Karnataka, also known as the Silicon Valley of India, has been at the forefront of the country’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector for several years. The state has consistently shown remarkable growth and has been a driving force behind the nation’s digital transformation. Abhineet Kumar of Elets News Network (ENN) giving you a closer look at Karnataka’s ICT initiatives and how they have played a significant role in the state’s development.
Panchatantra 2.0
Panchatantra 2.0 is envisioned as a comprehensive and holistic platform to strengthen, digitize & centralize all key functions and operations of Grama Panchayats. It will be a single sign-on solution to enable & digitize all key aspects of a Grama Panchayats while ensuring appropriate linkages and integrations with other Applications and Databases to ensure a one platform for end-end operations, governance and reporting.
What it entails:
HRMS
- GP Staff Registration in HRMS Module
- GP Staff approval by Eos for Salary disbursement
- GP Staff Salary Payment through P2
- GP govt. and GP Staff Attendance
Revenue Collection
- Generation of current Demand for the Property
- Digital Receipts for Tax Collection
Finance & Accounting module
- Opening Balance updation for each scheme
- Updation of all the Receipt voucher & Payment Voucher From 01.04.2022
Citizen Services
- Service Delivery through BSK
- Issuance of Digitally Signed Certificates
- Timely Delivery of the Services
Key Objectives of Organization & HRMS
- Manage Human Resource and develop one stop interface to access employee details including information regarding their roles and responsibilities
- Timely update and authenticate information relating to human resources administration of the Department for effective decision making
- Required Integration with related applications
- Provides user-friendly environment accessible over browser
Provision for Employee Self Service
There will be 6 sub-modules available under HRMS Module. They are as below:
- Members & Staff Profile Management
- Recruitments, Appointments & Conversions
- Retirements / Resignations / Termination
- Attendance & Leave Management
- Payroll / Salary Disbursement
- Service Register
The main objective of the Panchatantra 2.0 initiative is to enhance the ease of doing business in Karnataka, promote innovation and entrepreneurship, and improve the overall quality of life of the citizens. The project will focus on key areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture, tourism, and urban development.
Features of Panchatantra 2.0
Panchatantra 2.0 will be a comprehensive digital platform that will offer a wide range of services to the citizens of Karnataka. The platform will be accessible through mobile devices, desktops, and kiosks. Some of the key features of the Panchatantra 2.0 platform are:
1. Single Window Access: Panchatantra 2.0 will provide citizens with a single window access to various government services and information.
2. Digital Identity: The platform will enable citizens to create a digital identity that will be used to access various services. The digital identity will be linked to the citizen’s Aadhaar card and other identification documents.
3. Payment Gateway: Panchatantra 2.0 will offer a secure payment gateway that will enable citizens to make payments for various services.
4. Mobile App: The platform will have a mobile app that will allow citizens to access government services and information on the go.
5. Chatbot: Panchatantra 2.0 will have a chatbot that will provide instant assistance to citizens. 6. Analytics: The platform will use advanced analytics to offer personalized services to citizens and improve the overall quality of service.
Benefits of Panchatantra 2.0
The Panchatantra 2.0 initiative has several benefits for the citizens of Karnataka. Some of the key benefits are:
1. Convenience: Panchatantra 2.0 will provide citizens with a convenient way to access government services and information.
2. Transparency: The platform will ensure transparency in the delivery of government services and reduce corruption.
3. Time-saving: Panchatantra 2.0 will help citizens save time by eliminating the need to visit multiple government offices.
4. Improved Governance: The platform will help the government improve its governance by offering better services to citizens.
5. Increased Participation: Panchatantra 2.0 will increase citizen participation in governance and promote transparency.
Challenges of Panchatantra 2.0
The Panchatantra 2.0 initiative faces several challenges that need to be addressed for the project’s success. Some of the key challenges are:
1. Connectivity: Panchatantra 2.0 requires a robust digital infrastructure to ensure seamless connectivity and access to services. The government needs to ensure that all citizens have access to high-speed internet connectivity.
2. Awareness: The government needs to create awareness among citizens about the benefits of the Panchatantra 2.0 initiative and how to use
Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka 2.0
Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka Application developed by the Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj was made mandatory from 03.10.2013. It was mandated that for all works implemented by the line departments namely Panchayat Raj Engineering Department (PRED), Karnataka Rural Water Supply & Sanitation Department (KRWSSD), Karnataka Rural Road Development Agency (KRRDA), Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL) and Gram Panchayats the physical and financial progress were to be captured in the application and the payments were to be made against the Payment Advice generated through this application.
The work details entered in the Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka application by the line departments were secondary entries. Many times only during the payments to the Contractors physical progress is entered, Payment advice is generated and payments are made. Due to which the department is not able to know the exact physical and financial status of the work.
To address the gaps in the current Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka and to upgrade it with new technologies, the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department decided and developed “Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka 2.0”.
Spatially locating the works using maps during the proposal stage is implemented in “Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka 2.0”. This will help identify any duplication in works. It is mandated to capture the physical progress of each stage of work in real time and payments to contractors are made online.
Features of Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka 2.0
- All the works assigned to PRED, KRRDA by Govt & ZPs to be entered & monitored in GSK 2.0
- A proposal has to be prepared for each and every work which has to be spatially mapped.
- After the Work Proposal is approved all the details of the work such as tender details, Contractor details, MB details and others have to be captured in real time.
- All the details of each stage have to be captured in Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka 2.0 and geo-tagged photos have to be captured using a mobile app.
- All payment to contractors by Karnataka Rural Road Development Agency will be made in online mode.
- All payments from PRED/RWS/TP will be done using the Payment Advice generated from Gandhi Sakshi Kayaka 2.0
Bapuji Seva Kendra
Bapuji Seva Kendra Initiative was launched on 1st July 2016 by Government of Karnataka under the RDPR department. Bapuji Seva Kendras were set up across all the Grama Panchayats in Karnataka offering different services largely from RDPR, Revenue and other departments. In October 2020, few of the services were made available online through Bapuji Seva Kendra web portal. However, challenges remained with respect to awareness and user-friendliness of the portal.
Bapuji Seva Kendra 2.0 is therefore being launched with alean application form & standardized processes with an aim to further smoothen the citizen interface and experience while availing the services and enable decentralization of Citizen Service Delivery at Grama Panchayats making it more accessible, leading to reduced travel time, waiting time and hence cost-effective.
Kutumba
Kutumba is an Entitlement Management System which is being developed into an Integrated Social Information System (SIIS) which consists of a social registry, integrated beneficiary management systems, beneficiary registry, payment platform and a grievance redressal system. The project aims to achieve suo-moto delivery of benefits and services by checking entitlement, identifying eligible residents and thereafter sanction/approve the service or scheme.
Kutumba uses the data as available in various department databases. Kutumba ID will enable residents to check their entitlement and eligibility and apply for schemes. Kutumba ID when provided will fetch the data for eligibility criteria like caste, income certificate, land holding, specially abled without the requirement of submission of documents or the registration numbers. This simplifies the process of application for the residents.
Kutumba Project aims to provide unique identity to resident families of Karnataka and serve as a repository of the resident attributes to enable them to avail seamless services and benefits from Government of Karnataka. Kutumba project is implemented by the Centre for e-Governance, Department of Personnel & Administrative Reforms (e-Governance), Government of Karnataka.
Some others initiatives
Bhoomi – Land Records Management System
Bhoomi is an online land records management system implemented by the Government of Karnataka. It aims to provide access to land records to citizens in a transparent and efficient manner. The system digitizes land records and provides online access to them, making it easier for citizens to obtain various certificates related to land ownership, including RTC (Record of Rights, Tenancy, and Crop Information) and Mutation Certificates. The system has significantly reduced the time and effort required for obtaining land-related documents and has improved the overall transparency of the land records management process.
Karnataka MobileOne
Karnataka MobileOne is a mobile application that provides access to a range of government services and information on a single platform. The app enables citizens to access various services such as bill payments, ticket booking, and application tracking, among others, through their mobile devices. It also provides information on government schemes, public services, and other useful information to citizens. Karnataka MobileOne has greatly improved the accessibility and convenience of government services, making it easier for citizens to avail of them.
Karnataka State Wide Area Network (KSWAN)
Karnataka State Wide Area Network (KSWAN) is a network that connects all government offices and departments across the state. The network facilitates the exchange of information and data between different government offices, enabling efficient communication and coordination. The network has significantly improved the speed and efficiency of government services and has also enhanced the security of government data and information.
Sakala – Right to Public Services
Sakala is a unique initiative of the Government of Karnataka that aims to provide time-bound delivery of government services to citizens. The program provides a list of government services that citizens can avail of and specifies the time limit within which the service will be provided. The program covers more than 600 services provided by different government departments, including the issuance of various certificates, licenses, and permits. The initiative has greatly improved the efficiency and transparency of government service delivery, and has also helped to reduce corruption and red-tapism.
E-Procurement
E-Procurement is an online platform that enables the government to procure goods and services electronically. The system has been implemented to improve the efficiency and transparency of the procurement process and to enable more participation from vendors and suppliers. The platform provides a secure and transparent bidding process, making it easier for vendors to participate in government tenders. The initiative has also helped to reduce corruption in the procurement process and has improved the overall efficiency of government procurement.
Karnataka One
Karnataka One is a citizen service center that provides access to various government services under one roof. The centers are located across the state and provide services such as bill payments, application submissions, certificate issuances, and grievance redressal, among others. The centers are equipped with computerized systems that enable citizens to access various services quickly and efficiently. Karnataka One has greatly improved the accessibility and convenience of government services, especially for citizens living in rural areas.
Kaveri
Kaveri is an online platform for property registration and mutation in Karnataka. The platform was launched in 2011 and has since then processed over 10 million property registrations. The platform enables citizens to apply for property registration, mutation, and other related services online, reducing the time and effort required for these processes. The platform has also reduced corruption and malpractices in the property registration process.
e-Kshana
e-Kshana is an online platform for issuing birth and death certificates in Karnataka. The platform was launched in 2006 and has since then processed over 10 million certificates. The platform provides citizens with an easy and hassle-free way to apply for and obtain birth and death certificates. The platform has also reduced the time and effort required for these processes and has eliminated the need for citizens to visit government offices.
Nemmadi
Nemmadi is an online platform for filing and tracking complaints related to the public distribution system (PDS) in Karnataka. The platform was launched in 2012 and has since then received over 1.5 million complaints. The platform enables citizens to file complaints related to issues such as ration card applications, ration card renewals, and ration card transfers. The platform has been successful in reducing corruption and improving transparency in the PDS system.
K-Grams
K-Grams is an online platform for village-level governance in Karnataka. The platform was launched in 2013 and provides access to various services such as birth and death certificates, property tax payments, and other government schemes and information. The platform has enabled citizens in rural areas to access government services and information easily and has improved the overall governance and delivery of services at the village level.
Karnataka Innovation Council
This council acts as a think tank and brings together leaders from the government, academia, and industry to identify opportunities for innovation and suggest strategies for their implementation. The council has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the state and has played a crucial role in positioning Karnataka as a leader in the ICT sector.
Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation (KEONICS)
KEONICS is a state-owned corporation that provides IT infrastructure and support services to government organizations, private companies, and startups. KEONICS has been instrumental in setting up technology parks and incubation centers across the state, providing entrepreneurs with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
Karnataka’s ICT initiatives have also focused on improving digital literacy and digital infrastructure in the state. The state government has launched several programs aimed at providing digital literacy training to citizens and improving access to the internet and other digital services. One such program is the Karnataka Knowledge Network (K-Net), a statewide network of broadband connectivity that connects government offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
Karnataka’s startup ecosystem
Karnataka’s startup ecosystem is one of the most vibrant in the country, thanks in large part to the government’s efforts to support entrepreneurs. The state government has launched several initiatives to provide funding, mentorship, and incubation support to startups. The Karnataka Startup Cell is a dedicated agency that works to provide startups with access to resources and services to help them grow and succeed. The government has also launched the Elevate 100 program, which aims to identify and support 100 promising startups every year.
Karnataka MobileOne platform
It provides citizens with access to a range of government services, including bill payments, property tax payments, and booking of appointments for government services. The state government has also launched the Karnataka State Wide Area Network (KSWAN), which connects all government offices and facilitates the exchange of data and information between them.
Karnataka’s ICT initiatives have also played a significant role in promoting social inclusion and improving the lives of citizens. The state government has launched several programs aimed at using technology to improve healthcare, education, and agriculture. One such program is the e-Sanjeevani platform, which provides telemedicine services to citizens in remote areas. The state government has also launched the Bhoochetana program, which uses satellite imagery and soil testing to improve agricultural productivity.
In conclusion, Karnataka’s ICT initiatives have been instrumental in transforming the state into a hub for innovation and technology. The state government has taken several steps to promote entrepreneurship, improve digital literacy, and digitize government services. The state’s vibrant startup ecosystem, skilled workforce, and proactive government policies have helped position Karnataka as a leader in the ICT sector. The state’s continued focus on innovation and technology is likely to drive its growth and development for years to come.
E-Belaku
The Outstanding bill amount as on October-2021 from Gram Panchayats to the Electrical Supply Companies in Karnataka is 4229.60 Crore Rupees, where the principal amount is 3518.05 Crore Rupees and Interest is 711.05 Crore Rupees.
To make the electricity bill payments incurred during the operation and maintenance of drinking water units and streetlights, 60% of Statutory Grants (398 Crore for each Financial year) is allocated and released to the ESCROW accounts of the Gram Panchayats by the State government. Additionally, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department has issued directions to Gram Panchayats to augment funds from Central Finance Commission Grants and Own Source Revenue towards making electricity bill payments and clearing pending due.
However, many Gram Panchayats have been found not paying dues to the Electricity Supply Companies within the stipulated time. Also, the Electricity Supply Companies have not provided RR number wise bills to the Gram Panchayats, in some cases meters have not been installed for RR numbers, in some cases meters installed for RR numbers are not working and in others bills are given without Actual Meter Reading.
The Gram Panchayat Officials have not identified the Defunct water supply installations and not requested for disconnection or even if the Gram Panchayat Officials have identified and requested to disconnect the Defunct water supply installations, the Electricity Supply Companies have not taken action against the request.
To address forementioned challenges and to facilitate the following, eBelaku Application has been developed by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department:
- Allow Online Bill Payments to Electricity Supply Companies.
- To Capture data from Gram Panchayats to assess whether meters have been installed for Water Supply and Streetlights installations
- To Capture data from Gram Panchayats to assess whether installed meters are functioning or not.
- To submit a request to disconnect meters for defunct installations of Street lights and Water Supply
Conclusion:
The implementation of these rural eGovernance initiatives in Karnataka has transformed the way government services are delivered to citizens in rural areas. These initiatives have reduced corruption, improved transparency, and made it easier for citizens to access government services and information. These initiatives have also enabled the government to reach out to citizens in remote and rural areas and provide them with essential services and information. These initiatives have enabled citizens to access government services more conveniently and efficiently, and have also helped to reduce corruption and red-tapism. The initiatives have also improved the overall efficiency of government processes, enabling better coordination and communication between different government departments. The success of these initiatives has made Karnataka a model state.
Overall, these initiatives have significantly improved the quality of life in rural areas as well as in entire Karnataka.
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