KATHMANDU — The government has announced plans to divest 34 percent of its shares in Nepal Telecom, opening up ownership of the state-owned company to the general public.

Presenting the federal budget, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle said the state will retain a 66 percent controlling stake, while the remaining shares will be sold, with the process expected to be completed by mid-January 2027.

He added that proceeds from the share sale will be directed toward developing Nepal as a regional technology hub, rather than being used for regular government expenditure.