Last Updated on by Swostika Shrestha
In a vital effort to bolster Nepal’s digital infrastructure and address the growing challenges of cybersecurity in Nepal, the Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert), in partnership with the Center for Cyber Security Research and Innovation (CSR) and Texas College of Management and IT, recently organized a stakeholder consultation focusing on the National Cybersecurity Policy 2080. This event gathered prominent figures from various sectors to collaboratively shape a comprehensive and inclusive cybersecurity policy. The primary objective was to ensure that the policy accommodates diverse perspectives and addresses the specific needs of all relevant stakeholders, ultimately contributing to a secure and resilient digital environment across Nepal.
Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges: Insights from Key Experts
Chiranjibi Adhikari, President of npCert, opened the consultation by emphasizing the urgent need for a robust National Cybersecurity Policy. He highlighted the critical importance of strengthening Nepal’s digital infrastructure to defend against the growing wave of cyber threats. Adhikari stressed that a solid policy framework is essential for safeguarding the nation’s digital assets and ensuring long-term security and resilience.
Dr. Rajib Subba, a former Deputy Inspector General (DIG), underscored the importance of cybersecurity education in Nepal. He advocated for enhancing educational programs with a focus on practical skill development, which is crucial for preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Dr. Subba’s comments suggested that the current educational framework needs to be reevaluated to better equip students with the skills necessary to combat the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
Ganesh Ghimire, a FinTech expert, provided a detailed analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with cross-border transactions in Nepal. He pointed out the vulnerabilities in international financial transactions and called for stronger security measures to protect these activities. Ghimire’s expertise highlighted the need for both regulatory improvements and technological advancements to ensure the security of cross-border financial operations.
Promoting Cyber Literacy and Bridging Policy Gaps
Resham Bhandari, representing InfoDevelopers, emphasized the crucial role of cyber literacy at the grassroots level. He argued that increasing awareness and understanding of cyber threats among the general population is fundamental to building a secure digital environment. Bhandari’s emphasis on community-level education initiatives reflects a broader strategy aimed at strengthening national cybersecurity in Nepal from the ground up.
Sharad Chandra Pyakurel brought attention to the slow implementation of existing cybersecurity policies, despite their industry-friendly nature. He pointed out the significant gap between policy formulation and execution, suggesting that closing this gap is essential for making real progress in the field of cybersecurity.
Birendra Singh Dhami shared insights through case studies of cybercrime incidents in Nepal, underscoring the urgent need for more effective law enforcement and legal frameworks to combat the rising tide of cyber offenses in the country.
Collaboration and Education: Pillars of a Strong Cybersecurity Framework
Dr. Suman Thapaliya, Head of the IT Department, highlighted the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders in the development of cybersecurity policies. He argued that a collaborative approach is key to creating a comprehensive and effective framework that can address the complex challenges of cybersecurity. By incorporating diverse perspectives, Thapaliya believes the policy will be more resilient and adaptable to emerging digital threats.
Dhurba Raj Sharma (Sudip), General Secretary of npCert, elaborated on the essential role of cybersecurity education and effective incident response. He stressed that enhancing cybersecurity awareness and training at all levels is crucial for enabling individuals and organizations to respond swiftly and effectively to cyber threats. Sharma also emphasized the importance of establishing strong incident response protocols to minimize the impact of cyber-attacks and ensure a coordinated national response.
npCert’s Mission to Strengthen Cybersecurity in Nepal
npCert is dedicated to advancing cybersecurity in Nepal by promoting security awareness across industries, academia, and the public sector. The organization focuses on researching and analyzing cybersecurity incidents, actively gathering and sharing technical information to strengthen national cyber resilience. As these experts continue to advocate for policy enhancements, educational improvements, and grassroots initiatives, Nepal is moving closer to developing a more secure and resilient digital infrastructure.
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