Formed on November 1, 2000, Chhattisgarh emerged as the 26th state of India, carving a distinct identity with its lush natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vast mineral resources. Spanning 135,191 square kilometres, it stands as the second-largest mineral-rich state, playing a crucial role in India’s steel and industrial economy. Often, it is said that every third house, spoon, and steel structure in India originates from the resources of Chhattisgarh. With industries in coal, aluminium, tin, cement, and more, the state has become a strategic hub for industrial growth, bordering seven states and influencing multiple economic sectors.

Visionary IT Development in Chhattisgarh

Aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of “Viksit Bharat @2047,” Chhattisgarh has outlined a digital roadmap under the banner of “Viksit Chhattisgarh @2047.” This ambitious plan aims to foster technological advancements and inclusive growth across the state. The Department of Electronics and Information Technology, through its nodal agency Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS), drives the state’s digital transformation. CHiPS, a statutory body under the Chhattisgarh Firm and Society Act, 1973, plays a pivotal role in integrating technology into governance, social services, and economic development. In this era of rapidly evolving technology, emerging innovations serve as a crucial catalyst in ensuring that the benefits of good governance reach every individual, even at the grassroots level.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing systems at an unprecedented pace, often outpacing our conventional approaches to problem-solving. AI-driven solutions can significantly enhance efficiency, offering rapid resolutions to complex challenges. Moreover, AI holds immense potential in optimizing government service delivery and shaping data-driven, evidence-based policy decisions, ultimately fostering more transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance.

Strategic Objectives of IT Initiatives

The IT and Electronics Department has set forth a comprehensive eight-pillar strategy to ensure sustained technological progress:

• Building a Robust Digital Infrastructure

1. 1. • Strengthening broadband connectivity, data centres, and IT networks across the state.

• Expanding E-Governance

1. 1. • Enhancing accessibility and security in government service delivery.

• Innovative Policy Formulation

1. 1. • Developing cutting-edge policies in AI, cybersecurity, and blockchain, aligning with national standards.

• Cybersecurity Readiness

1. 1. • Implementing secure digital frameworks to protect citizens and government assets.

• Digital Literacy and Skill Development

1. 1. • Empowering citizens with knowledge to effectively use digital technologies.

• Fostering IT Entrepreneurship

1. • Promoting startups, innovation, and investment through IT infrastructure.

• Cross-Sector Digital Integration

1. 1. • Enhancing collaboration between IT and other government sectors.

• Research and Development (R&D)

1. • Driving innovation through strategic partnerships and emerging technologies.

Transformative Achievements in Digital Growth

Tele-Density and Mobile Connectivity

• At its inception, Chhattisgarh had minimal telecom penetration. By 2017, tele-density reached 29%, and as of April 2024, it stands at 66.6% (TRAI report).
• In 2011, mobile penetration was 29%, significantly below the national average of 72%. The launch of the Sanchar Kranti Yojana (SKY) in 2018 revolutionized connectivity by distributing 29 lakh free mobile phones. Today, mobile penetration stands at 72 per 1,000 rural residents, with over 1 crore broadband connections.
• With 1.57 crore broadband users, 598 users per 1,000 residents access the internet, consuming an average of 12.33 GB of data per month.

E-Governance and Digital Citizen Services

Since 2003, Chhattisgarh has been a leader in e-governance:

• The first CHOiCE Centre was established in 2003, benefiting 11.47 lakh citizens by 2014.
• The e-District Project expanded services to all districts and tehsils. Between 2015 and 2023, over 2.13 crore citizens benefited, with an average of 2 lakh digital transactions per month.
• To bridge the digital divide, 44,834 Common Service Centers (CSCs) now provide 300+ government and business-related services, bringing governance closer to the people.
• For seamless digital identity verification, the Electronics & IT Department, along with UID agencies, has ensured Aadhaar authentication for 36.4 million citizens (99.19% coverage).
• A single login system, integrated grievance redressal portal, and a unified app will ensure seamless citizen service delivery.

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Chhattisgarh’s IT Leadership Over 24 Years

Despite being one of India’s youngest states, Chhattisgarh has emerged as an IT and digital governance leader:

• 2003: First E-Governance Act under the CHOiCE project—the first state to enact a law delivering electronic services.
• 2004: First Statewide GIS Implementation, digitizing 37 layers of land mapping.
• 2009: First Captive Satellite Network, hosting Asia’s largest WiMAX tower network for uninterrupted digital connectivity.
• 2014: E-Procurement System, ensuring transparent government tenders across 40 departments.
• 2005-06: Digital Training for Political Leaders, conducted at the National Institute of Smart Governance (NISG).
• First E-Governance Roadmap, setting the stage for a secure, high-speed IT network across the state.

Future Roadmap: Digital Chhattisgarh @2047

Recognizing the rapid evolution of technology, Chhattisgarh is preparing for the future with eight strategic focus areas:

1. Scalable Digital Infrastructure to ensure universal broadband connectivity.
2. Advanced E-Governance Systems for transparent and AI-driven citizen services.
3. Cybersecurity Frameworks to safeguard state and citizen data.
4. AI and Emerging Tech Policies for Future-Ready Governance.
5. Digital Literacy Programs to bridge the urban-rural divide.
6. Start-up Ecosystem Development to attract IT investments.
7. Interdepartmental Digital Integration for enhanced efficiency.
8. R&D Collaborations to drive next-generation innovation.

Chhattisgarh: Defining India’s Digital Future

Chhattisgarh is not just adopting digital transformation; it is leading it. By leveraging its industrial prowess, rich heritage, and technology-driven policies, the state is setting new benchmarks in IT-driven governance. With a clear roadmap for 2047, Chhattisgarh is poised to become a global model for digital development, ensuring inclusive growth and technological empowerment for all its citizens.

Views expressed by: Niharika Barik Singh, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Electronics and IT, Government of Chhattisgarh

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