Salyan, Dec. 3: Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, has said that plans to provide internet services in all ward offices across the country was a priority.

Addressing the welcome programme organized by the CPN Maoist Center Baghaur Nagar Committee on Saturday, Minister Sharma said that wards are the important body of the government that provides direct services to the people. 

Therefore, internet access in all ward centres is a priority to make service delivery efficient and effective. 

Minister Sharma informed that 19 districts, including Jajarko and Rukum West, which were recently jolted by the earthquake, will be transformed into model information and communications technology-friendly districts, which will also benefit the services provided to neighbouring districts.

Minister Sharma informed that the necessary budget has been allocated in the current financial year for the upgradation of the Rapti highway, which is a lifeline for Salyan, Dang, Rukum and other neighbouring districts. 

Mentioning that federalism has brought the government closer to the people’s homes, she said that the public should be provided with quick and easy services. 

Minister Sharma also said that coordination between the federal and local governments is necessary for the development of information and communication technology. She added that due to the lack of proper coordination between three tires of government, allocated budget in development programmes is not effectively mobilised.

Minister Sharma said that local bodies should plan development programs based on the needs of the people and the federal government should support such projects. She also mentioned that a minimum budget of fifty million Rupees will be allocated for development projects then forward. The program was chaired by Shobharam Bhandari, chairman of Maoist Center Bagchaur Nagar Committee.