Opinion | Leapfrogging to satellite internet can transform Nepal’s digital landscape
Summary
Nepal has the opportunity to transform its digital landscape by adopting Low Earth Orbit satellite internet, bypassing geographical challenges and outdated regulatory barriers to provide equitable and resilient connectivity nationwide.
Key Points
- Nepal's digital development has been held back by geography and regulatory barriers, particularly the requirement for foreign telecoms to have local equity.
- Low Earth Orbit satellite internet services like SpaceX's Starlink offer high-speed broadband access even in remote areas, suitable for Nepal's challenging terrain.
- Current regulations prevent satellite internet providers from entering Nepalese market freely, obstructing technology that could bridge the rural connectivity gap.
- Reforming telecommunications policy to accommodate satellite internet can enhance digital equity, disaster resilience, and economic participation for Nepal's remote communities.
