Nepal, UN hold annual JSC meeting

Kathmandu, July 25

The Government of Nepal and the United Nations on Friday held the annual meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), to review progress under the current framework and launching preparations for the next five-year cooperation plan.

The meeting, co-chaired by National Planning Commission Vice-Chair Dr. Gunakar Bhatta and UN Resident Coordinator Lila Pieters Yahia, endorsed a roadmap for the 2028–2032 Cooperation Framework.

The new framework will be developed jointly by the government and the UN Country Team and is scheduled to be signed in July 2027. It will align with Nepal's Sixteenth Plan and the country's transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, the United Nations informed in a statement on Friday.

The committee reviewed implementation of the current cooperation framework and identified priorities for its remaining 18 months.

According to the UN, discussions were focused on preparations for LDC graduation, implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sustainable development financing, climate action and institutional capacity.

The committee also reviewed progress in climate resilience, disaster preparedness, school meal programmes linked to local agriculture, skills development, access to finance and enterprise opportunities for women and young people, employment generation, and measures addressing child marriage, gender-based violence, legal identity reforms and electoral support.

"With fewer than five years remaining to meet the 2030 SDG deadline and Nepal's graduation from LDC status approaching, discussions centred on increasing women's participation in the economy, expanding skills development and employment opportunities for young people, supporting entrepreneurship and small and medium-sized enterprises, and promoting climate-resilient and digital economic growth," read the statement.

The meeting also discussed the impact of declining global Official Development Assistance and explored measures to improve the use of existing resources, strengthen capital expenditure, accelerate project implementation and mobilise innovative sources of development finance.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 July 2026.         

Economic diplomacy key tenet of foreign policy: Foreign Ministry

Kathmandu, July 5

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has said that first 100 days of the new government has been successful with the initiatives like launching a new mobile app for Nepalis in foreign countries, rescue of Neplais in crisis, postponement of the graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC), and execution of economic diplomacy.

In a statement published on Saturday night, the Ministry also highlighted the visit of Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal to India and China, internship programme and initiatives in controlling hundi as its achievements.

According to it, the government has initiated a formal process to defer Nepal's scheduled graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category. "Although Nepal was previously scheduled to graduate on 24 November 2026, due to recent domestic and international economic and geopolitical developments, the government has sought to postpone the graduation until November 2029," read the statement.

On 13 May 2026, FM Khanal wrote to the Chair of the United Nations Committee for Development Policy (CDP) requesting the deferral. According to him, reasons behind seeking the postponement are economic impact and global instability, loss of trade preferences and employment risks, delayed implementation of the Smooth Transition Strategy, post-pandemic vulnerability, and impact of the development in West Asia.

The ministry launched the MoFA Mitra mobile application, on May 26. The application is designed to provide consular assistance and other essential services to Nepalis living abroad, particularly those facing emergencies. The ministry has also expanded its online document authentication system and extended digital consular and legal advisory services to all seven provinces, 77 districts and 537 local government units.

Likewise, it said that a diplomatic intervention had resolved a long-standing problem affecting around 2,000 Nepalis in Portugal whose temporary residence applications had stalled after forged consular authentication stamps were discovered on original police clearance certificates. Following discussions between Nepali and Portuguese authorities, supported by the Nepali Embassy in Lisbon, applications for temporary residence permits are now being processed.

Efforts to protect vulnerable Nepalis overseas have also continued. The ministry, in coordination with Nepali diplomatic missions, has rescued and repatriated 819 citizens who had fallen victim to online scam networks operating in South-East Asia, read the statement.

Similarly, Nepal also secured the release of detained nationals through sustained diplomatic engagement. The United Arab Emirates granted pardons to 128 Nepali prisoners in April 2026, while Saudi Arabia pardoned 33 Nepali nationals in June.

The MoFA also said that it achieved success in resolving trade obstacles affecting Nepali tea exports to India. Following sustained discussions with Indian authorities, including the Ministries of External Affairs and Commerce, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and the Tea Board of India, export procedures have been streamlined. The issue was also raised during the Foreign Minister's official visit to India in June.

In response to the crisis in West Asia, a high-level inter-agency task force was formed under the leadership of the Foreign Minister. The team submitted recommendations outlining short, medium and long-term measures to mitigate the conflict's impact on Nepal. During the regional tensions, the ministry established a 24-hour Emergency Response Team, strengthened coordination with diplomatic missions and facilitated the return of 1,047 Nepali nationals from the affected region.

The ministry also announced that Nepal's upgraded passport management system is expected to go live later this month. According to it, preparations are largely complete, while mobile passport services have been introduced in countries without resident Nepali diplomatic missions.

"Work has also begun to allow citizens to apply for passports from any district, and a partnership with the Department of Postal Services will improve passport delivery nationwide," said the MoFA.

On the diplomatic front, Foreign Minister Khanal's official visits to India from 5 to 7 June and China from 14 to 17 June were described as significant milestones.

Discussions with both neighbours focused on expanding trade, investment, energy cooperation, tourism, connectivity and broader economic partnerships. Nepal also reiterated its commitment to resolving outstanding border issues with India through diplomatic dialogue based on historical agreements and maps, while meetings with Chinese leaders reinforced bilateral cooperation and development partnerships.

The ministry said it is giving greater priority to country-specific strategies aimed at identifying mutually beneficial areas of cooperation and strengthening economic diplomacy. Policy initiatives have focused on promoting exports, foreign investment, tourism, information technology and development cooperation through closer coordination among federal, provincial and local governments, the private sector and Nepali diplomatic missions abroad.

Likewise, Foreign Minister Khanal held a virtual meeting with UK Defence Secretary John Healey and Minister for Veterans Alistair Carns' representative Lewis Sander-Jones to discuss long-standing issues concerning former British Gurkha soldiers.

Nepal also secured a United Nations declaration recognising 15 April as the International Day of Wellbeing, while an agreement was signed with Heidelberg University's South Asia Institute in Germany to repatriate centuries-old Nepali manuscripts.

Meanwhile, the ministry launched its first-ever MoFA Nepal Summer Internship and Fellowship Programme 2026, selecting 20 participants from 1,278 applicants to conduct research on foreign affairs, economic diplomacy and the Nepali diaspora. It also opened, for the first time, a public application process for ambassadorial appointments, attracting around 3,000 applications.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 July 2026.       

Speakers urge mechanism to tap NRNs' expertise

 Kathmandu, May 27

Experts have said that a mechanism should be developed to effectively avail of experienced, skilled, and academically qualified experts for multidisciplinary and contemporary research, study, and policy advocacy.

Speaking at an interaction organsied by the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in Kathmandu on Tuesday, former administrators, private sector experts, and other stakeholders said that such pool of experts can support in advancing the country's governance system, sustainable economic development, and evidence-based policymaking.

The interaction identified existing policy gaps in the country and discussed possibilities for long-term policy reform, the NRNA said in a statement.

Discussions highlighted the need to expand collaboration among non-resident Nepalis, Nepali academic scholars, retired civil servants, successful entrepreneurs and businesspeople, journalists, legal professionals, and researchers to enhance institutional contributions to policymaking.

Likewise, the programme emphasised the formulation and implementation of economic policies focused on structural transformation for Nepal's long-term and inclusive economic development.

Participants stressed the need to pay particular attention to policies that boost production and productivity, industrialisation, the digital economy, the green economy, job creation, and strengthening public-private-cooperative partnerships.

According to them, a collaboration is needed to create the legal and policy frameworks necessary to effectively mobilise the knowledge, skills, and capital of non-resident Nepalis worldwide for Nepal's prosperity and development.

The programme stressed the need to institutionally utilise the international experience and knowledge of Nepali experts in Nepal's policymaking and development processes.

It recommended creating a common platform to coordinate the private sector, academic institutions, and Nepali experts abroad to prepare policy dialogue, research, and strategic recommendations.

Participants of the discussion included President of the Non-Resident Nepali Association, Dr. Hem Raj Sharma, immediate past president Dr. Badri KC, former chief secretaries Ek Narayan Aryal and Shankar Bairagi, former secretaries Shishir Kumar Dhungana, Prem Kandel, Ram Prasad Ghimire, Dhanraj Gyawali, Phadindra Gautam, and Mani Ram Gelal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Anjan Shrestha, President of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) Birendra Raj Pandey, Vice President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce Deepak Shrestha, retired Inspector General of Armed Police Raju Aryal, and President of the Independent Power Producers' Association of Nepal (IPPAN) Ganesh Karki.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 May 2026.  

NRNA welcomes govt policies and programmes

Kathmandu, May 13

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has said that the high priority accorded to the NRNs in the government's Policies and Programmes for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2026/27 is an 'extremely positive step'.

"It is a welcome move for the state to formally acknowledge the sentiments, contributions, and potential of millions of Nepalis who are establishing their identity through hard work, knowledge, skills and ability in various countries across the world, and to express a clear commitment to integrating them into the mainstream of national development," it said in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the NRNA, the announcement to establish a 'Diaspora Expert Network' and a 'Knowledge Bank', alongside the government's vision to link the capital, skills, experience, technology, and international networks of Nepalis abroad with Nepal's social and economic development, has enhanced new hope and trust.

"Today, Nepalis across the globe are not merely sources of remittances, they are distinct carriers of knowledge, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, international reach, and global experience," read the statement, while adding that the Policies and Programmes presented a solid and positive roadmap for utilising global expertise and experience in the national interest.

The NRNA also expressed optimism that programmes such as capital market reform, securities regulation, restructuring of NEPSE and clearing systems, institutional investment expansion, infrastructure bonds, and the development of the debt and bond markets will create an investment-friendly environment in Nepal.

"It will also prepare the foundation for long-term economic stability and transformation. We believe that the government's commitment to making the investments of non-resident Nepalis safe, transparent and easy, will further inspire migrant Nepalis to expand their investments in Nepal," said the NRNA.

It further said that the issue of further strengthening policy and legal arrangements related to the citizenship, financial access, investment security, and democratic rights of non-resident Nepalis is also an important one.

While stating that it is a positive achievement that most of the issues raised by Nepalis living abroad for years have been included in the Policies and Programmes, it reiterated commitment to a more organised partnership in the journey towards national prosperity, and serving as a bridge for foreign investment and technology.

In the Policies and Programmes for the next year, the government announced to provide 'Nepal Investment Visa' to investors making investments above the threshold set by the government.

Documentation of the skills of youths returning from foreign employment through a 'Skills Passport' and providing international professional certification, operation of 'Remittance-Investment Matching Fund' to channel remittances from consumption into productive investment, and creating legal basis for remote work policy have also been announced in the Policies and Programmes.

The government has also announced a 24/7 Central Response Unit, to ensure the safety and protection of the rights of Nepalis living abroad, will be established and operated under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with rapid rescue teams at diplomatic missions. Likewise, passport and consular services provided by Nepali missions abroad will be strengthened.

Similarly, individuals returning from foreign employment will be encouraged to engage in agricultural enterprises.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 May 2026.           

Govt launches policy collection portal

Kathmandu, May 9

The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers (OPMCM) has launched a ‘Suggestion Collection Portal’ to ensure the direct participation of citizens in the process of formulating the policies, programmes and budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

The digital platform has been introduced with the objective of making governance more transparent and people-oriented by incorporating the genuine needs and fundamental expectations of the public into the policies and programmes that are set to be unveiled next Monday.

Through this portal, all Nepali citizens residing in Nepal and abroad, as well as subject experts and policymakers, will be able to submit their valuable opinions and suggestions directly to the government regarding budget formulation and development priorities, informed the Finance Ministry in a statement.

"The initiative has been launched in line with the Prime Minister’s broader plan to ensure that the policy-making process is not confined solely to administrative circles, but also values the sentiments and expertise of the general public," read the statement.

The Prime Minister's Office stated that the portal would help bridge the gap between citizens and the state, establish a new practice of good governance, and ensure that the suggestions received are seriously reviewed at the administrative level and implemented through policy measures.

The system also includes a special ‘suggestion tracking’ feature, enabling citizens to monitor the status of their submissions and the actions taken by the government in response.

Meanwhile, the government has made a public appeal to all Nepalis to actively participate in this important digital initiative and contribute constructively to the national campaign of building a “Prosperous Nepal”.

Citizens will be able to use the portal through the official website of the OPMCM to send their opinions and suggestions directly to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat.
Within a few hours of the launching of the portal, more than 1000 suggestions have been submitted to it. The suggestions are broadly categorised into two – Budget and Policy.

Likewise, the suggestions are received in the areas of intergovernmental coordination, finance, industry and commerce, public finance management, infrastructure development, education, health and science, forest management, land administration, social security, citizen service, good governance, law and justice, civil servant administration, and others. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 May 2026.           

NADA to implement MRP provisions on vehicles

Kathmandu, Apr. 22

NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal welcomed the provision requiring all imported goods sold in Nepal to clearly display the maximum retail price (MRP) and the mandatory issuance of invoice during sales.

A delegation from the Association met Director General Roshan Gyawali of the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection (DoCS) the other day to discuss a recently issued directives on affixing stickers indicating the MRP on automobile products.

During the meeting, the NADA delegation said the department’s press statement issued last week had drawn its attention.

Following a discussion with the Nepal Foreign Trade Association (NFTA), the DoCS had issued a statement on April 13 directing all importers to mention the MRP on imported goods and issue bills while selling them.

It also directed them to implement the provision within a 15-day period, and after that if any goods were sold without MRP, punitive measures would be adopted.

NADA's discussion with the DoCS was focused on how to make the provisions workable and implementable. The delegation raised concerns about the treatment of existing stock and questioned the practicality of requiring stickers to be affixed at customs points, read a statement from NADA. It also stated that it has consistently supported fair trade and transparency in business practices.

In response, Gyawali said the provisions were based on the existing Consumer Protection Act 2035 and aligned with the government’s 100-point governance reform plan, which prioritises their implementation. He said the department remains committed to enforcing the rules and described NADA’s concerns as constructive.

Gyawali added that the department is prepared to address practical challenges in implementation but emphasised that cooperation and commitment from businesses would be necessary.

He also stated that the department would take a strict approach towards manufacturers and importers in enforcing MRP labelling requirements, and invited NADA to propose legal reforms if existing provisions require amendment.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 23 April 2026.         

NICCI praises govt for FDI automation

Kathmandu, Feb. 20

The Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) has welcomed the government’s decision to operationalise foreign investment approval services through an automated route, describing it as a positive and timely reform aimed at improving Nepal’s investment climate.

The newly introduced automated mechanism – published in the national Gazette on Monday, February 16 – is expected to reduce procedural delays, enhance transparency, and simplify administrative processes for foreign investors seeking approval to invest in Nepal, NICCI said in a statement on Friday.

By digitising and streamlining approvals, the government has taken an important step toward aligning Nepal’s regulatory environment with global best practices and investor expectations.

“Though the current government had the only mandate of holding an election, it has been trying to create a conducive environment for business,” NICCI President Sunil KC said.

NICCI had organised a closed-door interaction with Industry Minister Anil Kumar Sinha a month ago, submitted recommendations and requested the government to reform the age-old laws to facilitate foreign direct investment.

Praising the government’s move, co-convenor of Indian Business Forum (IBF) under NICCI, Saibal Gosh noted that while automation is a significant reform, it should be seen as part of a broader, more comprehensive investment strategy.

“This is an excellent step, though this alone may not be enough to attract FDI,” he said, adding that the new government needs to come up with a benefit scheme for new FDI investors, which is aligned with investment schemes offered by different Indian states and the central government of India.

NICCI also emphasised that regional competition for investment has intensified, with neighbouring countries and Indian states offering targeted fiscal incentives, sector-specific benefits, and facilitation packages to attract global capital. In this context, Nepal must complement procedural reforms with competitive incentive frameworks, policy predictability, and effective aftercare services for investors, read the statement.

The bi-national chamber further stressed that closer alignment of Nepal’s FDI incentive structures with those prevailing in India would be particularly important, given the strong economic interlinkages, geographic proximity, and growing cross-border investment interest between the two countries.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 February 2026.     

New online trade directives further enhance consumer rights

Kathmandu, Feb. 19

The government has implemented a fresh directive to regulate the online trade (e-commerce) with enhanced provisions for consumer rights protection.

The Electronic Trade (E-commerce) Directives, 2082 issued by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS) on Tuesday has provisions for return and exchange of goods purchased online, protection of consumer rights and data privacy and confidentiality.

The Ministry has issued the new policy as mandated by the Electronic Trade (E-commerce) Act, 2081.

It said that the Directives were implemented to make trade conducted through electronic means transparent, secure, reliable, and consumer-friendly.

According to the Directives, consumers have the right to return or exchange goods if they are found to be defective, damaged, or do not match the description provided on the platform. The entrepreneur must facilitate the return or exchange process within the timeframe specified in their policy, which must comply with consumer protection laws.

Likewise, entrepreneurs are prohibited from engaging in unfair trade practices, including misleading advertisements or the sale of prohibited or counterfeit goods.

The Directives also has a provision that the entrepreneurs must establish a dedicated grievance handling mechanism to address consumer complaints effectively. Such complaints should be addressed within the timeframe specified by the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection.

Similarly, personal and financial information of consumers collected during transactions must be kept confidential and protected from unauthorised access. The Directives have restricted the concerned companies from using consumer data except for the purpose of completing the transaction or as permitted by the consumer. Selling or sharing consumer data with third parties without explicit consent is strictly prohibited.

This rule equally applies when accepting electronic payments, and the company must ensure the security and confidentiality of the consumer's financial data in accordance with prevailing banking and cyber security laws.

According to the Directives, the online traders must disclose the name and nature of goods, services or information, total price including applicable taxes, quantity, date of manufacturing and expiry, and name and address of manufacturer – or name of distributor in case of imported goods. Shipping or delivery charges and estimated timeframe for delivery and terms and conditions regarding the return, exchange or refund of the goods and services should be clearly specified.

The price of goods or services listed on the e-commerce platform must be clearly mentioned in Nepali rupees. If there are any discounts, offers, or loyalty schemes, they must be explicitly stated alongside the original price.

Similarly, the new policy has mandated that the entrepreneur or the delivery service provider shall be responsible for the safety of the goods until they are handed over to the consumer.

The Electronic Trade (E-commerce) Act, 2081 has also provisioned that if any purchased goods or services do not meet the buyer’s requirements, the buyer is entitled to return them to the concerned trader.

The trader is obliged to accept the returned goods or services without any conditions. Upon returning the goods or services, the buyer may, if they wish, obtain another item or service of equivalent value in exchange.

Under the Act, traders, sellers, intermediaries, and transporters would be punished, with imprisonment of 2-3 years or a fine between Rs. 300,00 to 500,000, if they violated the provisions of the Act.

The Act also prohibits traders from publishing advertisements for goods or services that mislead buyers or consumers regarding their actual features, method of use or other relevant details.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 February 2026.     

NAIMA seeks review of taxi service standards

Kathmandu, Feb. 17

The Nepal Automobile Importers and Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) has submitted its detailed suggestions on practical and policy-related issues observed in the currently implemented National Standards for Vehicles Used as Taxis, 2081.

It has submitted a letter to the Minister at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Madhav Prasad Chaulagain.

According to NAIMA, the Taxi Service Standards, 2081 classify taxi services into three categories - ordinary, special, and premium. The standards clearly define technical, safety, and service specifications, and any vehicle meeting these requirements may be included in taxi services.

At present, however, only sedan-type vehicles are permitted to operate as taxis in Bagmati Province.

NAIMA has drawn attention to the fact that, under the national standards, any vehicle falling within the ordinary, special, or premium categories and fulfilling all prescribed technical, safety, and service requirements is eligible for taxi service.

The association said in a statement that there appears to be no clear justification for excluding other useful, passenger-friendly vehicles suited to diverse needs, apart from sedans. "Allowing various vehicle categories that meet the standards would provide taxi operators with greater flexibility, while offering passengers improved comfort, luggage space, accessibility (including disability-friendly features), and more options based on group size," read the statement.

According to NAIMA, the letter also refers to international practice, noting that taxi services in many countries operate using vehicles of different sizes and categories.

In Nepal, particularly in Bagmati Province, options remain limited. Although some other cities permit different vehicle categories for taxi services, the absence of such provisions in Bagmati has created practical disparities.

In this context, NAIMA has suggested that permitting all vehicles that meet the prescribed technical, safety, and service specifications under the ordinary, special, and premium categories would be appropriate from the perspectives of fairness, equality, and service expansion.

NAIMA has expressed full respect for the objectives and intent of the policy framework prepared by the Ministry, clarifying that its recommendations are based on industry experience, practical needs, and the goal of enhancing service quality.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 February 2026.     

Decades on, directives to use domestic goods in govt. offices remains spurned

Kathmandu, Dec. 17

Following repeated demands from the private sector that the public institutions buy the goods and services made in Nepal, the government implemented the Directives for the Use of Domestic Products in Public Institutions in 2014.

But it failed miserably with very few public institutions actually following the directives. Government agencies continued to procure foreign goods and services even for their day-to-day use, ignoring the domestically produced items.

According to the Directives of 2014, public entities must purchase local goods, as far as they are available, in accordance with the directives. Only in cases where such goods are not available can they purchase foreign-made goods. Such goods should have obtained 'Nepal Standard' from the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology (NBSM).

Manufacturers of such goods should be registered with the government, materials should be produced locally using traditional skills and technology, and their certificate of origin should be endorsed by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) or the Federation of Nepalese Cottage and Small Industries (FNCSI)'s district branches.

According to the Public Procurement Act 2007, constitutional bodies, courts, ministries and their departments and offices, commissions, public commercial institutions, including banks owned or controlled fully or in majority by the government, academies, councils, universities and academic institutions, provincial and local governments, development boards, and other government-specified bodies are 'public entities'.

As the directives remained largely unimplemented for about a decade, the government came up with a new version in 2024.

But the new policy was also received coldly by the public institutions.

"It's frustrating to see our efforts going in vain for such a long time. It's been about two decades since we began to demand the directives -- since 2007," said Umesh Prasad Singh, President of the FNCSI.

 

Missed opportunity

According to Singh and many other businesspeople, had the directives been implemented, it would have provided relief to the entrepreneurs in a great deal during the COVID-19 pandemic and thereafter. Since the directives had a provision that the public institutions should buy domestically produced goods even if they were 15 per cent more expensive, it would have helped Nepali producers flourish.

Chairman of the FNCCI's Industry Committee, Rajesh Kumar Agrawal, stated that there was no visible progress in implementing the directives. "The private sector is facing hard times for the last couple of years. I wonder why such good initiatives have not been the priority of the government," he said. 

The issue of implementing the directives was raised with Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal, Infrastructure Minister Kul Man Ghising, and Labour Minister Rajendra Singh Bhandari by the Chamber of Industries Morang on Tuesday. While the ministers assured them to address their demands, the process of implementing the directives is still in limbo.

According to the Directives of 2024, the government has to develop an online platform, 'Swedeshi Utpadan', to keep the detailed record of the certified products produced by Nepali producers.

 

Software development in limbo

The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection (DoCSCP) has the responsibility of developing the portal. But it is in dilemma about whether to expand the existing platform being operated by the Department or create a new one.

"The Ministry has suggested going for the first option, but our assessment has shown that it will be insufficient to accommodate all the requirements. We are yet to decide it since developing a new software costs a huge amount of budget," said Bharat Prasad Acharya, Director of the DoCSCP.

The DoCSCP also maintained that there has been no preparation for the required standards of the said portal as well.

But Singh said that the public institutions continue to procure foreign-made goods in pursuit of commission. "This is high time to implement the directives because many of the public institutions are in the process of reconstruction after the destruction during the Gen-Z movement in September this year," he said.

 

Portal is the basic requirement

Jitendra Basnet, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), said that the entire implementation of the directives has been hampered by the unavailability of the portal.

"We have concluded orientation at the provincial level. The issue has been raised multiple times at the minister or secretary-level meetings," he said while stressing the need for cross-checking and monitoring of the implementation of the directives.

The MoICS has also written to the Public Procurement Monitoring Office (PPMO) to facilitate in promotion of the use of domestic goods and services.

Meanwhile, many private sector producers have reached the Ministry to include their products in the appendix of the directives, which contains the general list of made in Nepal goods.

According to Basnet, the MoICS is in a mood to amend the directives to accommodate the demands of the private sector.  

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 December 2025.

Minister Sinha underscores risk minimisation in business

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Anil Kumar Sinha has expressed serious concerns over capital flight and said that risks for business should be minimised to encourage investment within the country.

"Investors want security and good return on investment. But various risks existing within the country have discouraged local investment," he said while addressing a seminar on 'National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (BHR) for responsible business conduct and good governance' organised by the National Business Initiative (NBI) in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

According to him, some investors have said that although they wanted to invest in Nepal, prevailing uncertainty and insecurity had forced them to take the capital out of the country and expand business in other countries.

"Businesses must earn profits. There won't be any business without profit but it should be reasonable and guided by ethics and social responsibility," he said.

Minister Sinha said that although the country has formulated the National Action Plan on BHR, its sincere implementation is challenging.

He stated that it is a national agenda and common responsibility of all to conduct business responsibly with consideration to labourer, society, environment and quality of products.

He appreciated the private sector for its steady contribution to employment and economic growth during various political and natural challenges including the armed conflict, earthquake and COVID-19 pandemic.

"We are putting efforts to create positive and conducive environment not only for election but also for investment and business. I would like to urge the private sector offer donations remaining within rules and ethics," he said.

Stating that BHR is economic and strategic policy, Minister Sinha said, "Where there is lack of good governance and transparency, trust erodes and risk to investment and security increases."

Earlier, the human rights were limited only between the state and its citizens but now it has entered the domain of business. This is the need of time as it guides the business relations with the community, consumer, workers and environment, said the Minister.

President of the NBI Kush Kumar Joshi said that businesses must have rights to run peacefully and must be responsible to the society.

"Prosperity is not possible without peace and without peace prosperity can't be sustained," he said while adding that the recent political turmoil has reinforced that good governance must be promoted everywhere and serious attention should be paid to the demands of the youth.

Joshi said that Private sector has employed more than 5 million people and has moved ahead together with the government during the difficult times including natural disasters but it is yet to earn the respect and prestige

"We want to support the government in the upcoming elections wholeheartedly but we must be protected from the forceful donations and extortions in the name of election and political campaigns," he stated.

Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Nepal Julian Chevillard said that currently livelihood and long-term investments are at risk in Nepal. "However, it is encouraging to see the progress on BHR NAP so far especially coinciding with the graduation of Nepal from an LDC to a developing nation," he said.

Chief Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission Top Bahadur Magar stressed that the rights of all stakeholders must be protected while there should be minimal damage to the environment.

"The state and business both should be proactive to the protection of the right of indigenous communities," he said.

Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) Nischal Raj Pandey said that following recent vandalism on businesses, there is a realisation that they should be proactive in risk mitigation rather exhibiting reactive initiatives. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

NIA unveils policy and programmes for FY 2025/26

 Kathmandu, July 9

Chairman of the Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA), Sharad Ojha on Tuesday, unveiled the Annual Insurance Policy and Programme for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2025/26 for the first time since its inception.

The insurance sector regulator has launched the new Policy and Programme as a new initiative with the objective of developing a competitive and trustworthy insurance system, enhancing institutional governance in the sector.

At a press conference organised by the Authority in Kathmandu, Ojha announced that the NIA will formulate and implement its programmes and budget for the coming year in line with the newly released policy and programme.

Highlighting that the policy aims to guide the insurance sector towards a projected path of development, he said that it clarifies the direction and initiatives the Authority will undertake during the upcoming fiscal year. He further mentioned that insurance companies will also be required to develop and implement their respective budgets and programmes in accordance with this policy.

Executive Director of the NIA, Sushil Dev Subedi, informed that the practice of introducing an annual policy and programme has been initiated as a guiding document to propel the insurance sector forward in a planned and predictable manner.

The policy and programme for the upcoming year prioritise protecting the interests of policyholders, expanding access to insurance, promoting financial stability through risk transfer mechanisms, managing risks related to climate change and disasters, adopting international best practices and research-based policymaking, and strengthening the use of information technology and digitalisation.

The policy includes provisions to make insurance services more accessible via digital payments and alternative distribution channels, develop systems for easy dissemination of information on policy terms and benefits, implement a ‘Transparency Dashboard’ among insurers to enhance accountability, and introduce legal provisions for the protection of policyholders' rights.

Likewise, it also outlines measures to prioritise micro and agricultural insurance, extend coverage to remote and geographically disadvantaged areas, collaborate with provincial and local governments, the private sector, and other stakeholders for insurance sector development, and prioritise insurance-related studies and research.

Furthermore, it includes plans to integrate complaints and grievance mechanisms into digital platforms, revise insurance documents and guidelines as needed, enhance anti-money laundering efforts, and strengthen the regulatory capacity of the NIA by aligning with international best practices.

Additional initiatives outlined in the policy include developing policies and insurance products based on research and policyholder needs, mandating insurers to design at least one innovative insurance product, updating existing legal provisions concerning investment and reinsurance, and developing legal structures that prioritise climate risk management.

The policy and programme also propose establishing an Insurance Information Centre and an Insurance Development Fund, fostering a technology-friendly insurance environment, developing a 'Regulatory Alert System' for effective coordination with insurers and implementing a knowledge management system at the NIA.

In line with a risk-based inspection approach, the NIA plans to strengthen supervision, monitoring, and inspection mechanisms, revise legal frameworks for risk-based capital as needed, conduct feasibility studies for risk-based premium calculation systems, implement key performance indicators to conduct quarterly performance reviews of insurers, and carry out necessary research on disaster risk reduction in the insurance sector.

As envisioned by the Insurance Act and regulations, the policy also includes provisions for insuring students in government schools through the Insurance Development Fund, and launching pilot insurance schemes to bring targeted groups and communities under coverage using the same fund. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 July 2025.   

Govt is determined to promote good governance, achieve rapid economic development: President

 President unveils govt policies and programmes

Kathmandu, May 2

President Ramchandra Paudel has presented the government’s policies and programmes for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2025/26 with an emphasis on policy stability and the continuation of the current political stability based on healthy competition, cooperation and coexistence.

Presenting the policies and programmes at the joint session of the Federal Parliament on Friday afternoon, President Paudel said that the review of constitution, strengthening of its positive aspects, and its amendment based on consensus are the priority of the government. The amendment to the constitution is expected to rectify the shortcomings seen during its implementation.

There will be efforts to strengthen the constitution and the federal democratic republican system of governance, and to counter any kind of reactionary-revivalist anarchic activities against it, he said.

According to the policy document, the government will further strengthen the programmes operated by government bodies on the development of entrepreneurship, production, productivity, and job creation.

"The government will also work to commercialise agriculture and build infrastructure through cooperation, coordination, and collaboration among the three levels of government," said President Paudel.

He also said that the present government was committed to increasing dynamism, controlling corruption and ending impunity.

Centring on the minimum common commitments and priorities of the coalition government made public at the time of the formation of the present government, this government is determined to promote good governance and achieve rapid economic development with a shared resolve, he said.

The government has also announced to stop wasteful expenditure by abolishing, merging and transferring unnecessary structures. "Expanding 'faceless service' to make public service effective and developing the Nagarik App as the main digital tool for providing services and  making all possible services online will also be the priority next year," it said.

President Paudel also announced that the respective governments will implement the development programmes under the concurrent list of rights of the federal, provincial, and local levels as mentioned in the constitution in a coordinated manner.

An integrated project bank system will be implemented to eliminate duplication between the federal, provincial, and local levels in development programmes.

The government said that the economy will be revitalised through the implementation of the report of the High-Level Economic Reform and Recommendation Commission.

The policy document emphasised collaboration among the public, cooperative, and private sectors to generate employment opportunities and alleviate poverty.

To achieve high, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth, public-private partnerships will be encouraged while maintaining harmony between fiscal and monetary policies, it said.

A business-friendly environment will be created by means of additional policy reforms and procedural simplification for promoting private investment.

 Allocative efficiency in public expenditure will be enhanced, with investments focused on high-yield projects, it said.

The government has targeted to close, merged and restructured the unnecessary public entities. While keeping recurrent expenditures within desired limit, public sector investments will be focused on complementing and promoting private sector investment.

"The tax system will be structurally transformed with a view to promoting industrialisation, attracting investment, and enhancing the competitiveness of the economy. The policy document states that a taxpayer-friendly revenue system will be developed through reforms in tax administration and the use of information technology," read the document.

It said that development cooperation will be mobilised through the national system in line with development needs and priorities.

Foreign investment will be focused on high-return industrial and physical infrastructure projects.

Development cooperation will be mobilised to enhance Nepal's access to climate funds, foster the development of innovative technologies, encourage private sector investment and boost the productivity of the economy.

An Alternative Development Finance Fund will be established to meet project investment needs. The bill related to the operation of the Alternative Development Finance Fund will be passed in the current session of the Parliament.

 In alignment with the strategies of the Sixteenth Plan, employment-oriented economic growth and structural transformation will be pursued by implementing information technology, tourism, agriculture, energy, and green industrialisation as foundational sectors, with an emphasis on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, said the document.

The LDC Graduation Smooth Transition Strategy will be implemented to facilitate the smooth transition from a least developed country to a developing country by 2026.

Laws related to the expansion of trade agreements, alternative finance, and commodity exchange will be enacted. Private capital will be attracted to potential public infrastructure projects through innovative financial instruments. The Securities Board of Nepal will be strengthened, and Nepal Stock Exchange will be restructured to enhance the capacity and transparency of the capital market.

The Second Financial Sector Development Strategy will also be implemented.

An Asset Management Company will be established to manage non-banking assets and non-performing loans of banks and financial institutions.

Information technology infrastructure will be expanded to develop the digital economy and increase cashless financial transactions.

Digital banks will be established by adopting appropriate policy and legal frameworks.

Based on studies of their current state, public enterprises will be managed efficiently by means of restructuring, transfer to the private sector, and monetisation through appropriate means.

Insurance services will be made accessible and reliable. Insurance Information Centre will be operationalised while promoting insurance of physical properties.

To achieve self-reliance in agricultural produce, subsistence agriculture will be modernised and commercialised through mechanisation and specialisation.

A strong ecosystem of land, agriculture equipment, insurance, purchase agreements, and markets will be developed to attract youths to agriculture.

A pilot project will be launched for aspiring entrepreneurs in any sub-sector of agriculture.

The Prime Minister Agriculture Modernisation Project will be restructured and continued as the National Integrated Agriculture Modernisation Programme.

Digital system will be developed to make agricultural services accessible and transparent. Quarantine and laboratory services will be upgraded.

To address the demand for electricity supply, even during the dry season, and to maintain energy security, an appropriate financial model will be adopted for the development of reservoir-based and multipurpose hydropower projects.

National and cross-border high-capacity transmission lines will be expanded in the participation of the private sector.

According to the policy document, efforts will be made to channelise remittances for Nepali citizens working abroad into mega hydropower projects.

The Dhauwadi Iron Company will be operated on a public-private partnership, and sick industries with business potential will be re-operated by adopting appropriate management methods.

The role and scope of the contribution-based Social Security Fund will be expanded so as to mandatorily enrol all employees regardless of the nature and terms of their employment. A legal provision will be introduced requiring companies, institutions, cooperatives, firms, or other organised entities to submit proof of enrolment of employees in and regular contribution to the Social Security Fund while renewing their registration.

A long-term roadmap for governance reform in school education will be prepared, followed by restructuring.

The Bill to amend and consolidate laws related to school education will be passed in the ongoing session of the Parliament. Arrangements will be made to ensure that all children receive basic education by the year 2084 B.S.

 The President Education Reform Programme will be revised and strengthened as the National Education Reform Programme.

The government said that scholarship will be provided to the international medal winning sports players and their children for their education.

Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground will be transformed into a cricket ground of modern standards.

Adopting both the preventive and curative methods, all aspects of the medical system will be developed under the 'Healthy Nepal Campaign', said the document.

The government said that intensive burn care and cardiac services will be expanded in all seven provinces.

Cancer and kidney transplant services will be expanded to the provincial level, it said.

The country will be upgraded to a full anti-money laundering complaint country by the year 2083 B.S. by completing all tasks according to the National Strategy and Action Plan on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism.

Similarly, the government said that the electronic government procurement system (e-GP) will be upgraded to make public procurement result-oriented and effective.

Likewise, strong and balanced international relations will be developed by keeping in mind national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the paramount interests of the nation and the Nepali people.

The government has also promised to formulate laws relating to cooperatives. While formulating such laws, the distinct identity, autonomy, and self-governance of cooperatives shall be maintained.

It said that an equitable distribution of the benefits of development shall be ensured. Arrangements shall be made for the participation of the backward and economically disadvantaged groups in the opportunities and benefits of development.

"The state shall adopt a policy of providing special opportunities and facilities to the backward communities and economically and socially disadvantaged groups by making special provisions for their education, health, housing, employment, food sovereignty, and social security for their protection, upliftment, and development," read the document.

According to the policy document, the government will maintain transparency in the functions of its various bodies. Except for matters of a confidential nature as specified by law, every citizen shall have the right to have access to information about the decisions made by the state and the functions it carries out.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 3 May 2025 (Jointly prepared with Laxman Kafle).

NPC suggests increasing fiscal space for government

Kathmandu, Apr. 20

The National Planning Commission (NPC) has suggested the government to bring about the policy and programmes with a focus on increasing the fiscal space by forging better inter-ministerial coordination.

"Recognising the status of poor revenue collection over the years, we decided to recommend to search space of new sources of revenue, expedite the development work and complete the projects in time, and for timely disbursement of dues to the private sector entrepreneurs," Vice-Chairman of the NPC, Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, while handing over the report to Deputy Prime Minister and Ministr for Finance, Bishnu Prasad Paudel.

Fiscal space is creating room in the annual budget and is important for the government as it helps in allocating resources in key programmes without weakening the country's economic stability. It enables the government to take bold steps such as rising spending or lowering taxes when needed.

The federal planning body handed over the Policy and Programmes Report prepared for the upcoming budget of Fiscal Year 2024/25 to DPM Paudel at the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on Sunday.

In the report prepared after consultation with development ministries, the NPC stressed on proper utilisation of the available and potential resources.

"Programmes that foster synergy and contribute to sustainability during implementation, while generating minimal or no trade-offs, should be prioritised in proposal and budget allocation," read the report.

It also recommended that the budget proposals and allocations should prioritise programmes and projects that support increased production, productivity, and employment generation.

According to the NPC, only those programmes and projects that will incur and can realistically utilise expenditures in the upcoming fiscal year should be proposed and allocated budget. Likewise, priority should be given to budget proposals for multi-year projects and programmes that have created liabilities in the current fiscal year and are expected to be completed by the next year.

 

Reprioritise ongoing programmes

"Ongoing programmes and projects should be reprioritised and allocated based on their nature, implementation status, project duration, incurred liabilities, and expenditure potential.  Duplicative or overlapping programmes and projects of a similar nature should be reviewed, merged, or eliminated as necessary," suggested the report of the NPC.

VC Prof. Adhikari said that in the current context, priority should be given to the maximum utilisation of existing institutional structures rather than creating new ones.

Similarly, the report observed that some officials believe the budget ceilings for certain ministries and agencies are too low, and in some cases, even regular and recurrent expenditures must be met through foreign aid, making the budget and programme proposal process challenging.

Other recommendations also include aligning budget proposals with the framework of the sixteenth periodic plan and Sustainable Development Goals, entering the qualified projects to the project banks, and striking regional balance.

"The allocation of projects and programmes must comply with the standards related to the distribution of development projects across the three levels of government," it said.

 

Focus to strengthening economy

DPM Paudel expressed his belief that the report would help in guiding the budget of the next FY 2025/26.

He stated that the budget of the next year will be focused on the creation of strong national economy backed by infrastructure and industrial development.

DPM Paudel is also for tightening the size of budget to all ministries and implementing agencies and is not in the mood to allocate funds to the projects and programmes that will not contribute to capital formation or create facility to the publics.

He said that the achievement of the set target of the economic growth couldn't be achieved but there wouldn't be a situation to be pessimistic.

"Of late, the government has been putting its efforts to address the challenges in the economy especially in the manufacturing sector. We have been working to facilitate the private sector so that more investment would be attracted and jobs would be created," he said.

According to him, the country has reached to the much-desired political stability after a prolonged instability but some reactionary forces are trying to destablise this stability.

This stability is not sought for the ruling parties or coalition but for the reforms and progress, maintained DPM Paudel. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 April 2025.        

'Once-only-principle' fundamental in e-Governance Blueprint draft

Kathmandu, Feb. 25

The e-Governance Board of Nepal has published the initial draft of the 'e-Governance Blueprint' with exclusive 'National Data Strategy' and 'once only principle'.

According to the draft of the Blueprint published on Monday evening with a one-week window to seek suggestions, legal and structural arrangements will be made for the implementation of the 'Once-Only Principle' so that personally identifiable data will not be collected repeatedly.

"This principle aims to create an environment where individuals and companies do not have to provide their data again after providing it once to obtain various services from different agencies. This ensures the authenticity of the data source and establishes the basis for inter-agency data exchange," read the draft.

It said that since different agencies are responsible for storing different types of data, various types of personal identification data are not available through a single source, making them more secure from a cybersecurity perspective. For example, health service databases include health-related data such as prescriptions and operations, but not data such as the patient's name, date of birth and address.

This makes it very difficult for cybersecurity-targeted attackers to consolidate the necessary information which increases operational costs for potential cyber-attacks and reduces the likelihood of such attacks, according to the document.

The draft has also proposed formulation of the 'National Data Strategy' to make data storage, exchange, management and use more effective.

The strategy is expected to set common standards, rules and principles.

"This strategy will help to improve the quality and interoperability of data by aligning data sets across public bodies, streamline the development of new digital services and provide a framework for data management and use between the federal, provincial and local levels," read the draft.

According to the Board, there is a need for a national-level strategic document to transform the delivery of public services through digital means has been recognised. So, this Blueprint has been developed to meet the same objective by referencing international frameworks such as the Global Digital Compact, GovStack, Digital Public Infrastructure, and other established reference models.

The draft noted that while Nepal has made significant progress in ICT, with initiatives like the Digital Nepal Framework, challenges remain in fully implementing digital governance.

This Blueprint builds on existing policies such as the ICT Policy, 2072, the Government Enterprise Architecture Directives, 2076, and the Digital Nepal Framework, 2076. It aims to create a cohesive digital ecosystem, ensuring data security, interoperability, and citizen-centric services, said Dipesh Bista, CEO of the Board.

The draft of the Blueprint also mentioned that Nepal has made strides in digital governance, with policies like the ICT Policy, 2072, and the National Cyber Security Policy, 2080. However, challenges such as lack of coordination, insufficient infrastructure, and limited digital literacy persist. This Blueprint aims to address these gaps by establishing a robust digital governance framework.

It claimed that the e-Governance Blueprint provides a comprehensive roadmap for Nepal’s digital transformation. By implementing the strategies outlined in this document, Nepal aims to enhance service delivery, promote transparency and foster innovation in governance.

The draft of the blueprint aims at developing necessary digital infrastructure, establishing policy and institutional frameworks for digital service delivery, building institutional capacity for digital transformation, and promoting innovation, monitoring, and development in digital governance. 

It has covered various areas including digital transformation of government processes, simplification of public and private sector services, establishment of digital government and digital society, coordination among federal, provincial, and local governments, development of digital literacy and skills, and promotion of regional and international cooperation in digital governance. 

Likewise, the Blueprint mentions various strategic pillars of the e-governance development and implementation. They include establishing a high-level institutional framework for digital governance, developing policies and regulations for digital transformation and strengthening coordination among government agencies. 

Likewise, formulating policy and regulatory framework, setting digital enablers and service development, enhancing digital literacy and skills, setting digital standards and guidelines and forging better regional and international coordination, innovation, monitoring, and development are also the strategic pillars of the proposed policy.

It has accorded priority to the development of a national data policy to ensure data security and interoperability, expansion of affordable and accessible internet services, development of a unified digital communication platform, and establishment of a secure data exchange platform. 

Similarly, developing standards for data cataloguing and service indexing, creating guidelines for digital service delivery and cybersecurity, and establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) for digital governance are also highlighted in the draft.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 February 2025.  

Execution of e-governance remains poor in Nepal

 Kathmandu, Feb. 23

IT experts have said that Nepal is facing a poor execution of visions in e-governance despite having comparatively good policies.

"E-governance should be seamless and people should feel gratified but our mark on execution of IT-related policies and strategies is zero," said Manohar Bhattarai, IT expert and former vice-chair of High-Level Commission for IT, while speaking at TechGov Nepal 2025 organised by Marching Ants in Kathmandu on Sunday.

According to him, vision, policy and execution are fundamental for the development of IT sector. He suggested learning from Estonia, South Korea, Singapore and India, the countries that went ahead in the path of IT-sector development including e-governance.

Currently, Nepal is working on a new e-governance blueprint to implement innovations in e-governance. Bhattarai suggested that Nepal should adopt the 'once only principle' for citizens' data and information as implemented by Estonia.

He said that e-governance not only promotes transparent and effective government but also helps in inclusivity.

"However, political commitment is the first fundamental for the advancement of e-governance. It applies to all levels of the government," he said.

Dipesh Bista, CEO of e-Governance Board, said that data sharing among the concerned government agencies and other institutions will promote the 'once only principle'.

However, he maintained that to ensure the safety of data, 'decentralised interoperability' will be applied. The e-governance board is working to achieve the same results, he said.

Kedar Bhandari, an engineer at the e-Governance Board, stated that there is a need to reengineer the entire business process by removing hurdles, reducing steps and creating an entirely faceless system.

He emphasised on regional and international cooperation, the development of digital enablers, the promotion of digital literacy, and research and development in the sector.

The programme deliberated on effectively using traditional and digital media to drive awareness and citizen engagement in Nepal’s digital transformation efforts.

It is an effort toward building a sustainable partnership between media and digital governance entities, ensuring that journalists have access to credible information and that government agencies actively engage the media in their awareness campaigns, said the organiser.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 February 2025.  

CAN Federation submits recommendations for AI Policy

Kathmandu, Feb. 18

The Computer Association of Nepal Federation (CAN Federation) submitted a concept paper to the government containing crucial recommendations for the forthcoming National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy.

 On Sunday, a delegation from the federation handed over the document containing the suggestions to the Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung.

The recommendations include defining AI clearly in the Nepali context, incorporating a glossary of AI-related terms, and promoting AI applications in key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and disaster risk management.

Likewise, fostering multi-sector collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, private enterprises, and local authorities has also been included as a recommendation.

The federation has stressed the need for a robust legal framework for AI and data security, clear data management policies, cross-border data-sharing mechanisms, establishment of independent data centres, and investment in AI ecosystems, including human resources and scholarships.

The concept paper also advocates for AI tools tailored to the Nepali language and local need, the CAN Federation informed in a statement issued on Tuesday.

Titled 'Use and Practice of AI in Nepal', the concept paper was prepared under the review and recommendations of CAN Federation’s AI Coordinator and Vice-President Chiranjibi Adhikari, Professor Sudan Jha, Advocate Diksha Raut, and Ganga Bhandari. The document primarily focuses on technological innovation, AI research, ethical AI development, data security, and regulation, while offering key recommendations.

"The CAN Federation believes that Nepal can achieve self-reliance in AI and compete globally if it promotes the development and research of new technologies. The concept paper underscores the importance of prioritising ethical values, ensuring digital inclusion, and safeguarding human rights while developing AI technologies," CAN Federation said in the statement.

Furthermore, the CAN Federation has emphasised that AI development should be guided by strong ethical principles, ensuring that its application does not cause harm. The federation has also stressed the necessity of a robust system for data security to prevent misuse and called for stringent regulations to safeguard data privacy.

President of CAN Federation, Sunaina Ghimire Pandey, said that Nepal requires a well-structured policy and institutional initiatives for sustainable AI development. She noted that AI holds the potential to revolutionise education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and administration.

Dr. Shaligram Parajuli, IT expert at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, said that the role and support of stakeholders, including the CAN Federation, would be crucial in making the AI policy effective. He emphasised that the policy should be implemented in an open and transparent environment and assured that the government would incorporate collective opinions and recommendations while drafting the policy for swift implementation.

According to CAN Federation General Secretary Chandra Bilash Bhurtel, the primary objective of the recommendations is to create an AI-friendly environment in Nepal and enhance its global competitiveness in AI advancements.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 February 2025.