The Citizen Investment Trust (CIT) has announced plans to increase investments in government-prioritized and nation-building projects using its accumulated capital. During an event marking CIT’s 35th anniversary, officials highlighted ongoing policy improvements to support this initiative.

CIT Executive Director Parbat Kumar Karki acknowledged the challenge of diversifying investments. “How do we consolidate scattered capital and channel it into nation-building? How can we enhance investments in priority sectors such as agriculture, industry, hotels, and tourism? While some policy adjustments have been made, further improvements are needed,” he said.

Karki also shared that CIT is developing an online service platform and stressed the need to expand the Citizen Pension Scheme with government support.

Speaking at the event, Finance Secretary Ghanashyam Upadhyay emphasized the importance of aligning CIT’s investments with national economic growth and infrastructure development goals. He urged CIT to enhance its services with greater accountability and transparency.

Upadhyay also pointed out that a significant portion of CIT’s funds is held in fixed deposits, underscoring the need to redirect more investments toward government-priority sectors. “Investment should be expanded in productive sectors to contribute to employment, poverty alleviation, and income generation,” he stated.

CIT Chairman Prof. Dr. Surya Bahadur Thapa revealed that CIT is now managing financial resources worth Rs 273.72 billion by mobilizing small-scale savings. He emphasized the need to invest in agriculture, infrastructure, industry, tourism, and other productive sectors. He also highlighted CIT’s steady profitability since its inception and expressed confidence in further growth.

Established in 2047 BS (1990 AD), CIT began with savings of Rs 24.4 million and now has a paid-up capital of Rs 6.48 billion. The trust currently operates seven different savings schemes and has accumulated financial resources of Rs 273 billion, including a reserve fund.

By mid-January, CIT had invested Rs 264 billion across various sectors. It also provides services to 650,000 contributors and has made investments in share debentures.

Former CIT Chairman Dr. Bhojraj Ghimire, Nepal Financial Institutions Employees Association Chairman Achyutham Poudel, and CIT Employees Union Chairman Netra Bikram Thapa, among others, also spoke at the event. -- RSS