Even though the world got introduced to the computer technology in late forties, Nepal brought its first computer, IBM 1401 second generation computer in 1971 for processing census data. Since then, Nepal has made significant progress in the field of information technology, from the introduction of the internet to the growth of IT education and digital services. Today, computers are widely used in various sectors, including government offices, education, banking, and healthcare.
One of the key figures in Nepal’s computer history is Muni Bahadur Sakya, a pioneer who contributed significantly to the development of computing and software in the country.
Major Achievements in Different Years
1961/2018 B.S.: First use of an electronic calculator ("Facit") for census data processing.
1971/2028 B.S.: Introduction of IBM 1401, a second-generation mainframe computer, for national census processing.
1974/2031 B.S.: Establishment of the National Computer Center (NCC) for data processing, computer training, and research.
2038 B.S.: Use of ICL 2950/10, another second-generation mainframe computer, for census operations.
After 2039 B.S.: Private companies and individuals started importing microcomputers like Sirius, Vector, IBM, and Apple, marking the beginning of personal computing in Nepal.
1994: Mercantile Office Systems (MOS) launched the first internet service in Nepal, marking the beginning of the digital era in the country.
1995: WorldLink became Nepal's first Internet Service Provider (ISP).
1998: The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) was established under the Telecommunications Act, 1997 (2053 B.S.)
1999: Nepal Telecom (NTC) launched 2G (GSM) mobile services for the first time in Nepal.
2000s: Expansion of broadband internet, growth of software companies, and introduction of e-governance services like online tax filing.
2007: Nepal Telecom (NTC) introduced 3G services. Nepal was the first country in south asia to introduce 3G services.
2010s: Rapid digitalization with the launch of 4G mobile networks, rise of e-commerce platforms (Daraz, SastoDeal), and the introduction of digital payment systems (eSewa, Khalti).
2017: NTC launced 4G LTE service in Nepal.
2020s: Implementation of the Digital Nepal Framework, rapid growth of IT startups, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, promoting Nepal as an emerging digital economy.