Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has issued a directive to 16 internet service providers (ISPs), urging them to fulfill their royalty obligations as stipulated by the regulatory framework.
In an official notice issued on Thursday, the NTA underlined its instruction to the 16 ISPs companies that hold operational licenses, mandating an immediate payment of four percent of their total income as a part of telecommunication services operation fees. Additionally, the ISPs are required to contribute two percent towards the rural telecommunication development fund and an additional six percent in the form of royalty.
Originally scheduled for payment in the second week of January 2023, the royalty amount was intended to support various telecommunication initiatives and infrastructural enhancements. However, despite the initial deadline, these companies have not complied with the NTA’s directive. As a result, the NTA issued a renewed notice on Thursday, reiterating its call for the companies to fulfill their financial obligations without further delay.
In light of the non-compliance, the NTA has sternly warned of taking stringent measures if the service providers fail to meet their obligations in a timely manner.
