KNC501/KNC601 Constitution of India, Law and Engineering
Chapter 16: Electronic Governance
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Appendix
Advantages of E-Governance
• Speed
Technology makes communication swifter. Internet, smartphones have enables instant transmission of high volumes of data all over the world.
• Saving Costs
A lot the Government expenditure goes towards the cost of buying stationery for official purposes. Letters and written records consume a lot of stationery. However, replacing them with smartphones and the internet can saves crores of money in expenses every year.
• Transparency
The use of e-governance helps make all functions of the business transparent. All Governmental information can be uploaded onto the internet. The citizens access specifically access whichever information they want, whenever they want it, at the click of a mouse, or the touch of a finger.
However, for this to work the Government has to ensure that all data as to be made public and uploaded to the Government information forums on the internet.
• Accountability
Transparency directly links to accountability. Once the functions of the government are available, we can hold them accountable for their actions.
Disadvantages of E-Governance
• Loss of Interpersonal Communication
The main disadvantage of e-governance is the loss of interpersonal communication. Interpersonal communication is an aspect of communication that many people consider vital.
• High Setup Cost and Technical Difficulties
Technology has its disadvantages as well. Specifically, the setup cost is very high and the machines have to be regularly maintained. Often, computers and internet can also break down and put a dent in governmental work and services.
• Illiteracy
A large number of people in India are illiterate and do not know how to operate computers and smartphones. E-governance is very difficult for them to access and understand.
• Cybercrime/Leakage of Personal Information
There is always the risk of private data of citizens stored in government serves being stolen. Cybercrime is a serious issue a breach of data can make the public lose confidence in the Government’s ability to govern the people.
Why do we need e-governance?
It ensures citizen participation at all levels of governance. It leads to automated services so that all works of public welfare is available to all citizens. It revolutionizes the functions of the government and ensures transparency. It provides better services to citizens and brings government close to public.
Examples of e–governance-includes
- Digital India initiative,
- National Portal of India,
- Prime Minister of India portal,
- Aadhar,
- filing and payment of taxes online,
- digital land management systems,
- Common Entrance Test etc.
Difference between E-government and E-governance
By E–Government we mean the use of ICT in government operations, as a tool to increase the outreach of the government services to the general public.
E–Governance, on the other hand, implies the use of ICT in transforming and supporting functions and structures of the system.
