Arts and culture budget sparks hope and scepticism

Cultural practitioners see potential in the new allocations, yet doubts persist over funding priorities and long-term impact.

With the total national budget of Rs2.12 trillion for the fiscal year 2026-27 unveiled by Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle on May 29, the Nepal government has allocated Rs10.53 billion to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. This marks a decline from the previous fiscal year’s allocation of Rs13.28 billion to the ministry.