KATHMANDU: In the modern world, businesses hold a critical responsibility in shaping a sustainable future. For Ncell, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability are not just obligations—they are integral to its identity. As Nepal’s first GSM cellular mobile operator, Ncell has been delivering telecommunications services for nearly two decades, serving over 13 million active subscribers. The company has expanded its services from basic mobile connectivity to advanced 4G technology-based broadband, ensuring that over 90% of Nepal’s population has access to reliable services.
When Ncell entered the market in 2005, mobile connectivity was a luxury. Ncell transformed the telecommunications landscape by making communication affordable and accessible to all. This not only enhanced connectivity but also redefined customer service standards with world-class support. Moreover, the company has contributed to socio-economic development by generating employment for approximately 25,000 people nationwide.
The telecommunications sector is inherently transformative, enabling progress across various sectors and contributing significantly to socio-economic growth. Each year, Ncell contribute taxes and fees as one of the largest taxpayers, playing a vital role in public financing to the government. To date, Ncell has paid over NPR 320 billion in taxes and fees, underscoring its role as one of Nepal’s largest taxpayers. Today, mobile services equipped with high-speed broadband have become a necessity, empowering individuals, businesses, and communities alike.
CSR and sustainability at the heart of Ncell
CSR at Ncell extends far beyond compliance with legal obligations. It represents the company’s commitment to fostering innovation, empowering communities, and addressing societal needs. Since its inception, Ncell has contributed over NPR 2 billion to CSR initiatives, directly or indirectly benefiting more than 13 million individuals across the country. These efforts are aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and focus on critical areas such as education, health, environment and disaster preparedness, among others.
Even before CSR became a mandatory requirement under the Industrial Enterprise Act, 2020 and the Industrial Enterprise Rules 2022, Ncell had embraced the philosophy of giving back to society. The company has consistently prioritized impactful social initiatives, recognizing its responsibility to create meaningful change. Ncell’s projects are designed to produce measurable results, addressing grassroots-level challenges and fostering sustainable development.
In the past, Ncell has supported numerous initiatives, including ‘Adopt a School’ program across more than four dozen districts, the Ncell Scholarships and Excellence Awards, and the Ncell App Camp, which nurtures talent and fosters innovation. Healthcare projects such as support to TU Teaching Hospital and Manmohan Cardiothoracic Vascular and Transplant Centre under ‘We Care’ initiative highlight Ncell’s commitment to improving access to quality medical services. These initiatives were implemented before CSR was made legally mandatory for the corporates.
Ncell has also demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Tree plantation initiatives, such as tree plantation in Dhanushadham in Janakpur, showcase the company’s efforts to enhance ecological balance. Similarly, ‘Greening of Ring Road’ project transformed the 10.2 km Koteshwor-Kalanki stretch of the Ring Road, contributing to urban beautification and environmental sustainability.
Ncell Foundation: A milestone for impact
Marking its 19th anniversary, Ncell launched the Ncell Foundation, a significant milestone in its CSR journey. The Foundation aims to foster a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable Nepal while contributing to the SDGs. Its objectives include supporting underserved communities, bridging the digital divide, and fostering a healthier and more sustainable Nepal.
The Ncell Foundation unifies the company’s social initiatives under one umbrella, enabling better coordination, enhanced impact, and stronger partnerships with stakeholders. For the next five years, Ncell has pledged at least NPR 200 million to social causes. As per this commitment, Ncell has already started its work by implementing ‘19 for 19’ project, which is focused in carrying out 19 projects in all seven provinces, targeting health, education, environment, disaster preparedness and response, and livelihood support, among others.
One of the flagship initiatives under Ncell CSR is Telemedicine and Health Informatics Project, implemented in collaboration with Dhulikhel Hospital. This project has brought healthcare services to underserved communities, benefiting over 100,000 individuals through four outreach centres in Manekharka (Sindhupalchowk), Dorpu (Solukhumbu), Thangsin (Nuwakot), and Bolde (Kavrepalanchowk). By leveraging technology, Ncell has addressed disparities in healthcare access and improved the overall well-being of marginalized populations.
Ncell, Help Nepal Network collaboration and disaster response
Following the devastating earthquake in 2015, Ncell extended its commitment to CSR by collaborating with Help Nepal Network (HENN) on a Post-Disaster Rebuilding Support initiative. This partnership aimed to address immediate rehabilitation needs in the affected areas, focusing on constructing essential infrastructure to address the need of the hour and providing health and awareness services.
Under this collaboration, a total of 120 toilets were constructed to ensure access to proper sanitation facilities, which are critical for maintaining public health and preventing the outbreak of diseases in post-disaster scenarios. Additionally, 500 tunnel houses were built, offering temporary for displaced families, providing them a sense of security and normalcy amidst challenging times.
In addition to addressing shelter and sanitation needs, five health camps were organized in delivering much-needed medical assistance to affected communities. These camps provided free consultations, medications, and preventive care to individuals who had limited access to healthcare services post-earthquake. To enhance community resilience, two awareness campaigns were conducted, focusing on disaster preparedness, hygiene practices, and health education, empowering local populations with knowledge to mitigate future risks.
This collaborative response during the national crisis exemplifies Ncell’s commitment to social responsibility and the welfare of communities in need. By addressing critical needs through sustainable interventions, Ncell not only contributed to rebuilding lives but also fostered hope and resilience in affected regions.
Ncell also supported the government with NPR 100 million to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund and provided communication support worth NPR 1.6 billion to customers, helping families stay connected during a time of unprecedented distress. Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ncell contributed NPR 100 million to support the government’s efforts in procuring protective gear and PCR testing kits.
More recently, the Ncell Foundation has been actively involved in disaster response efforts. Following the September 2024 floods and landslides, the Foundation provided relief materials to over 1,000 affected households. These efforts underline Ncell’s readiness to support communities during emergencies, reinforcing its role as a dependable corporate citizen.
In response to its contributions to the country and communities with various social projects, Ncell has earned national and international recognitions including awards such as the DRRM & BCM Award, Global Mobile Award, World Communication Award, ASOCIO Award, and WITSA Global ICT Excellence Award, to name a few. These recognitions reflect Ncell’s almost two decades of commitment to creating positive social impact at grassroots level within the communities. Ncell’s focus is not just on connecting Nepali people through telecom services but also through meaningful and impactful social initiatives.
Vision for future
Giving continuity to its social initiatives, Ncell remains committed to expanding CSR projects and delivering tangible outcomes. Through the Ncell Foundation, the company aims to address pressing social issues, strengthen its partnerships, and contribute to Nepal’s progress.
Stories of transformation highlight the tangible impact of Ncell’s efforts. For instance, the Modern Digital Lab project has benefited over 30,000 students, many of whom encountered computers for the first time through this initiative. Similarly, Ncell’s collaboration with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has contributed in saving lives and properties by delivering timely flood risk alerts via SMS.
Looking forward, Ncell envisions a future where businesses and communities work together to build a more inclusive and sustainable society. The company’s brand promise, ‘Today. Tomorrow. Together.,’ encapsulates its commitment to driving positive change and empowering communities. With initiatives like ‘19 for 19’, which provides financial support of NPR 1 million each to 19 social projects, Ncell continues to make a meaningful difference at the community level.
From transformative multi-year projects to smaller community-driven initiatives, Ncell has set a benchmark for CSR in Nepal. By addressing grassroots-level challenges and fostering innovation, Ncell remains a beacon of hope and progress. Together, we can build a brighter future—one that is inclusive, sustainable, and connected.
The author is head of Corporate Communications and CSR, Ncell.