1.4 Economic Aspects of Nepal
1.4 Economic Aspects of Nepal 🌍📈
1.4.1 Economic Indicators (Economic Growth, GDP, GNP, Per Capita Income)
💹 Economic Growth
Economic growth is the positive change in the indicators of an economy. It is the increment amount of goods and services produced by an economy. Economic growth is conventionally measured as the percentage rate of increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). But, in modern sense it is measured in term of GDP as well as GNP and per capita Income.
🌍 World Economic Growth
The baseline forecast is for the world economy to continue growing at 3.2 percent during 2024 and 2025, at the same pace as in 2023.
🇳🇵 National Economy
Economic Growth (Nepal's Economy Forecasted by Various Sources)
National Institutions or Agencies
Annual Growth Rate of GDP at basic prices (National Statistics Office)
2.31% (FY: 2079/80)
16th Plan (FY: 2081/82 - FY: 2085/86)
3.54% (FY: 2080/81)
Long-term Vision (2100/01)
7.3% (FY: 2085/86)
Budget (FY: 2081/82)
10.5% (up to 2100)
International Institutions or Agencies
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
1.9% (2023/24)
3.6% (2024/25)
World Bank (WB)
3.9% (2023/24)
3.3% (2024/25)
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
0.8% (2023/24)
3.1% (2024/25)
Source: IMF World Economic Outlook, April 2024 (Projected*, Targeted**, Revised***) Nepal Development Prospects, World Bank, April 2024 Asian Development Outlook, April 2024
📊 Sectoral Structures of GDP
Share in GDP (in Percent) at Current Prices
Primary Sector (Agriculture)
25.0
24.4
24.6
Secondary Sector (Industrial)
13.7
13.1
12.5
Tertiary Sector (Service)
61.3
62.5
62.9
Agriculture
24.7
23.9
24.1
Non-Agriculture
75.3
76.1
75.9
Real GDP Growth (Percent) at Basic Prices
GDP Growth
5.28
2.31
3.54
Primary Sector
2.5
2.7
3.0
Secondary Sector
10.8
1.4
1.2
Tertiary Sector
5.3
2.4
4.5
Agriculture
2.35
2.76
3.05
Non-Agriculture
6.54
2.13
3.75
Source: National Statistics Office, April 30, 2024 (Projected*)
👤 Per Capita Income
Per capita income is a measure of the amount of money earned per person in a nation or geographic region.
It can be used to determine the average per-person income and evaluate the standard of living and quality of life.
It is calculated as:
📈 Per-Capita Income (Macroeconomic Indicator)
Per capita GDP (US $) at current price
1,389
1,434
Per capita GNI (US $) at current price
1,405
1,456
Per capita GNDI (US $)
1,755
1,843
Source: National Statistics Office, 2081 (Projected*)
🏙️ Economic and Social Conditions of Provinces
Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Of the estimated GDP (at current prices) of 57.484 billion in FY 2023/24, the share of Bagmati province is the highest (36.4%) and Karnali province the lowest (4.3%).
📍 Province-wise GDP Growth Rate at Consumer Price (In %)
2021/22
5.6
5.1
6.2
5.9
5.2
4.8
4.7
5.63%
2022/23
2.1
1.5
1.8
3.3
2.0
2.0
1.5
1.95%
2023/24*
3.5
3.8
4.0
4.6
4.1
3.4
3.4
3.87%
Projected*
📊 Province-wise Social and Economic Indicators (FY 2023/24)
1. Administrative & Demographic
Local Levels
753
137
136
119
85
109
79
88
Population (%)
100
17.0
21.1
21.0
8.3
17.7
5.8
9.1
Area (%)
100
17.6
6.6
13.8
15.3
11.8
21.6
13.3
2. Economic & Social
Economic Growth** (Consumer Price)
3.87
3.5
3.8
4.0
4.6
4.1
3.4
3.4
GDP Contribution** (Province-wise)
100
15.8
13.1
36.4
9.1
14.3
4.3
7.1
GDP Per Capita**
1,434
1,336
892
2,484
1,557
1,159
1,066
1,111
Hydroelectricity* Generation (MW)
3,060
577
25.0
1,196
933
58
16.0
171
Access to Electricity* (%)
97.7
95.3
100.0
99.5
99.3
98.3
68.5
83.5
Forest (%)
100
18.8
3.9
18.7
12.8
16.2
13.5
16.1
Source: Economic Survey FY 2080/81 *Up to mid-March 2024 | **Projected
1.4.2 Infrastructures of Development of Nepal 🏗️
🏛️ Infrastructures of Development
Nepal has pursued the approach of developing multiple sectors of the economy. The major aspects are agriculture, industry, trade, tourism, foreign employment, and human resources, prioritized in government policies, plans, and strategies.
Before 1990, the government's role was prominent in all economic spheres.
After the restoration of democracy in 1990, Nepal adopted an open & liberal market economy.
The concept shifted from government-led to private sector-led economic development.
Today, Nepal follows a three-pillar economy with public, private, and cooperative sectors actively participating.
Public-private partnership (PPP) is highly prioritized for smooth economic development.
🌾 Agriculture
Agriculture is an age-old occupation concerned with crop and livestock production.
Traditional base of Nepali economy.
Contributes more than one-fourth of GDP.
According to National Agricultural Census 2078, 62% of households are engaged in agriculture.
According to Population Census 2078, 57.3% of the population has agriculture as their primary occupation.
Nepal imports a large amount of agricultural products every year, with an increasing trend.
20-Year Long-Term Agriculture Development Strategy 2072 implemented from FY 2073/74.
By the end of the 16th Plan, agriculture's contribution to GDP will decrease from 23.9% to 21.0%.
Employment in agriculture is declining due to technology, professionalism, and expansion of the service sector.
Gross value added of the agriculture sector is estimated to grow by 3.05% in FY 2023/24.
Contribution of agriculture (including forest and fisheries) to GDP in FY 2023/24: 24.1%.
Five Major Food Crops: Paddy, Maize, Wheat, Millet, Barley. Major Cash Crops: Jute, Sugarcane, Tobacco, Oil products. District with Highest Paddy Production: Jhapa 🍚 First Irrigation Project: Chandra Canal (1965 B.S.) 🚜
☕ Coffee Farming
In 1938 AD, hermit Hiralal Giri brought coffee seeds from Myanmar and planted them in Aapchar, Gulmi District for the first time in Nepal.
National Tea and Coffee Development Board (NTCDB) established in 1993 under the Ministry of Agricultural Development.
First Coffee Day observed in 2062 B.S.
World's largest coffee consumer: Finland ☕
World's largest coffee producer: Brazil 🌎
📊 Agriculture Census
Conducted by Central Bureau of Statistics every 10 years.
First census: 2018 B.S. (1961/62 AD).
Agriculture Census 2021/22 is the seventh census.
Data collection: May 29 to June 2, 2022.
🏘️ One Village One Product Program (OVOP)
Launched on July 17, 2006 as a pilot project (Public Private Partnership).
Partners: Ministry of Agriculture Development (MoAD) and Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI).
Initially launched in 7 districts with 4 products: Sweet oranges, Lapsi, Rainbow trout fish, Bel.
Extended to almost all districts within 11 years.
OVOP is a Japanese philosophy implemented in Nepal from FY 2063/64 budget.
🌱 Famous and Popular Agro-Products in Nepal
Aapchaur, Gulmi
Coffee Farming
Aathrai, Bhojpur
Khukuri
Malneta, Salyan
Ginger
Krishna Gandaki
Saligram
Dailekh
Leather
Jumla
Apple
Chitlang, Makwanpur
Radish
Tikani, Bode, Bhaktapur
Beaten paddy
Khokna, Lalitpur
Oil
Chitwan
Mustard
Bhaktapur
Curd
Kaski
Muffler
Dhunbeshi, Dhading
Sugarcane
Bhaktapur
Pot of soil
Sikarbesi, Nuwakot
Rice
Biratnagar
Jute
Baglung, Doti
Pipe of Hookah
Palpa
Dhaka
Pherping, Kathmandu
Pear
Achham
Milky Cow
Illam/Jhapa
Tea
Banke, Bardia
Cotton
Pokhara/Dhankuta
Orange
Jhapa
Paddy
📈 Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Contribution of agriculture (including forest and fisheries) to GDP: 24.1% (FY 2023/24), up from 23.92% in FY 2022/23.
Average annual growth rate of agriculture in the last decade: 2.9%.
🌳 Forests and Soil Conservation
According to FAO, forests cover 31.0% of the world's total area.
54.0% of the world's forest area is covered by Brazil, Canada, China, Russia, and the USA.
🏭 Industry
After 1990, Nepal adopted a liberal and open market economy.
Industrial Enterprises Act 2076 categorizes industries based on production, nature, service, and investment.
Privatization Act 2050 promoted the role of the private sector.
11 industrial estates exist (10 operational), with plans to increase.
Investment Board (chaired by PM), Industrial Security Force, Special Economic Zone (SEZ) operational from Mangsir 02, 2071.
Industrial corridor and SEZ embraced as state policies.
🏢 Classification of Industry
Based on Production, Nature, and Service:
Agriculture and forestry-based
Production-oriented
Energy-oriented
Mining
Tourism
Construction
Information and communication technology
Service
Based on Investment:
Micro Industry
Up to 2,000,000
Cottage Industry
Traditional skill and technology-based
Small Industry
Up to 150,000,000
Medium Industry
150,000,001 - 500,000,000
Large Industry
Above 500,000,000
📜 Provisions in the 16th Plan
By the end of the 16th Plan, the contribution of the industrial sector to GDP will reach 5.6%.
📊 Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Output of the industrial (manufacturing) sector in FY 2023/24: negative 1.6%.
Contribution to GDP: 4.87% (down from 5.16% in previous year).
Average growth rate of industrial production in the last 10 years: 2.59%.
Average contribution to GDP in the last 10 years: 5.6%.
🏢 Industrial Estates
As of mid-March 2024:
Total industries established in 10 industrial zones: 703
Currently operational: 619
Under construction: 42
Closed: 22
🤝 Trade
Nepal has pursued a liberal trade policy since 1990.
Trade liberalization began with the Economic Reform Program 1991.
Nepal became a member of WTO on April 23, 2004 (147th member).
Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) are key trade instruments.
📜 Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)
Avoids double taxation on income earned in another country.
First DTAA: with Norway (1996).
Last DTAA: with Bangladesh (2019).
1
India
Jan 18, 1987 (Revised Nov 27, 2011)
2
Norway
May 13, 1996
3
Thailand
Feb 02, 1998
4
Sri Lanka
July 06, 1999
5
Mauritius
Aug 03, 1999
6
Austria
Dec 15, 2000
7
Pakistan
Jan 25, 2001
8
China
May 14, 2001
9
South Korea
Oct 05, 2001
10
Qatar
Oct 15, 2007
11
Bangladesh
Mar 05, 2019 (MOU signed)
🤝 Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA)
Protects and promotes foreign direct investment (FDI).
Nepal has signed BIPPA with 6 countries.
1
France
May 02, 1983
2
Germany
Oct 20, 1986
3
United Kingdom
Mar 02, 1993
4
Mauritius
Aug 03, 1999
5
Finland
Feb 03, 2009
6
India
Oct 21, 2011
🏢 Public Enterprises (PEs)
Established post-WWII for welfare state and planned development.
First PE: Biratnagar Jute Mill (1936).
By the end of the Seventh Five-Year Plan (1985-1990), total PEs: 62.
As of now, total PEs: 44 (20 fully owned, 24 majority owned).
🏛️ Ownership Structure
Industrial
10
Trading
4
Services
11
Social
5
Public Utility
5
Financial
9
Ministry-wise Distribution:
Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply (MoICS): 13
Ministry of Finance (MoF): 8
Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transportation (MoPIT): 5
Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI): 4
Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT): 3
Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA): 3
Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoAD): 3
Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE): 2
Others: 3 (MoUD, MoWS, MoEST)
📊 Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Total PEs: 44 (20 fully owned, 24 majority owned).
In operation: 41 (26 profit, 15 loss).
Zero transaction: 3.
Top 5 Profit-Making PEs (FY 2022/23):
Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC)
Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)
Nepal Tele-Communication Company Limited (NTC)
Citizen Investment Trust (CIT)
Deposit & Credit Guarantee Fund
Top 5 Loss-Making PEs (FY 2022/23):
Nepal Airlines (NAC)
Nepal Water Supply Corporation (NWSC)
Dairy Development Corporation (DDC)
Udaypur Cement Limited
Nepal Television (NTV)
🗺️ Tourism
High potential for economic development.
Constitution of Nepal includes policies for developing tourism as a key driver of the national economy.
National Tourism Strategic Plan 2016-2025 aimed to attract 2.5 million tourists by 2025.
Tourism Policy 2065 aims to diversify and expand tourism.
Nepal's tourism brand: "Naturally Nepal: Once is Not Enough".
✈️ Tourism Development
Open-sky policy adopted to promote foreign and private investment in aviation.
Visit Nepal 2020 aimed to attract 2 million tourists (suspended due to COVID-19).
Decade-long tourism development plan (2023-2032) in implementation.
Religious tourism promoted (Lumbini, temples, stupas, etc.).
Eco-tourism, rural tourism, home-stay facilities promoted.
🗓️ Tourism Campaigns
2013
Jalala - Dhorpatan
1998: Visit Nepal
2014
Bideha - Mithila - Sahalesh
2002-2003: Destination Nepal
2015
Birat - Mechi - Pahadi Tourism
2011: Together for Tourism
2016
Ruru - Pokhara - Annapurna - Masalu Tourism Year
2012: Visit Lumbini
2017
Simara - Kathmandu - Langtang Tourism Year
2020: Visit Nepal Year
2018
Arun - Sagarmatha Tourism Year
-
2019
Chisapani - Khaptad - Ramarosan Tourism Year
-
🏆 Tourism Facts
First tourist: Emperor Ashoka (with daughter Charumati) during Kirat rule.
World Tourism Day: September 27 (since 1980).
WTO Headquarters: Madrid, Spain.
Theme 2023: "Tourism and Green Investment".
Most visited country: France.
Nepal ranked 8th in Lonely Planet's "10 Best Countries to Visit in 2024".
🌿 Types of Tourism
Eco-Tourism: Coined by Héctor Ceballos-Lascurain (1983). Adopted in Nepal from the 6th Five-Year Plan.
Controlled Tourism: Eco-friendly, people-friendly, culture-friendly. Adopted by Bhutan.
MICE Tourism: Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions.
Sustainable Tourism: Considers economic, social, environmental impacts.
Rural Tourism: First destination in Nepal: Sirubari, Syangja.
Agro-Tourism: Combines tourism and agriculture.
📊 Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Top 5 Tourist Arrivals by Country (2023):
India: 31.52%
USA: 9.9%
China: 6.0%
UK: 5.2%
Australia: 3.82%
Purpose of Visit:
Recreational/Holiday: 62.5%
Trekking/Mountaineering: 15.2%
Religious: 13.1%
Others: 9.2%
Average stay: 13.2 days.
Contribution to GDP: 1.65% (projected to rise to 1.98%).
📈 Tourism Fact Sheet: 2021–2023
2021
15.5
India, USA, UK, China, Bangladesh
Recreational 66.8%
48
2022
13.1
India, USA, UK, Australia, Bangladesh
Recreational 64.7%
40.5
2023
13.2
India, USA, China, UK, Australia
Recreational 62.5%
41
📊 Major Tourism Indicators: 2021–2023
1
Tourist Arrivals
Persons
150,962
614,869
1,014,882
2
Avg. Expenses/Visitor/Day
US$
48
40.5
41
3
Length of Stay
Days
15.5
13.1
13.2
4
International Airlines Operating
No.
20
27
31
5
Bilateral Airline Agreements
No.
41
41
41
6
All-Season Airports (Black-topped)
No.
37
41
41
7
Contribution to GDP
%
1.7
2.1
-
8
Peaks Opened for Mountaineering
No.
414
414
414
⚡ Hydropower
Theoretical potential: 83,000 MW
Technically & economically viable: 42,000 MW
Electricity development started in 1911 AD.
Electricity Act 2049 opened sector to private investment.
Energy Day: Jestha 9.
Decade of Energy and Water Resource: 2075–2085 BS.
97.7% of population has access to electricity.
🏔️ Major Hydropower Plants (>1 MW)
1
Khimti-I
60.000
Himal Power
Dolakha & Ramechhap
2
Tinau
1.024
NEA
Palpa
3
Seti
1.500
NEA
Kaski
4
Marsyangdi
69.000
NEA
Tanahu
5
Kulekhani-I
60.000
NEA
Makawanpur
6
Trishuli
24.000
NEA
Nuwakot
7
Gandak
15.000
NEA
Nawalparasi
8
Panauti
2.400
NEA
Kavrepalanchok
9
Tatopani
2.000
NEA
Myagdi
10
Kulekhani-II
32.000
NEA
Makawanpur
11
Devighat
14.100
NEA
Nuwakot
12
Sun Koshi
10.050
NEA
Sindhupalchok
13
Andhi Khola
9.400
Butwal Power
Syangja
14
Jhimruk Khola
12.500
Butwal Power
Pyuthan
15
Puwa
6.200
NEA
Ilam
16
Modi Khola
14.800
NEA
Parbat
17
Kali Gandaki A
144.000
NEA
Syangja
18
Upper Bhotekoshi
45.000
Bhotekoshi Power
Sindhupalchok
19
Chilime
22.000
Chilime Hydropower
Rasuwa
20
Indrawati-III
7.500
National Hydropower
Sindhupalchok
21
Madhya Marsyangdi
70.000
NEA
Lamjung
22
Chameliya Khola
30.000
NEA
Darchula
23
Kulekhani-III
14.000
NEA
Makawanpur
24
Upper Tamakoshi
456.000
Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower
Dolakha
25
Upper Trishuli 3A
60.000
NEA
Rasuwa
26
Upper Marsyangdi A
50.000
Sinohydro-Sagarmatha
Lamjung
🔥 Thermal Power Plants
1
Duhabi Multifuel
39,000
2
Hetauda Diesel
14,410
Total
53,410
📊 Total Installed Capacity (as of FY 2023/24)
Hydro (NEA - Grid)
578,624
Hydro (NEA - Isolated)
4,536
Hydro (NEA Total)
583,160
Hydro (NEA Subsidiary)
478,100
Hydro (IPPs)
1,477,013
Total Hydro (Nepal)
2,538,273
Thermal (NEA)
53,410
Solar (NEA)
25,000
Solar (IPPs)
61,940
Bagasse (IPPs)
6,000
Total Installed (Grid-Connected)
2,680,087
Total Installed (Overall)
2,684,623
🔨 Under Construction (NEA Subsidiary)
Tanahu
140,000
Rasuwagadi
111,000
Madya Bhotekoshi
102,000
Sanjen
42,500
Rahuganga
40,000
Upper Trisuli 3B
37,000
Upper Sanjen
14,800
Tamakoshi-V
860
Upper Modi 'A'
42,000
Total
615,367
🌞 Alternative Energy
Aim: Achieve SDGs, promote green economy, mitigate greenhouse gas impacts.
Installed capacity: 84.74 MW.
Provides electricity to 5.9% of the population.
11.7% of population uses clean renewable energy for various purposes.
📊 Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Access to electricity: 97.7% (as of mid-March 2024).
Previous year (mid-July 2023): 95.0%.
Province-wise Access to Electricity (%):
Koshi
96.95
97.3
Madhesh
99.66
100.0
Bagmati
95.91
99.0
Gandaki
95.68
99.3
Lumbini
94.91
98.3
Karnali
43.87
68.5
Sudurpaschim
71.07
83.5
Nepal
94.0
97.7
*Till mid-March 2024
⚡ Electricity Generation in FY 2023/24 (First 8 Months)
Total Generated: 3,060.1 MW
Hydroelectricity
2,818.91
92.1%
Thermal Plant
53.4
1.7%
Alternative Energy
84.74
1.2%
Solar Plant
97.04
4.7%
Sugar Mill (by-product)
6.0
0.2%
Ownership-wise Grid Connection:
Nepal Electricity Authority: 660.45 MW
NEA Subsidiaries: 492.90 MW
Private Sector: 1,822.01 MW
Electricity Trade with India (FY 2023/24):
Import: Reduced by 928 GWh
Export: 1,495 GWh
🛣️ Transportation
Key for economic development, public service delivery, and social integration.
Includes road, air, rail, water, and ropeway.
🛣️ Major Highways of Nepal
East-West (Mahendra)
1,027.67
Kakarwitta, Jhapa
Gaddachauki, Kanchanpur
Tribhuvan
159.66
Tripureshwor, Kathmandu
Sirsiya, Parsa
Araniko
112.83
Maitighar, Kathmandu
Kodari, Sindhupalchowk
Siddhartha
146.94
Belhiya, Rupandehi
Prithvichowk, Kaski
Prithvi
173.43
Naubise, Dhading
Prithvichowk, Kaski
Karnali
233
Bange Simal, Surkhet
Jumla Khalanga, Jumla
B.P. Highway
158
Bardibas, Mahottari
Dhulikhel, Kavre
Pasang Lhamu
117.10
Kathmandu
Dhunche, Rasuwa
Sagarmatha
178.97
Kadmaha Chowk, Saptari
Diktel, Khotang
Rapti
168.68
Alimiya, Dang
Khaulapa, Rukum
Mahakali
415.15
Mohanapul, Kailali
Tinkerpass, Darchula
Mid-Hill (Puspalal)
1,879
Chiyo Bhanjyang, Pachthar
Jhulaghat, Baitadi
Narayanghat-Mugling
36.16
Narayangadh
Mugling, Chitwan
🏗️ Transportation (Continued)
✈️ Air Transport
As of FY 2023/24:
International airlines operating: 31
Domestic airlines: 22
Bilateral Air Service Agreements signed with: 41 countries
All-weather black-topped airports: 41 (33 in regular operation)
🌐 Bilateral Air Services Agreements
Nepal has signed Bilateral Air Services Agreements and MoUs with 42 countries since 1963.
1
Austria
October 20, 1997
2
Bahrain
December 29, 2008
3
Bangladesh
May 23, 2005
4
Bhutan
May 23, 2014
5
Brunei
April 02, 1997
6
China
July 07, 1998
7
Croatia
March 30, 2004
8
Egypt
November 29, 1997
9
Germany
July 26, 2000
10
France
July 07, 1998
11
Hong Kong
May 23, 2007
12
India
November 26, 1964
13
Israel
December 25, 2006
14
Italy
May 08, 1997
15
Japan
February 17, 1993
16
Jordan
October 06, 1999
17
Kuwait
January 23, 2006
18
Luxembourg
June 18, 1999
19
Macau
February 19, 1998
20
Malaysia
December 12, 2007
21
Maldives
October 10, 1996
22
Myanmar
April 21, 2006
23
New Zealand
October 22, 2015
24
Oman
December 02, 1997
25
Pakistan
October 22, 2015
26
Philippines
November 18, 2004
27
Qatar
September 01, 2009
28
Republic of Korea
September 21, 2004
29
Russia
December 05, 1989
30
Saudi Arabia
October 23, 2015
31
Singapore
February 02, 2010
32
Sri Lanka
January 23, 2009
33
Thailand
February 16, 2004
34
Netherlands
April 17, 1998
35
Turkey
September 24, 2010
36
UAE
October 19, 2015
37
United Kingdom
March 03, 1994
38
Vietnam
October 20, 2015
39
Cambodia
November 29, 2018
40
Australia
September 30, 2019
41
Rwanda
December 05, 2023
42
Switzerland
February 06, 2024
Source: Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal
🚂 Railway Transport
Current Status (FY 2023/24):
Railway Construction
km
0.0
0.0
62.0
Track Bed Construction
km
3.5
6.5
63.0
Railway Bridge Construction
No.
24
1
4
*Till mid-March 2024 Source: Department of Railways, 2080
📡 Communication and Information Technology
The Constitution of Nepal guarantees:
Freedom of the press 🗞️
Freedom of speech and expression
Right to communication and information
SDG Goal: Substantially increase access to affordable internet for all.
Target by end of 16th Plan: Increase internet access from 65.9% to 80%.
📅 Major Milestones in Communication History
1875
Beginning of Postal Service in Nepal
1908
Establishment of first telephone lines in Kathmandu
1970
Establishment of MOHAN AKASHWANI
2005
Nepal obtained membership of International Telecommunications Union
2016
Establishment of National News Agency
2016
Department of Telecommunications established
2032
Establishment of Nepal Telecommunications Corporation
2040
Establishment of digital Telephone Exchange
2042
Beginning of Transmission of Television (Nepal Television)
2052
Beginning of F.M. Radio in Nepal
2054
Telecommunications Authority established
2056
Launching of GSM Mobile services (Nepal Telecom)
2060
GSM Prepaid Service (Nepal Telecom)
Jan 01, 2021
Nepal Telecom's TV service launched
📰 Mass Communication and Journalism in Nepal
Print Media:
First newspaper in Nepali language: Gorkha Bharat (1943 BS) published in India by Motiram Bhatta
First Nepali magazine published in Nepal: Sudha Sagar
First daily newspaper in Nepal: Aawaj (Falgun 08, 2007)
First weekly newspaper: Gorkhapatra (Baishakh 24, 1958) – became daily from Falgun 07, 2017
Printing Press:
First printing press brought to Nepal by Jung Bahadur Rana in 1908 BS ("Gidde Press")
Radio Broadcasting:
First state-owned radio: Radio Nepal (established Chaitra 20, 2007)
Television:
First TV: Nepal Television (officially established 2041 BS)
First test transmission: Shrawan, 2042
Cinema:
First Nepali feature film: Satya Harishchandra (2008 BS, made in India)
First Nepali film made by Govt. of Nepal: Aama
📊 Current Status in: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
Policy Initiatives:
Cyber Security Policy, 2078
National Broadcasting (Eleventh Amendment) Rules, 2078
Radio Communication (License) (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2078
Film (Production, Presentation and Distribution) (Seventh Amendment) Rules, 2078
Citizens App. (operation and management) Guidelines, 2078
Infrastructure Expansion (mid-July 2023):
FTTH (Fiber to the home) service expanded to 45 cities/urban areas in 73 districts
4G/LTE service extended to 740 local levels in 77 districts
📈 Indicators Related to Communication and Information Technology
Density of Internet Subscriber
%
130.6
135.9
143.8
Increase in National access to Radio
%
91
92
93.0
Customers of Mobile Telephone
Lakh
420
347
355
Access to broadband in Local Level
No.
738
753
753
Expansion of optical fiber service
km
12,224*
12,338
14,053
Expansion of fixed broadband internet
%
32.2
40.3
47.7
*Up to mid-March 2024 Source: MoCTC, GoN, 2080
🎓 Education
Recognized as key to sustainable development and economic prosperity.
Constitution guarantees right to education as a fundamental right.
Free and compulsory education up to basic level.
Free education up to secondary level.
Free higher education for disabled and economically weaker citizens.
Right to education in mother language.
Policy: Make education scientific, technical, vocational, empirical, employment-oriented, and service-oriented.
📜 History of Education in Nepal
1854: Jung Bahadur Rana opened Durbar School (for elites, opened to public in 1901).
Bir Shamsher introduced women's education.
1951: Efforts to establish formal education system.
1954: National Education Planning Commission founded.
1971: New Education System implemented (Fourth Five-Year Plan).
Literacy Rate (Census 2078): 76.2% (Male: 83.6%, Female: 69.4%)
Highest literacy: Kathmandu (89.23%)
Lowest literacy: Rautahat (49.48%)
📅 Major Milestones in Education
1910
Durbar School established by Jung Bahadur Rana
1942
Durbar High School opened to public by Bir Shamsher
1975
Tri-Chandra College established
1990
Introduction of SLC Examination Board
2007
Ministry of Education established
2016
Tribhuvan University Established
2043
Nepal Sanskrit University established
2046
Establishment of HSEB
2073
National Examination Board (NEB) Established
🏛️ Universities in Nepal
Tribhuvan University (TU) – 1959 AD
Nepal Sanskrit University (NSU) – 1986 AD
Kathmandu University (KU) – 1991 AD
Purbanchal University (PU) – 1994 AD
Pokhara University (PokU) – 1997 AD
Lumbini Bouddha University (LBU) – 2005 AD
Far-western University – 2010
Mid-western University – 2010
Agriculture and Forestry University – 2010
Nepal Open University – 2016
Rajarshi Janak University – 2017
Source: UGC
🏥 Health
Constitution guarantees right to free basic health services.
State aims for equitable access to quality health services.
Health Indicators (Recent):
Infant mortality rate: 32 per 1,000 live births
Neonatal mortality rate: 21
Under-5 mortality rate: 39
Maternal mortality rate: 239 per 100,000 live births
Total fertility rate: 2.3 per woman
Stunting in children under 5: 36%
Target by end of 16th Plan: Average lifespan to reach 73 years
📊 Current Status of Social Sectors (FY 2023/24)
Education
8.5%
2.7%
Health
1.87%
6.52%
(Previous year: Education 8.3%, Health 1.92%)
🌍 Foreign Employment and Migration
Three Migration Patterns:
Domestic migration
Migration to India
Migration to third countries (other than India)
India: Traditional destination due to proximity, cultural links, open border (1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship).
📊 Status of Labour Migration (Nepal Labour Migration Report, 2022)
Skill Level of Migrants:
Professional: 0.06%
Highly skilled: 0.01%
Skilled: 38.3%
Semi-skilled: 7.4%
Unskilled: 54.2%
Total workers with labor permit (mid-March 2024): 5,969,266
Male: 93.8%
Female: 6.2%
New labor permits (FY 2023/24): 285,000
Countries Opened for Foreign Employment:
Institutional basis: 111 countries (latest: Serbia)
Personal initiative: 178 countries
🎯 Major Destinations for Foreign Employment
Malaysia
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Kuwait
Emerging Destinations: Cyprus, Romania, Maldives, Malta, Jordan, Turkey
Age Limit for Women Domestic Workers (Guidelines 2074): At least 24 years for Gulf countries.
📈 Country-wise Foreign Employment Status (mid-March 2024)
Malaysia
40,348
1,513,476
1,553,824
26.03%
Qatar
36,599
1,455,658
1,492,257
24.99%
Saudi Arabia
9,506
1,274,613
1,284,119
21.51%
UAE
114,810
816,941
931,751
15.60%
Kuwait
64,693
179,475
244,168
4.09%
Bahrain
6,583
70,331
76,914
1.2%
Oman
8,247
42,220
50,467
0.84%
Japan
4,680
29,985
34,666
0.58%
Others
83,166
228,198
311,364
5.21%
Total
368,067
5,601,169
5,969,266
100.00%
Source: Economic Survey FY 2023/24
🤝 Bilateral Labour Agreements
Countries with Bilateral Labour Agreements:
Qatar
UAE
South Korea
Bahrain
Japan
Jordan
Malaysia
Mauritius
UK
Romania
Germany
Agreement Models:
G2G (Government-to-Government) – Israel, Japan, South Korea
PRA (Private Recruitment Agencies) – Bahrain, Jordan, Malaysia, Mauritius, Qatar, UAE
📅 Agreement Renewal Dates
1
Qatar
March 21, 2005
2
South Korea
July 23, 2007
3
Bahrain
April 29, 2008
4
Japan
March 25, 2019
5
Jordan
October 13, 2017
6
Malaysia
October 29, 2018
7
Mauritius
June 11, 2019
8
UAE
June 14, 2019
9
Israel
September 30, 2020
10
UK
August 22, 2022
11
Romania
October 06, 2023
12
Germany
October 10, 2023
Source: Nepal Labour Migration Report, 2023
🏆 Projects of National Pride (National Pride Projects)
Total Projects: 24 Started: FY 2011/12 Focus: Large-scale infrastructure, cultural/environmental protection, socio-economic upliftment.
📋 List of National Pride Projects
1
Sikta Irrigation Project
Start: 2061/62, End: 2089/90
Banke district, Lumbini Province
2
Rani Jamara Kulariya Irrigation Project
Start: 2067/68, End: 2080/81
Kailali district, Sudurpashchim Province (4.71 MW hydro)
3
Bheri Babai Diversion Multipurpose Project
Start: 2068/69, End: 2079/80
Surkhet, Banke, Bardiya (46.8 MW hydro)
4
Mahakali Irrigation Project (III phase)
Start: 2063/64, End: 2087/88
Kailali, Kanchanpur, Sudurpashchim Province
5
Sunkoshi Marin Diversion Multipurpose Project
Start: 2073/74, End: 2080/81
Sindhuli, Ramechap, Bara, Rautahat, Sarlahi, Mahottari, Dhanusa (31.07 MW hydro)
6
Babai Irrigation Project
Start: 2045/46, End: 2082/83
Bardiya district, Lumbini Province
7
Midhill (Puspalal) Highway Project
Start: 2064/65, End: 2079/80
26 districts, 1879 km (Chiyo Bhanjyang, Panchthar to Jhulaghat, Baitadi)
8
Postal (Hulaki) Highway
Start: 2066/67
21 districts of Terai Madhesh
9
North-South Highway of Kaligandaki Corridor
Start: 2066/67, End: 2079/80
Mustang, Myagdi, Parbat, Baglung, Gulmi, Palpa, Nawalparasi East
10
Koshi Corridor
Start: 2065/66, End: 2087/88
Morang, Sunsari, Dhankuta, Terhathum, Sankhuwasabha
11
Karnali Corridor
Start: 2065/66, End: 2084/85
Banke, Bardiya, Surkhet, Dailekh, Kalikot, Jumla, Mugu, Humla
12
Budhigandaki Reservoir Hydropower Project
Start: 2069/70, End: 2083/84
Dhading, Gorkha
13
President Chure-Terai Madhesh Conservation Area Program
Start: 2071/72, End: 2093/94
37 districts across 7 provinces
14
Melamchi Drinking Water Project
Start: 2055/56, End: 2080/81
Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Sindhupalchok, Kavrepalanchok
15
Kathmandu-Terai Expressway
Start: 2073/74, End: 2080/81
Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Makawanpur, Bara (70.977 km)
16
Lumbini Area Development Project
Start: 2069/70, End: 2080/81
Kapilvastu, Rupandehi, West Nawalparasi
17
Pashupati Area Development Project
Start: 2070/71, End: 2079/80
Kathmandu
18
Nijgadh International Airport, Bara
Start: 2071/72, End: 2085/86
Bara, Madhesh Province
19
Pokhara Regional International Airport
Start: 2074/75, End: 2079/80
Kaski, Gandaki Province
20
Gautam Buddha Regional International Airport
Start: 2072/73, End: 2078/79
Rupandehi, Lumbini Province
21
West Seti Hydropower Project
Start: 2066/67
Doti, Dadeldhura, Baitadi, Achham, Bajhang
22
Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project
Start: 2067/68, End: 2078/79
Dolakha, Bagmati Province
23
Electricity Transmission Project (MCA-Nepal)
Start: 2067/68, End: 2084/85
12 districts across Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini
24
East-West Railway
Start: 2066/67, End: 2086/87
21 districts across Koshi, Madhesh, Gandaki, Lumbini, Sudurpashchim
Source: National Planning Commission, Economic Survey FY 2023/24