Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) encompasses a wide range of technologies used for communication, data storage, retrieval, and manipulation. In governance, ICT refers to the application of these technologies to improve public service delivery and enhance citizen engagement. While the ‘Digital India’ initiative (launched in 2015) and subsequent e-governance projects have demonstrably improved efficiency and accessibility of services, the persistent issue of bribery suggests that technology alone is insufficient to address deeply ingrained systemic corruption. This commentary will explore the ways in which ICT enhances public service delivery while simultaneously failing to eliminate bribery, highlighting the complex interplay between technology and human behavior.
ICT’s Positive Impact on Public Service Delivery
ICT has revolutionized public service delivery in several ways:
- Increased Efficiency: Online portals for services like passport application, tax filing (e.g., Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal), and land records (e.g., National Land Records Modernization Programme - NLRMP) have reduced processing times and administrative delays.
- Enhanced Transparency: Platforms like Right to Information (RTI) online portals and proactive disclosure of information by government departments promote transparency and accountability.
- Improved Accessibility: ICT enables access to services for citizens in remote areas through Common Service Centres (CSCs) and mobile applications. The ‘Aarogya Setu’ app during the COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example.
- Reduced Discretion: Automation of processes minimizes the scope for subjective decision-making by officials, potentially reducing opportunities for rent-seeking.
Why ICT Fails to Check Bribery
Despite these benefits, ICT has not been successful in eliminating bribery due to several factors:
- Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology and digital literacy creates opportunities for intermediaries who exploit the situation for personal gain. Those without access may be forced to rely on corrupt officials.
- Systemic Corruption: Bribery is often rooted in systemic issues like weak enforcement mechanisms, lack of accountability, and a culture of impunity. ICT can only address the symptoms, not the root causes.
- Technological Loopholes & Manipulation: Corrupt officials can find ways to circumvent technological safeguards. For example, manipulating data entry, colluding with intermediaries, or exploiting vulnerabilities in software.
- Human Interface Remains: Many public services still require some level of human interaction, creating opportunities for bribery. Even with online applications, physical verification or approvals may be necessary.
- Lack of Citizen Awareness & Participation: Citizens may be unaware of their rights or hesitant to report corruption due to fear of retaliation.
- Data Privacy Concerns: Concerns about data privacy and security can discourage citizens from using online services, pushing them towards informal channels where bribery is more prevalent.
Case of Biometric Identification Systems
The implementation of biometric identification systems like Aadhaar, intended to reduce fraud and leakages in welfare schemes, has faced challenges. While it has helped in identifying ghost beneficiaries, reports suggest that corruption persists in the form of officials demanding bribes for Aadhaar enrollment or linking it to services. This demonstrates that technology alone cannot solve the problem if the underlying incentives for corruption remain.
| Aspect | ICT Impact | Bribery Persistence |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | Increased speed of service delivery | Bribery can expedite processes further |
| Transparency | Information readily available | Information can be manipulated or suppressed |
| Accessibility | Wider reach of services | Bribery can ensure access for those excluded |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while ICT undeniably improves the quality of public service delivery by enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, it is not a panacea for corruption. Bribery persists due to deeply rooted systemic issues, the digital divide, and the adaptability of corrupt actors. A holistic approach that combines technological interventions with robust enforcement mechanisms, ethical governance frameworks, citizen empowerment, and systemic reforms is crucial to effectively combat corruption and ensure truly good governance. Future strategies must focus on strengthening accountability, promoting ethical conduct, and fostering a culture of integrity within the public service.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.