ICTD Case Studies - e-Governance/e-Government
This project was started with the purpose of creating an IT enabled payment counter for citizens for all kinds of government payments like electricity and water bills, taxes etc.
It was undertaken and funded by the Kerala state IT Mission, an executive wing of the Department of Information Technology. Not only was the government able to provide better services to the citizens but it was also able to demonstrate the advantages of using ICT.
The emphasis was on setting up multiple computer counters that would allow citizens to pay taxes and other government dues without having to wait in long queues.
The only source of revenue of the centers is the BSNL. In order to generate a healthy revenue stream the authorities are considering the addition of more services including those from the private sector.
Past response towards service charges has not been positive but it is felt that the inadequacy of conventional payment methods coupled with the benefits of this system will cause the public to accept a reasonable service charge.
Citizens satisfaction is reflected in the high percentage of people who prefer using this system over conventional payment methods. The increased participation of women is an added positive contribution.
Last modified 2004-06-08 07:00 PM