News

 

September 17

Ncell celebrates its 19th anniversary with the launch of Ncell Foundation and pledges to contribute Rs. 200 million to social causes


Ncell, Nepal's first private-sector GSM mobile service provider on Tuesday celebrated nearly two decades of serving Nepal and its people with an important announcement—the launch of Ncell Foundation to govern and drive all of Ncell’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
“Over the past 19 years, Ncell has contributed over Rs 2 billion (USD 15 million) on CSR activities in various area—health, education, environment and more, impacting over 13 million lives both directly and indirectly. We now believe it is important to bring all of our good work under one umbrella, one purpose, and that is the Ncell Foundation,” said Jabbor Kayumov, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Ncell, during a special event organised mark the 19th anniversary of the company.

At the event, Ncell said the Foundation’s vision is to foster a more inclusive, connected and sustainable Nepal and contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with 3 clear objectives: 1) Supporting those who need it the most, 2) Bridging the digital divide and 3) Fostering a more healthy, sustainable and enriching Nepal. 

Ncell has a remarkable track record of supporting to high impact causes. During the 2015 earthquake, Ncell contributed Rs. 100 million to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund to support families affected by the devastating earthquake and another NPR 1.6 billion worth of communication support was extended to help families stay connected. 

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Ncell contributed Rs. 100 million to support the government’s procurements of protective gear, PCR testing kits. And in Jajarkot after earthquake last year, Ncell supported the Karnali Province Government with immediate support of Rs. 5 million for for rescue, treatment, and relief of earthquake victims and also helped build classrooms in 10 government schools so children could go back to school. 
Similarly, in 2014, Ncell supported the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund with Rs. 200 million to help the flood and landslide victims from different parts of the country. 
At the 19th anniversary event, Ncell Foundation committed to contribute at least Rs. 200 million to social causes over the next 5 years. 

"Ncell is not just putting up towers and connecting people or providing jobs, we are also stewards of society with a goal to be a trailblazer in CSR in Nepal, making a lasting impact and delivering on our motto—“Here for You,” said Kayumov.
Capping off the event, Ncell honoured Para-athlete Palesha Goverdhan, who recently made history at the Paris Paralympics 2024 by winning Nepal's first-ever medal. Ncell’s CEO recounted the story of how Ncell decided to support Palesha last year. 
“I remember very well that moment about a year ago, when we called up the Paralympic Committee saying we wanted to support them, they couldn’t believe it. It didn’t make PR or business sense but we wanted to support those who need it the most—the unseen or unsung heroes,” he said.  
With the launch of the Ncell Foundation, aligned with its brand promise, ‘Today. Tomorrow. Together.,’ Ncell aims to strengthen and expand its efforts through meaningful social initiatives, connecting with local communities and addressing grassroots-level issues. 
A new initiative, ‘19 for 19,’ under the Ncell Foundation, was also announced. This project will provide financial support of Rs. 1 million each to 19 social projects across the country’s seven provinces. Additionally, projects under the ‘18 for 18’ initiative, launched last year on Ncell's 18th anniversary, are currently in the implementation phase.

Back in 2005, on this day—September 17th, Ncell embarked on its journey to connect Nepal and Nepali people. Since then, it has revolutionised the telecommunications industry by making access to essential communication services easy, reliable, and more affordable. "Our journey so far would not have been possible without the trust and support of our valued customers, partners and key stakeholders like government authorities, regulators, and the communities we serve. We are even more committed to many more years of togetherness as we support Nepal's journey towards a digital future," said Kayumov.
As one of the largest taxpayers in Nepal, the company has paid over Rs. 320 billion in taxes and fees since its inception, making a significant contribution to the country’s economy.

September 19

Ncell Foundation felicitates Palesha and other Paralympians with cash reward


Ncell Foundation has felicitated Para Taekwondo player Palesha Goverdhan with cash reward of NPR 1 million in recognition of her historic win at the Paris Paralympics 2024 which is the first ever highest medal that Nepal has won in the sporting history of Nepal.
Marking the 25th anniversary of the National Paralympics Committee (NPC) Nepal on Wednesday, Ncell Foundation felicitated Palesha along with other 4 team members of the Paris Paralympics with the cash reward. As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Ncell Foundation felicitated the Para athletes for representing the country in international arena.

Para Taekwondo Coach Mr. Kabiraj Negi has been honoured with cash reward of Rs. 300,000. Likewise, Bharat Singh Mahata (Para Taekwondo Player), Bhim Bahadur Kumal (Para Swimmer) and Bijen Man Singh Shrestha (Para Swimming Coach) were also rewarded with Rs. 100,000 each. 
“This felicitation from Ncell Foundation has further motivated Para players like me to excel further and now my aim is to bring Gold Medal for Nepal. Para games that were in shadow since long has now garnered a lot of positivity with the collaboration of Ncell and NPC in the overall training and development of Para athletes of Nepal. I am thankful to Ncell for this association,” said Palesha. 

Miniter of Youth and Sports, Tejulal Chaudhary, Chief Regulatory Officer of Ncell, Vishal Mani Upadhyay, President of NPC Radha Ghale and Ncell’s Head of Corporate Communications and CSR, Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka jointly felicitated Palesha and other members of Paris Paralympics team. 
In the same event, Ncell was also felicitated by NPC in recognition of Ncell’s relentless efforts and support towards empowering the para-athletes of Nepal. A letter of appreciation was handed over to Ncell officials by Minister Chaudhary. 
“With the recent launch of Ncell Foundation by Ncell, we are delighted to reward the Palesha for her historic win along with other players and coaches who represented Nepal at Paris Paralympics, as a part of our social initiative,” said Bishakha Lakshmi Kunwar, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Ncell. In collaboration with the NPC, we are committed to work towards empowering the para athletes of Nepal.” 

Ncell had announced to felicitate Palesha and other players and coaches immediately after the historic win of Palesha at the Paris Paralympics. Last year, on the occasion of 18th anniversary, Ncell announced the strategic partnership with NPC for training and development of Para athletes of the country.

October 1

 

Ncell Foundation organises free health camp in Niglihawa, Kapilvastu

 
Ncell Foundation as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative at the provincial level, organised a free health camp in Kapilvastu Municipality, Ward No. 9, Niglihawa on September 30. Around 400 individuals visited the camp and received free medical services for various ailments.
 
The free health camp was organised in collaboration with the Nepal Heart Foundation with technical support from Niglihawa Health Post, Kapilvastu. The main highlight of the health camp was cardiology-related special consultations, ECG and diabetes screening, Gynaecology related special consultations along with other general service consultations. Medicines were also distributed for free to those in need.
 
Health camps help to promote preventive healthcare services by providing free screenings and detecting early health issues, if any. This is the third in a series of such health camps in Kapilvastu organised by Ncell Foundation. Prior to this similar camp was organised in Banaganga Municipality and Mayadevi Rural Municipality. Ncell Foundation aims to organise five such health camps in two remote areas of Kapilvastu.
 
Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Ncell, said, “In line with Ncell Foundations vision towards providing access to health care services in remote areas of Nepal, we organised this health camp, to promoting the healthier well-being of our community because we care for our people. This is a testament that Ncell Foundation is here for Nepal and the Nepali people. We have been organising social activities at the grassroots level, and activities like these at the provincial level help us connect with the local community.”
 
Ncell Foundation has been implementing various social development initiatives across all seven provinces as part of its broader CSR and sustainability efforts. In celebration of Ncell’s 19th anniversary, the Foundation has planned a series of social activities targeting grassroots communities. As responsible corporate citizen, Ncell has contributed more than Rs. 2 billion towards social projects in education, environment, and health, among others.
 

Ncell Foundation extends support to flood and landslide victims in Godavari Municipality

Kathmandu, October 08

In the aftermath of the devastating floods and landslide incurred by persistent rainfall across the country on September 27 and 28, Ncell Foundation has stepped forward to support the impacted families of Godawari Municipality, Lalitpur with relief package. 

In line with the Ncell Foundation’s guiding principle – Because Everything is Connected - Ncell Foundation on October 7 (Monday) supported around 200 families from five badly affected wards (Ward 4, 7, 8, 10 and 13) of Godavari Municipality, Lalitpur with the much-needed relief support.

Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR, Ncell said, “At Ncell, we believe that in moments of natural disaster, it’s our duty to stand by our communities because we are all connected together for Nepal.” 

Mayor of Godavari Municipality Gajendra Maharjan further added, "During this difficult time of calamity, the relief provided by Ncell Foundation to the victims of various wards of our municipality is a great support. We are grateful to Ncell for this support. Now, we have to work on the rehabilitation.”
 
The relief support includes ration, kitchen utensils, hygiene kits, blankets and floor mats aimed at addressing the most immediate needs of those whose lives have been disrupted by the disaster. Ncell employees visited the impacted areas and handed over the relief package directly to impacted families in collaboration with Godavari Municipality and Karmayog Foundation. 

Khadka further said, “Ncell Foundation has always been and will always be here to ensure that help reaches those in need and together with our partners, we are doing everything possible to provide relief, restore hope, and help rebuild lives of those lost everything.”

The partnership between Ncell Foundation, Karmayog Foundation, and Godavari Municipality has created a significant value during this challenging time. The local authority has praised the support, which has made a significant impact in reaching vulnerable families.

This relief initiative underscores Ncell Foundation’s commitment to social responsibility and its belief that in moments of crisis, compassion and solidarity can make all the difference. 
Ncell Foundation will continue to evaluate the situation and work with concerned government bodies and partners to provide support as families go through the process of rebuilding and rehabilitation.

October 29

Ncell Foundation distributes educational kits to affected children and relief packages to flood and landslide-hit families

Ncell Foundation has distributed educational kits to 500 children from the Balkhu area who were affected by recent floods. This support was extended in collaboration with the Karmayog Foundation as part of the company’s disaster response initiative under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
The Balkhu area along the Bagmati River was inundated due to floods caused by incessant rains on September 27 and 28. As a result, students in the area lost their books, notebooks, and other educational materials.

For a long time, Ncell has been prioritising disaster preparedness and response under its CSR efforts. Accordingly, Ncell Foundation has provided relief support to families affected by floods and landslides in Panauti and Roshi of Kavrepalanchowk District and Chakraghatta of Sarlahi District.

Ncell Foundation distributed relief packages to 215 families in Wards 7, 8, and 11 of Roshi Rural Municipality. Likewise, 70 families in Wards 7 and 8 of Panauti Municipality received relief support. Recently, it also distributed relief materials to 50 families in the flood-affected Ward 4 of Chakraghatta Rural Municipality.

Earlier, Ncell Foundation had provided relief packages to around 200 families in Wards 4, 7, 8, 10, and 13 of Lalitpur’s Godawari Municipality, who were severely affected by floods and landslides. In total, Ncell Foundation has distributed relief materials to more than 530 households.

"In the past as well, we have provided support and assistance to respond to disasters like floods, landslides, earthquakes, and COVID-19," said Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Corporate Communications and CSR Head of Ncell. "It is our duty to support the community in times of crisis, and we are committed to fulfilling this responsibility."

These initiatives by Ncell Foundation reaffirm the importance of empathy and solidarity in times of crisis. The distributed relief materials included food items, hygiene kits, blankets, and other essentials.

In Godawari Municipality, Ncell Foundation distributed relief materials in collaboration with the Karmayog Foundation, and in Kavrepalanchowk and Sarlahi, relief packages were distributed to affected families in coordination with Volunteer Corps Nepal, with Ncell employees also participating in the distribution.

Last month, marking its 19th anniversary of service, Ncell launched the Ncell Foundation to undertake CSR initiatives. The company has been implementing social projects in areas such as health, education, environment, disaster preparedness and response. Ncell’s CSR has directly and indirectly benefited over 13 million people, contributing more than Rs. 2 billion to various social initiatives across the country.

December 24

From Cricket to Classrooms: Ncell Foundation’s '4 for 4s' initiative ensures 2600+ educational kits

Linking the excitement of cricket via Nepal Premiere League (NPL) to the classrooms, Ncell Foundation as per its commitment will be providing educational kits to 2612 students from community schools across Nepal.
 
This impactful initiative of Ncell Foundation to support the students at community schools is tied to the 653 boundaries hit during the entire season of NPL that concluded on Saturday (December 21). This is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to transforming the excitement of cricket into meaningful educational support for underserved communities wherein Foundation has committed to allocating 4 educational kits for every 4s hit during the NPL.
 
The educational kits distribution initiative aims to bring a positive change in students' education. Each kit to be provided to students will include essential items such as school bags, notebooks, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, and more. These materials are expected to help reduce the shortage of resources and are believed to contribute to students' learning.
 
As of the final match hosted at the TU International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, a total of 653 boundaries were hit. Janakpur Bolts' Lahiru Malintha contributed 140 educational kits which is the highest contribution from the players via 35 boundaries hit during the series. Second in the row was Pokhara Avengers' Andries Gous, who contributed 120 educational kits via 30 boundaries followed by Lumbini Lions Rohit Kumar Poudel who contributed 104 educational kits via 26 boundaries.
 
Likewise, Chitwan Rhinos’ Ravinder Bopara and Sudurpaschim Royals’ Saif Zaib contributed 96 kits each via 24 boundaries hit during the NPL.  
 
“This season’s NPL has been a milestone in nurturing Nepali cricketing talents. We are thrilled to collaborate with NPL, combining the passion for cricket with a cause that provides essential educational resources to students in need. We extend our congratulations to CAN and thank every player from each team for making this initiative possible. We are committed to working with CAN, all regional teams and other stakeholders to ensure the successful attainment of 2612 educational kits distribution,” said Bishakha Laxmi Khadka, Head of Corporate Communication and CSR at Ncell.
 
Cricket, being one of the sports with a deep connection to the Nepali community, has added further excitement to this initiative. It adds more power to society and delivers much-needed support and resources to those who are in need. To deliver these materials to the targeted students of community schools, Ncell has collaborated with the Karmayog Foundation.
 
NPL has contributed to the development of Nepal's own domestic cricket talent. Ncell's partnership for NPL and the educational kits for each boundary is in line with the company's theme, ‘Here for You,’ and its commitment to supporting the development of cricket and sports in Nepal. Ncell Foundation is committed to contributing to the prosperity of communities through effective initiatives that address important social needs.