- Tuesday, 21 April 2026
Nepal, Kathmandu, April 20 — The Department of Information Technology has introduced new web accessibility features aimed at making government websites more user-friendly and inclusive for all citizens.
According to Director General Shree Chandra Shah, the initiative has been implemented under the Government Integrated Website Management System (GIWMS), with a particular focus on users with disabilities and those who rely on assistive technologies.
With these upgrades, government websites can now be fully navigated using only a keyboard, allowing users to access all webpage components without needing a mouse. A “skip navigation” feature has also been added, enabling keyboard and screen reader users to bypass menus and directly reach the main content.
In addition, all important images, logos, icons, and service-related visuals now include descriptive alt text, improving accessibility for screen reader users. Form-related features have also been enhanced, with error messages and feedback now supported by audio cues.
Input fields, including search and contact forms, are now clearly labeled, making them easier to interpret through assistive technologies. Visual focus indicators have also been introduced for keyboard users, helping them track their position on a webpage. Post-submission messages are now more easily detectable by screen readers as well.
Shah noted that while these features may seem minor for general users, they are crucial for individuals who depend on assistive tools. The improvements are expected to help bridge the digital accessibility gap, making public digital services more inclusive and supporting more technology-friendly governance.
