What do you understand by the term ‘good governance? How far recent initiatives in terms of e-Governance steps taken by the State have helped the beneficiaries? Discuss with suitable examples. [2022]
Good governance refers to the way in which a government or organization is run, with a focus on fairness, transparency, accountability, and effectiveness. It involves making decisions and policies that benefit the greater good, rather than just a select few. Good governance also involves ensuring that all stakeholders have a say in decision-making processes, and that there are systems in place to hold leaders accountable for their actions.
E-governance refers to the use of electronic means, such as the internet and other digital technologies, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government services. E-governance initiatives can include things like online portals for accessing government services, electronic voting systems, and the use of digital tools to improve the delivery of public services.
Recent initiatives in e-governance have helped beneficiaries in a number of ways. For example, the use of online portals and digital tools has made it easier for people to access government services and information, as they can do so from the comfort of their own homes or at a location that is convenient for them. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who live in remote or underserved areas, or who have disabilities that make it difficult for them to access physical government offices.
E-governance initiatives can also improve the efficiency of government services, as they can reduce the need for paperwork and streamline processes. This can lead to faster turnaround times for services, which can be especially beneficial in situations where people are in need of urgent assistance.
One example of an e-governance initiative that has helped beneficiaries is the Indian government’s Digital India program, which aims to improve the delivery of government services and promote the use of digital technologies in the country. The program has launched a number of initiatives, including the creation of an online platform for accessing government services, the establishment of digital kiosks in rural areas to provide internet access and e-governance services, and the implementation of electronic voting systems. These initiatives have helped to improve access to government services and information for people across India, particularly in rural and underserved areas.