Kathmandu: Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat has said honest efforts are essential to meet revenue target.

During the inspection of dry port and customs office here Thursday, Minister Mahat said once all employees worked honestly to avoid misuse in customs, it would help meet revenue target. It is natural to have low customs duty for decreased import and demands, he said, adding that it is beyond employees’ capacity. But, it raises questions if there is much commodity in market while the revenue is negligible. “We must not forget our public role and responsibility,” Minister Dr Mahat underscored.

The Minister further said customs and security bodies have significant role on revenue collection. Security bodies should inspect well if anything is brought by evading customs. He expressed worry why a huge machine at the dry port did not come into operation. Technology is necessary to ease monotonous works of checking goods. Minister Mahat urged the concerned employees to upgrade the system, for which government provides resources. According to him, a clear plan could be made on meeting revenue target. The offices of dry port custom, and of Birgunj customs contribute 40 percent of customs, he reminded.