Artificial Intelligence law at Nepal

Nepal is in the process of developing its first national Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy, known as the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2081. Released in early 2025 by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT), this draft policy aims to regulate and promote AI technology in the country. The government has invited public feedback to refine and finalize the policy. (Home - ICT Frame, Home - ICT Frame)

🇳🇵 Key Features of Nepal’s Draft AI Policy 2081

1. Institutional Framework

The draft policy proposes the establishment of several new institutions to oversee AI development and regulation:(Home - ICT Frame)

AI Regulatory Council: The central body responsible for AI governance.(Home - ICT Frame)

National AI Center: The main authority for AI research, innovation, and policy enforcement.(Home - ICT Frame)

AI Excellence Centers: Hubs for AI research in universities and institutions.(Home - ICT Frame)

AI Incubation Hub: A support system for AI startups and entrepreneurs.(Home - ICT Frame)

Provincial and Local AI Coordination Units: Mechanisms to integrate AI initiatives across all levels of government.(Home - ICT Frame)

The AI Regulatory Council will be chaired by the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, with the Chief of the National AI Center serving as the Member Secretary. (Home - ICT Frame)

2. Ethical AI Development and Risk Management

The government plans to set AI transparency standards for data collection, algorithm usage, and AI models. The policy emphasizes responsible AI development, ethical use, and international compliance. It also aims to mitigate risks associated with AI technologies. (Home - ICT Frame)

3. Digital Infrastructure and Innovation

To facilitate AI development, the government plans to expand digital infrastructure, including the rollout of high-speed internet services through technologies like 5G and fiber optics. Additionally, AI research will be supported by establishing state-of-the-art data centers and cloud infrastructure across Nepal. (Home - ICT Frame)

4. Public Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has invited all stakeholders, including individuals and organizations, to share their feedback on the draft policy. Suggestions can be submitted by email, and the government aims to review all feedback before finalizing the policy. (Home - ICT Frame)

⚠️ Concerns and Recommendations

While the draft policy outlines ambitious plans, several experts and organizations have raised concerns and provided recommendations:

Data Privacy and Security: The Computer Association Nepal (CAN) Federation has highlighted the absence of a clear definition of AI tailored to Nepal’s specific needs and the lack of detailed provisions addressing data privacy and security. (Ecosphere News)

Implementation Gaps: Critics argue that the policy lacks clarity in implementation strategies, prioritization, and resource allocation, potentially undermining its effectiveness. (Fiscal Nepal)

Inclusive and Ethical AI: Stakeholders emphasize the need for AI systems tailored to Nepal's specific needs, including sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and disaster management. They also advocate for stronger safeguards, clearer legal frameworks, and support for local AI innovation. (Ecosphere News, Kathmandu Post)

📜 Summary

Nepal's National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2081 represents a significant step towards regulating and promoting AI technology in the country. While the draft policy outlines a comprehensive framework, ongoing public consultation and stakeholder engagement are crucial to address concerns and ensure the policy's effectiveness in fostering responsible and ethical AI development.(Home - ICT Frame)

For more detailed information and to participate in the consultation, you can visit the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology's official website: https://mocit.gov.np.

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