Kathmandu – Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel stated that the government is working diligently to identify and overcome the challenges facing the economy. Addressing the 60th anniversary celebration of Rastriya Banijya Bank Limited (RBBL) today, he highlighted the progress made toward stabilizing the pressured economy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving further milestones.

Minister Poudel emphasized the government’s efforts to revitalize the economy by enhancing productivity, creating jobs, and fostering a robust national economy. “The current government does not intend to settle for average results. Instead, it is focused on tackling critical issues and achieving long-term impactful outcomes in a short time,” he said. He added that the government is implementing policy and legal reforms to transform despair into hope.

Strengthening Economic Growth

Highlighting the pivotal role of Rastriya Banijya Bank in realizing the government’s vision of rapid economic growth, Poudel urged the bank to channel liquidity toward boosting production, productivity, and job creation. He also noted that the government’s swift and decisive actions, including the amendment of 32 laws via ordinances to encourage foreign investment and ensure good governance, underline its commitment to delivering results.

He instructed the bank’s management and staff to prioritize progress and reputation management through hard work and exceptional achievements.

Addressing Concerns Over Financial Institutions

Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari addressed rumors about some banks and financial institutions being in trouble, dismissing them as baseless. He assured that the central bank is closely monitoring the situation and managing any issues within the regulatory framework, emphasizing that no depositors would be at risk.

Bank’s Achievements and Future Plans

RBBL Chief Executive Officer Devendra Raman Khanal highlighted the bank’s accomplishments in competitive markets through innovative strategies. He stated that the bank has made significant improvements in managing bad loans, human resources, customer service, credit quality, institutional governance, internal controls, risk management, and regulatory compliance.

Currently, RBBL operates 294 branches across the country, providing banking services to over 4.6 million customers in all 77 districts. As of mid-January of the current fiscal year, the bank reported total deposits of NPR 450 billion, total loans of NPR 284 billion, paid-up capital of NPR 15.63 billion, total assets of NPR 526 billion, and a net worth of NPR 2.55 billion.

Celebratory Events

During the event, Deputy Prime Minister Poudel virtually inaugurated newly constructed buildings for the Kohalpur and Mahendranagar branches, as well as the digital operations of 27 branches. He also unveiled the bank’s souvenir publication “Upahar 2081.”

The ceremony honored employees with 20 years of service with long-service medals, recognized outstanding employees and branch offices, and celebrated the contributions of retiring senior employees.