Kathmandu : Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has said that it was not enough for Nepal Telecom to reach all districts in theory.

The work of bringing 4G network to every household and expanding 5G network should begin immediately.     

In addition, Minister Gurung urged not to delay in the expansion of telecommunications as problems with the internet and telephone will make it difficult to realize the government’s digital framework objectives and create challenges to maintaining digital good governance.     

During a discussion on the annual budget and program of NTC and NTA for financial year 2025/26 held at the ministry today, he drew the attention of the NTA and NTC to reduce network inconveniences on highways, while working to expanding services where the public needs the most.     

Stating that internet and telephone facilities are very important to promote tourism, Minister Gurung urged to make network expansion effective in tourist destinations. He pointed out that Nepal Telecom’s promotional activities have been very low and requested the public to be informed about NTC by promoting it in areas such as education and health.     

During the discussion, Communications Secretary Radhika Aryal also directed NTA to prepare an action plan that would encourage the young generation who are doing innovative work in the field of information technology. “It is the responsibility of the state to carrying out such initiatives along with the demand of the time.”     

NTA Chair Bhupendra Bhandari informed that the work of operating the 5G network has almost reached the final stage, with the bidding process to be initiated soon.     

 NTC Acting Managing Director Sabina Maskey (Pradhan) also said that the 4G expansion is ongoing and preparations are underway to launch 5G.(RSS)