Q. E-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology in the service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model’ of e-governance. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

Core Demand of the Question

  • Discuss role e-governance for ensuring transparency and accountability, beyond the routine application of digital technology in service delivery.
  • Discuss the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model of e-governance’
  • Analyse issues associated with the ‘Interactive Service Model of e-governance’
  • Suggest suitable way ahead 

Answer

E-governance initiatives like UPI and Digilocker redefine government-citizen interactions by transcending traditional norms. The Interactive Service Model fosters two-way communication, enhancing service access and citizen engagement.

Exploring multifarious interaction of E-Governance for ensuring Transparency and Accountability

  • Real-time Monitoring: Citizens can track government project progress, ensuring transparency.
  • Financial Transparency: Tracking government funds prevents mismanagement.
    Eg: PFMS monitors fund disbursements for schemes like Ayushman Bharat.
  • Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Citizens can lodge and track complaints for timely resolutions.
    Eg: CPGRAMS addresses issues related to pensions and public distribution.
  • Social Audit Tools: Community audits ensure proper fund usage and project outcomes.
    Eg: MGNREGA mandates social audits at the village level.
  • E-Procurement Systems: Transparent procurement reduces corruption and allows public review.
    Eg: GeM ensures transparency in government procurement.

Role of the Interactive Service Model of E-Governance

  • Enhanced Citizen Engagement: Offers platforms for feedback, improving governance.
    Eg: MyGov allows citizens to share suggestions on government policies.
  • Improved Service Delivery: Streamlines services, reducing delays and enhancing accessibility.
    Eg: Digital India Portal simplifies services like passport renewals and tax filings.
  • Transparency in Operations: Provides real-time data to monitor government services.
    Eg: e-Taal tracks e-transactions for services like public distribution systems.
  • Accountability through Feedback: Tracks complaints and ensures official accountability.
    Eg: RailMadad allows citizens to lodge and track railway complaints.
  • Decentralisation of Information: Ensures rural access to services.
  • Education and Awareness: Educates citizens on digital platforms for service access.
    Eg: PMGDISHA educates rural citizens on digital government services.

Issues with the Interactive Service Model of E-Governance

  • Digital Divide: Limited access to digital technology in rural areas hampers e-governance reach.
  • Data Privacy Concerns: Government data collection raises privacy issues.
  • Dependency on Technology: Risks alienating non-tech-savvy citizens, especially older populations.
  • Cybersecurity Risks: Vulnerability to cyberattacks threatens citizen data and operations.

Way Ahead

  • Bridging the Digital Divide: Comprehensive policies for equitable digital infrastructure access.
    Eg: BharatNet connects rural India with high-speed internet.
  • Enhancing Cybersecurity: Strengthening protocols to protect sensitive data from cyber threats.
  • Promoting Digital Literacy: Campaigns to educate rural areas on digital platforms.
    Eg: DISHA program trains rural citizens for digital service usage.
  • Robust Data Protection Laws: Safeguarding citizen privacy through comprehensive legislation.
    Eg: Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration to enhance service delivery.
    Eg: TCS partnerships improved GeM efficiency.

E-governance, particularly through the Interactive Service Model, holds the potential for transforming public service delivery by promoting inclusivity and transparency. As the current Indian Prime Minister emphasised, “E-governance is easy, effective, and economic governance.” 

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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