Rural Development through the E-Governance in India
Author : Dr. Hari Babu Karuchola and Dr. K Joseph Steephen
Abstract :
Rural Development and e-governance stand as two pillars crucial for addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the predominantly agrarian and geographically dispersed population of India. In India, where most of the population lives in rural areas, e-governance must be available. The ultimate goal of e-governance is to provide SMART (Simple, Moral, Accountable, Responsible, and Transparent) government services. It encompasses not only the electronic exchange of information between citizens and the government but also between different government entities. ICT plays a key role in e-governance, so it becomes essential that ICT reaches the rural masses. Rural development has emerged as a critical focus area for policymakers in India.
The main objective is to establish a good relationship between e-governance and Rural Development initiatives, aiming to create a synergistic paradigm for inclusive growth. This paper reveals and discusses different successful e-governance programmes implemented in different states in India. Successful e-governance initiatives in rural India, such as Gyandoot, Bhoomi, E-choupal, E-post, and E-panchayats, demonstrate the potential of ICT to bridge the digital divide and enhance the quality of life for rural citizens. These initiatives facilitate better agricultural practices, market access, education, healthcare, and administrative services, thereby empowering rural citizens and fostering participatory democracy. E-governance reduces inefficiencies, enhances service quality, promotes transparency, and builds trust between the government and its citizens, ultimately contributing to rural development. Further, this paper deals with the challenges and suggestions for implementing e-governance in rural areas of India.
Keywords :
E-Governance, Rural Development, Gyandoot, Drishtee and Akashganga.
