Kathmandu, January 26

The 23rd edition of CAN InfoTech commenced in the Capital from today.  The exhibition was inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Mahara said that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a vital part of development and has to be adopted by all.

“ICT usage in government agencies is very crucial as it plugs the loopholes and increases accountability of government work. ICT sector has to be developed also because development of any country today hinges on how strong its ICT industry is,” said Mahara.

President of CAN Federation Binod Dhakal said that ICT has become an integral part of human life and thus, the government should keep ICT industry in priority.

“From inception of Computer Association of Nepal (CAN), we have been hosting such events and lobbying with government to develop, expand and promote ICT industry of Nepal. However, we are still lagging behind in ICT development when compared to other nations,” he said. “The government should be more serious in enhancing ICT sector of Nepal and increasing people’s access to technology.”

CAN InfoTech is regarded as a mega IT event in the country. According to CAN Federation, 158 domestic IT firms are participating in the exhibition this year. They are exhibiting IT products and services related to power solution, mobile accessories, hardware sales and maintenance, internet service providers, telecommunication, software and payment solutions, among others through 222 stalls, according to the organisers.

Meanwhile, participating companies at CAN InfoTech have also introduced various offers for visitors throughout the event. The 4G service of Nepal Telecom (NT) and broadband internet offered by different internet service providers are the major highlights of the event. Visitors in the event can also get sure-shot prizes on the purchase of mobile phones of different brands.

CAN Federation expects to draw more than 400,000 visitors in the six-day event that is being held at Bhrikutimandap Exhibition Hall.