Review of Unleashing Nepal By Sujeev Shakya 

-BottleButea

Unleashing Nepal by Sujeev Shakya provides a comprehensive explanation of different governments’ economic stances on the economics of Nepal at their respective times, and how different facets of Nepali society have led us to where we are. Through his interesting observations (like how kings believed development was not a necessity but their grace toward their subjects, and how a similar attitude has been passed down to bilateral donors) we can begin to understand various present situations, from simple delays in projects involving international parties to our geopolitical image.

Although Shakya’s book has a bright cover, most chapters explore the rather grim reality of Nepali society and its economic conditions. Shakya claims to be ultra-optimistic in his book and presents us with many great opportunities he believes Nepal is missing out on. Additionally, considering that it was written more than five years ago, he seems to have hit the mark on multiple sectors where Nepal is prospering, as well as on areas where Nepal is still struggling five years down the line. However, most of the prospects shown by Shakya remain just that—prospects. He does not explain how to fundamentally tackle these problems, nor does he clearly identify what exactly the problems in the systems are. I found the problems he identified to be very generalized, similar to what one might write during SLC on how Nepal could be improved—albeit with much more research and facts to support his point.

Although the economic analysis of the past was better than what I had expected, the lack of constructive feedback and the reliance on general ideas about what could be developed made it feel similar to a politician’s speech: a bit visionary rather than truly analytical, leaving me somewhat disappointed. Additionally, some data inconsistencies (such as the Maoist insurgency having different death tolls in different chapters) left me a bit confused.

However, the new perspective it brings makes it a satisfying read at the end of the day.

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