15th August 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant call to action, Dr. Prakash Kumar Shrestha, a distinguished Member of the National Planning Commission, has underscored the imperative of a citizen- and society-centered approach to digital transformation in Nepal.
Digital transformation in Nepal: Dr. Shrestha
Speaking on Friday, Dr. Shrestha emphasized that the evolving digital landscape must primarily serve the populace and address their real-world challenges.
“The development of digital technology is itself an innovation. The use of digital technology is fostering further innovations in other sectors,” Dr. Shrestha stated. “All innovations must address the real problems of society. Digital transformation should be citizen-focused and serve the interests of society.”
His remarks highlight a critical perspective for Nepal’s digital journey, urging a shift from mere technological adoption to purposeful implementation that genuinely benefits the lives of Nepalese citizens.
Bridging Gaps and Unlocking Potential
Dr. Shrestha pointed out that technology has already proven its capacity to empower marginalized communities by amplifying their voices. For a landlocked country like Nepal, he asserted, information technology presents a “vital solution” to overcome geographical constraints and traditional economic limitations.
“We cannot compete with neighboring countries in the traditional production of goods because our productivity and competitiveness are weak,” he explained. “But we can excel in IT. We can overcome the challenges posed by being landlocked, which in turn can create alternative sources of income. For this, the government and the private sector must move forward together.”
This vision positions the IT sector as a potential game-changer for Nepal, offering a pathway to diversify its economy and reduce its heavy reliance on imports and remittances. Digital technology and innovation, he believes, can lay a hopeful foundation for the country’s economic future.
Addressing the Challenges: Cybersecurity and Digital Literacy
However, Dr. Shrestha also delivered a crucial warning: the rapid advancement of technology, while offering immense opportunities, simultaneously brings forth significant challenges, particularly in cybersecurity.
He stressed the urgent need to enhance digital literacy across the nation to navigate these complexities effectively and ensure safe and productive engagement with the digital world.
As Nepal continues its digital transformation journey, Dr. Shrestha’s insights serve as a guiding principle: technology must be a tool for inclusive growth, societal well-being, and economic resilience, with a strong emphasis on empowering citizens and fortifying digital defenses. The collaborative effort between the government and private sector, coupled with widespread digital literacy initiatives, will be paramount to realizing this transformative vision for Nepal.