Budget 2083/84 Signals Digital Ambition, but Questions Remain Over Inclusion and Job Creation

Presenting the budget for fiscal year 2083/84, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle identified information and communication technology (ICT) and artificial intelligence (AI) as the main pillars of Nepal’s economic transformation. In the Rs 2.124 trillion budget, repeated references to information technology, AI, startups, digital infrastructure, fintech, computing, and remote work indicate the government’s recognition of the ongoing global digital shift.

While the policy direction reflects strong digital ambitions, questions remain about how effectively these measures will translate into economic opportunities, employment generation, and support for Nepal’s broader technology ecosystem. In particular, the budget offers limited clarity on support mechanisms for small and medium-sized technology firms, startups, and regional innovation initiatives.