E-Governance has become an integral part of modern administrative systems, enabling governments to deliver services efficiently, transparently, and inclusively. Bihar, one of Indias most populous states, has embraced e-governance to tackle challenges in governance and service delivery. This article delves into the key e-governance initiatives in Bihar, highlighting their impact on citizens and governance.
1. Introduction to E-Governance in Bihar
E-governance in Bihar focuses on leveraging technology to improve service delivery, reduce corruption, and foster transparency in government operations. It aligns with the Digital India initiative and aims to bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas.
2. Key Objectives of E-Governance in Bihar
Enhancing transparency and accountability.
Providing efficient and citizen-centric services.
Reducing the turnaround time for government processes.
Ensuring the inclusion of rural and marginalized communities.
Streamlining governance through digital integration.
3. Institutional Framework for E-Governance
The Government of Bihar has established dedicated institutions and departments to spearhead e-governance initiatives:
Department of Information Technology (DIT): Responsible for policy formulation and implementation of IT projects.
Bihar State Electronics Development Corporation Ltd. (BELTRON): Acts as the nodal agency for IT infrastructure development.
Bihar State Wide Area Network (BSWAN): Facilitates connectivity across government offices.
4. Key E-Governance Projects in Bihar
4.1. Jankari Call Centre
Objective: Simplifying access to government information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
Features:
Citizens can file RTI applications through a toll-free number.
Multilingual support ensures accessibility for all sections of society.
Recognized as a pioneering model in e-governance for RTI implementation.
4.2. Bihar Lok Seva Adhikar
Objective: Ensuring timely delivery of public services.
Key Highlights:
Covers over 50 public services across departments.
Citizens can apply for services online and track their status.
Includes an escalation mechanism to address delays.
4.3. e-District Project
Purpose: Digitizing and decentralizing service delivery at the district level.
Scope:
Services include caste certificates, income certificates, and land records.
Integrated with Common Service Centers (CSCs) to extend reach to rural areas.
Citizens can avail services through online portals or CSCs.
4.4. Bihar Bhumi (Land Records Digitization)
Goal: Digital transformation of land records for greater transparency.
Features:
Online access to land records (Khata, Khesra, Jamabandi).
Integration with e-District and revenue departments.
Reduces disputes and facilitates ease of doing business.
4.5. e-PDS (Public Distribution System)
Objective: Streamlining food grain distribution under the PDS.
Key Features:
Implementation of Aadhaar-based biometric authentication.
Digitized ration cards and real-time tracking of stock and distribution.
Reduction in leakages and improved transparency.
4.6. e-Nagrik Seva
Purpose: Providing municipal services digitally.
Services:
Online application for birth and death certificates.
Property tax payment and grievances redressal.
Accessible via web portals and mobile apps.
4.7. e-Procurement
Objective: Enhancing transparency in government procurement.
Key Highlights:
Online bidding and tendering process.
Minimizes corruption and ensures fair competition.
Simplified interface for contractors and vendors.
4.8. e-Kalyan (Social Welfare)
Purpose: Ensuring efficient disbursal of welfare schemes.
Beneficiaries:
Students availing scholarships.
Financial assistance under old-age pensions and other schemes.
Integration with DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) for transparency.
4.9. e-Health Initiatives
Key Programs:
Telemedicine services for rural health centers.
Online appointment booking and digital health records.
Real-time monitoring of healthcare facilities and services.
4.10. CM Dashboard
Objective: Enabling real-time monitoring of government schemes.
Features:
Analytical insights and performance metrics of departments.
Facilitates data-driven decision-making by administrators.
4.11. Bihar SWAN (State Wide Area Network)
Scope:
Provides secure and high-speed connectivity across government offices.
Supports integrated governance by linking departments.
5. Impact of E-Governance in Bihar
5.1. Improved Service Delivery
Faster processing of applications for essential services.
Reduced reliance on intermediaries and in-person visits.
5.2. Transparency and Accountability
Digital records ensure traceability and reduce corruption.
Online grievance redressal mechanisms enhance public trust.
5.3. Inclusion and Accessibility
Common Service Centers bring services closer to rural and marginalized populations.
Multilingual platforms ensure inclusivity.
5.4. Economic Benefits
E-procurement and streamlined land records facilitate business operations.
Reduction in leakages in welfare schemes saves public resources.
6. Challenges in E-Governance Implementation
6.1. Digital Literacy
Low digital literacy levels among rural populations hinder adoption.
6.2. Infrastructure Gaps
Limited internet connectivity and power supply in remote areas.
6.3. Resistance to Change
Bureaucratic inertia and lack of training for government employees.
6.4. Cybersecurity Concerns
Need for robust data protection measures against cyber threats.
7. Future Roadmap for E-Governance in Bihar
Strengthening Infrastructure: Expanding internet connectivity through BharatNet and 5G.
Capacity Building: Training government employees and citizens in digital literacy.
Mobile-First Approach: Developing mobile apps to increase service accessibility.
Data Analytics: Leveraging big data for predictive governance and policy-making.
Blockchain Technology: Ensuring secure land records and transparent transactions.