KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ announced that the budget for the upcoming fiscal year aims to develop the nation as an information technology (IT) hub over the next decade.
Speaking at the ‘Digital Nepal Conclave 2024,’ organized by the ICT Foundation today, the Prime Minister outlined the government’s goal to export IT services worth Rs 3,000 billion in the next fiscal year, creating 500,000 direct employment opportunities and one million indirect jobs in the IT sector.
The budget aims to establish IT as a driver of economic growth, create a legal foundation for exploring and promoting IT innovations, and develop artificial intelligence with appropriate regulatory provisions.
Additionally, the government has pledged to provide durable high-speed internet, ensure data security, and protect intellectual property.
Institutional measures will be implemented to revise the ‘Digital Nepal Framework.’ Initiatives will be launched to provide high-speed internet in Kathmandu Valley and Butwal and to establish an IT Park.
The government also prioritizes using domestically developed software by public entities and plans to upgrade the government’s data center to enhance data storage, security, and utilization capabilities.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the development and promotion of communications and information technology are top government priorities.
The new budget focuses on three core priorities: promoting the IT sector, fostering a digital economy, and exploring innovation and job opportunities.
Ongoing efforts include revising relevant laws and policies to meet these goals.
Prime Minister Dahal noted that various factors indicate progress in development, prosperity, and self-employment sectors.
He added that continuous government efforts in production, productivity, and employment creation are gradually building an environment of enthusiasm in the country.
He also highlighted the government’s efforts to seek lucrative job opportunities in the IT sector.
A new program, including a fund of one billion rupees to promote startups and innovation, has been established for the first time in history across all seven provinces.
The Prime Minister called on youths and entrepreneurs in the IT sector to collaborate in socio-economic transformation efforts through technology.
“You should not be disappointed. The government is grateful for your contribution to employment creation and economic development through the IT sector,” he said, adding that the government is ready to address policy-level issues concerning the IT sector.
He stated that building a corruption-free society by improving ‘digital governance’ is a government responsibility.
He pledged to prevent corruption, guarantee good governance, ensure smooth service delivery, and create a strong basis for improving intergovernmental coordination.
The Conclave will include wider discussions on various issues, including digitalization and development, the digital economy and investment in Digital Nepal, digital empowerment, and inclusion in sustainable development.
More than 600 representatives from the IT sector are participating in the event, themed “Harmonizing Digitalization and Development.”
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