Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

E-governance is a transformative tool that leverages technology to improve governance. It signifies not only technical advancements but also a shift in power dynamics, fostering citizen empowerment, transparency, and better service delivery. This transformation has deep socio-political implications, reshaping the relationship between citizens and the state.

Body

Transformation of Citizen-State Relationships through Digital Platforms:

• Enhanced Transparency and Accountability
  • Reduced Corruption: Digital platforms like GeM (Government e-Marketplace) and Public Financial Management System (PFMS) eliminate middlemen, ensuring corruption-free transactions.
  • Citizen Oversight: Tools like RTI Online Portal empower citizens to scrutinize government actions.
  • Open Data Initiatives: Platforms enable public access to datasets, fostering informed citizen engagement like access to real-time progress of projects such as Smart Cities via dashboards.
• Empowering Citizens through Participation
  • Crowdsourcing Policies: MyGov platform invites citizen suggestions for policymaking alongside Mann Ki Baat initiative and participatory budgeting.
  • Real-Time Feedback Mechanisms: Apps like Swachhata App enable grievance redressal and feedback loops.
  • Elections and Democracy: Digital voter registration and monitoring through apps like Voter Helpline enhance electoral participation.
• Improved Service Delivery and Inclusion
  • One-Stop Platforms: Portals like UMANG integrate multiple services, reducing time and effort for citizens.
    • e-Courts, DigiLocker, and National AI Platform are revolutionizing service delivery.
  • Financial Inclusion: Aadhaar-enabled payment systems provide banking access to the unbanked. (As of 2023, about 6.26 crore PMJDY accountholders receive direct benefit transfer from the Government).
  • Healthcare and Education: Platforms like e-Sanjeevani and DIKSHA bridge service gaps in rural areas..

Challenges in Reshaping Citizen-State Relationships:

• Digital Divide
  • Rural Connectivity Gaps: Limited internet access in rural and tribal regions restricts e-governance reach. (Only about 35% of rural households in India have access to the internet)
  • Gender Divide: Women face barriers to digital literacy and smartphone access.
    • A recent study revealed lower digital literacy among females (89.8%) compared to males (94.7%).
  • Exclusion of Vulnerable Groups: Elderly and differently-abled face challenges in navigating digital platforms.
• Privacy and Data Security
  • Data Breaches: Weak cybersecurity measures lead to breaches, eroding trust. (Recent data leaks in CoWIN Platform).
  • Algorithmic Bias: Automated systems may discriminate against marginalized communities. (Denial of ration benefits in Maharashtra due to Aadhaar authentication failures)
• Resistance to Change
  • Bureaucratic Hesitance: Reluctance to adopt new workflows hinders digital governance.
  • Political Will: E-governance success varies due to differing priorities and investments by state governments.

Way Forward

• Promoting Digital Inclusion: Expediting BharatNet to connect rural areas with high-speed internet.
• Strengthening Cybersecurity and Legal Frameworks: Implement the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 swiftly.
  • Regular audits of digital platforms to prevent breaches and improve trust.
• Fostering Public-Private Partnerships : Develop frameworks to attract private investments in key governance areas like digital health, digital education, and infrastructure.
  • Monitor PPP projects to ensure accountability and alignment with public welfare goals.
• Data-Driven Governance: Promote the use of big data and artificial intelligence for evidence-based policymaking.
  • Establish robust data privacy regulations to build trust and ensure responsible use of citizen data.

Conclusion

Digital platforms are not just tools of governance but vehicles for socio-political transformation. They enhance transparency, inclusion, and participation, reshaping the citizen-state relationship.