Digital Karnali Conclave 2025: Driving Digital Transformation in Nepal
22nd April 2025, Kathmandu
The Digital Karnali Conclave 2025 officially began in Birendranagar, Surkhet, marking a significant milestone in the journey to transform Karnali Province into a digital hub.
Digital Karnali Conclave 2025
The two-day event is jointly organized by the Karnali Provincial Government and ICT Foundation Nepal, and is hosted at Shubha Hotel.
Over 500 Participants Join the Second Edition of Digital Karnali Conclave
With the theme “Empowering the Future: Innovation, Connectivity, and Sustainability,” this year’s Digital Karnali Conclave has brought together more than 500 participants, including:
Hon. Chief Minister Yam Lal Kandel (Chief Guest)
Provincial ministers and assembly members
Senior government officials
Public representatives and policymakers
National and international ICT experts
Private sector leaders and entrepreneurs
Key Highlights: Innovation, Connectivity, and Sustainable Development
The conclave features:
3 keynote sessions
7 lightning talks
10 panel discussions under 7 thematic areas
The topics being addressed include:
Digital Infrastructure
Fintech and Digital Economy
Digital Education
E-Governance & Digital Policy
Agri-Tech and Smart Tourism
Digital Health
Startups and Youth Entrepreneurship
More than 50 speakers from Nepal and abroad are participating, sharing insights on how to overcome Karnali’s digital divide and unlock its ICT potential.
Leaders Acknowledge Challenges and Opportunities
Chief Minister Yam Lal Kandel:
“The digital transformation journey in Karnali is not easy due to a lack of electricity, internet, and basic infrastructure. However, the importance of digital technology is far greater in geographically remote regions like ours.”
He added that discussions at the conclave would help the government carve out a roadmap for a digitally empowered Karnali.
Industry and Political Leaders Echo Support
Padam Bahadur Shahi, President of FNCCI Karnali Province, raised concerns about unreliable electricity and internet connectivity hampering digital progress.
Jeevan Bahadur Shahi, former Chief Minister and Nepali Congress leader, said the Conclave is a wake-up call and an opportunity to showcase Karnali as a model of digital transformation.
Mahendra Bahadur Shahi, Member of Parliament and former Chief Minister, reflected on how the digital vision for Karnali was once mocked, but is now gaining ground with committed efforts and planning.
Digital Solutions for Karnali Showcased
The Conclave also featured a tech showcase, with digital solutions and innovative ideas specifically designed for Karnali’s development. These include localized ICT applications in agriculture, tourism, education, and public service delivery.
Secretary Pushpa Raj Shahi, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law:
“Digital technology is the key to efficiency, transparency, and accountability in governance.”
ICT Foundation Nepal Chairperson Rajan Lamsal:
“The Digital Karnali Conclave is more than an event—it’s a campaign. If the government focuses on infrastructure and policy, the private sector is ready to deliver the rest.”
Looking Ahead: Commitment to Digital Transformation
The event will conclude with the Karnali Digital Declaration, a formal commitment by the provincial government, through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law, to prioritize digital development in the region.
Why Digital Karnali Matters: A Vision for Nepal’s Digital Future?
The Digital Karnali Conclave is a timely initiative aimed at bridging the technological gap in Nepal’s most remote province. By addressing digital inclusion, public-private partnerships, and future-ready digital governance, the Conclave is setting the stage for a sustainable digital ecosystem in Karnali and beyond.
For more: Digital Karnali Conclave 2025
