CAN Info-Tech 2024 kicks off in Kathmandu with high-tech drone display

KATHMANDU: The CAN Info-Tech 2024 commenced at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu on Thursday. The 29th edition of the CAN Info-Tech fair, organised by the Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation), will run for five days.

The opening of the CAN Info-Tech 2024 was marked by displaying two drones in action. The first drone showered flowers, and the second displayed a video in the sky with a leaderboard, which included a message marking the start of CAN Info-Tech.

The Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, inaugurated the CAN Info-Tech using a mobile app. At the inaugural ceremony, Minister Sharma stated that the government recognises information technology (IT) as a basic need of the citizens and a national priority. She expressed hope that the implementation of Digital Nepal framework would contribute to IT-based progress. Sharma emphasized the government's commitment to establishing good governance, social justice, and prosperity as top national priorities, with the 16th periodic plan prioritising the enhancement of IT.

Minister Sharma added that the development of IT would create job opportunities which would deter the youths from migrating seeking employment abroad. She urged the CAN Federation to explore additional service areas, highlighting the importance of public-private cooperation for promoting the IT sector.

The Minister stressed the need for substantial investment in the IT sector, describing it as a tool to strengthen the national economy.

Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) President Rajesh Kumar Agrawal stressed the need for policy and legal stability to encourage potential investors in Nepal.

Likewise, Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) President Rajendra Malla stated that the nation's development depends on the growth of the IT sector, urging the government to take measures to position Nepal as an 'IT hub'.

CAN Federation President Ranjeet Kumar Poddar said Nepal has already launched the exports of IT services and this should be the state's priority. 

The CAN Info-Tech fair has showcased the latest advancements in information and communication technology (ICT), promoting significant dialogue and strategic growth in the sector. The primary sponsor of CAN Info-Tech 2024 is SPowerBPE, with HMC DAHUA as the secondary sponsor. The official name of this tech exhibition is 'S-power CAN Info-Tech 2024 in association with HMC DAHUA'.

The event is supported by various national and international organisations, including the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Department of Information Technology, Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST). International support comes from the Asian-Oceanian Computing Industry Organization (ASOCIO), WITSA (World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance), and Toa Software Corp.

The Infotech fair, featuring over 150 stalls, is expected to attract 350,000 visitors.

Tickets for the exhibition can be purchased through eSewa, CAN Info-Tech's ticketing partner. The entrance fee is Rs 100 for the general public and Rs 50 for students. Entry is free for senior citizens, people with disabilities, children under 10 years, and group visits from government and community schools.