In 2024, the government of Nepal has introduced several policies to bolster the IT industry, reflecting a strong commitment to transforming the country into a global information technology hub. Here are the key points of these policies:

1. Digital Nepal Framework:

 The government plans to revise and implement the Digital Nepal Framework, aiming to advance the country’s digital transformation. This includes improving the digital infrastructure and ensuring robust regulation and implementation mechanisms​ (NepaliTelecom)​​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

2. Foreign Investment: 

Restrictions on foreign investment in the IT sector have been lifted, allowing investments of any amount. This policy aims to attract more international capital and expertise to strengthen the IT industry​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

3. Employment and Training: 

The government is focusing on creating employment opportunities in the IT sector, with a target of generating at least 5,000 jobs by establishing IT workstations in Kathmandu Valley and other provinces. Additionally, there are initiatives to provide internships for ICT students and to set up incubation centers across all seven provinces to support startups​ (The Kathmandu Post)​​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

4. Broadband Expansion: 

Significant efforts are being made to expand broadband and high-speed internet access across the country, including rural and remote areas. This involves accelerating the expansion of high-capacity optical fiber networks and introducing satellite-based internet services to ensure quality, accessible, and safe internet for all​ (NepaliTelecom)​​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

5. Public Services Digitalization:

The government plans to digitalize public services, making them more accessible through initiatives like the Nagarik App and citizen service centers. These centers will provide various public services from a single location, enhancing convenience and efficiency​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

6. Data Security and E-Governance: 

Policies are being developed to improve the security of electronic data and to promote e-governance. This includes making public services faceless, cashless, and contactless, and ensuring the safe storage and use of digital data​ (NepaliTelecom)​​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

7. IT Parks and Infrastructure: 

New IT parks will be established, utilizing public and private buildings in cities like Kathmandu and Butwal. These parks will be equipped with high-speed internet, electricity, and security, and will provide free space for operations for up to three years​ (NepaliTelecom)​​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

8. Startup Support: 

The establishment of a Nepal Startup Trust aims to empower entrepreneurs and provide regulatory support for startups. This trust will help nurture innovative ideas and transform them into viable enterprises​ (NepaliTelecom)​.

9. Local Talent Retention: 

Addressing the challenge of brain drain, the government is working to improve local educational institutions and align academic programs with industry needs to retain talent within Nepal. This includes removing quotas on student enrollments in IT colleges to ensure more graduates are available to meet industry demands​ (The HRM Nepal)​.

These comprehensive government new policies indicate a strong governmental push to enhance Nepal’s IT industry, making it a significant sector for employment and economic growth while addressing infrastructure and talent retention challenges.