In response to widespread corruption in the cooperative sector—including cases implicating high-profile figures like a former Deputy Prime Minister—Nepal has launched the National Cooperative Regulation Authority (NCRA). The authority was established through an ordinance amending the Cooperative Act, 2074 BS.
Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation, Bala Ram Adhikari, formally inaugurated the NCRA office today at the former National Cooperative Development Board building in Pulchowk, Lalitpur. During the ceremony, Minister Adhikari administered the oath of office to the newly appointed NCRA chairperson and members.
In his address, the minister emphasized the authority’s role in regulating and collaborating with cooperatives. He also pledged to amend outdated laws affecting the sector and resolve all cooperative-related issues within two years. Additionally, he announced ongoing efforts to revise the Land and Survey Act to address land-related challenges.
Arjun Prasad Pokharel has been appointed as the Chairman of the NCRA.
