Kathmandu – Nepal Rastra Bank has directed banks and financial institutions to provide relief to industries and businesses affected by the recent ‘Gen Z’ protests.

According to the revised Integrated Directive 2081, issued on Friday (Sep 26), banks must offer loans to restart affected businesses at just 0.5% interest above the base rate until operations resume.

The central bank has also relaxed the rule requiring loans with a debt-to-equity ratio higher than 80:20 to be classified under the “watchlist” category. This exemption will apply for one year.