Kathmandu:
Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has announced that the government will implement the Digital Nepal Framework (DNF) 2.0 within this year.
Speaking at a meeting of the Development, Economic Affairs and Good Governance Committee under the National Assembly on Tuesday, Gurung said the updated framework has been prepared and will soon be submitted to the Council of Ministers for endorsement. DNF 2.0 expands on the first version, launched in 2076 BS, by including sectors such as agriculture, health, education, urban infrastructure, energy, tourism, finance, and digital foundations.
The government has estimated a budget of Rs 107.50 billion for the plan, which aims to serve as a foundation for Nepal’s economic transformation. Gurung noted that no foreign assistance has been received for the initiative, and the Ministry will proceed with enforcement independently, forming a committee led by the Chief Secretary to coordinate efforts.
He added that a separate policy document on artificial intelligence is also awaiting Cabinet approval, which is expected to enhance the framework’s effectiveness. The Ministry is working to expand 4G access nationwide, roll out 5G services from Kathmandu and Pokhara, and digitize the Postal Service Department and data centers.
At the meeting, Ministry Secretary Radhika Aryal outlined recent law and policy reforms, while Joint Secretary Kosh Hari Niraula stressed the need for staff to upgrade their skills. Postal Service Director General Manmaya Pangeni Bhattarai reported significant improvements in postal services compared to the past.