Fiber-to-the-Home Reaches 76 districts: Mugu is the Latest Addition
Nepal Telecom (NTC) continues its rapid expansion of Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) internet services, now
reaching the remote district of Mugu. Following the recent successful launch of FTTH in Dolpa and East Rukum’s headquarter Rukumkot, the total count of FTTH-served districts to 76. This strategic expansion is part of the government’s initiative to enhance communication services in remote areas, providing them at subsidized rates to ensure affordability. Humla is now the only district yet to be connected.
Rs 20 billion for Renewal: NTA sends Reminder to Ncell
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has officially notified Ncell, the private telecom giant, to pay Rs 20 billion for its third license renewal to continue operating its mobile services. This reminder adheres to the provision requiring the telco to be notified three months prior to the license’s expiration. Ncell’s current license is set to expire later this year in 2081, necessitating the payment to remain operational.
National Startups Policy Rolled Out
The government has rolled out the ‘National Startups Policy, 2080’ to fuel entrepreneurship. This policy offers waivers, boosts investment, eases regulations, and guarantees commercial security. Startups can expect relief on registration expenses, income tax exemptions for up to 10 years, concessional loans, and more. To further nurture innovation and creativity, the government will establish a dedicated fund to support innovative startups and fresh ideas. Additionally, subsidies will be provided on loans extended by BFIs to startups and innovative ventures, further incentivizing entrepreneurial endeavors.
Not to disseminate Misleading Advertisement: Advertisement Board
The Advertisement Board has issued a warning against the proliferation of misleading advertisements across various media platforms, including social media. Highlighting the prevalence of deceptive ads promoting goods like tea, oil, shampoo, and drugs at inflated prices, the Board urged individuals and companies to refrain from such practices. The Board has also reiterated its call for media outlets to cease the broadcast or publication of ads that contravene advertisement regulation and to seek approval before airing them.
European Council gives Green Flag to World’s First Artificial Intelligence Act
The European Council approved a law aiming to harmonize rules on artificial intelligence, named Artificial Intelligence Act. The flagship legislation follows a ‘risk-based’ approach, which means the higher the risk of causing harm to society, the stricter the rules. It is the first of its kind in the world and can set a global standard for AI regulation.
Deepfake Pornography of Social Media Influencers: A Rising Concern
A recent study reveals an alarming statistic regarding the vulnerability of social media influencers to deepfake pornography. 94% of female influencers on Instagram fall victim to deepfake pornography. The risk of becoming a victim of deepfake pornography increases with an influencer’s follower count i.e. individuals having over100 million followers have a susceptibility rate of 79%. Overall, while 84% of social media influencers reportedly fell victim to deepfake pornography, 90% of them were found to be females.
