How does digital infrastructure impact the effectiveness and accountability of governance in India?

Digital infrastructure refers to the use of digital technologies, platforms, and tools to deliver public services, manage data, and facilitate interactions between the government and citizens. In India, the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure has transformed governance by making it more efficient, transparent, and accountable.

• Improved Service Delivery: Digital platforms like Aadhaar, DigiLocker, and e-Governance portals enable direct and faster delivery of services such as subsidies, pensions, and certificates to beneficiaries, reducing delays and middlemen.
• Enhanced Transparency: Online portals and dashboards allow real-time tracking of government schemes and projects. Information is accessible to the public, reducing opportunities for corruption and increasing trust in government processes.
• Increased Accountability: Digital records and audit trails make it easier to track government officials’ decisions and actions. Grievance redressal mechanisms and feedback systems such as MyGov and CPGRAMS empower citizens to hold officials accountable.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Digital infrastructure provides large volumes of data that help policymakers make informed decisions, monitor progress, and allocate resources more efficiently.
• Wider Citizen Participation: Social media, online consultations, and public feedback platforms enable greater citizen engagement, allowing the government to understand public needs and preferences.
• Surveillance and Security: Surveillance tools like CCTV, biometric identification, and digital monitoring help in maintaining law and order, but they also raise concerns about privacy and misuse of data.
• Challenges of Digital Divide: Uneven access to digital infrastructure can exclude rural and marginalized populations, impacting the inclusiveness and effectiveness of governance initiatives.