The Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW) 3.0 is a comprehensive framework designed to ensure the digital inclusion of all citizens—including persons with disabilities—by making government websites and mobile applications accessible, secure, and user-friendly.
Initially formulated by NIC and launched in 2009, GIGW has evolved through structured versions, with GIGW 3.0 being the most comprehensive yet, integrating international standards like WCAG 2.1 Level AA, Section 508, and ADA principles.
At AccessibilityWebTest, we proudly serve as accessibility testing experts for GIGW guidelines in India, supporting public and private organizations in achieving full accessibility compliance. We are also a trusted WCAG accessibility audit partner in Indiaand a digital accessibility partner for ADA and Section 508 compliancein the USA.
Introduced by NIC and adopted by DARPG into the Central Secretariat Manual of Office Procedure (CSMOP). Guidelines were categorized as Mandatory (MUST), Advisory (SHOULD), and Voluntary (MAY). This version laid the foundation for web content quality, branding, technology, and accessibility.
Focused on mobile responsiveness and updated HTML/CSS standards. Introduced mobile app accessibility, aligned with WCAG 2.0 Level AA, and categorized compliance into General Guidelines and Accessibility Guidelines.
The latest version emphasizes quality, accessibility, security, and lifecycle management. It aligns with WCAG 2.1 Level AA, enhancing touch gesture accessibility for mobile devices. We assist in Accessibility Testing with GIGW Guidelines in India and are your go-to GIGW 3.0 Government Website Accessibility Experts in India.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, enacted by the Government of India, mandates equal access to information and communication technologies, including digital content and online services. Under Section 42 of the Act, appropriate government bodies must ensure that all information and communication technology (ICT) is accessible to persons with disabilities.
GIGW 3.0 explicitly aligns with the RPwD Act, reinforcing that digital accessibility is not just a best practice, it is a legal obligation for government and public-facing platforms. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties and reputational damage.
At Accessible Minds, we integrate RPwD Act requirements into our accessibility audits and remediation efforts, helping organizations:
Alongside GIGW 3.0 and the RPwD Act, Indian Standard IS-17802 further strengthens the country’s digital accessibility framework. Notified in 2023, it establishes comprehensive accessibility requirements for ICT products and services, including websites, mobile apps, software, hardware, and documentation.
Structured in two parts—Requirements (perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust design) and Conformance (evaluation methods)—IS-17802 aligns with global standards such as WCAG and Section 508, while addressing India’s unique needs like multilingual accessibility.
| Focus | Objective | Count | Abbrev |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Ensuring a user-friendly experience for visitors | 25 | Q |
| Accessibility | Creating a more inclusive digital environment (as per RPwD Act) | 50 | A |
| Security | Protection of user data and content | 3 | S |
| Life Cycle Management | Policies & Plans for website management & maintenance | 10 | L |
Each guideline under GIGW 3.0 includes:
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