growths in the years to come and thereby boost the entire economy. Right public policy and investments would surely boost these sectors.
Another of the rising sectors that is not mentioned in the cover story is import. Unfortunately, it does not help grow the economy sustainably. One of the reasons for the rise in imports trade is increasing consumption and absence of production within the country. However, these are reasons to be hopeful for the better future of the economy.
- Nitesh Dhungana, Chabahil, Kathmandu
Strategic Management
An article titled ‘Strategic Management: Aren’t we Lacking?’ under the Management Gyan column in June 2014 issue has raised a question, “Why are our corporate houses not visionary?”As the writer has rightly pointed out, the lack of strategic moves is one of the reasons behind the lack of global competitiveness in Nepali companies.
The corporate houses in our neighbouring country India are being ranked among the leading companies of the world. Nepal too has similar cultural background and comparable nature of the market. But Nepali companies are not yet faring well in the international area. We, to some extent, lack innovative ideas that are basic to the success of an enterprise and gain competitive edge. The common trend of Nepali business community is passing the buck to the government for doing this and not doing that.
A successful enterprise does not emerge where everything is made easy. An innovative and energetic entrepreneur finds opportunities and ways to work around difficult times. Blaming does not make an entrepreneur but ability to work in difficult times and adaptability does. Though the overall situation of the country may not be friendly enough, there are companies that have gone global despite difficult business environment. Strategies to work according to the external environment and willingness to take risk rather than just seeking profit and indulging in the blame-game would probably help Nepali companies to perform better.
- Yasodha Ranabhat, Pokhara
Air Pollution Degrading Human Lives
The article titled ‘Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health’ was an informative piece of writing published in June 2014 issue of the New Business Age. At the same time, it is terrifying to know that it is the single largest environmental health risk factor causing one out of every eight deaths in the world. Nepal has been ranked at 177th position out of 178 countries for air quality in the 2014 Environmental Performance Index. This is really frustrating and one of the main reasons behind increasing air pollution is the increase in number of vehicles. Likewise, old vehicles that emit black smoke are still being used in our country. This also affects the quality of air present. It is high time for the government and concerned authorities to take some action against factors that increase air pollution. Also, factories should not be established in settlement area. After all, human development is much more precious than infrastructural development.
- Suman Shrestha, Ganabahal
To Believe or not to Believe
An article published in June 2014 issue of the New Business age titled ‘Pricking and prying with a purpose’ was an interesting read. This also stirred a thought that advertising are made to attract customers and create a brand image. The ethics of advertising would be to give accurate and factual information but most of the commercials present hyperboles about the products and services. Though they are said to be creative and catchy, at times ad campaigns are overtly exaggerated on the features of the product. So, it creates confusion among audiences whether to believe or not believe the advertisers. - Rohan Sigdel, Balkumari
