CNI Lumbini Youth Entrepreneurs Forum: Boosting Nepal’s Small Business Growth

27th March 2025, Kathmandu

The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) has inaugurated the Lumbini Province Chapter of the Youth Entrepreneurs Forum. The event, held in Bhairahawa, was officially launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel.

CNI Lumbini Youth Entrepreneurs Forum

During the inauguration, Minister Poudel highlighted the important role CNI Industries plays in boosting production and productivity. He explained that the government expects even more from the organization in helping to shape the country’s business landscape. In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, Poudel advised young entrepreneurs to adapt quickly to changing times. He assured the attendees that the government is fully behind entrepreneurs and encouraged them to take the initiative to build the nation. “We are the ones who will build this country,” he told them.

Finance Minister Poudel also addressed the ongoing reforms in laws and policies, emphasizing that the government is prioritizing solutions for past issues and working to solve the private sector’s problems. He acknowledged that the government cannot afford to remain idle and is committed to creating a better business environment. With the continuous legal reforms, the government aims to provide further support to industries and entrepreneurs.

Rajesh Kumar Agrawal, the CNI President, called for policies that will simplify and promote entrepreneurship. He noted that young people returning from abroad with the desire to start businesses in Nepal are numerous. He stressed that the next budget should focus on youth-oriented programs to support this growing group of aspiring entrepreneurs. Agrawal expressed his belief that with proper encouragement, the youth could significantly contribute to the country’s development.

Kishore Bahadur Raut, Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, acknowledged the key contributions of both the CNI and the Youth Entrepreneurs Forum in law amendments and the development of startup policies. He explained that the government is creating policies that cater to the needs of youth and is committed to working in their favor.

Ejaz Alam, the President of CNI Lumbini Province, spoke about the increasing issue of youth migration and thanked those young people who have chosen to stay and pursue entrepreneurship in Nepal. He pointed out the challenges faced by industries, including stagnation and the migration of entrepreneurs, which remain concerning. He urged young people to play a role in changing this situation.

Ashish Agrawal, President of the CNI Youth Entrepreneurs Forum, emphasized the importance of youth in the economic development of Lumbini Province and the country. He stressed that youth must be encouraged to be more involved in entrepreneurship to help drive the nation’s prosperity. With the right policies, he believes many young people can contribute to Nepal’s economic growth.

Rajan Kasaj, President of the CNI Youth Entrepreneurs Forum Lumbini Chapter, expressed his commitment to focusing on local values while bringing a global perspective to the nation-building process. He pledged to work towards making the Lumbini chapter a powerful force for entrepreneurship and development.

The event also saw the formation of the Lumbini Province Chapter’s board. The members include Rajan Kasaj, Dev Pandey, Abhishek Pathak, Arjun Pathak, Ronish Shrestha, Suraj Upreti, Vivek Kasodhan, and Abhinav Thapa.

The CNI Youth Entrepreneurs Forum, established in 2005, focuses on promoting young entrepreneurs across Nepal. The launch of the Lumbini Chapter is a significant milestone in expanding its impact, further driving Nepal’s industrial and economic growth.

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