Nepali Congress initiates debate on AI for national development

Kathmandu, July 28: With the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) globally, AI has increasingly become a topic of discussion across individuals, communities, organizations, political parties, and at the government level. These discussions largely focus on the use and regulation of AI for the welfare of humankind and acceleration of development works. 

Lately, Nepal's political parties too began joining the bandwagon to stir debate surrounding the pros and cons of AI. In this connection, the Nepali Congress (NC) on Sunday initiated a discussion series titled “AI: Overall Analysis for Nepal's Development” at the party’s central office in Sanepa, Lalitpur. 

Addressing the event, NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba said that AI has the potential to accelerate development in unprecedented ways provided it is utilized wisely. Reaffirming the NC’s commitment to innovation, liberal democracy, and good governance, he highlighted the urgency of building a 'Digital Nepal' that places citizens at its centre.

The programme was organized by the party’s Department of Science and Information Technology. According to Department coordinator Sushila Mishra Bhatta, AI is likely to become a vital and trustworthy development partner for Nepal. However, she stressed the need to develop strategic policies that also takes into account the related risks and challenges.

Suresh Pokharel, Vice Chairperson of AI Association Nepal, urged stakeholders to move beyond unfounded fears about AI. Talking about historical skepticism around electricity, he advocated for a forward-looking and informed approach to AI adoption. He also added that while India is actively exploring AI, Nepal, too, could design its own AI framework by focusing on data ecosystems, infrastructure, energy, algorithms, innovation, workforce development, and robust policy formulation.

A video presentation showcasing Nepal’s digital development journey was featured at the event, followed by a panel discussion on whether Nepal is ready for AI and the foundational elements needed to build the integrated and inclusive leadership.

Participants in the panel included Shikshit Bhatta, founder of ride-sharing app Tootle; Adesh Khadka, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology; Professor Dr Sudan Jha; Dipesh Bista, CEO of the E-Governance Commission; and Sajana Maharjan, an expert in data-driven governance. Collectively, they opined that AI should not be seen merely as a technological tool but as a transformative force that requires clear, long-term vision and commitment from political leadership.

Chairing the panel, NC central member Dr Minendra Rijal underlined that AI development is essential, but it is not challenge-free either. Integrating AI with inclusive, accountable, and visionary leadership helps ensure its effective deployment in Nepal, according to Rijal.

The participants urged the party to take a lead in formulating policies that ensure AI is used for the benefit of the broader population. (RSS)