The government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah has been taking policy decisions with the potential to reshape multiple sectors. By moving beyond entrenched practices, such reforms could meaningfully contribute to Nepal’s transformation. One such measure is the decision to pay civil servants on a fortnightly basis—effectively ensuring salaries every 15 days. While this may appear to be a procedural change, its implications are far-reaching. For lower-level employees in particular, the shift eases the burden of stretching limited incomes across an entire month. More frequent pay cycles can improve cash flow, reduce financial stress, and inject greater liquidity into the market. Waiting a full month for a salary often functions as a form of forced saving; a fortnightly system, by contrast, offers predictability and flexibility in managing expenses. In countries such as the US and Australia, salaries are commonly disbursed on a fortnightly basis. Combined with two-day weekends, such systems allow individuals to plan spending more comfortably on essentials, leisure and services. Regular income flows also reduce the pressure for precautionary savings, particularly for those covered by pensions or social security arrangements.
Governance in Social transformations in Nepal
Nepal’s adoption of a two-day weekend has not altered the standard 40-hour workweek, which has been effectively maintained. Time off should not be viewed negatively; rather, it enables rest, recreation and improved well-being, while strengthening the balance between work and family life. A culture that values productivity during working days and meaningful use of leisure time is both necessary and desirable. Aligning with global norms on weekends is, in this regard, a step forward. Fortnightly salary payments could also help address chronic delays in wage disbursement. While some administrative adjustments may be required, the reform stands in contrast to existing practices in certain sectors where payments are still made quarterly. Teachers, for instance, are often paid once every four months. Transitioning to more frequent payments could allow them to focus more fully on their professional responsibilities. Timely remuneration, after all, is closely linked to productivity. Beyond payroll reforms and the two-day weekend, the government appears intent on broader changes within the bureaucracy. Notably, it is considering ending the provision for employee unions in the civil service, bringing it closer to private-sector practices.
Political affiliations have long influenced segments of the bureaucracy, often resulting in preferential postings and weakened accountability. This trend warrants correction. The principle that the civil service should remain free of partisan organisation has been consistently advocated, and it remains a necessary reform. Equally important is the need to improve public service delivery. Citizen charters—meant to clearly outline processes and timelines—have existed in the past but have often been poorly implemented. As a result, service seekers have faced unnecessary delays and uncertainty, reflecting outdated administrative habits. These practices must end. The current government has come to office with a stated commitment to good governance. While Nepal has made steady progress in advancing democratic rights and values, public dissatisfaction has persisted due to governance deficits. The Shah-led administration appears focused on addressing this gap—by making the bureaucracy more citizen-friendly and ensuring timely compensation for public employees. If implemented effectively, such measures could help cultivate a more responsive, accountable and efficient civil service.
