Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 1. “The success of e-governance in India hinges more on inclusion than on innovation.” Discuss with reference to the digital divide and the challenges of last-mile delivery. (150 words, 10 marks)
Introduction
According to the World Bank, e-governance involves the use of information technologies to improve the delivery of government services, transparency, and participation. In India, its success now depends more on digital inclusion than mere technological innovation.
Body
Why the Success of E-Governance Hinges More on Inclusion than Innovation
- Large Digital Divide: Only about 26% of rural women use mobile internet, as per GSMA (2022). Without bridging this gap, innovations reach only a fraction of the population.
- Low Digital Literacy: Under PMGDISHA, about 6.39 crore rural individuals have been
trained by 2024. However, overall digital literacy remains limited, constraining the use of platforms like DigiLocker or UMANG.
- Infrastructure Gaps in Remote Areas: Only around 30% of India’s 6.5 lakh villages have broadband connectivity under BharatNet as of 2025. This renders services like telemedicine or online education inaccessible to many.
- Exclusion of Marginalised Communities: Aadhaar-based services often fail for the elderly, disabled, and tribal populations, resulting in denial of entitlements like pensions or subsidised food.
- Language and Accessibility Barriers: Many platforms are English-centric and lack accessibility features, making it difficult for linguistic minorities and persons with disabilities to use them effectively.
Why Innovation Is Also Important
- Improved Efficiency and Transparency: Platforms like GEM and e-Courts reduce corruption and streamline processes in procurement and judiciary.
- Real-Time Governance: Innovations like the JAM trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) have enabled real-time Direct Benefit Transfers, saving over ₹2 lakh crore in leakages.
- Scalable Solutions: Modular platforms like DigiLocker allow large-scale service delivery across ministries and states efficiently.
Government Initiatives Promoting Inclusion in E-Governance
- PMGDISHA: Aims to make 6 crore rural households digitally literate; over 6.39 crore individuals trained by 2024.
- BharatNet: Seeks to provide high-speed broadband to all gram panchayats; as of 2025, only about 30% of villages have functional connectivity.
- Common Service Centres (CSCs): Over 5 lakh centres offer assisted digital services to bridge the last-mile service gap.
- Meri Pehchaan Portal: A unified login platform launched in 2023 for simplified and inclusive access to multiple digital services.
- Digital Inclusion Fellowship Programme (2024): Launched by MeitY to train digital ambassadors in remote and underserved regions.
Way Forward
- Localised, Multilingual Interfaces: Ensure platforms are accessible in regional languages and designed to cater to all ability groups.
- Focus on Community-Based Training: Strengthen digital literacy through panchayats, NGOs, and schools to foster grassroots participation.
- Offline Support for Online Services: Provide hybrid service models (tele-assistance, CSCs) to ensure universal access.
- Monitor and Audit Inclusion Metrics: Track digital inclusion outcomes alongside innovation KPIs in every e-governance initiative.
Conclusion
While innovation drives potential, inclusion ensures impact. As noted by the 2nd ARC, inclusive e-governance empowers the poorest and strengthens democracy by making public services accessible, accountable, and equitable for all.
