KATHMANDU, Dec 26: The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT) has marked one year of governance, emphasizing its dedication to law and policy formulation, technology advancements, and ongoing initiatives, including the development of a concept paper on artificial intelligence (AI).

Over the past year, MoCIT has been actively involved in implementing laws and policies aligned with its annual programs, goals, and periodic plans. The ministry’s efforts are concentrated on enhancing Nepal’s standing in the e-governance development index, currently at around 151st position. Key focus areas include improving telecommunication infrastructures, enhancing public access to IT services, and bolstering the capacity of the relevant workforce.

The MoCIT has achieved notable progress, such as expanding optical fiber to 15,000 km, a 4% increase in fixed broadband reaching 39.67%, and a 3% rise in internet consumer density. The integration of government offices into the Nagarik App has increased to 62 from 53, and mobile broadband expansion has reached 94.88%. Additionally, the ministry is extending FTTH service to 73 districts, and 4G/LTE service has reached 67%.

On the legislative front, bills such as the printing bill and public service broadcasting bill are under consideration, while the formulation process for bills related to Nepal media council, national mass communications, and regulation and management of social networks has been approved by the Council of Ministers.

Notably, the National Cyber Security Policy, 2080, is in operation, along with the Radio Frequency Policy of Telecommunications Service, 2080. The ministry has approved NTA’s policy on the use of information technology, while the draft of the national advertisement policy, 2080, has been released for public feedback. Amendments to the Advertisement Regulation, 2080, and the presentation of the postal office regulation before the Council of Ministers have also taken place.

Furthermore, the MoCIT is actively working on a concept paper on artificial intelligence (AI), collaborating with experts for its preparation. The ministry is coordinating the ‘Digital Nepal Framework’ and implementing the ‘Digital Nepal Acceleration Project’ with World Bank support.

Efforts are underway to regulate social networks through the Directive on Management of the Use of Social Networks, 2080. The ministry is finalizing aspects related to digital signature, IT development and standards, connecting service delivery to IT, cyber safety, and data security under the IT bill.

To address the digital divide, the MoCIT is conducting serious homework, and measures are in place to mitigate cyber attacks and promote cyber hygiene. The cyber security monitoring center operates round the clock. Additionally, agreements have been made to enhance courier services with Qatar Airways, introducing EMS service in 39 countries and launching foreign postal services in various regions of Nepal.

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