Briefly state the salient features of the National Data Sharing and Accessibility Policy, 2012 and its benefits?

Comprehensive Data Sharing Mandate

NDSAP requires all non-sensitive government data funded by public money to be accessible in human and machine-readable formats, promoting transparency nationwide and enabling innovation across sectors.

Institutional Mechanisms

The data.gov.in platform run by NIC and Data Controllers (later Chief Data Officers) in each department coordinate data release and sharing, ensuring standardized practices.

Data Classification and Negative List

It categorizes data as open, registered or restricted access, with a departmental negative list restricting sensitive datasets, to balance openness with privacy and security.

Challenges in Practice

Inter-departmental silos and delays in data dissemination persist across departments at the Centre and in states like Andhra Pradesh, limiting real-time policy impact and transparency.

Strengthen Institutional Capacity

Empower state committees to improve data sharing and governance in Andhra Pradesh, leveraging platforms like the Open Government Data portal to enhance transparency and innovation.

Enhance Privacy Frameworks

Align NDSAP with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act2 and DPDP Rules for robust data protection, addressing concerns raised by incidents like the Cambridge Analytica scandal.