Finance Minister Allocates NPR 5.93 Billion for Information and Communication Sector

Kathmandu. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has allocated a total of NPR 5.93 billion for the information and communication sector for the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84.

Presenting the budget statement in a joint session of the Federal Parliament on Friday, he put forward plans for the reform of the telecommunication sector by intensifying the use of the latest technology.

Announcing the budget, Finance Minister Wagle informed that the Telecommunication Authority Bill will be presented in the parliament. The budget mentions increasing access to quality telecommunication services by intensifying the use of the latest technology. Under this, priority will be given to the work of expanding quality telephone service and network, especially in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.

Through the budget, the government has also announced significant reforms in government printing structures. The budget statement mentions that an integrated secure printing institution will be established by merging various structures established for government printing. In addition, the government has adopted a policy to encourage commercial activities through social media registered in Nepal.

The budget has also addressed public welfare advertisements through print and electronic media for the media sector. Finance Minister Wagle stated that NPR 330 million has been allocated for public welfare advertisements.