Federal budget debate opens in parliament

Kathmandu - Formal debate on the federal budget has opened in parliament. Lawmakers focused on health, education, and the provincial equalization fund.

Provincial voices

Representatives from all seven provinces criticized capital-heavy spending. The government said rural roads and irrigation will move forward.

A budget must be visible in the village, not only on paper.

A provincial MP

Debate is expected to run through the week before clause-by-clause committee review.