Digital, Data Governance Measures Rolled Out by Government
The government has initiated the implementation of digital and data governance, which is outlined in the 100 action points of the Governance Reform Blueprint. Following a cabinet meeting, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has begun shutting down betting-related applications and websites, with the Nepal Telecommunications Authority overseeing the closure within 24 hours. This reform aims to enhance public service delivery by making it faster, transparent, paperless, and interconnected, with commitments to consolidate and improve the existing integrated office management system, GIOMS, within 100 days to enhance user-friendliness.
To streamline information collection, citizens’ information will be gathered only once, allowing other agencies to access this data. Proposed actions include the simplification of online applications via a citizen app for governance, implementation of an ‘auto-fill’ feature, and the digitization of application submissions for services like police reports, passports, and driving licenses within 45 days. For cases requiring physical presence, an online appointment system for scheduling service appointments will be introduced within three months.
The government plans to expand the digital signature system and has initiated a study to allow service availment through an ‘e-Signature’ linked to the National Identity card, biometric methods, or One-Time Passwords (OTPs). A file tracking system will be established within 30 days to provide automatic alerts for delays in processes. Furthermore, arrangements for the online download of certificates are set to be functional within 15 days.
Additional agenda items involve enhancing the digital profiles of government employees and improving the ‘Hello Government’ initiative. Policies and laws regarding digital governance and personal data protection are to be drafted within 60 days, alongside preparations for the establishment of an independent regulatory authority for information technology and digital governance. The government has also targeted the formulation of the Information Technology and Electronic Governance Bill and the National Enterprise Architecture Framework within the same timeframe.
A significant goal is to create a National Integrated Digital Governance Platform that consolidates all services onto a single platform. The establishment and operational initiation of the National Data Exchange Platform is to commence within 100 days. Additionally, plans include the establishment of the Information Technology and Electronic Governance Office under the Prime Minister’s Office, the dissolution of the current Department of Information Technology, and the integration of related agencies, with completion expected within three months.
