Policies on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Nepal: A Review of the Agricultural Sector

Abstract

Background: The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into agriculture is increasingly recognized as a means to improve productivity, facilitate knowledge dissemination, and enhance rural livelihoods. In Nepal, various policy initiatives have been formulated to promote ICT in the agricultural sector. Despite these initiatives, issues related to coordination, digital literacy, infrastructure, and financing have posed significant implementation challenges.
Areas Covered: This paper critically reviews key ICT policies and strategies in Nepal, particularly in relation to agriculture focusing to their effectiveness, challenges, and future directions for enhancing digital integration. Policies analyzed include the National Communication Policy (1992), Information Technology Policy (2000), Telecommunication Policy (2004), and National ICT Policy (2015), along with agriculture-specific policies such as the Agriculture Development Strategy (2014). It explores how these policies align with digital integration in agriculture and identifies major gaps and overlaps in policy execution.
Expert Opinion: A coherent national ICT-agriculture strategy is critical. Nepal must adopt a unified governance framework, enhance rural connectivity, invest in digital literacy, and promote public-private partnerships. Strengthening these areas would foster inclusive agricultural transformation and sustainable rural development.