Chapter - 4
Applications in E-Governance

Question- What do you mean by e-governance? Discuss its features. What are the benefits and drawbacks of e-governance ?

Related Short Answer Questions
Question- What do you understand by electronic governance?

Ans.

Electronic Governance

The term 'electronic governance' means the governance by the government through procedures involving electronic devices. E-governance is about the use of information and Communication Technology for steering the citizens and promoting the public service. Governance refers to the processes of governing in which policies are made and implimented. In the process of governing, the role of society, state and market is significant. Through the application of information and Communication Technology in public administrations, the governing processes are more effective and more efficient. Information and Communication Technology + Governance = E- governance.

Electronic-governance is basically associated with carrying out the functions and achieving the results of governance through the utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). ICT provides efficient storing and retrieval of data, instantaneous transmission of information, processing information and data faster than the earlier manual systems, speeding up governmental processes, taking decisions expeditiously and judiciously increasing transparency and enforcing acountability. It also helps in increasing the reach of government-both geographically and demographically.

Electronic governance is the governance by the government through procedures involving electronic devices. It is an emerging trend to re-invent the way the government works. The basic perspective of e-governance is the use of technology in governing.

Electronic-governance is a global phenomenon today and it is the most recent paradigm in public administration. The speed and transparency associated with e-governance has the potential to make public administration responsive and effective. As the development of e-governance gets past the phase of pilot projects, it becomes apparent that sustainable development of e- governance will depend on an adequate institutional framework that will enable public administration to manage and harmonise the emerging multitude of technical and organisational changes at all levels of government.

Following are the connotations of the term e-governance-

1. E-administration : It involves the use of ICT to modermize the state, and the creation of data repositories for MIS and records computerization.

2. Electronic Services : The emphasis is given on bringing the state closer to the citizens. Examples include provision of online services.

E-administration and e-services together constitute what ordinarily indicated as e-government.

3. Electronic Governance : It uses IT to improve the ability of government to address the needs of society and includes the publishing of policy and program related information to transact with citizens. E- governance extends beyond provision of online services and covers the use of information technology for strategic planning and reaching development goals.

4. Electronic Democracy : The use of information technology to facilitate the ability of all sections of society to participate in the governance of the state. Here emphasis is given on transparency, accountability and participation. Example of e-governance include online disclosure policies, online grievance redressal forums etc.

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