KATHMANDU, March 27: In a move that signals both generational change and a departure from traditional power structures, Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) has unveiled his cabinet.
At the core of the government’s economic agenda is Dr Swarnim Wagle, is set to be appointed Minister for Finance, a choice widely seen as an attempt to reassure markets and development partners. Foreign policy, at a time of shifting regional dynamics, will be steered by Shisir Khanal, while internal security falls under Sudan Gurung as Minister for Home Affairs.
The cabinet composition, according to party sources, reflects an effort to balance governance priorities with inclusivity. Pratibha Rawal is expected to take charge of Federal Affairs and General Administration, a ministry central to managing Nepal’s federal structure. Tourism and culture—key economic sectors—will be overseen by Ganesh Paudel, while Amresh Kumar Singh has been entrusted with Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.
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Infrastructure development, often seen as a litmus test for any government, will be led by Sunil Lamsal. In the social sector, Gita Chaudhary will head Agriculture and Livestock Development, Sasmit Pokharel will oversee Education, and Nisha Mehta will take charge of Health and Population.
The cabinet also includes Sita Badi at Women, Children and Senior Citizens, and Sobita Gautam at Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs—portfolios that will test the government’s commitment to social justice and institutional reform.
In the energy and digital sectors, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has been assigned Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, while Bikram Timilsina will lead Communications and Information Technology, an increasingly critical ministry in an era shaped by digital governance and information flows.
All ministers are scheduled to be sworn in following the Prime Minister’s oath of office and secrecy, set for 12:34 PM.
Meanwhile, in a parallel development that could shape parliamentary dynamics, RSP Vice-Chair Dol Prasad Aryal is likely to be appointed Speaker of the House of Representatives, according to a party source.
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