Minister Sharma asserts that the field of information technology is now in global competition
Minister of Communication and Information Technology Rekha Sharma has stated that the field of information and communication technology competes with the world, and therefore, all stakeholders should pay attention to it.
During the social dialogue on ‘Strengthening the communication sector for sustainable employment and economic growth in Nepal’ organized by the Union of ICTS Professionals Nepal, she emphasized the need for the government and the private sector to collaborate for the development of information technology.
Minister Sharma mentioned that the government will focus on policies, laws, and infrastructure for the growth of information and communication technology, while urging the private sector to increase investments. She highlighted the government’s national production and employment promotion program, which aims to foster a self-reliant economy by emphasizing production and employment at the local level.
She stressed that the establishment of information technology knowledge parks, along with improved access to high-speed internet nationwide, would facilitate the operation of IT-based enterprises across the country.
Minister Sharma emphasized the importance of strengthening the information technology sector for sustainable employment and economic growth. As the demand for IT products and services increases, their value and significance also escalate. It is crucial for Nepal to focus on increasing domestically produced IT goods and services, reducing reliance on imports.
She observed that the IT industry in Nepal is witnessing a rise in employment and self-employment opportunities. The government plans to allocate at least one percent of the capital budget for research, innovation, and invention. Additionally, they aim to remove restrictions on foreign investment in the IT industry, promote IT service exports, and provide a 50% tax discount on foreign currency income. The government is also dedicated to facilitating manpower production, growth, and marketing in support of economic growth and job creation through IT.
To attract innovation and enhance capacity development, scholarships have been introduced for students pursuing higher-level IT education. Programs like digital champions and IT exhibitions are being planned. Minister Sharma also mentioned the creation of a separate ‘Information Technology’ group within the Federal Civil Service Bill to attract skilled manpower to the government sector. Structures like the Information Technology Staff College are being considered for capacity development. Moreover, efforts are underway to connect private sector employees to the social security program.
