KATHMANDU:- The government has established a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre to facilitate the operations of both public and private sectors through digital means.

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has set up the National AI Centre. Inaugurating the Centre, Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, said that the initiative, which began in a small room, marks a significant milestone in Nepal’s AI development. He remarked that the establishment of the Centre symbolizes Nepal’s commitment to advancing toward “Digital Nepal” and “AI-driven Digital Transformation.”

“This is just the beginning of the AI Centre. We will continue to strengthen this initiative,” Minister Kharel said. “The AI policy is already in place, and an AI Council has been formed. Starting today, the Centre will officially begin its operations.” He expressed confidence that AI would play a vital role in promoting good governance, curbing corruption, generating employment, and fostering innovation — key priorities of the “Gen Z Uprising.”

Minister Kharel also stated that the IT Centre would take policy initiatives to make public and private service delivery more efficient and effective through digital technologies. He added that the use of AI would help address human resource shortages in various agencies and enhance the reliability and integrity of information in the digital era.

Joint Secretary Adesh Khadka, Chief of the Ministry’s Information Technology Division, said the AI Centre was established in line with the implementation of the AI Policy, 2082. The Centre will provide policy support to private sector entities interested in offering AI-based services and will encourage the development of AI-related programs.