24th February 2025, Kathmandu
Experts at TechGov Nepal 2025 emphasized that digital governance is a political agenda requiring commitment from policy formulation to budget allocation. The event was organized by Marching Ants in collaboration with The Asia Foundation.
Digital Governance Nepal 2025
Former Vice Chairperson of the High-Level Commission for Information Technology, Manohar Bhattarai, stated that digital governance can transform Nepal’s economy. He cited examples from Estonia, India, the UAE, Singapore, and South Korea.
“Digital governance should create jobs, modernize agriculture and tourism, and support economic growth,” Bhattarai said. He stressed its role in improving education, healthcare, and social inclusion.
According to him, transparency and efficiency in governance will increase with digital governance. However, a clear policy framework, budget allocation, and strong political commitment are necessary for full implementation.
E-Governance and Policy Framework
Dipesh Bista, CEO of the E-Governance Board, emphasized that digital governance is both a political and economic issue. He urged policymakers to prioritize its implementation.
“When data moves efficiently, citizens will spend less time visiting offices for the same services,” he explained.
Bista highlighted Estonia’s success, where digital governance saved 2,599 working hours in 2024. He stressed the importance of a data exchange platform and mentioned that Nepal’s e-governance blueprint is under discussion.
E-Governance for Migrant Workers
IT law expert Prabin Subedi pointed out that migrant workers also need awareness about digital governance. The Department of Foreign Employment has introduced online services for job orders, medical check-ups, and insurance.
He noted that Nepal, along with India and the Philippines, is using digital governance to improve services for workers abroad.
Progress in Digital Governance
Kedar Bhandari, an engineer at the E-Governance Board, shared that Nepal’s e-governance blueprint is ready and undergoing stakeholder discussions. He outlined its potential to drive economic transformation.
Media’s Role in Digital Governance
Experts also discussed the crucial role of media in raising awareness about digital governance.
Ramesh Sharma Poudyal, Director General of the Department of Information Technology, said media helps disseminate government services to the public.
“The government relies on media to inform citizens. Media should present this information in a simple and accessible manner,” he said.
Nirmala Sharma, President of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, emphasized that journalists should be well-informed about digital governance.
“Journalists need proper training and awareness to communicate digital initiatives effectively,” she said.
Senior journalist Babita Basnet highlighted the importance of digital literacy for successful governance. She noted that digital governance strengthens democracy and government accountability.
Conclusion
Experts at TechGov Nepal 2025 called for political commitment, policy clarity, and media collaboration to advance digital governance. They stressed that digital transformation is key to efficient governance, economic progress, and better public services.
For more: Digital Governance Nepal 2025