How three decades of the internet transformed Nepal’s economy, society and politics
Summary
Three decades after the internet arrived in Nepal, it has reshaped communication, business, public services and political life. From dial-up connections and email experiments to mobile banking, QR payments and broadband in local offices and schools, internet use has spread from elite circles to households across the country.
Key Points
- Nepal’s internet journey began in the 1990s with Mercantile’s early email and internet services and later expanded through telecom reforms, private operators and optical fiber links.
- Pioneers such as Gaurav Raj Upadhyay and institutions like Mercantile, Nepal Telecom and Ncell helped build internet awareness, infrastructure and access across the country.
- Internet growth has supported the digital economy through mobile banking, QR payments, e-commerce, telemedicine and e-learning, while also improving public service delivery.
- The article says internet access has also influenced major political changes and broader social transformation in Nepal.
