1️⃣ What is an IT Policy?
An IT Policy is a formal document that outlines the rules, responsibilities, and procedures for using information technology resources within an organization. It sets the standards for acceptable use, security, management, and governance of IT assets.
Purpose:
- It ensures proper and secure use of IT infrastructure.
- It protects data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
- It defines roles for IT staff and users.
- It provides guidance to manage risks and compliance with laws.
The Information Technology (IT) Policy of Nepal is a government initiative aimed at promoting the use, growth, and regulation of IT in the country. It provides a strategic direction for the development of information technology, cybersecurity, and digital governance.
2️⃣ Importance of IT Policies
- Helps prevent misuse of IT resources.
- Protects sensitive information from unauthorized access or loss.
- Ensures business continuity by defining backup and disaster recovery plans.
- Supports regulatory compliance with legal and industry standards.
- Clarifies responsibilities to reduce security breaches.
Nepal has introduced multiple IT policies over the years to adapt to technological changes.
1. IT Policy, 2000 (2057 B.S.)
- Nepal’s first official IT policy.
- Objective: to make Nepal a global IT hub.
- Focus Areas:
- Develop skilled manpower in IT.
- Promote IT-enabled services (ITES) like outsourcing and software development.
- Encourage private sector participation.
- Increase internet penetration.
- Limitations: Ambitious but lacked proper infrastructure and implementation strategies.
2. IT Policy, 2010 (2067 B.S.)
- Revised policy to address shortcomings of the 2000 policy.
- Objective: Promote IT for social and economic development.
- Focus Areas:
- Strengthening ICT infrastructure.
- Expanding e-governance.
- Ensuring universal access to ICT services.
- Emphasis on cyber law and cybersecurity.
- Shortcoming: Implementation remained slow due to political instability and lack of resources.
3. IT Policy, 2015 (2072 B.S.)
- Current guiding policy (still in effect).
- Linked with Digital Nepal Framework (2019).
- Objective: To create a knowledge-based society and integrate IT in all sectors.
- Key Provisions:
- Promote e-governance for efficient and transparent service delivery.
- Strengthen cybersecurity and information security policies.
- Encourage IT-based industries, startups, and innovation.
- Prioritize data protection and privacy.
- Develop skilled human resources through IT education and training.
- Expand IT services to rural areas to bridge the digital divide.
4. Relation with Other Frameworks
- The IT Policy 2015 aligns with:
- Digital Nepal Framework, 2019 (e-governance, digital economy, ICT infrastructure).
- Draft Cyber Security Policy, 2021 (for national-level cybersecurity).
- Electronic Transaction Act, 2006 (Nepal’s cyber law).
