Kathmandu. National Planning Commission (NPC) vice-chair Dr Gunakar Bhatta has stressed on production and productivity development, saying the 16th periodic plan has prioritized good governance, social justice and prosperity.

Addressing the ‘National Governance Summit’ organized by the Good Governance Protection Forum in Lalitpur today, he said the sustainable development goals should be achieved by linking ‘digital’ governance and economy by addressing the problems of climate change, food security and human resources and brain drain.

President of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, Hari Dhakal, underscored the need for reforms and discipline in the political leadership to maintain good governance.

According to him, the government should be run keeping the people in the centre as the source of power is the citizen.

“Good governance cannot be maintained in a situation that can be achieved through access,” he said, adding, “Good governance cannot be maintained if the officials and bodies responsible for maintaining good governance are not disciplined.” ”

He stressed the need for the people’s representatives responsible for law making to work on the basis of rule of law and discipline, and caution from the civic level to make those in power responsible and accountable.

President of NGO Federation Arjun Bhattarai said the conference focused on digital governance was significant and called for direct participation of stakeholders and people in formulating 210 acts that are in the process of amendment. He said that good governance could not be achieved until people’s participation and ownership in policy and law formulation were ensured.