"The rapid expansion of mobile network, proliferation of smart phones and data revolution have made m-governance an integral part of government welfare programmes." Discuss.

JAM trinity by Govt: Jan-Dhan Account, Aadhaar and Mobile Number to enable access to various government services.

m-PESA by Vodafone to allow sending of money.

Recent introduction of e-RUPI by RBI to allow non-Smartphone users access to UPI payment.

Usage of Co-WIN portal by government to streamline the entire vaccination process.

Single window issue for various certificates - it accessible through mobile phones.

Various weather / disaster warnings on phones to fisherman, other vulnerable groups.

Use of MyGov.in to seek citizen feedback, thus making governance responsive.

Creation of a National Digital Health Mission, services like tele-medicine (Eg: e-Sanjeevani) have brought healthcare to remotest corners of nation.

Initiatives like NISHTHA, NPTEL by government to make education inclusive.

Common Service Centres (CSCs) in villages. However, even though India has one of the lowest data rates, certain issues exist -

1. Rural - Urban digital divide.

2. Male - Female digital Divide.

3. Absence of law on digital privacy.

4. Instances of data theft, phishing.

The government should try to pass the Data Protection bill, and ensure awareness Campaigns take place to enable people to avail benefits of the data revolution. Also, the market should not turn into a duopoly, to ensure competitive rates for customers.

— GAURAV OJHA · AIR 204