NPCERT, CSRI Nepal recommend key enhancements to strengthen E-Governance Blueprint 2081

KATHMANDU, MARCH 25: The Information Security Response Team Nepal (NPCERT) and the Center for Cybersecurity Research and Innovation (CSRI) Nepal have lately provided key recommendations to enhance the effectiveness and security of Nepal’s E-Governance Blueprint 2081. These organizations shared their insights yesterday to make the blueprint more inclusive, efficient, and future-ready.

The E-Governance Board, operating under the Office of the Prime Minister, had drafted the blueprint with the goal of promoting economic transparency and competitiveness through digital governance. During the stakeholder consultation process, CSRI Nepal and NPCERT emphasized the need to focus on strengthening institutional structures, cybersecurity, and risk management.

NPCERT’s focus on cybersecurity and risk management

NPCERT has highlighted the necessity of clarifying the roles of government agencies while strengthening institutional structures and improving cybersecurity. It has recommended the establishment of a centralized legal authority for monitoring e-governance initiatives effectively, along with enhanced coordination between ministries and departments.

To ensure the blueprint is clearer and more specific, NPCERT has suggested aligning it with the Digital Nepal Framework. It also emphasized the need to establish a National Data Center, strengthen the Cybersecurity Center, and promote cloud computing, which would help build a robust digital infrastructure with secure backup systems.

Additionally, NPCERT recommended implementing data protection laws and ensuring the security of the national digital identity system to safeguard citizens' personal information.

CSRI Nepal’s emphasis on digital ethics and public trust

CSRI Nepal underscored the importance of the ethical use of digital services and maintaining public trust. It believes that digital services can play a crucial role in empowering citizens, but this requires building trust between the government and the public.

To bridge the digital divide, CSRI Nepal stressed the need to expand internet access and digital infrastructure in rural areas and conduct digital literacy programs across all seven provinces.

Furthermore, CSRI Nepal advocated for the use of blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the security and transparency of response systems.

It also suggested updating the Criminal Code and other legal frameworks to align Nepal’s cyber laws with global cybersecurity standards.

To support long-term digital development, CSRI Nepal proposed the establishment of IT departments in all ministries, greater collaboration between federal, provincial, and local governments in building a digital ecosystem, and the integration of cybersecurity education into university curricula.