Kathmandu. Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Dr. Bikram Timilsina has said that the government has forwarded efforts for reforms in the telecommunication sector, media, policy and media sector by carrying out necessary studies in these areas.

At a press meet organized at the Ministry, Minister Dr. Timilsina said although it was challenging to manage all sectors at once in a short period, the government was carrying out works on a priority basis. He said the government was focused on improving the quality of telecommunications service, expanding competition and systematizing the communications sector.

Stating that there was no situation to shut down the 4G service immediately and go to 5G, he said that preparations were underway to make the 4G service more effective for now and then gradually implement the 4G service. Stating that the government has prioritized the launch of the 5G service, he said preparations have been forwarded for determining the required frequency and distribution of the service.

Minister Timilsina said that the government is also studying the need of more mobile operators to increase competition in the telecommunications sector. Stating that necessary process has been forwarded to identify and determine the requirement of third mobile operator at a time when two companies are currently providing mobile services, he expressed the belief that this would make the telecommunications sector more effective and competitive.

He also said that the government has adopted the policy of further strengthening Nepal Telecom, utilizing the telecommunication infrastructure for the welfare of the people and strengthening the entire telecommunication system. Minister for Communications and Information Technology Timilsina said that the Ministry is in regular discussion with Nepal Telecom and the regulatory Nepal Telecommunications Authority on these issues and was ready to provide necessary support.

He said that the reform process has been forwarded by implementing laws to resolve the existing problems in the telecommunication sector. Stating that the government was serious regarding billing system and service management related to Nepal Telecom, Minister Khatiwada said that a solution would be sought in such works without creating disputes by keeping transparency in the existing rules and regulations.

Stating that both people’s investment and government responsibility are connected in Nepal Telecom, he stressed the need to play the necessary role as per the law and rules.

Minister for Information and Communications Dr. Timilsina said that the government was studying about the development of ‘data center’ and digital infrastructure in Nepal. Stating that studies were underway on the interest of multinational companies, ‘digital feasibility’ and the possibility of attracting foreign investment, he said studies were underway to develop Nepal as a regional data center hub.

Stating that the government was committed to preventing misuse of people’s tax and systemic corruption, he said the related state mechanism would be activated if any agency, institution or employee was found involved in wrongdoings. He also urged the government to provide the necessary information directly for the same.

On the occasion, Minister Timilsina said independent and responsible journalism was essential to strengthen democracy. Saying democracy could not be strengthened if media sector was not strong, he said the government was sensitive towards the role of media.

He was of the view that the media should improve its image by emphasizing responsible and professional journalism. He also said that policy-level reforms would be carried out after studying the issues of advertisement distribution, sustainability of media and welfare of journalists.

KATHMANDU: The government has said it is coordinating through the ministry and bodies concerned to resolve the problems related to government advertisements related to media houses and news organizations.

Stating that the advertisement distribution and selection process has been made transparent, the Ministry has made it clear that no decision would be taken against the set process.