The Social Security Fund (SSF) of Nepal has invested a total of NPR 126 billion, according to Executive Director Kabiraj Adhikari. Speaking at the 8th Social Security Fund Day, Adhikari stated that the fund has allocated NPR 95 billion collected from contributors, along with additional amounts, to reach a total investment of NPR 126 billion in various sectors.

He explained that the investments are made following established guidelines, covering everything from fixed deposits to different types of bonds. According to Adhikari, NPR 58.89 billion has been invested in fixed deposits across several banks, NPR 32.19 billion in treasury bills, NPR 21.76 billion in development bonds, NPR 4.52 billion in debentures, and NPR 1.95 billion in mutual funds.

Additionally, the fund has provided NPR 7.79 billion as loans to 20,000 contributors. Under the contributor loan scheme, the SSF offers special loans at an annual interest rate of 5.2%, while home and educational loans are provided at 5.86%.

Adhikari highlighted the challenges in utilizing funds effectively due to excess liquidity in the banking sector but described it as a short-term issue. He stated that with efficient implementation of SSF plans, the fund has the potential to collect up to NPR 1 trillion annually, which could be invested in national infrastructure development.

He also emphasized the need for regularization in the foreign employment sector and ensuring contributions from the informal sector. To expand contributor participation, the SSF has signed MoUs with 114 municipalities, and some have already begun depositing contribution amounts.