Key Takeaways:

• Broadband costs to fall to 2.4% of per capita GNI in 5 years, 1.5% in 10
• Digital literacy targets: 60% in 5 years, 85% in 10 years
• ICT contribution to GDP set at 4% in 5 years, 7% in 10 years
• Policy integrates four existing frameworks and aligns with cyber, AI and satellite policies

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 21 Nepal has set its sights on making basic broadband more affordable and raising digital literacy to 85 percent within the next decade under a new integrated telecommunications policy proposed by the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA). The draft policy targets reducing the cost of basic broadband services to 2.4 percent of per capita gross national income within five years and 1.5 percent within 10 years. It also proposes increasing the direct contribution of information and communications technology (ICT) to the country's GDP to 4 percent in five years and 7 percent in 10 years. Digital literacy is set as a major priority, with targets of 60 percent in five years and 85 percent in 10 years, supported by expanded digital skills programmes. The NTA said the policy consolidates four existing frameworks - the Information and Communications Sector Long-term Policy (2059), Telecommunications Policy (2060), Broadband Policy (2071), and ICT Policy (2072) - while facilitating implementation of newer strategies including the Satellite Policy (2077), National Cyber Security Policy (2080), Radio Frequency Allocation Policy (2080), and National AI Policy (2082). Officials said several objectives of earlier policies have already been achieved, creating a need for new targets that reflect technological and economic changes. The draft emphasizes closing Nepal's digital divide, expanding infrastructure in rural areas, adopting innovative technologies and strengthening public–private partnerships. It also prioritises competitive licensing, radio-frequency distribution, skilled human resources, research into emerging technologies, and wider use of ICT across education, health, tourism, industry and energy. The NTA said the new policy is designed to ensure that opportunities created by emerging technologies reach ordinary consumers, support digital transformation and contribute to inclusive economic and social development.