Birendra Bahadur Basnet, shareholder of Buddha Air and a founding member of the Dynamic Democratic Party, has said that Nepal can achieve sustainable development by adopting a “three-pillar policy.” Speaking at an event in Pokhara on Tuesday, Basnet emphasized that education, tourism and agriculture—when strengthened through technology—can become the foundation of Nepal’s economic progress.
Basnet noted that Nepal’s tourism industry has not reached its full potential, with the number of foreign visitors remaining around 1.1 million for many years. He said that significant growth is possible only if Nepal expands long-haul and intercontinental flight connectivity.
Highlighting the capability of Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, he said, “Bhairahawa is capable of handling intercontinental flights. If five wide-body aircraft operate regularly throughout the year, the airport alone can attract nearly ten million passengers annually.”
He added that Tribhuvan International Airport is not adequate for long-haul operations and suggested that Nepal Airlines Corporation could introduce five Airbus A350 aircraft through leasing companies to improve international connectivity.
Basnet said that countries with cultural, geographic and natural diversity like Nepal should not hesitate to plan for larger goals, stressing that global air links are essential for tourism-driven growth.
He also stated that technological modernization in education and agriculture will help generate employment and support long-term economic stability. Basnet expressed confidence that the three-pillar strategy provides a practical roadmap for Nepal’s development.
