Government Proposes Amendment for Online Media Registration
The Nepalese government has taken steps to streamline the
registration process for online media by amending the Printing Press and Publication Act, 2048 BS. This move is aimed to regulate the online media in the country. The proposed amendment has defined online media as any process or medium that involves the production, publication, transmission or distribution of message-based or thematic ideas, information, and news, images, audio-visuals through the internet using signs, letters, sounds, graphics, songs, music, videos, animations, and various multimedia, adopting journalism and editorial principles.
KMC Lunches Mobile App for Improved Service Delivery
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has introduced a mobile application to make its services more accessible to the public. Mayor Balendra Sah has stated that the KMC app was launched with the aim of improving service delivery in line with the policy of providing services to people at their doorstep.
The app allows KMC customers to access over 30 types of services online from anywhere. These services include e-sifaris (recommendations), online revenue, appointment scheduling to meet with the mayor, chatbots, information and news about the metropolis, digital citizen ward papers with departmental details, public complaints, smart taxes, published gazettes, tourist places, emergency services, and more.
The KMC app is available on both the Google Play Store and App Store.
Use of FTTH and Cable Internet exceeds 10 Million
According to the Management Information System (MIS) report recently released by Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA), the number of Nepalis using Fiber to the Home (FTTH) and cable internet has exceeded 10 million. As of mid-April, the total number of FTTH and cable internet users was 9,986,643, marking a significant milestone for the country’s internet industry.
To determine the total number of users, NTA multiplied the average number of households by 4.37, which is equivalent to a fixed-line internet connection. The report also showed that there are 2,586,494 fixed-line internet connections in the country, including 2,501,037 lines of FTTH, 71,079 lines of cable, and 14,378 lines of wireless connections. This means that approximately 2.6 million households in Nepal have access to fixed-line internet.
In addition to fixed-line internet connections, there are 303,121 ADSL internet users and 62,832 radio Wi-Fi users. However, the majority of internet users in Nepal prefer 4G services. The NEA report indicates that 19,203,771 users are currently using 4G services. With the increasing popularity of FTTH and cable internet, the number of internet users in Nepal is expected to continue growing rapidly in the coming years.
NTA and ISPs Begin Cable Management in KMC
On May 8 2023, Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) commenced the task of managing cables in Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC). The decision was made in response to the KMC’s deadline for removal of excessive cable TV, internet, and telecom wires to reduce fire hazards and improve the city’s appearance. The NTA is also considering a provision for “utility duct” to ensure efficient management of cables in Kathmandu.
Nepal Police Requests Media to Stick With Facts and Truth
Nepal Police has recently issued a public notice raising concerns on spread of misleading news related to the fake Bhutanese refugee scam case, which is currently under investigation. The notice highlights that various online and print media outlets, as well as social networks, have been circulating false and misleading news based on assumptions and speculation. The statement further emphasizes the need to disseminate information based only on facts and avoid spreading baseless and misleading news that can lead to misinformation among the public and negatively impact the investigation of the case.
KMC Invites Suggestions for Upcoming Fiscal Year
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) is reaching out to citizens for their suggestions to help shape the policies, budget, and programmes for the upcoming fiscal year 2080/81. To facilitate this, KMC has launched an online suggestion collection portal that covers topics related to urban development and management. The portal includes various titles and sub-headings to help citizens offer their feedback on what policies should be formulated, what programs should be implemented, and what provision of budget should be made for the development, distribution of facilities, service delivery, and overall prosperity of the metropolis. The deadline to submit suggestions via the online portal or by visiting the office of the municipal executive is May 23, 2023. DRN welcomes the KMC initiative to engage with citizens more inclusive and responsive governance system.
Telecom Equipment and Parts Imports on Decline
Nepal’s import of telecommunication equipment and parts is on a decline, according to recent data from Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB). The central bank reported that the country has imported telecom equipment and parts worth Rs. 27.66 billion until mid-March of the current fiscal year. The import has declined significantly by Rs. 17.62 billion or 38.9 percent compared to the import of Rs. 45.29 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal year.
Department Warns Online Traders and Buyers to Remain Cautious
The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has issued a warning to both traders and buyers conducting online business. The department has received multiple complaints from consumers reporting fraudulent practices, including traders keeping a portion of the transportation fee at the time of purchase and charging double the original amount upon delivery.
The Department has urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing goods online, as many have reported being cheated not only in the transportation fee but also in the quality of the goods. It also advised consumers to only purchase from reputable and reliable companies, and consider issues such as the maximum retail price, quality, bill, invoice, and safe consumptive period while buying online.
