KATHMANDU: The government has taken initiation towards bolstering cyber security in Nepal with the establishment of the National Cyber Security Centre, aligning with the objectives outlined in the ‘Digital Nepal Framework 2076 BS’.
In a decision made during the Council of Ministers meeting on January 23 this year, it was agreed to establish the Centre under the auspices of the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.
The primary mandate of the National Cyber Security Centre is to conduct digital forensic investigations and serve as a hub for research and development in cyber security.
It will also focus on promoting cyber security awareness among the public, identifying challenges, and implementing preventive measures.
Anil Kumar Dutta, the Joint-Secretary of the Ministry and the designated Chief of the Centre, announced that the establishment process has entered its final stages.
A team comprising 12 personnel has been assembled to oversee the Centre’s operations, with plans to inaugurate the office in the coming days.
Dutta emphasized the urgency of establishing the Centre in response to the escalating cyber threats faced by many countries, including Nepal.
He highlighted the need for improved cyber literacy among the populace, especially as access to Wi-Fi remains largely unregulated.
The National Cyber Security Centre will be tasked with continuous monitoring of critical information infrastructure, assessing cyber incidents, and managing risks.
Additionally, it will establish emergency response teams equipped with technical expertise to swiftly address cyber threats.
Dutta further revealed plans to replicate these emergency response teams at the local level, ensuring comprehensive cyber security coverage across the nation.
