For the first time in the last 2. 5 years, the number of people leaving Nepal for employment purpose has declined, according to official figures.

The latest report issued here on Saturday by the labor department stated that labor export in the first five months of the current fiscal year, which started in mid-July, went down by around 5.5 percent to 73,998, compared to 78,332 recorded in the similar period last fiscal year.

A government official told reporters that growing tendency to send workers via unofficial channels coupled with permanent cease- fire and lowered demand for Nepali workers played a crucial role in bringing down the export.

"The signing of peace accord has offered a glimmer of hope to many and persuaded many to stay in the country," said the official on condition of anonymity.

"Besides, a drop in demand from Qatar, especially with the completion of construction work related to Asian Games, and reluctance expressed by workers to go to Malaysia due to stringent policies for migrant workers, also played a crucial role in bringing down the figures," the official added.

Source: Xinhua