LALITPUR: Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, has said that initiatives are being undertaken to propel Nepal forward on the digital front.

During the ‘Startup Summit 2025’ held today in Lalitpur, he announced that the government had enacted the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy within three months of its establishment, and efforts are in progress to develop the policy framework for Digital Nepal.

The Startup Summit is co-organized by The Startup Network Nepal and India Nepal Centre. Minister Kharel remarked, “In conjunction with the advancement of information technology, we must progress alongside the younger generation to establish Digital Nepal.”

He further stated, “If you wish to collaborate with the government in the realms of innovation, startups, entrepreneurship, and information technology, please submit a proposal; we are eager to work together and create opportunities.”

Minister Kharel expressed the intention to formulate a policy framework that addresses the necessity for youth to excel in information technology, AI, and digital avenues.

“The state has acknowledged the Gen Z movement as a movement of the people. Political consciousness among Gen Z in the nation has also significantly evolved, thus enabling us to effect change. We will advance by responding to the aspirations of the youth in a policy-driven manner,” he added.

Minister Kharel indicated that while it would have been fitting to facilitate voting for the election on March 5 through information technology, this was not feasible this time due to a lack of general consensus.

He emphasized that the forthcoming election presents an opportune moment to select the right leadership and to elect capable leaders to the parliament.

Manjeev Singh Puri, the former Indian Ambassador to Nepal and Chairman of the India Nepal Centre, underscored that technology is reshaping the world and stressed the necessity for proper implementation.