Government implements digital and data governance action points
KATHMANDU: The government has started implementing digital governance and data governance measures prioritised in the 100 action points of the Governance Reform Blueprint, 2082.
According to the agenda approved at the first cabinet meeting held last Friday, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has begun the process to shut down betting-related apps and websites within 24 hours and has instructed the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) to close these apps.
The government has said public service delivery will be made faster, more transparent, paperless and interconnected. The existing integrated office management system, GIOMS, will be consolidated and made more user-friendly within 100 days.
Citizens’ details will be collected one time only, with arrangements for other agencies to use the same data, and government apps and portals will be simplified.
The action points include making online applications easier through the Nagarik app, implementing an auto-fill system, and enabling digital submission of applications for police reports, passports and driving licences within 45 days. Where physical presence is required, an online appointment system to select a time will be implemented within three months.
The government plans to expand the digital signature system. A study has been initiated to enable services using e-signature through the National ID card, biometric verification or OTP. A file-tracking system will be implemented within 30 days to send automatic alerts in case of delays.
Arrangements for online download of certificates will be implemented within 15 days. The agenda also includes plans to improve employees’ digital profiles and the Hello Government system.
Policies and laws on digital governance and personal data protection will be drafted within 60 days. Preparations are underway to establish an independent regulatory body for information technology and digital governance, and the government has set a target to prepare the Information Technology and Electronic Governance Bill and the National Enterprise Architecture Framework within 60 days.
The government also aims to establish a National Integrated Digital Governance Platform to provide all services through a single portal. Work to establish and operate the National Data Exchange Platform will begin within 100 days.
The plan to establish the Information Technology and Electronic Governance Office under the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, abolish the current Department of Information Technology and integrate all related agencies is expected to be completed within three months.
