New POCO Service Center Opens in Sanepa, Kathmandu

Member of Parliament Mahabir Pun has called on the government to immediately utilize the Rural Telecommunication Fund, which holds approximately 16 billion rupees, to expand communication services in rural areas. Pun stated that the government's failure to spend these accumulated funds is depriving rural citizens of essential communication facilities. He also demanded an end to the taxi registration syndicate in Kathmandu Valley, citing population growth and a lack of new permits.

Chiranjibi Adhikari has officially taken over as the acting president of the Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) following the resignation of Sunaina Ghimire Pandey. Adhikari, a cybersecurity expert, has outlined a commitment to transforming Nepal into a global digital powerhouse by prioritizing domestic software, advocating for IT industry recognition, and implementing AI governance.

FinTech International Pvt. Ltd. has introduced a smart card and offline QR-based digital fare payment system for Nepal's public transport sector to modernize operations and reduce fare disputes. The system uses validator machines with GPS and geo-fencing, allowing passengers to tap in and tap out, with fares deducted based on distance traveled. According to CEO Amit Shrestha, the initiative aims to bring technological advancement to a sector still reliant on traditional cash payments.

The US Embassy in Nepal organized an AI Innovation Lab Bootcamp for emerging innovators, while the Lumbini Provincial Government has prioritized AI skill development and digital transformation in its upcoming fiscal year policy. Both initiatives aim to enhance technological skills, foster entrepreneurship, and improve public services through digital solutions.