Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has announced that comprehensive measures will be implemented to mitigate cyber threats. This includes enhancing the prediction and monitoring of such threats as part of the government’s efforts to secure cyberspace.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Gurung shared these plans during a National Assembly meeting where he discussed the ministry’s strategy. He emphasized that the Cyber Security Centre will be strengthened to better address these concerns. In addition, Minister Devendra Dahal of Physical Infrastructure and Transport responded to inquiries regarding the appropriation bill, highlighting the establishment of the National Cyber Security Centre aimed at creating a resilient cyberspace.
The Cyber Security Centre is operational around the clock and has adopted a web monitoring system. An integrated website management system is also in place to ensure uniformity across government websites. Minister Dahal further mentioned that the government is working on developing new policies and laws, as well as updating existing ones, to enhance the accountability and credibility of the mass communications sector.
Efforts are also underway to ensure citizens’ access to mass media, with news and opinions being published in 45 languages by Gorkhapatra daily, broadcasted in 25 languages by the Public Service Broadcasting, and disseminated in 5 languages by the Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS). Plans are in place to expand the number of languages in which content is made available.
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology aims to improve the quality of content broadcasted by the PSB institute to make it more audience-friendly. Initiatives to enhance media monitoring through the Press Council Nepal are also being pursued to maintain journalism credibility.
Additionally, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre will be established to promote the use and regulation of AI technologies. Other ongoing projects by the Ministry were also shared by Minister Gurung.