22nd January 2024, Kathmandu
The long-awaited integration of the National ID Card (NID) in the Nagarik App is now live, marking a significant milestone in Nepal’s digital governance transformation. This update, effective from Magh 1, 2080 (January 14, 2024), is set to simplify access to various government and financial services, ensuring a more efficient and user-friendly experience for Nepali citizens.
Nagarik App Now Integrates
Key Highlights of the New Integration
National ID Card for Financial Services
In line with the Government of Nepal’s directive, the National ID (NID) is now required for opening new bank accounts and accessing other financial services. This mandate was officially published in the Nepal Gazette on Ashadh 10, 2081 (July 24, 2024), and all banks and financial institutions are now required to use the National ID number for account opening and verification purposes.
Streamlined Services for Citizens
The Nagarik App continues to evolve, offering a comprehensive range of government services in a single digital platform. With the integration of the NID, users can now link their National Identity information for a variety of purposes, including bank account openings, KYC verification, and digital governance services.
Expanded Features in the Nagarik App
The Nagarik App serves as a one-stop solution for various government services, eliminating the need to physically visit government offices. Some of the key features include:
Online Services: Access to Nepal Police Clearance Report, Election Commission Voter Card Pre-Registration, Vehicle Tax Payments, and more.
Digital Verification: The app facilitates KYC (Know Your Customer) processes for financial institutions, making the NID a central point of verification for digital banking and other services.
Traffic Violation Management: The E-Chalan system allows users to receive and pay traffic fines electronically through the app.
Health and Safety Services: Pre-registration for COVID-19 vaccinations and QR-based vaccination certificates.
Public Service Updates: My Municipality feature includes contact information for representatives, ambulance services, and details about local budgets and plans.
Expert Opinions on Nagarik App’s Integration
While the integration of the National ID in the Nagarik App is a major advancement, some concerns have been raised. Avijeet Timilsena, an IT Support Network and System expert, shared his thoughts on the integration. He said, “I am not sure whether to feel happy about the integration because I have seen a few integrations, like COVID-19 vaccination information and vehicle tax information, disappear even though they were working well and were informative. As a citizen who tries to use the Nagarik App to its fullest, I am still unsure whether this integration is temporary or permanent. Also, I am concerned about Data Security.”
On the other hand, Chiranjibi Adhikari, CEO of One Cover Private Limited, expressed enthusiasm about the app’s potential, stating, “This is awesome!! Encouraging to see the Nagarik app becoming a potential platform for data X-change and can be used as public infrastructure for ensuring seamless service delivery, governance, and transparency across various sectors both public and private.” This positive outlook highlights the potential of the app in driving not only digital governance but also fostering better collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Recognition for Nagarik App
Nagarik App has been recognized globally for its impact on digital governance. In 2022, it won the prestigious World Summit Award in the Government and Citizen Engagement category, selected from over 180 participants. This recognition highlights the app’s contribution to enhancing public service delivery and engaging citizens in the digital transformation of Nepal.
How to Get Started with Nagarik App
Nepali citizens can download the Nagarik App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to take advantage of the newly integrated NID feature and other government services. Once installed, users need to register using their mobile number and verify their identity via OTP for access to the full range of services.
Conclusion
Integrating the National ID Card in the Nagarik App is a crucial step toward the modernization of Nepal’s governance system. It streamlines access to essential public services, improves transparency, and fosters greater civic engagement. With the digital transformation gaining momentum, the Nagarik App continues to be a cornerstone of Nepal’s efforts to create a more accessible, efficient, and citizen-friendly government.
By centralizing essential services and digital identities, the Nagarik App transforms how Nepali citizens interact with the government, ensuring a more efficient, streamlined, and accessible public service delivery system.
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