The department of information technology, electronics and communications in Goa has issued a second reminder to all government departments, corporations, autonomous bodies and institutions. The directive follows a lack of response to an earlier circular issued in February, which called for compliance with mandated security and accessibility standards for official websites.
Details Required from Departments
Director for IT Kabir Shirgaonkar, in a fresh circular, reiterated that departments must furnish details of their official websites. These include whether they comply with the guidelines for Indian government websites (GIGW). Departments must also state the status of their standardisation testing and quality certification. They have been asked to provide details on the availability and validity of their secure sockets layer certificates. Information on their latest security audit reports must also be submitted.
Scope of the Directive
The directive covers departments under Goa Electronics Limited’s framework, which is the state’s mandated structure for government website management. It also applies to departments outside this framework. Departments not under the SDA-WDDA framework have additionally been asked to provide the contact details of their designated nodal officer. This officer is responsible for managing the departmental website and coordinating compliance efforts.
Importance of Timely Compliance
Shirgaonkar said that timely compliance from all departments is essential. It will help ensure uniform standards in website management, accessibility and security across government platforms. He asked departments to submit the required information at the earliest so that further action can be taken without delay.
Concerns Over Digital Governance
The department’s follow-up circular indicates administrative inertia on matters of digital governance and cybersecurity. Officials pointed out that government websites have been frequent targets of cyberattacks and data breaches in the state. Ensuring compliance with security standards is critical to protect sensitive data and maintain public trust.
