LALITPUR, Aug 15: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said that all social media platforms operating in Nepal must come under the legal framework.
Speaking at the inaugural session of Digital Nepal Conclave 2025 organized by the ICT Foundation, PM Oli said such platforms should be registered in accordance with Nepal’s existing laws, pay taxes and fulfill other obligations. He recalled having already directed the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to bring social media under legal jurisdiction.
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“Any technology-related business in Nepal must be known to the government. All activities carried out through social media here must comply with Nepali law, fulfill their obligations, and pay taxes,” he said. “The government will do whatever is necessary to develop the ICT sector. The government belongs to the people and will focus on the ICT development they want. Both domestic and foreign investments in ICT can generate income—move forward with confidence, the government is with you.”
PM Oli said that rapidly advancing information technology is pulling people forward, recalling with delight that during his Pushpalal Mid-Hill Highway journey, even elderly residents of remote Rukum villages knew how to view and download Facebook photos.
He emphasized that Nepal is well-suited for digital technology and green energy, and stressed the need to leverage artificial intelligence for development and prosperity. Citing last year’s initiative to provide SEE students with online learning, which benefited over 150,000 students and improved results, he highlighted the importance of using mobile technology for education while shielding children from its negative effects.
Mentioning that the government has recently passed an AI policy and is focused on transforming ICT-related development, PM Oli criticized those who spread deliberate pessimism by ignoring existing progress. He reiterated that the government, with a clear stance on stability, good governance, and development through ICT, will encourage private sector participation.
