Data Privacy Newsletter: Comments on Draft India Data Accessibility and Use Policy-April 2022

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS ON DRAFT INDIA DATA ACCESSIBILITY & USE POLICY 2022

We wish to extend appreciation to the Ministry of Information and Technology (hereafter referred to as “MeitY”) for releasing the Draft India Data Accessibility & Use Policy 2022 (hereafter referred to as the (“Draft Policy”) and taking the initiative to increase accessibility and use of the immensely valuable non-personal data residing with the Government of India. The availability of public sector data will be a game-changer for the Indian economy and drive innovation and accelerate the advancement of data-driven technology in India.

The Draft Policy provides a clear roadmap on data accessibility and use, our suggestions thematically seek to enhance the following principles:

1. Enhance the quality of data so that it can be used by industry and research organisations with complete confidence.

2. Simplify the process for use of data, leading to increased traction and fast adoption.

3. Systematically increase quality, integrity, reliability of data by incorporating certain principles in the Draft Policy.

DETAILED SUGGESTIONS ON THE DRAFT POLICY