The Hindu Business Line : ‘e-gov projects can kick-start IT spend’

Chennai, July 3 E-governance projects such as the unique identity-card programme would help kick-start IT spending in India and hence expand job opportunities, according to Mr S Mahalingam, CFO and Executive Director, Tata Consultancy Services.

He was addressing students at the Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute University at a seminar on IT career opportunities organised by the Computer Society of India.

He said, “The citizen-to-government and consumer-to-business services need a lot of orientation towards information technology.” He cited the example of microfinance institutions and self-help groups as entities that would benefit from lower interest rates for loans, if IT could help reduce the cost of transaction. Mr P. W. C. Davidar, Tamil Nadu IT Secretary, said that of the targeted 5,400 common services centres in the state’s rural areas, meant to service citizens in areas such as railway and bus-ticketing, about 1,000 are ready and twice as many are nearing completion.

“Ten state departments are developing applications meant for the centres. Sixty-two services have been identified. Applications include those for commercial taxes, employment exchanges and co-operative banks.”

He also said that now, well-known IT brands are pitching for small projects.

ICT academy ready

He added that the ICT Academy, launched in 2007 by the state government, is ready to function. .

More Stories on : E-Governance | Tamil Nadu

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page

Stories in this Section
Cabinet nod for change in Rubber Act

Cabinet nod for S. Asian University

Mamata-Lalu battle livens up presentation

Survey talks of household ID cards in 6 months

‘e-gov projects can kick-start IT spend’