Communication and Digital Infrastructure Budget 2082/83 in Nepal

Promoting Access to Public Information and Press Freedom

Public access to information will be ensured. Press freedom will be promoted to enhance transparency and accountability. Citizens' rights to personal freedom and privacy will be safeguarded.

Advancing ICT Innovation and Digital Literacy

Focus will be placed on the research, development, and innovation of emerging technologies in the communication and information technology sector. The second version of the Digital Nepal Framework will be drafted. Special digital literacy programs will be implemented. Rs. 740 million has been allocated for building digital infrastructure and developing the digital ecosystem.

Data Center Development with Private Sector Partnership

Partnerships with the private sector will be pursued for the construction, operation, and infrastructure development of data centers. An IT park will be established in Kathmandu. A feasibility study will be conducted for establishing a data center in the mid-hill region to attract foreign investment. Domestic and foreign companies seeking to establish data centers will be provided with land, uninterrupted electricity, and security.

Upgrading Integrated Data Management Systems

The integrated data management center will be upgraded. The capacity of the Disaster Recovery Center in Hetauda will be expanded. The under-construction data center in Kohalpur will be brought into operation.

Strengthening Cloud Infrastructure and Satellite Initiatives

Cloud infrastructure will be upgraded for secure data storage. Preparatory work will be undertaken to place Nepal’s satellite in geostationary orbit.

Developing the ICT Industry Ecosystem

An ecosystem will be developed for the information technology industry. Policy arrangements will be made to promote the export of IT services.

Establishing AI Center in Collaboration with Private Sector

An AI Center will be established in partnership with the private sector for research, application, and expansion of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Measures will be taken to promote the commercial use of AI.

Supporting Domestic and Foreign Film Production

The private sector will be encouraged to construct indoor and outdoor studios for filming movies that reflect Nepal’s art, culture, civilization, and geographic diversity.

Restructuring Nepal Telecommunications Authority

The Nepal Telecommunications Authority will be restructured. Access to information technology will be expanded to reduce the digital divide. Broadband services will be expanded nationwide. Access to and quality of 4G services will be improved. 5G services will be launched in Kathmandu Valley and major urban areas. IMEI registration will be enforced to prevent illegal import and use of mobile devices.

Standardizing ICT Infrastructure in Public Institutions

Hardware and software standards will be set to bring consistency to IT infrastructure across public bodies. Public institutions will be required to prioritize using domestically developed IT software.

Expanding NTV World and PSB Digital Platform

To expand international access to public service broadcasting, NTV World Channel and PSB Digital Platform will be operated. Legal provisions will be introduced to regulate OTT services in telecommunications and broadcasting. Advertising will be made standards-based, dignified, and organized.

Regulating Social Media and Enhancing Cybersecurity

The use of social media and digital platforms will be regulated and disciplined. Necessary infrastructure and human resources will be prepared to reduce cybersecurity risks. Risk assessments will be conducted, and quarterly cybersecurity advisories will be issued.

Modernizing Postal Services and Secure Printing

The infrastructure of the Security Printing Center will be completed, and printing operations will begin. Interconnectivity among postal agencies will be enhanced to support the expansion of e-commerce and logistics. Post offices will gradually be developed into smart post offices.

Total Budget Allocation for the Ministry

Rs. 7.72 billion has been allocated for the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.