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In a bid to enhance Nepal’s digital landscape and address the Cybersecurity Challenges and Strategies for Nepal,the Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert), alongside the Center for Cyber Security Research and Innovation (CSR) and Texas College of Management and IT, convened a stakeholder consultation on the National Cybersecurity Policy 2080. This pivotal gathering brought together prominent stakeholders from various sectors. Their aim was to aid in crafting comprehensive and inclusive cybersecurity policy. The goal was to ensure the policy embodies diverse perspectives and requirements of all relevant parties. This approach helps to cultivate a secure and resilient digital environment nationwide.
Key Figures Discuss Cybersecurity Challenges and Strategies for Nepal
During the consultation, Chiranjibi Adhikari, President of npCert, stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive National Cybersecurity Policy. He highlighted the critical importance of bolstering Nepal’s digital infrastructure. This is necessary to protect against increasing cyber threats. He emphasized that a robust policy framework is essential to safeguard the nation’s digital assets and ensures long-term resilience.
Dr. Rajib Subba, a former DIG, underscored the pivotal role of cybersecurity education in Nepal. He advocated for enhancing educational programs focused on practical skill development which is crucial to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Dr. Subba’s insights suggest a reevaluation of current educational structures. It is necessary to better equip students with expertise needed to combat evolving cyber threats.
Ganesh Ghimire, FinTech expert, provided a detailed analysis of opportunities and challenges associated with cross-border transactions in Nepal. He highlighted vulnerabilities in international financial dealings and called for enhanced security measures to protect these transactions. He pointed to need for both regulatory and technological advancements. These are essential to support secure cross-border financial activities.
Promoting Cyber Literacy and Addressing Policy Gaps
Resham Bhandari, representing InfoDevelopers, emphasized the importance of cyber literacy at the grassroots level. He argued that raising awareness and understanding of cyber threats among the general population is crucial for creating a secure digital environment. Bhandari’s focus on community-level education initiatives reflects a broader strategy to enhance national cybersecurity from ground up.
Sharad Chandra Pyakurel highlighted the slow pace of policy implementation despite the industry-friendly nature of existing regulations. He pointed out the gap between policy formulation and execution, suggesting that bridging this gap is essential to achieve meaningful progress in cybersecurity.
Birendra Singh Dhami provided insights through case studies of cybercrime incidents in Nepal. He stressed the need for more effective law enforcement and legal frameworks. This is necessary to combat increasing tide of cyber offenses in the country.
Collaboration and Education as Pillars of Cybersecurity
Dr. Suman Thapaliya, Head of IT Department, stressed the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders in the development of cybersecurity policy. He argued that a collaborative approach is vital for creating a comprehensive and effective framework that addresses the complex challenges of cybersecurity. By engaging diverse perspectives, Thapaliya believes the policy will be more robust and adaptable to evolving digital threats.
Dhurba Raj Sharma (Sudip), General Secretary of npCert elaborated on the critical role of cybersecurity education and effective incident handling. He emphasized that enhancing cybersecurity awareness and training at all levels is essential to prepare individuals and organizations to respond swiftly and effectively to cyber threats. Sharma also highlighted the importance of establishing robust incident handling protocols. This will mitigate impact of cyber-attacks and ensure coordinated response across the nation.
npCert’s Role in Enhancing Cybersecurity in Nepal
The Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert) is committed to improving cybersecurity in Nepal by promoting security awareness across industry, academia, and public sector. npCert focuses on the research and analysis of cybersecurity incidents and actively gathers and disseminates technical information to enhance national cyber resilience.
As these experts continue to advocate for policy improvements, educational advancements, and grassroots initiatives, Nepal moves closer to developing more secure and resilient digital infrastructure.
Also read: Cyber Security Practices And Policy To Protect Your Privacy
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