Nepal returns to global ICT Index but digital use still lags infrastructure growth
Summary
Nepal rejoined the ITU's global ICT Development Index after three years, showing significant digital infrastructure growth but facing challenges in meaningful internet use and digital adoption.
Key Points
- Nepal re-entered the ITU global ICT Development Index in 2026 with a score of 68.1 after a three-year absence.
- The country shows a large gap between digital infrastructure availability (83.7) and actual internet use (52.5), highlighting a 'usage gap'.
- Nepal's overall ICT score is below global and Asia-Pacific averages, ranking mid-tier in South Asia.
- The Nepal Telecommunications Authority plans to focus on improving digital skills, 5G rollout, and data collection to boost future ICT rankings.
