Government doubles child nutrition allowance, widens social security spending

Nepal's government has significantly boosted social security spending, doubling the monthly nutrition allowance for Dalit children under five to Rs1,000. The upcoming fiscal year's budget allocates Rs2.27 billion to the Ministry of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities, and Social Security, an increase from the previous year. Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle announced the expansion of the child nutrition program, which targets Dalit children, from 25 districts to nationwide.

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the expansion is positive but raised concerns over implementation and monitoring.

This expanded program will reach households with up to two eligible children through direct bank transfers. The initiative aims to improve human development indicators in areas with the lowest development metrics. However, public health specialist Aruna Uprety expressed concerns regarding the program's implementation and monitoring. She pointed to past government initiatives that struggled with weak follow-up mechanisms and potential misuse of funds at the household level.

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several government-led programmes have struggled due to weak follow-up mechanisms

Despite these concerns, the government has maintained the old-age allowance at Rs4,000 per month, with eligibility ages remaining at 65 for single women and seniors in Karnali province and 70 elsewhere. Founder of Ageing Nepal, Krishna Murari Gautam, noted that the allowance's real value has diminished due to inflation. Nevertheless, he acknowledged positive steps in expanding insurance coverage and geriatric staffing. The ministry also plans to address gender-based violence, support street children, and strengthen Dalit-focused investments.

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misuse of funds at the household level and weak oversight by local governments remain key challenges.