Budget aims to develop nation as IT hub in next decade: PM Dahal

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has stated that the budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2024/25 is aimed at developing the nation as a hub of information technology (IT). He added that the budget has declared a decade for IT enhancement.

Speaking at 'Digital Nepal Conclave 2024', organised by the ICT Foundation in Kathmandu today, Prime Minister Dahal outlined the government's goals of exporting IT services worth Rs 3 trillion in the next fiscal year, creating 500,000 direct employment opportunities and one million indirect jobs in the IT sector.

He said the budget aims to establish IT as a tool for economic growth, provide a legal foundation for exploring and promoting IT innovations, and foster the development of artificial intelligence with regulatory provisions in place. He added that the government has committed through the budget to provide a robust and high-speed internet facility, data security, and protection of intellectual property.

PM Dahal stated that institutional measures will be implemented to revise the 'Digital Nepal Framework', and initiatives will be launched to provide high-speed internet in the Kathmandu Valley and Butwal, along with the establishment of an IT Park.

According to the Prime Minister, the government prioritises the use of software developed within the country by public entities and plans to upgrade the government's data centre to enhance data storage, security, and utilisation capabilities. The development and promotion of communications and IT are among the government's top priorities, and the new budget highlights three core priorities: promoting the IT sector, fostering a digital economy, and exploring innovation and job opportunities. He added that ongoing efforts include revising relevant laws and policies to meet these goals.

Prime Minister Dahal said that various facts have demonstrated progress in development, prosperity, and self-employment sectors, and that an environment of enthusiasm is gradually being built in the country due to the government's continuous efforts in the sectors of production, productivity, and employment creation.

He asserted that the government is doing its utmost to seek opportunities for lucrative jobs in the IT sector. In addition, a programme along with innovation has been introduced in all seven provinces, establishing a fund of one billion rupees for the first time in history to promote start-ups and innovation.

The head of the government appealed to young people and entrepreneurs from the IT sector to collaborate in socio-economic transformation efforts through the use of technology.

"You should not be disappointed. The government is grateful for your contribution to employment creation and economic development through the IT sector," the Prime Minister 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 the government's responsibility, pledging to prevent corruption, guarantee good governance, ensure smooth service delivery, and create a strong basis for improving intergovernmental coordination.

The event is expected to host wider discussions in separate sessions on various issues including 'Digitalisation' and development, digital economy and investment in digital Nepal, digital empowerment, and inclusion in sustainable development.

More than 600 people representing the IT sector are participating in the Conclave, which is themed 'Harmonising Digitalisation and Development'.

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