Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel visited Ncell’s Integrated Data Centre (IDC) in Nakkhu, Lalitpur on Monday, pledging strong government support following the heavy damages the operator suffered during the recent Gen Z protests.
Ncell Chairman Satish Lal Acharya and CEO Michael Foley briefed the minister on the operator’s services, economic contributions, and the impact of the protests — which resulted in an estimated loss of Rs 650 million, including serious damage to the Ncell ICON building.
Minister Kharel acknowledged Ncell’s long-standing contribution to Nepal’s telecom sector and overall economy. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an environment conducive to investment — especially foreign direct investment — and encouraged Ncell to accelerate service expansion, particularly in the Everest region and rural communities.
“I am saddened by the loss of around Rs 650 million caused to Ncell during the Gen Z movement. The government is committed to creating an environment conducive for investment in Nepal. We should promote investment. The government is with Ncell,” the minister said.
During the visit, Foley announced a nationwide scholarship programme for 100 SEE students annually, funded with Rs 10 million, as well as the launch of a student-focused Gen Z Pack aimed at meeting the communication needs of young users. He emphasized Ncell’s ongoing commitment to supporting Nepal’s Digital Nepal vision.
Ncell also highlighted more than two decades of contributions to Nepal’s ICT sector, including nearly Rs 360 billion paid in taxes and fees, support for around 100,000 jobs, and over Rs 2 billion invested in social projects through CSR programmes and the Ncell Foundation
