Fiscal Nepal
First Business News Portal in English from Nepal
KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress leader Gagan Thapa emphasized the need to integrate information technology (IT) across all sectors, rather than treating it as a standalone field, during a recent address. Speaking at an event, Thapa argued that Nepal’s approach of addressing agriculture, health, education, and IT in isolation is outdated and counterproductive.
“We talk about agriculture, health, or education as if they’re separate worlds. Similarly, we assume IT operates in its own realm,” Thapa said. “But IT isn’t separate—it’s about leveraging technology to transform agriculture, health, and education.”
He highlighted practical applications, suggesting that technology could address critical gaps, such as improving math and science education or tackling healthcare’s severe manpower shortage. “If we face challenges in these sectors, can’t technology bridge those gaps? It’s time to think this way,” he urged.
Thapa stressed the importance of collaborative, cross-sectoral approaches. “We shouldn’t compartmentalize sectors. Instead, we must bring them together, discuss, and work collectively,” he said. His remarks come at a time when Nepal is grappling with digital transformation challenges, with only 34% of the population having reliable internet access, according to recent data.
Integrating IT could boost productivity, with potential to increase agricultural output by 20% through precision farming or enhance healthcare delivery via telemedicine, as per global studies.
Thapa’s call for a unified strategy aligns with Nepal’s push to achieve Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Experts say his vision could spur innovation but requires robust policy support and infrastructure investment to succeed.
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