Minister Timilsina Emphasizes Digital Ecosystem as Government Priority

Kathmandu. Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Dr. Vikram Timilsina, has stated that building a secure, reliable, inclusive, and sustainable 'digital ecosystem' is the government's top priority.

Issuing a message of best wishes on the occasion of the National Information and Communication Technology Day, 2083, he said that information technology is no longer an option but a basic necessity for good governance, service delivery, economic development, entrepreneurship, and citizen empowerment. He extended heartfelt best wishes to all entrepreneurs, innovators, technical manpower, startup community, private sector, researchers, students, and all stakeholders active in the information and communication technology sector.

He mentioned that the Government of Nepal is moving forward with the goal of practically implementing the Digital Nepal framework and making the public service system more simple, transparent, accountable, and citizen-friendly. 'In this context, the ministry has given high priority to the formulation of a long-term information technology strategy for the next decade and the development of digital public infrastructure. The citizen 'app' is being further strengthened and made effective, and the system where citizens can easily obtain essential state services through a single digital 'platform' is being expanded,' he said.

He stated that the ministry has intensified efforts towards developing Nepal as a regional center for digital innovation, information technology services, 'data' economy, and 'artificial intelligence' (AI) with the objective of developing national AI policy, national 'cyber' security policy, and improving the legal and institutional structure related to information technology.

He said that the government is committed to reducing the digital divide and ensuring digital inclusivity by expanding high-speed 'broadband internet' across the country, strengthening government 'data centers' and 'disaster recovery' systems, enhancing digital literacy, and producing skilled information technology manpower. He also stated that the goal is to establish the information technology sector as a new growth engine for job creation, promotion of youth talent, startup development, and the national economy.

'Digital transformation is not possible with the government's efforts alone. Active cooperation from the private sector, academic institutions, development partners, media, technology community, and all citizens is indispensable in this campaign. I heartily call upon everyone to join hands in the common journey of building a prosperous, modern, and digital Nepal,' Minister Timilsina said in his message of best wishes.