A Must Reading for every Indian and a Recommended Reading for the Rest of the World

DIGITAL INDIA:  The Complete Reference How to discover and use Digital India Services for your personal and professional productivity and success. Ravindra Dastikop https://dastikop.blogspot.com 2020

CHALLENGE 

Today Digital India information is scattered and lodged in different systems and places hence my professional 

 

 MISSION:

To organize Digital India information  and make it universally accessible and useful to every Indian resident.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Mission 

PREFACE

TARGET AUDIENCE  

Organization of this book 

How to use this Book for Results

PART I  : GETTING STARTED

What is digital India ? - Its vision and mission, structure, Digital India platform nature and components 

PART II :  DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR CITIZENS

These services provide information, services, and other functionality to citizens  and receive input and feedback from citizens. More recently, active citizen engagement in government policy development using social networking technologies, as well as a number of surveying and consultation methodologies, is contributing to more effective citizen- and business-centric government  policies, strategies, and services.

PART III: Government to Business (B2G )

Digital India services those that facilitate any of the range of relationships and interactions between government and businesses.  Government-to-Business (G2B) initiatives receive a significant amount of attention, in part because of the high enthusiasm of the business sector and the potential for reducing costs through improved procurement practices and increased competition.14 The G2B sector includes both the sale of surplus government goods to the public, as well as the procurement of goods and services. Although not all are directly dependent on the use of information technology, several different procurement methods are used in relation to the G2B sector

PART IV : Government to Government (G2G) 

These are Digital India projects or systems that support information sharing and  collaboration within or between government agencies. G2G e-government involves sharing data and conducting electronic exchanges between governmental actors. This involves both intra- and inter-agency exchanges at the federal level, as well as exchanges between the central , state, and local levels

PART V Government to Employees (E2G ) 

Digital India information and internal services that provide easy access to  government information and systems that enable staff to perform well, provide opportunities for feedback, engagement, and collaboration. 

PART VI  Government to Visitors/Foreigners (F2G)

Digital India information, advice, and services for individuals and businesses planning to invest, visit, work, study, and live in the country.

PART VII  DIGITAL INDIA STACKS 

India stack, National Health Stack 

PART VIII India Enterprise Architecture

 India Enterprise Architecture-  Vision, Purpose, Scope, Structure

PART IX  DIGITAL INDIA PLATFORM 

Digital India Infrastructure, Digital India Services,  Digital India Empowerment

Digital India CYBER LAWS, Conclusion  

 

 

 PREFACE

India’s Digital Transformation is underway 

1

As I was putting the final touches to the draft of this book to be submitted to the publisher, Times of India reported that (1) FASTags has overtaken cash collection in National Highway tolls and   (2) The Finance Minister announced that UPI based payments and RuPay debit card transactions are exempted from MDR. These two developments among others illustrate the speed with which Digital India is transforming the way government is serving citizens and how nation is moving from traditional ways of conducting transactions- cash or paper to DIGITAL . 

Today in India we have available enough infrastructure, knowledge, exposure and experience needed for the successful practice of Digital India. National Government Services Portal (https://services.india.gov.in/) lists nearly 10,000 services most of them offered on fully online mode.  However, the percentage of people who are aware of these resources and applying them in their daily life for professional and personal purposes is very small compared to the rest of the population.

Let me give you an example.  As part of digital India citizen services suite  the Indian government has made available a world class secure digital storage service called Digilocker. Digilocker is open and available to every Indian resident.  Residents can store and share documents securely. 

2.

Digital India Resources are underutilized 

However the number of Indian residents who have created accounts on Digilocker and using it on a regular basis is very small (34 million users) . In my opinion every college student in India  should have created account by now and has been using it actively.  This needs immediate attention and action.

3

The  Goal 

This work sets its goal as to help overcome this situation and bring Digital India resources central to every Indian resident and join this wonderful journey of transforming India into Digital Economy and Knowledge society as envisaged in Digital India programme.   

POINTER:: To know current number of Digilocker users see here https://Digilocker.gov.in

3

With Digital India programme gaining momentum in the recent  years, its penetration into the fabric of our lives is getting deepened. Today the three basic services required for online transaction- online identity Aadhaar, online document sharing- Digilocker, online payments- BHIM are up and are serving millions of Indians.  There are more than 1200 services or apps deployed by Digital India  which a citizen can choose from and use depending on her requirement.  Special services are available for farmers, students, teachers and entrepreneurs and like.  Digital India is a new reality and compelling.

4

Digital India information on services is scattered in many places- government websites, app stores , publications and other location. It is very hard for citizens to discover them on the fly and use them. This work intends to offer a remedy for this.   Between the covers of this book, citizens will be able to find essential and important  information and links that help them to explore and understand available services.and choose the appropriate ones that meet their specific requirements.  For instance, a senior citizen will find how to get an online living certificate or  student will find where to discover scholarship online or access learning resources. Digital India is all inclusive and has service each one of its citizens. 

5

A book of this sort gathers information from an innumerable  sources - web sites, published documents and books, discussion forums , blogs and more.  Hence it is not possible to mention every source consulted by the author while composing the content. However, an alert reader can discover soon that the author has borrowed a great deal of content from  many government websites run by different departments both center and state. Another important resource is publications such policy documents and white papers. No references or sources or links  are mentioned in the text to enable reader go through smoothly without distraction. However a brief bibliography is included for the interested reader.

Digital India is the theme of our times. It is affecting all of us and each one can benefit from it.  Author has enjoyed learning it and teaching a set of courses on them. Now author wishes to share the same with the rest of the nation.  Hope this book finds relevance in the life of every Digital Indian.

Digital India is a living and growing andSuggestions/corrections if any may be emailed to author at digital.india.master@gmail.com 

Ravindra Dastikop

January, 2020

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

Influencers 

My interest in Digital India started around 2010 when the term “ Digital India” was not even coined. However the foundation (Aadhaar) work of future Digital India was already underway. By then,  Aadhaar project  had already enrolled one crore residents and was to release Aadhar API by end of 2011. Parallelly , NPCI was working on what is now called UPI.  Since then, makers of these groundbreaking innovations have influenced me in many ways through their articles, interviews, videos , forum participation and books. These influencers include Nandan Nilekeni,  Pramod Verma , RS Sharma. Later the Indiastack team.  Sanjay Jain and Sharad Sharma , Nikhil Kumar through their presentations and workshops have intensified my interest in digital India and enriched my understanding.  I acknowledge their deep influence in shaping my interest and  which is evident across many pages of this book. I thank each and all of them.  

NURTURERS   

I am working as faculty in SDM College of Engineering, Dharwad, Karnataka  for  over the last three decades. My interest in technologies such as Internet and cloud computing are shaped and strengthened due to excellent laboratory resources and freedom to experiment and use them. First of all, I thank our beloved President, Dr. Veerendra Heggade, who has been the inspiration for me all these years and continue to be so. . My present principal  Dr,  S B .Vanakudare and past principals have directly or indirectly influenced in sustaining my interest in upcoming technologies.     My deans, Head of the departments and colleagues both current and past have contributed towards this work. I thank all of them  

The Target Audience

1.

DIGITAL INDIA PLATFORM FOR EVERY RESIDENT 

Digital India is new platform. It is a technology platform. Future of India and its citizens will happen on it. The Indian government has created Digital India Platform for reaching out every citizen online and deliver citizen services electronically. Hence awareness of Digital India movement, it's scope and services must be there for every Indian. Be one living in cities or deep rural India.  Be a housewife or a student or a shopkeeper or an entrepreneur.  Digital India is all inclusive and is for every Indian irrespective of gender and geography or  age or area. It is universal. Digital India is everyone's concern and everybody's reality. Hence the first purpose of this book to change this low ratio of Indian residents using Digital India resources and make  them aware of these resources and encourage them to  start using them in their daily life.

 2

DIGITAL INDIA CITIZEN

This book (accompanying  presentations, videos)   intends  to put the Digital India resources at the center of every  Indian’s professional and personal day-today life and transform her into an empowered DIGITAL INDIA CITIZEN. Digital India projects are built for and meant for every Indian. It is very inclusive in its objectives and services, every Indian will be affected by it and more importantly benefited by that. Making every Digital India Citizen , the largest group of people in India aware of these resources and guide them towards  harnessing their potential is the first and foremost objective of this work.

3

DIGITAL INDIA WORKER

The second important audience of this book is DIGITAL INDIA WORKER. Digital workers constitute the second largest growing group in India.  These are people  who use digital India infrastructure and resources within the context of their work and professions. They are employees of state and central government who are directly affected by Digital India programme and working with it- officials,  professors, heads of educational institutions, teachers, outsourced skilled office workers, business executives who come across situations where digital India can play a key role and contribute towards their accomplishments and success.

4

DIGITAL INDIA SHAPERS

The third intended audience of the book is DIGITAL INDIA SHAPERS. These are the Indians who are playing leading roles within their groups and communities.  They have within them the power to use digital India system and services to enhance the performance of their own and that of their teams and  shape  new collective future. These digital India shapers can be institutional leaders, community  leaders, law makers, functionaries in local government , people's representatives and more.

5

DIGITAL INDIA DEVELOPER

The next important target audience of this resource is the DIGITAL INDIA DEVELOPER. Software applications or simply apps have become the de facto means of building and offering services to both business customers and citizens. In fact today Indian government is offering many of its services through apps such as BHIM or UMANG.  The futuristic Indian government not only wants to use digital India platform for offering its citizens services. Instead it is opening its platform along with an incredible number of software resources both data and APIs for developers to build and offer innovative services. The digital India platform often technically called IndiaStack.  It is a set of  layered resources for developers to build and offer innovative apps to billion Indians. For Indian developers this is a dream come true and an emerging market in their own home country.

6

DIGITAL INDIA INNOVATORS

Another important audience intended by the book is DIGITAL INDIA INNOVATORS.. These are the small, but significant and rapidly emerging digital Indians who have deep dreams and tall talent to look at digital India infrastructure and come out with innovative product, services and business models. These solutions could be india-specific to be targeted at a section of Indian society say rural or urban. These services  can be for meeting specific in-transition population  - say people who earn and spend all the money in cash. The innovator solution can also be with global focus but may start in India and use Digital india as a test bed.

FACT: UPI which is financial layer of Indiastack is very successful in India and attracting the attention of leading countries in the world

7

DIGITAL INDIA LEADERS

Another important target audience is DIGITAL INDIA LEADERS whose operative mandate is at state , regional levels. These are people who might carry the baton of national process further into the future.  Leaders who are in their mid career stages  and are expected to take India to new but unknown future 

 8

 NON RESIDENT INDIANS

Another important interested audience of this book is NRIs. They may be interested in knowing the technological developments undertaken back home and would be surprised at the speed of developments and sophistication of the resulting infrastructure and  their resourcefulness.

Digital India is a national technology platform built on open, global standards and practices. Its awareness is a must for Indians outside India also. The NRI community living around the globe and experiencing technologies in advanced countries must have a basic understanding of Digital Technology. Not only they will feel proud about the same, but also find it pleasant surprise when come back home that they can experience global technology within their home also. Entrepreneurial Indians dreaming of making big in advanced countries may find that the technological platform resulting due to Digital India in India is worth considering for their entrepreneurial ventures and is comparable in sophistication with those available in the developed countries.

FACT: UPI has been used by Google in launching its Google Pay app

9

 TEACHERS AND LEARNERS

Digital India is expected to be an indispensable part and parcel of every resident’s daily life. Hence, an added audience is the teachers and parents who might use these resource and illustrations while teaching to inspire students. Parents can use this resource to keep themselves updated about new and emerging Digital India. Digital India has developed dedicated educational services such as SWAYAM (https://swayam.gov.in/)  to meet varying needs of learning community 

10

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS 

Next target are  the social entrepreneurs and change agents who might be interested in seeing how Digital India adds a new dimension and resource pool for them in engaging their audiences, enlarging their base of operations and enriching their stakeholders. 

11

DIGITAL WORLD CITIZENS

Digital is the world wide phenomenon. Individuals, institutions, businesses and countries are adopting digital technologies into their fabric of existence. India is leading the way in transforming delivering citizen services online and electronically. The grand approach to digitize India  and the comprehensive nature of its scope, makes it one of the biggest e-governance projects in the world. Countries and communities around the world are interested in and may learn from India’s experience in transforming paper based, brick and mortar and location specific citizen services onto anywhere, anytime and anyhow service model. Hence this book also considers the rest of the world - Digital World Citizens to be target audience for this work

12

DIGITAL INDIA FOR WORLD GOVERNMENTS 

India's experience with creating digital infrastructure platforms as public goods offers multiple lessons learned in technology, system, and regulatory architecture. It demonstrates how multiple such systems can be leveraged in concert—such as the India Stack—for development objectives. Governments and businesses alike are building for diverse use cases on top of the stack. By lowering the transaction costs of serving the poor, we are achieving better inclusion.

Such digital infrastructure is not a unique requirement in India. It is estimated that approximately 161 countries currently have or are building their own digital ID systems. Many countries have local interbank payment systems and are now looking to upgrade them for a mobile-first world. As various countries build their own systems, the Indian experience with Aadhar serves as a real-world example to learn from. Even if the systems may look different, we believe the principles adopted in their development would serve well globally.

How to use this book for Results 

Digital India is a comprehensive programme. It  is for  every resident. Like in the case of our constitution, every resident must have a basic understanding of Digital India in terms of its scope and services. However, the range of services deployed under Digital India are too many for one person understand and all of them are not relatable or relevant to everyone. Hence each resident should use the following core services to begin with 

CORE SERVICES

A set of digital India services aimed at every resident or citizen are called core services. They are  

1. Digital identity - Aadhaar

2. Cloud Storage - Digilocker

3. Digital signature - e-sign   

4. Online payments-  BHIM (UPI) 

SECTORAL SERVICES 

The rest of the services are called sectoral service are  aimed at a sectional of society- such as  students, farmers, teachers,  senior citizens, enterprises , women empowerment, people with disabilities and such sections of society. Reader can go directly to such relevant services and make the most of them. 

ORGANIZATION OF THIS BOOK 

The book is organized in 8 parts. Part I is a general introduction to Digital India. It is recommended that every reader may go through this part and gain a basic understanding of the scope of Digital India programme and its overall structure and services.  The rest of the parts of aimed at specific groups. Reader is advised to go directly to those parts which is directly relevant to him or her 

PART II :  DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR CITIZENS

PART III:  DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR Government to Business (B2G2B)

PART IV : DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR Government to Government (G2G) 

PART V : DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR Government to Employees (E2G2E) 

PART VI  :  DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR Visitors/Foreigners (G2F) 

PART VII  : DIGITAL INDIA STACKS 

PART VIII: INDIA ENTERPRISE ARCHITECTURE 

PART IX  : DIGITAL INDIA PLATFORM  

 

PART 1  : GETTING STARTED

What is digital India ? - Its vision and mission, structure, Digital India platform nature and components . 

DIGITAL INDIA PROGRAMME

Digital India programme aims to deliver citizen services online and electronically and transform India into a knowledge society. It was officially launched in 2015. To realise this dream, the government of India is building a digital India platform (DIP). It would act as a digital foundation for government and others to build and  deliver services.

A digitally connected India can help in improving social and economic conditions of people through development of non-agricultural economic activities apart from providing access to education, health and financial services.

DIGITAL INDIA VISION 

The vision of Digital India is to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. It would ensure that government services are available to citizens electronically. It would also bring in public accountability through mandated delivery of government's services electronically.

VISION AREAS OF DIGITAL INDIA 

The Digital India programme is centred on three key vision areas:

DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE AS A UTILITY FOR EVERY CITIZEN 

(1) the Availability of high speed internet as a core utility for delivery of services to citizens (2) Cradle to grave digital identity that is unique, lifelong, online and authenticable to every citizen (3) Mobile phone & bank account enabling citizen participation in digital & financial space (4) Easy access to a Common Service Centre (5) Shareable private space on a public cloud, (5) Safe and secure cyberspace

A well connected nation is a prerequisite to a well served nation. Once the remotest of the Indian villagers are digitally connected through broadband and high speed internet, then delivery of electronic government services to every citizen, targeted social benefits, and financial inclusion can be achieved in reality. One of the key areas on which the vision of Digital India is centred is digital infrastructure as a utility to every citizen. A key component under this vision is high speed internet as a core utility to facilitate online delivery of various services. It is planned to set up enabling infrastructure for digital identity, financial inclusion and ensure easy availability of common services centers. It was also proposed to provide citizens with digital lockers which would be shareable private spaces on a public cloud, and where documents issued by Government departments and agencies could be stored for easy online access. It is also planned to ensure that cyberspace is made safe and secure.

 GOVERNANCE AND SERVICES ON DEMAND 

(1) Seamlessly integrated services across departments or jurisdictions, (2) Availability of services in real time from online & mobile platforms, (3) All citizen entitlements to be portable and available on the cloud, (4) Digitally transformed services for improving ease of doing business (5) Making financial transactions electronic & cashless, (6) Leveraging Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) for decision support systems & development

Over the years, a large number of initiatives have been undertaken by various State Governments and Central Ministries to usher in an era of e-governance. Sustained efforts have been made at multiple levels to improve the delivery of public services and simplify the process of accessing them. E-governance in India has steadily evolved from computerization of Government Departments to initiatives that encapsulate the finer points of Governance, such as citizen centricity, service orientation and transparency. The National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) was approved in 2006 to take a holistic view of e-governance initiatives across the country, integrating them into a collective vision. Around this idea, a massive countrywide infrastructure reaching down to the remotest of villages is being developed, and large-scale digitization of records is taking place to enable easy and reliable access over the internet. The ultimate objective was to make all government services accessible to the common man in his locality, through common service delivery outlets, and ensure efficiency, transparency, and reliability of such services at affordable costs to realise the basic needs of the common man.

DIGITAL INDIA PLATFORM 

Digital India platform is the digital foundation built for serving residents digitally. It aims to deliver resident services online and electronically. It is a software platform on which government departments use to develop and deploy digital services. The platform is also open for public participation and contribution. Public can access government data using Open Data and functionalities  through Open APIs    

 STRUCTURE OF DIGITAL INDIA PLATFORM 

Digital India platform consists of three distinct components. They are  (1) Infrastructure , (2) services and (3) empowerment.  Infrastructure provides digital foundation.  Services are built by government agencies or departments to meet the needs of citizens,  Empowerment  is the resulting citizen welfare. 

DIGITAL INDIA INFRASTRUCTURE 

Infrastructure is an assorted set technology building blocks required delivering citizen services. It consists of nationwide networks connecting rural areas and state capitals, national cloud infrastructure, online resident identity system.  By 2019 there are 30 infrastructure components operating ( https://digitalindia.gov.in/infrastructure ) 

DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES 

Digital India programme,  in essence is about delivering citizen services electronically and online.  Towards this end, the project has built digital platform  platform and core (generic) citizen services for each Indian resident. These include a unique identity number, Aadhaar, a cloud based document storage system, Digilocker, a digital signature system- e-sign and resident data privacy, protection and sharing system.  Initially various government departments built services to serve specific section of population such as senior citizens.. And later even private companies also harnessing these services.   By the end of 2019, there are 69 service up and running

CORE SERVICES :

A set of digital India services aimed at every resident or citizen are called core services. They are (1)  Digital Resident  identity - Aadhaar, (2) Cloud Storage - Digilocker, (3) Digital signature - e-sign, (4) Online payments-  BHIM (UPI).  

SECTORAL SERVICES: 

The rest of the services are called sectoral services and  are  aimed at a section of society- such as students, farmers, teachers,  senior citizens, enterprises , women, people with disabilities and such sections of society. 

EMPOWERMENT

Empowerment is ways in which Digital India's platform is used by government to build citizen welfare services to meet specific needs of citizens.- Jeevan Praman for senior citizens.

OPEN NATURE OF DIGITAL INDIA PLATFORM 

Digital India platform is using open government principles. Government has adopted Open  Government data (OGD) and Open API policies. This enables government to allow private entities to access government owned data and infrastructure. This encourages creative use of Digital India platform for social and business innovation. By the end of 2019,  thousands of open data sets and Open API are available (https://digitalindia.gov.in/content/open-data)

THE ROAD TO DIGITAL INDIA- HOW DID WE ARRIVE AT DIGITAL INDIA?

Digital India project represents the latest in the long list of e-governance projects undertaken by different governments since the 1990s, We have come a long way  on the process of digitizing our government functions and  processes and citizen services. E-Governance was started in India by AHSHAYA in Kerala. This project involved setting up around 5000 multipurpose community technology centers called Akshaya e- Kendra’s across Kerala. Run by private entrepreneurs, each e-Kendra setup within 2-3 kilometers of every household, will cater to the requirements of around 1000-3000 families to make available the power of networking and connectivity to common man. Akshaya is a social and economic catalyst focusing on the various facets of e-learning, e-transaction, e-governance, information and communication.

The Digital India programme is a flagship programme of the Government of India with a vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. It is the latest in the long list of e-governance programme undertaken by the government since the 1990s. It was launched by the Government of India in order to ensure the Government's services are made available to citizens electronically by improved online infrastructure and by increasing Internet connectivity and making the country digitally empowered in the field of technology.  The initiative includes plans to connect rural areas with high-speed internet networks. Digital India consists of three core components: (1) the development of secure and stable digital infrastructure, (2) delivering government services digitally, and (3) universal digital literacy

E-governance initiatives in India took a broader dimension in the mid 1990s for wider sectoral applications with emphasis on citizen-centric services. The major ICT initiatives of the Government included, among other,  some major projects such as railway computerization, land record computerization, etc. which focused mainly on the development of information systems. Later on, many states started ambitious individual e-governance projects aimed at providing electronic services to citizens. Though these e-governance projects were citizen-centric, they could make less than the desired impact due to their limited features. The isolated and less interactive systems revealed major gaps that were thwarting the successful adoption of e-governance along the entire spectrum of governance. They clearly pointed towards the need for a more comprehensive planning and implementation for the infrastructure required to be put in place, interoperability issues to be addressed, etc. to establish a more connected government.

National e-Governance Plan 2.0: The national level e-Governance programme called National e-Governance Plan was initiated in 2006. There were 31 Mission Mode Projects under National e-Governance Plan covering a wide range of domains, viz. agriculture, land records, health, education, passports, police, courts, municipalities, commercial taxes, treasuries etc. 24 Mission Mode Projects have been implemented and started delivering either full or partial range of envisaged services. . Considering the shortcomings in National e-Governance Plan that included lack of integration amongst Government applications and databases, low degree of government process reengineering, scope for leveraging emerging technologies like mobile, cloud etc, Government of India has undertaken  the e-Kranti programme with the vision of Transforming e-Governance for Transforming Governance.

All new and on-going eGovernance projects as well as the existing projects, which are being revamped,  now follow the key principles of e-Kranti namely 

• Transformation and not Translation

• Integrated Services and not Individual Services

• Government Process Reengineering (GPR) to be mandatory in every MMP

• ICT Infrastructure on Demand

• Cloud by Default

• Mobile First

• ‘Fast Tracking Approvals

• Mandating Standards and Protocols

• Language Localization

• National GIS (Geo-Spatial Information System)

• Security and Electronic Data Preservation

The portfolio of Mission Mode Projects has increased from 31 to 44 MMPs. Many new social sector projects namely Women and Child Development, Social Benefits, Financial Inclusion, Urban Governance, eBhasha etc have been added as new MMPs under e-Kranti.

Thus digital India programme takes a more holistic view of e governance programmes and aims to knit them together more synergistically resulting in a dynamic platform for citizen centric services.

Next Step

With this background information about Digital India, readers can now move on to PART II  where he or she can see a list of Ready to Use citizen services which can be used.

 PART II :  DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES FOR CITIZENS

These services provide information, services, and other functionality to citizens  and receive input and feedback from citizens. More recently, active citizen engagement in government policy development using social networking technologies, as well as a number of surveying and consultation methodologies, is contributing to more effective citizen- and business-centric government  policies, strategies, and services.

Government to Citizen

DIGITAL INDIA CITIZEN CORE SERVICES: 

A common person  needs some basic services for the smooth conduction of his/her daily transactions.  Digital India provide a  set of digital India services aimed at every resident or citizen are called core services. They are (1)  Digital resident identity - Aadhaar, (2) Cloud Storage - Digilocker, (3) Digital signature - e-sign, (4) Online payments-  BHIM (UPI) 

NEED FOR AADHAAR 

Establishing one’s identity is the first and basic resident requirement. In our transactions with other individuals or institutions we need to  prove who we claim to be. Example: booking accommodation in temple or while travelling in public transport.  Aadhaar has been designed to serve that  single purpose. In Digital India Aadhaar number serves as resident identity proof from cradle to cemetery    

WHAT IS AADHAAR?  

Aadhaar number is a 12-digit random number issued by the UIDAI to the residents of India after satisfying the verification process laid down by the Authority. Any individual, irrespective of age and gender, who is a resident of India, may voluntarily enrol to obtain Aadhaar number. Person willing to enrol has to provide minimal demographic and biometric information during the enrolment process which is totally free of cost. An individual needs to enrol for Aadhaar only once and after de-duplication only one Aadhaar shall be generated, as the uniqueness is achieved through the process of demographic and biometric de-duplication. It is cradle to cemetery online identity number for Indian residents. 

 

HOW DOES AADHAAR BENEFIT RESIDENTS? 

Aadhaar system provides single source offline/online identity verification across the country for the residents. Once residents enrol, they can use the Aadhaar number to authenticate and establish their identity multiple times using electronic means or through offline verification, as the case may be. It eliminates the hassle of repeatedly providing supporting identity documents each time a resident wishes to access services, benefits and subsidies. By providing a portable proof of identity that can be verified through Aadhaar authentication on-line anytime, anywhere, the Aadhaar system enables mobility to millions of people who migrate from one part of the country to another.  To enroll and get Aadhaar number visit https://uidai.gov.in/ 

Aadhaar number of children 

Parents can obtain Aadhaar for children. The Bill specifies that at the time of enrolling a child to obtain an Aadhaar number, the enrolling agency shall seek the consent of his parent or guardian. The agency must inform the parent or guardian of (i) the manner in which the information will be used, (ii) the recipients with whom it will be shared, and (iii) their right to access the information. After attaining eighteen years of age, the child may apply for cancellation of his Aadhaar.

NEED FOR MANAGING DOCUMENTS 

The second requirement for resident is to manage documents. These include government issued documents such as Aadhaar, certificates and  personal documents. Digital India meets this requirement through DIGILOCKER.

WHAT IS DIGILOCKER? 

Digilocker is a secure cloud based platform for storage, sharing and verification of documents and certificates. DigiLocker ties into Digital India’s visions areas of (1) Shareable private space on a public cloud  and (2) Digital documents / certificates on cloud.  It is aimed at paperless governance 

DigiLocker is a platform for issuance and verification of documents and certificates in a digital format, thereby eliminating the use of physical documents. Indian citizens who sign up for a DigiLocker account get a dedicated cloud storage space that is linked to their Aadhaar or UIDAI number

BENEFITS OF DIGILOCKER  TO CITIZENS

1. Important Documents Anytime, Anywhere!

2. Authentic Documents, Legally at Par with Originals.

3. Digital Document Exchange with the consent of the citizen.

4. Faster service Delivery- Government Benefits, Employment, Financial Inclusion, Education, Health.

Residents can open digilocker account here https://digilocker.gov.in/ 

 

 

NEED FOR e-sign  

The third need for any resident is to sign agreements and documents. Digital India makes this provision through e-sign service. This will help residents to sign documents online. 

WHAT IS E-SIGN ? 

eSign is an online electronic signature service which can be integrated with service delivery applications via an open API to facilitate an Aadhaar holder to digitally sign a document. Using authentication of the Aadhaar holder through Aadhaar e-KYC service, online electronic signature service is facilitated. Digilocker provides a feature that enables residents to use e-sign facility. 

 NEED FOR ONLINE PAYMENTS

Another important need for resident is to make online payments. Digital India has developed a platform called Unified Payment Interface (UPI). Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is an instant real-time payment system developed by National Payments Corporation of India facilitating inter-bank transactions. The interface is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and works by instantly transferring funds between two bank accounts on a mobile platform  

BHIM

BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) is a mobile payment App developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), based on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) It  enables fast, secure and reliable payments system that uses smartphones for cashless transactions. 

UPI is open and can be used by others. Google Pay is application based on UPI. 

With the help of these four digital india services, namely Aadhaar, Digilocker, e-Sign and UPI, residents can conduct most of their daily transactions. Hence they called DIGITAL INDIA CORE SERVICES. 

Common Service Centres 

One of the key mandates of CSC scheme is to deliver Government to Citizen (G2C) services. Various G2C services of Central Government Ministries and departments, apart from State-specific services have been integrated on the Digital Seva portal for delivery to citizens in rural and remote areas of the country through the network of CSCs.

Bharat BillPay :

Bharat BillPay is a Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conceptualised system driven by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It is a one-stop bill payment platform for all bills – electricity, mobile, broadband and landline, DTH, Gas, Water, etc - across India with certainty, reliability and safety of transactions.

Two primary participants of Bharat BillPay are:

Bharat Bill Payment Central Unit (BBPCU) – which implements operational, technical and business standards for the entire system and its participants. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) functions as the BBPCU.

Bharat Bill Payment Operating Units (BBPOUs) - BBPOUs are authorized operational units, working as per the standards set by BBPS. BBPOUs will on-board billers, aggregators and payment gateways; and set up agent network and customer touch points to handle bill payments through different delivery channels.

 

With CSC SPV becoming a BBPOU, CSCs can provide Bharat BillPay service and further enable the villagers to pay their Electricity, Water, Gas, DTH and Broadband & Landline Postpaid bills.

FASTag through CSCs

FASTag is an Electronic Toll Collection system in India operated by NHAI. FASTag is a simple to use, reloadable tag which enables automatic deduction of toll charges and lets you pass through the toll plaza without stopping for cash transactions. The tag employs Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) technology and is affixed on the vehicle's windscreen after the tag account is active. It is currently operational at more than 425 toll plazas across national and state highways.

CSC SPV has partnered with NHAI to dispense FASTags through the network of CSCs. VLEs will dispense FASTags at the toll plazas after procuring them through the Digital Seva Portal; register customer details on portal and affix the tag on the car.

Passport

Ministry of External Affairs partnered with CSC SPV in 2014 to launch Passport Seva services through CSCs across the rural hinterland. Services available through CSCs include filling and uploading of Passport Application Form, payment of fee and scheduling of appointment for visit to Passport Kendra. During 2016-17, around 2.19 lakh Passport applications were submitted through the CSC network across the country.

PAN Card

Applications for new PAN Card are processed through CSCs in collaboration with UTI Infrastructure Technology And Services Limited (UTIITSL) and National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL). PAN Card service through NSDL was introduced for CSCs in February 2016. During 2016-17, 28.94 lakh Applications for PAN Card have been submitted through CSCs.

Swacch Bharat Abhiyan

Swacch Bharat Abhiyan is the biggest ever cleanliness drive launched by the Government in 2014 to clean the streets, roads and infrastructure of the country. In 2016, the Ministry of Urban Development partnered with CSC to facilitate online applications through CSCs for construction of individual household toilets across the country under the campaign. During 2016-17, 5.26 lakh applications for individual household toilets were submitted through CSC network under Swacch Bharat Abhiyan.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is an ambitious housing scheme of the Government for creating affordable housing units for urban poor. Although, entire urban area of the country will be covered under the scheme, the initial focus is on 500 select cities.

In November 2016, a MoU was signed between Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (MHUPA) and CSC SPV for receiving PMAY applications through CSCs. The service is being provided by 60,000 CSCs located in urban areas across States/ UTs. During 2016-17, 27.97 lakh Applications were submitted through CSC network under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) scheme.

FSSAI

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) partnered with CSC SPV in July 2016 to provide Food Business Operator (FBO) registration service through CSCs. This initiative is aimed at registering a large number of unregistered FBOs in the country with the FSSAI through the vast network of CSCs. Under the service, Registration Certificate is auto generated after filing of online application through CSC. During 2016-17, 95,603 applications for FBO Registration have been submitted through CSCs.

Soil Health Card

Soil Health Cards are issued by the Government to farmers with crop-wise recommendations of nutrients and fertilizers required for individual farms to help them improve productivity through judicious use of inputs. Launched as a scheme in 2015, the Government plans to issue these cards to 14 crore farmers.

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare signed a MoU with CSC SPV in December 2016, to engage CSCs in the Soil Health Card scheme. During 2016-17, 1.24 lakh farmer registrations have taken place through CSCs across 23 States.

e-District

Districts are the de facto front-end of government. The e-District project has been conceptualized to improve the experience of G2C interactions for citizens at the districts through seamless delivery of various services like certificates, licences, Ration Card, disbursement of social welfare pensions, online filing of RTI, land registration, land records, Government taxes, utility bill payments, etc.

e-District services of 11 States and 3 Union Territories are available on Digital Seva portal. These States/ UTs are: Assam, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Tripura, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu and Puducherry. During 2016-17, 40.51 lakh transactions have been made on Digital Seva portal for e-District services.

Election Commission Services

The Election Commission of India, in its endeavour to improve enrolment and correct data errors in the electoral rolls for hassle free elections, has partnered with CSC SPV for delivery of various electoral registration forms and EPIC printing through CSCs. So far, the Electoral Registration Management System (ERMS) of Tripura, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Haryana, and Maharashtra have been integrated with Digital Seva Portal.

During 2016-17, CSCs have 34,780 Electoral Registration Forms in these nine States, where as 56.18 lakh EPIC have been printed and delivered through the CSC network in these nine States.

 

Citizen Services

Aadhaar 

• Aadhaar is a 12 digit individual identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India on behalf of the Government of India.

• This number will serve as a proof of identity and address, anywhere in India. Aadhaar letter received via India Post and e-Aadhaar downloaded from UIDAI website are equally valid.

• Any individual, irrespective of age and gender, who is a resident in India and satisfies the verification process laid down by the UIDAI can enrol for Aadhaar.

• Each individual needs to enroll only once which is free of cost.

• Each Aadhaar number will be unique to an individual and will remain valid for life. Aadhaar number will help you provide access to services like banking, mobile phone connections and other Govt and Non-Govt services in due course.

Aadhaar is :

• Easily verifiable in an online, cost-effective way

• Unique and robust enough to eliminate the large number of duplicate and fake identities in government and private databases

• A random number generated, devoid of any classification based on caste, creed, religion and geography

What Aadhaar is and what it is not

S.No	Aadhaar is	Aadhaar isn't
1	A 12-digit unique identity for every Indian individual, including children and infants	Just another card
2	Enables identification for every resident Indian	Only one Aadhaar card per family is enough
3	Establishes the uniqueness of every individual on the basis of demographic and biometric information	Collects profiling information such as caste, religion, and language
4	It is a voluntary service that every resident can avail irrespective of present documentation	Mandatory for every Indian resident who has identification documents
5	Each individual will be given a single unique Aadhaar ID number	An individual can obtain multiple Aadhaar ID numbers
6	Aadhaar will provide a universal identity infrastructure which can be used by any identity-based application (like ration card, passport, etc.)	Aadhaar will replace all other IDs
7	UIDAI will give Yes/No answers to any identity authentication queries	UIDAI information will be accessible to public and private agencies

Unique features of Aadhaar

• Universality, which is ensured because Aadhaar will over time be recognised and accepted across the country and across all service providers.

• The number will consequently form the basic, universal identity infrastructure over which Registrars and Agencies across the country can build their identity-based applications.

• Aadhaar will ensure increased trust between public and private agencies and residents. Once residents enroll for Aadhaar, service providers will no longer face the problem of performing repeated Know Your Customer (KYC) checks before providing services. They would no longer have to deny services to residents without identification documents. Residents would also be spared the trouble of repeatedly proving identity through documents each time they wish to access services such as obtaining a bank account, passport, driving license etc.

• By providing a clear proof of identity, Aadhaar will empower poor and underprivileged residents in accessing services such as the formal banking system and give them the opportunity to easily avail various other services provided by the Government and the private sector.

• The centralised technology infrastructure of the UIDAI will enable 'anytime, anywhere, anyhow' authentication. Aadhaar will thus give migrants mobility of identity.

• Aadhaar authentication can be done both offline and online, online authentication through a cell phone or landline connection will allow residents to verify their identity remotely.

• Remotely, online Aadhaar-linked identity verification will give poor and rural residents the same flexibility that urban non-poor residents presently have in verifying their identity and accessing services such as banking and retail.

• Aadhaar will also demand proper verification prior to enrollment, while ensuring inclusion. To prevent duplicate entries, residents are enrolled into the database with proper verification of their demographic and biometric information. This will ensure that the data collected is clean from the beginning of the program. However, much of the poor and under-privileged population lack identity documents and Aadhaar may be the first form of identification they will have access to.

• The UIDAI will ensure that its Know Your Resident (KYR) standards do not become a barrier for enrolling the poor and has accordingly developed an Introducer system for residents who lack documentation. Through this system, authorised individuals ('Introducers') who already have an Aadhaar, can introduce residents who don't have any identification documents, enabling them to receive their Aadhaar.

How is Aadhaar different from any other identity issued by the government?

Aadhaar is essentially a paperless online anytime-anywhere identity assigned to a resident to cover his/her entire lifetime. The verification of his identity is done online with the help of authentication devices which connect to UIDAI’s Central Identity Repository and return only a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response to the basic query-“Is the person who he/she claims to be?” based on the data available with UIDAI.

The Aadhaar authentication service is fully functional and in use in several service delivery schemes across the country. The Aadhaar Card or the e-Aadhaar (electronic copy of Aadhaar) are essentially given to residents to know their own Aadhaar.

Why is it important to have Aadhaar

Aadhaar program was launched with a main objective to provide universal identity to every Indian resident. People can now get the card with much ease as its acceptance as a mandatory document for various initiatives has been officially made. In addition to this it will help in reducing the corruption since every individual carries only one unique number.

Considering the increasing acceptance of Aadhaar card it is a must for everyone to get it issued. It is believed that the card will further be given more importance as more and more government schemes are being launched requiring it as a mandatory document.

Most important benefits of Aadhaar

Listed below are the most important benefits of Aadhaar (12 digit unique identity number).

1. Aadhaar based Direct Benefit Transfer (LPG Subsidy) : The 12 digit individual identification number on Aadhar card is used to get LPG subsidy amount directly in the bank account. This DBTL scheme is named as PAHAL. To get this benefit you need to visit your area’s distributor and get Aadhar number linked to the 17 digit LPG consumer number. Although now you can get direct benefit transfer by linking bank account to the LPG number.

2. Jan Dhan Yojana : Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accepts Aadhaar card/number as the only document sufficient to open the bank account. Although you can open PMJDY account after producing other documents as well. The benefits offered are RuPay card, free zero balance savings account, life and accident insurance and many others.

3. Passport in 10 days : This benefit of Aadhaar card will relieve you the most! If you have an Aadhaar card, you can get passport in just 10 days. Under this format, police verification will be done at a later date as opposed to the previous rule requiring police verification which used to be time consuming. Also under the new government’s rule, if you need a passport, Aadhaar number is compulsory.

4. Digital Locker : Government of India has launched digital locker (DigiLocker) system for everyone for storing all personal document on the government’s server. And sign-up process for DigiLocker requires person to link his/her 12 digit Aadhaar card number.

5. Voter Card Linking : Starting 9th March 2015, Aadhaar number has been linked to the voter ID’s. This action is taken to eliminate bogus voters. Once an Aadhaar number is linked, it would become impossible for a voter to have multiple voter ID cards. It's illegal use is also curbed, as registration requires voter ID card holder to be physically present and produce Aadhaar card to the polling booth officer for linking.

6. Monthly Pension : All the pensioners from select states will now have to register their Aadhaar card number to their respective department in order to receive monthly pension. This move was initiated to avoid fraudulent incidents of fake beneficiaries.

7. Provident Fund : Similar to pension, Employee Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has also rolled  out Aadhaar Based Online Claim Submission for PF account holders.

8. Opening new bank account : Aadhaar letter provided by UIDAI is now acceptable by banks as a valid proof to open a bank account. In fact, it can serve both as an address and identity proof, hence avoiding the need to produce a bunch of documents to the banks for opening an account.

9. Digital Life Certificate : Aadhaar linked digital life certificate is another initiative which was launched by the Ministry of Electronics and IT. Named as “Jeevan Praman for Pensioners”, this system will end the process where pensioner had to be physically present at Pension Disbursing Agency to renew his / her life certificate. Instead all the details of a pensioner will be accessed digitally by the agency.

10. SEBI : It is now accepted as a proof of address and identity by Securities and Exchange Board of India for investing in the stock market.

11. Mobile number : All existing mobile subscribers (prepaid and postpaid) are required to link Aadhaar to their mobile number. All new connections will require Aadhaar linking.

12. Driving license : To make Aadhaar, a digital identity, very soon driving license is planned to be linked to Aadhaar number. The objective of doing this is to check the prevalence of multiple license.

13. PAN card and IT return: This is considered to be the best step to curb black money. Linking of PAN card with Aadhaar has been made mandatory. The last date for linking is 31.08.2019.

14. Investments : Submitting Aadhaar to financial institutions is mandatory where you are doing mutual fund and other investments.

15. Existing bank account holders : Account holders are to provide Aadhaar to the banks where they hold account six months from the date of commencement of bank account.

16. Book Upto 12 tickets in IRCTC website in a month by linking Aadhaar : Now users are allowed to book upto 12 tickets in a month, if users get themselves verified through their Aadhaar number along with at least one passenger also being verified through Aadhaar. However, No Aadhaar Verification required for booking up to 6 tickets in a month. To know how the process

Enrollment for Aadhar

• Aadhaar enrolment is free.

• You can go to any authorized Aadhaar enrollment center anywhere in India with your identity and address proof.

• UIDAI process accepts 18 PoI (Proof of Identity) and 35 PoA (Proof of Address) documents. Click here for national valid list of documents. Common proofs of identity and address are election photo ID card, Ration card, passport and driving license.

• Photo ID cards like PAN card and Govt ID cards are permissible for identity proof. Address proof documents also include water /electricity/telephone bills for the last three months.

• In case you do not have above common proofs, Certificate of Identify having photo issued by Gazetted Officer/Tehsildar on letterhead is also accepted as PoI. Certificate of Address having photo issued by MP or MLA /Gazetted Officer/Tehsildar on letterhead or by Village Panchayat head or its equivalent authority (for rural areas) is accepted as valid PoA.

• Even if someone in a family does not have individual valid documents, the resident can still enrol if his/her name exists in family entitlement document. In this case the Head of Family in entitlement document needs to be enrolled first with valid PoI & PoA document. The head of the household can then introduce other members in the family while they are enrolling. UIDAI accepts 9 document types as Proof of Relationship. Click here for national valid list of documents.

• Where there are no documents available, resident may also take the help of Introducers available at the enrolment centre. The Introducers are notified by the Registrar. For further details please contact office of the concerned Registrar.

• At the enrollment center, please fill your personal details within the form. To view the Aadhaar Enrolment Form, click here.  Your photo, finger-prints and iris scan will also be taken as a part of the enrollment. You can review the details you have provided and make corrections during enrolment itself. You will get an acknowledgment slip with a temporary enrolment number and other details captured during enrolment. Any corrections in the enrolment data can be done within 96 hours of enrolment by visiting the enrolment centre with the acknowledgement slip. 

• You need to enrol only once. Enrolling again is a waste of your time as you will get only one Aadhaar number.

• Based on your information provided, your details will be verified centrally. If your application is successful, an Aadhaar number will be generated and mailed to your address.

• The waiting time for Aadhaar may vary from 60-90 days after receipt of resident data packets in CIDR.

What happens after enrolment

After enrolment, quality checks are done by the enrolment centre supervisors, followed by correction process (where required) and data packet consolidation. Subsequently, the Enrolment Agency sends the data to UIDAI data centre. The data undergoes various stages of screening and validations in CIDR.

This ensures that the source of data is authenticated besides ensuring that no duplicate exists. Sample Quality checks are done on demographic and biometric data collected from residents. Apart from that the Operator/ Supervisor/ Introducer/ Enrolment Agency and Registrar information in each packet is also validated. Only after passing the data quality checks and other validations, the packet goes for de-duplication and Aadhaar gets generated.

In case of any errors, the packet goes on hold. For example if the particulars of the Operator who enrolled the residents are found to be inconsistent with database or there is a mismatch observed in photo and age/gender (ex. a child's photo with age mentioned as 50 yrs), then the packet is held for further enquiry.

Corrective actions are taken on such packets, wherever possible, else a rejection letter guiding resident to re-enroll is dispatched to the resident. India Post is entrusted with the responsibility of printing and delivery of Aadhaar letters.

In the case of Aadhaar enrolments through NPR exercise, the method of verification is the RGI approved LRUR (Local Register of Usual Residents) verification process. The Aadhaar number will be issued only after completion of the LRUR process which could take much longer than the time prescribed above. Residents can verify the name of their Registrar at the enrolment centres or on the acknowledgement provided to them at the time of enrolment. In case it is Registrar General of India(RGI), please contact the office of RGI for further details.

Where to enroll

Enrolment Centres where you can enroll for Aadhaar

Appointment for Aadhaar Enrolment

Enrolment in all the states/UTs is being covered by UIDAI and Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI). Aadhaar Enrolment activities are being carried out exclusively by RGI along with preparation of National Population Register (NPR) in Assam and Meghalaya. Residents of all other states/UTs are required to enrol only at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre/Aadhaar Camps or at any Permanent Enrolment Centre.

Points to note

• Enrollment for Aadhaar is done at designated Aadhaar enrolment centres only. The resident needs to visit only these enrolment centres. The UIDAI does not currently offer online enrollment.

• Appointment for Aadhaar enrolment may be obtained online at the following link https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/ However, for actual enrolment process, physical presence of the resident is a must.

• There is no last date for enrolment. Residents can enroll anytime as per their convenience at the designated centres. Enrolment for Aadhaar is a continuous process with no last date.

• Sharing of bank related details is voluntary and not mandatory. In case a resident wishes to open a new bank account linked to resident's Aadhaar number or link an existing bank account with Aadhaar, then they may provide the relevant information on the enrolment form at the time of enrolment.

• Resident's data shared with UIDAI while enrolling is fully safe and it is not shared with anybody without the president's consent.

• The residents who have already received Aadhaar or enrolled for Aadhaar need not enroll again unless specifically advised in writing by the UIDAI.

Update your Aadhaar data

1. What is it that you can update in your Aadhaar Data

2. Updating through Online

3. Send Update Request through post

4. Know your Aadhaar Authentication History

What is it that you can update in your Aadhaar Data?

You can update the following data either by submitting your request Online or sending request through Post.

Updating through Online

Residents can update

• Name

• Gender

• Date of Birth

• Address

• Mobile Number (Mobile number is mandatory to receive password for login)

Instructions for residents to use Update Portal

To update your profile in 3 easy steps:

• STEP 1: Login with Aadhaar

• STEP 2: Upload Documents and

• STEP 3: Select BPO Service Provider and submit request.

What are the documents required to update online?

Residents are required to upload a self signed (self attested) copy of relevant documents for update/ correction. No documents required to be submitted for Mobile and Email update.

To Update Data Online (Click here) https://ssup.uidai.gov.in/web/guest/ssup-home 

Send Update Request through post

If Resident is unable to locate the required Pincode/Village/Town/City/Post Office/District/State or is finding difficulty in local language transliteration, they may send their Update request through Post.

Aadhaar Data Update/Correction Form For Request Through Post

Instructions for Sending Update Request Through Post

Update Data (FAQs)

Submission of information for update does not guarantee update of Aadhaar data. The information submitted is subject to verification and validation.

Know your Aadhaar Authentication History

Aadhaar number holders can view Authentication details and also fetch Aadhaar authentication history (Notifications) data.

Aadhaar number holder can view details of all authentication records performed by any Authentication User Agency (AUA) or by him/her in the last 6 months. However, a maximum of 50 records can be viewed at one point of time.

Process

• Visit the link https://resident.uidai.gov.in/notification-aadhaar

• Enter your Aadhaar (UID) or Virtual ID (VID) and the Security code to generate a OTP to your registered mobile number.

• On entry of the OTP the details are shown.

• If the listed authentication transaction is not performed by the Aadhaar number holder, resident may contact the respective Authentication User Agency (AUA) for further details.

• For every authentication transaction performed by an Aadhaar number holder, UIDAI generates a unique code to identify the transactions and sends the same to Authentication User Agency (AUA) along with the response. This Response Code is helpful to uniquely identify the transaction by AUA as well as UIDAI and may be used for any further enquiry from AUA by the Aadhaar number holder.

Online booking of appointment for Aadhaar services

1. Aadhaar Sewa Kendras (ASK)

2. Online appointment booking

1. Requirements for online booking of appointment

2. How to book an online appointment

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has initiated the online booking of appointment to access Aadhaar related services in its Aadhaar Sewa Kendras (ASK).

Aadhaar Sewa Kendras (ASK)

The ASKs will help people in adjoining areas to avail Aadhaar enrolment and update related services in a hassle-free, secure and convenient manner and will function along with other 35,000+ Aadhaar Kendra currently being run in banks, post offices, BSNL customer centres, and other designated state government offices.

UIDAI intends to set up 114 Aadhaar Seva Kendras in 53 cities across the country by the end of 2019.

Facilities in ASKs

The ASKs have a capacity to handle up to 1000/500 enrolments and update requests each per day and will be open for six days a week including weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will be closed only on Tuesdays and public holidays.

Aadhaar Seva Kendras have comfortable air-conditioned environment having 16/8 enrolment counters, 80/40 seated waiting areas and electronic token system beside other amenities. Any resident can take online advance appointment and visit at her/his convenience.

ASKs have a token system where the resident first gets a token for their Aadhaar related work and then moves to a ‘verifier’ for document checking. Once the verification is completed, the resident moves to ‘cash counter’ for payment of Rs.50/-(charges for Aadhaar update, if required) and is then assigned an ‘operator counter’ from the 16 operator workstations. The entire token movement is visible to the resident via digital display screens for easy movement and queue management.A resident who has been provided a token will not have to stand in long queues.

Online appointment booking

The facility (pilot) is for booking an appointment at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra for Aadhaar services listed below:

1. Fresh Aadhaar enrolment

2. Name Update

3. Address Update

4. Mobile No. Update

5. Email ID Update

6. Date of Birth Update

7. Gender Update

8. (Photo + Fingerprints + Iris) Update

Requirements for online booking of appointment

You would need a mobile number (may not be Aadhaar registered) and the details of relevant valid documents for booking an appointment. Enrollment for a new Aadhaar is free. For updation of Aadhaar, a fee of Rs 50 is charged at the ASK.

How to book an online appointment

• Visit the page  https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/bookappointment.aspx

• Appointment booking at UIDAI run Aadhaar Seva Kendra

• Select the centre name and click Proceed to book appointment.

• Choose the service you want to access - New Aadhaar or Aadhaar update

• Fill your mobile number and enter Captcha and submit. Enter the OTP generated to your mobile. On successful authentication of your mobile, a form to fill in the required details are displayed. Fill the required details and submit the form.

• You can manage the appointment details (date and time) by visiting the Manage appointment tab.

• Appointment booking at Registrar run Aadhaar Seva Kendra

• You need to do one time registration with your mobile number.

• Enter the OTP generated and sent to your mobile number for authentication.

• On successful authentication, you will be directed to fill the form for booking.

Know your Aadhaar Status

Check your Aadhaar Status Online

You can check your Aadhaar status online by following simple steps.

The top of your acknowledgement slip contains 14 digit enrolment number and the 14 digit date and time of enrolment. These 28 digits together form your temporary enrolment ID (EID).

To enter the EID click here . You need to enter EID and Date & time as mentioned in the acknowledgement slip.

Click on "Check Status" button to know the status.

Know your Aadhaar status using mobile

By using below simple steps

With registered mobile number

• Go to create new SMS. Type UID STATUS 12341048002615 (14 UED Number issued in Acknowledgement card)

• Send SMS to 51969

• The reply from UIDAI will give your current status and Aadhaar number if it is generated.

 

Without registered mobile number or if you change your mobile number

• Visit nearest Aadhaar Kendra to update your mobile number/or register new mobile number.

• You can also know the status if you have not registered your mobile number, send SMS as explained in the above procedure. You will get the status of your Aadhaar enrollment. Aadhaar number (if generated) will not be communicated to unregistered mobile number.

Retrieve your Lost EID/UID

If you have lost EID or Aadhaar, below is the process to retrieve the same.

Essential requirement

• Your registered Mobile Number / Email which you had provided at the time of enrolment is mandatory to retrieve your lost UID / EID.

You can also Verify Email/Mobile number to know if it is registered or not. To verify click here.

If you have not registered your Mobile number while enrolling for Aadhaar, you are required to visit a  Permanent Enrolment Centre to get it registered. In case you have changed your mobile number or you wish to change the registered Email, you are required to get it updated in your Aadhaar as soon as possible. No documents required to be submitted for Mobile and Email update.

Process

• Visit the link https://resident.uidai.gov.in/lost-uideid

• Choose whether you need to retrieve EID / Aadhaar.

• If you would like to retrieve Aadhaar / EID, you need to mention the Name, registered Mobile number or e-mail id followed by entry of Captcha code. Enter "Send OTP" .

• If your mobile number is registered, you will get the OTP on your registered mobile number. Enter OTP to retrieve your Aadhaar /EID number.

Check your Aadhaar Linking Status with Bank

Through this service, on entering your Aadhaar number you can know the following

• If your Aadhaar is linked with a bank account

• If linked, the name of the bank

To access the service, click here.https://resident.uidai.gov.in/bank-mapper

Check your mobile number / Email in Aadhaar

To verify your email address and mobile number that has been declared at the time of enrolment or during latest Aadhaar detail update, click here. You need to enter your Aadhaar number, Email / Mobile number. If you're mobile number/email id is linked to your Aadhaar, a OTP is sent to the same.

Note : Registered Mobile Number is essential to avail Aadhaar Online services. In case your mobile number is not registered with your Aadhaar, visit the nearest Permanent Enrolment Centre https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/easearch.aspx 

How is Aadhaar different from any other identity issued by the government?

Aadhaar is essentially a paperless online anytime-anywhere identity assigned to a resident to cover his/her entire lifetime. The verification of his identity is done online with the help of authentication devices which connect to UIDAI’s Central Identity Repository and return only a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response to the basic query-“Is the person who he/she claims to be?” based on the data available with UIDAI.

The Aadhaar authentication service is fully functional and in use in several service delivery schemes across the country. The Aadhaar Card or the e-Aadhaar (electronic copy of Aadhaar) are essentially given to residents to know their own Aadhaar, but are only the first step towards the actual use of the online id as explained in the preceding para.

m-Aadhaar

1. Key Features

2. Requirements to use m-Aadhaar

3. How to download and use

mAadhaar is an official mobile application developed by Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to provide an interface to Aadhaar Number Holders to carry their demographic information viz. Name, Date of Birth, Gender & Address along with photograph as linked with their Aadhaar Number in smart phones.

Key Features

1. Aadhaar Number Holder profile download – A convenient way to carry Aadhaar number with demographic details anytime, anywhere.

2. Biometric locking/unlocking – To secure biometric authentication by locking biometrics data. Once resident enables Biometric Locking system their biometric remains locked till the Aadhaar Holder chose to either Unlock it (which is temporary) or Disable the Locking system.

3. TOTP generation – Time-based One-Time Password is an automatically generated temporary password which can be used instead of SMS based OTP.

4. Update of profile – An updated view of Aadhaar profile data after successful completion of update request.

5. Sharing of QR code and eKYC data by Aadhaar Number holder – Share QR code and password protected eKYC data to retrieve accurate demographic information from it instead of manual entry.

6. Show Authentication Report - To view all the authentication report for particular time frame.

7. Generate VID/Fetch VID - VID can be generated or if already created then can be fetched.

Requirements to use m-Aadhaar

• Registered Mobile Number is essential to use mAadhaar app. Registered mobile number is the mobile number linked with your Aadhaar number. In case your mobile number is not registered with Aadhaar visit the nearest Enrolment Centre/Mobile Update End Point.

• An Android based smart phone with Android Version 5.0 and up.

• Internet connectivity on your phone.

How to download and use

• Users can download 'm-Aadhaar' from Google Playstore.

• Application will ask for password as soon as it is opened as the first step after confirming consent. User should enter a password containing only numbers and of length 4 e.g. 1234

• Create new resident profile.

• Enter 12 digit Aadhaar Number or scan your Aadhaar card

• Ensure that your mobile connection is active and that the mobile number is same as that available with UIDAI as your registered mobile number.

• After providing the mandatory inputs press the button 'Verify', available at the bottom of the screen. After pressing 'Verify' button do not navigate away from the screen

• If the details provided by you are found to be correct then application will receive OTP and will read OTP automatically from the phone.

• View your profile

• Open your profile

• Select "View updated Profile" on top right corner to view recently updated Aadhaar data

• On Tap OTP will be sent and auto-filled, Tap OK to confirm and view profile.

• Ensure network connectivity on your mobile device before initiating profile sync

• Upon successful sync latest Aadhaar data will be visible on your screen.

• Delete Profile from mAadhaar app

• Open your profile and click on the menu at top right.

• Select Delete Profile option.

• Ensure network connectivity on your mobile device before authenticating yourself by entering profile password.

• App will delete the profile.

• How to share eKYC?
  Electronic Know your customer or e KYC is the way of resident authentication used by organizations like Banks. Aadhaar allows residents to submit it as an address proof electronically which is valid as a Xerox copy of Aadhaar Card.

• Open your profile

• Click on the top Right Hand Side (RHS) corner.

• Select /Tap on Share eKYC, pop-up will appear re-enter password.

• Select one sharing option from the available (Gmail, Bluetooth, SHAREit, Skype etc.).

• Lock /Unlock biometrics
  This feature is to secure biometric authentication by locking biometrics data of the resident. Biometric remains locked till the Aadhaar Holder chose to either unlock it (which is temporary) or Disable the Locking system.

• Open your profile

• Click on the top Right Hand Side (RHS) corner.

• Select Biometric Settings.

• To lock/unlock biometrics select/deselect check box ‘Enable Biometric Lock’.

• To save your selection, click on the Tick Mark on top RHS.

• An OTP will be generated and auto-filled and biometrics will be locked.

• The Biometric will be locked permanently till unlocked.

The Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016

The Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 intends to provide for targeted delivery of subsidies and services to individuals residing in India by assigning them unique identity numbers, called Aadhaar numbers.

Eligibility

Every resident shall be entitled to obtain an Aadhaar number. A resident is a person who has resided in India for 182 days, in the one year preceding the date of application for enrolment for Aadhaar

Information to be submitted

To obtain an Aadhaar number, an individual has to submit the following information

• biometric (photograph, finger print, iris scan) and

• demographic (name, date of birth, address)

The Unique Identification Authority (UID) may specify other biometric and demographic information to be collected by regulations.

Enrolment

At the time of enrolment, the individual will be informed of the following

• the manner in which the information will be used

• the nature of recipients with whom the information will be shared, and

• the right to access this information.

After verification of information provided by a person, an Aadhaar number will be issued to him.

Use of Aadhaar number

To verify the identity of a person receiving a subsidy or a service, the government may require them to have an Aadhaar number. If a person does not have an Aadhaar number, government will require them to apply for it, and in the meanwhile, provide an alternative means of identification. Any public or private entity can accept the Aadhaar number as a proof of identity of the Aadhaar number holder, for any purpose. Aadhaar number cannot be a proof of citizenship or domicile.

Functions and composition of authority

The key functions of the UID authority include,

• specifying demographic and biometric information to be collected during enrolment

• assigning Aadhaar numbers to individuals

• authenticating Aadhaar numbers, and

• specifying the usage of Aadhaar numbers for delivery of subsidies and services.

The UID authority will consist of a chairperson, two part-time members and a chief executive officer. The chairperson and members are required to have experience of at least ten years in matters such as technology, governance, etc.

Authentication

The UID authority will authenticate the Aadhar number of an individual, if an entity makes such a request. A requesting entity (an agency or person that wants to authenticate information of a person) has to obtain the consent of an individual before collecting his information. The agency can use the disclosed information only for purposes for which the individual has given consent.

Response to authentication query

The UID authority shall respond to an authentication query with a positive, negative or other appropriate response. However, it is not permitted to share an individual’s fingerprint, iris scan and other biological attributes.

Authentication record maintained by UID authority

The UID authority shall record the entity requesting verification of a person’s identity, the time of request and the response received by the entity. The purpose for which an individual's identity needs to be verified will not be maintained.

Protection of information

Biometric information such as an individual’s finger print, iris scan and other biological attributes (specified by regulations) will be used only for Aadhaar enrolment and authentication, and for no other purpose. Such information will not be shared with anyone, nor will it be displayed publicly, except for purposes specified by regulations.

Cases when information may be revealed

In two cases, information may be revealed

• In the interest of national security, a Joint Secretary in the central government may issue a direction for revealing, (i) Aadhaar number, (ii) biometric information (iris scan, fingerprint and other biological attributes specified by regulations), (iii) demographic information, and (iv) photograph. Such a decision will be reviewed by an Oversight Committee (comprising Cabinet Secretary, Secretaries of Legal Affairs and Electronics and Information Technology) and will be valid for six months.

• On the order of a court, (i) an individual’s Aadhaar number, (ii) photograph, and (iii) demographic information, may be revealed.

Offences and penalties

A person may be punished with imprisonment upto three years and minimum fine of Rs 10 lakh for unauthorised access to the centralized data-base, including revealing any information stored in it. If a requesting entity and an enrolling agency fail to comply with rules, they shall be punished with imprisonment upto one year or a fine upto Rs 10,000 or Rs one lakh (in case of a company), or with both.

Cognizance of offence

No court shall take cognizance of any offence except on a complaint made by the UID authority or a person authorised by it.

To view the complete Act, click here.

Source: PRS Legislative Research http://www.prsindia.org/ 

Aaykar Setu-Taxpayer service 

1. What does it offer

2. How to access the service

Aaykar Setu is an effort by the Income Tax Department (ITD) to directly communicate with the taxpayers, on a range of multiple informative and useful tax services aimed at providing tax information at their fingertips.

What does it offer

The module compiles various tax tools, live chat facility, dynamic updates, and important links to various processes within the Income Tax Department in a single module. The taxpayers will also be able to receive regular updates regarding important tax dates, forms and notifications on mobile numbers registered with the ITD.

How to access the service

The service is available both as a web version ( http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tps/default.aspx  and mobile app.(http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tps/mobile-app.aspx 

The website can be accessed at http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tps/default.aspx . The following services can be accessed through the website.

• Information and tutorials related to Income Tax filing

• Tax tools

• Grievance registration and status check

• All taxpayers who wish to receive regular updates as SMS / email alerts are to register their mobile numbers / emails in the Aaykar Setu module.

The mobile app can be downloaded from http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tps/mobile-app.aspx .

Source : http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tps/default.aspx#slidetarget1 

Online filing of patents

1. Features of e-filing system

2. How to file online patents

3. Automated process for generation and issuance of Patent Certificates

The Indian Patent launched the E- filing services for Patents in the year 2007 which enabled online filing of new applications for Patents. Appreciating the significance of being more transparent and user friendly in building confidence among stakeholders, IPO has further developed the e-filing system so as to cover comprehensive e-filing for Patents, wherein, in addition to online filing of New Applications, subsequent filings have also been integrated. The applicants have the benefit of registering themselves as users and owning personal folders in the IPO’s environment.

Features of e-filing system

New and enhanced features of Comprehensive E–filing services include :

• Web based filing system

• Dual way login (Digital Signature as well as Password based) and password re - generation procedure

• Provision for filing of all entries as per Schedule 1 of the Patents Rules, 2003

• Proper Validations with IPO Patent database

• Facility to upgrade / update the digital signatures

• User Profile

• Improved procedures to minimize transaction errors

How to file online patents

Requirements

• Digital signature : Class III digital signature

Process

• Visit the Comprehensive e-filing portal. ( https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/epatentfiling/goForLogin/doLogin 

• Please remember to do the following

• Install Digital Signatures prior to Registration

• Agent names are validated as per the “Register of Patent Agents” in IPAIRS at www.ipindia.gov.in

• Fill the registration form. (https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/epatentfiling/user/NewUserRegistration.aspx 

•  If a user is already registered s/he can log in using the User ID and Password or Digital signature. In the event of password loss, user can login with Digital Signature and reset the password.

• Once logged in, users can file their applications using the "Quick form filing" option.

To access the user manual and FAQs, http://www.ipindia.nic.in/writereaddata/Portal/Images/pdf/Final_FREQUENTLY_ASKED_QUESTIONS_-PATENT.pdf 

Automated process for generation and issuance of Patent Certificates

The Government has launched the system of issuing e-patent certificates after grant of patent. The salient features are

• The patent certificate will be generated through an automated system after  the patent is granted by the Controller and shall be transmitted to the applicant concerned or his authorised patent agent on record to the email address recorded with the office.

• The patent certificate shall also be made available along with status of the application concerned on the official website (www.ipindia.gov.in), so that the same may be downloaded and printed, as desired by applicants.

The main advantages of the system are that it eliminates the delays in dispatch of patent certificates to the applicants concerned who can download and print certificates from the website, thus ushering in greater transparency. It also enables them to take further action in a timely fashion.

Source: http://www.ipindia.gov.in/

e-Citizen Services

1. Introduction

2. Online services

3. Related Resources:

Introduction

e-Gov Services Online is crucial for e-Governance under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP). Under this scheme citizens do not have to come to government offices for many of these services. They can avail these sitting in their offices or in the comfort of their homes.

Online services

Aadhaar Available services: 12 digit individual identification number Its free of cost Check your Aadhaar status Enrolment centres information Frequently asked question (FAQs) Aadhaar enquiries and grievances	For more details visit http://www.uidai.gov.in
National voter's Services Available services: Search your name in National Electoral Roll by entering basic details. Locate polling station on map. Print voter information slip. Apply for Enrolment, Modification, Deletion and change of address in electoral roll Know Booth Level Officer(BLO), Electoral Roll Officer(ERO)	For more details visit http://www.nvsp.in/index.html
Apply for Jobs under MNREGA Available services: Guaranteeing hundred days of wage-employment How to register Where to apply Job cards and duplicate job cards Grievances	For more details visit www.nrega.nic.in
Apply online for Passport Available services: Online application for Passport Fee structure and processing of application Tatkal schemes of application Suggestions & complaints Status of application	For more details visit www.passportindia.gov.in
Apply online for PAN Card Available services: Online application for PAN card Guidelines for online application Status track for PAN application Reprint of PAN card Changes or correction in PAN details Transaction status enquiry	For more details visit tin.tin.nsdl.com
PAN application submission centre Available services: Online search of PAN application submission centre states and city wise Your nearest PAN submission centre	For more details visit tin.tin.nsdl.com http://www.myutitsl.co.in/intra/web/search_psa.jsp
PAN application status check Available services: You can check your PAN application status to enter acknowledgement number, name and date of birth	For more details visit tin.tin.nsdl.com http://www.myutitsl.co.in/PsaLogin/
Check PAN details online Available service: You can get full information about your PAN card, i.e., PAN, your printed name and date of birth	For more details visit https://incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in/

Sources:

•  http://www.uidai.gov.in/ 

•  http://www.nrega.nic.in/ 

•   http://www.myutitsl.co.in/PsaLogin/ 

• http://www.myutitsl.co.in//intra/web/search_psa.jsp 

• https://incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in/ 

e-Market Information

Information about the market is very crucial for all businessmen and traders, especially those who deal in daily agriculture commodities; rural bazaars have been set up to enable farmers to sell their products online.

Daily Agri commodities rate Available services: Daily market rate of Agri commodities (food grains, fruits & vegetables) covering major markets in the country Information available in Indian languages	For more details visit www.agmarknet.nic.in www.commodityindia.com www.mcxindia.com www.ncdex.com https://www.icexindia.com/
Daily price and arrival of horticultural crops Available services: Daily price and arrival of major fruits, vegetables and flowers provided by National Horticulture Board	For more details visit: http://nhb.gov.in/OnlineClient/categorywiseallvarietyreport.aspx
Daily arrivals and prices of Garlic, Onion and Potato Available services: Provides daily market arrivals and prices of garlic, onion and potato of major markets in the country Monthly and annual data archives also available	For more details visit http://nhrdf.org/en-us/DateWiseMarketArrivals
Daily Market Information of perishables Available services: Provides daily market information of fruit and perishable items It provides market rate of 13 markets of 3 states (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka & Kerala) Market information available online and also sent on mobiles of registered users	For more details visit http://www.agritech.tnau.ac.in/dmi/2014/index.html
Marine fish landings in major harbours Available services: Species, landings and price in major harbours of Indian coast are provided

e-Postal & Telecom Services

The Post and Telecommunications departments come under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. The Department of Posts, in India, is one of the oldest mail services in the world. It is also extensive. With times it has moved and now uses communication technology to service the people. Here is a  description of  various online services of postal and telecom departments.

Send your message through e-post Available services: Sending & receiving the message/scanned images Message delivery on same day Services available at all 1,56,000 post offices Cost Rs 10 / page of A4 size	For more details visit www.indiapost.nic.in
Send your money through iMO Available services: Sending of money order up to Rs 50,000 Same day delivery of money order Nominal money order charges Services available at 752 post offices in the country	For more details visit http://www.indiapost.gov.in/IMOS.aspx
Track your speed post status online Available services: Online tracking of speed post List of Domestic speed post centres List of Speed post managers	For more details visit www.indiapost.gov.in
Search ISD code online Available services: Country-wise ISD code search Country-wise ISD list	For more details visit www.bsnl.co.in
Search your city PIN code Available services: PIN code search of state, district & city Search of post office through PIN code	For more details visit https://www.indiapost.gov.in/VAS/Pages/findpincode.aspx
Calculate the postal charges online Available services: Online calculation of postal charges for domestic & international services	For more details visit http://www.indiapost.gov.in/postage/postagecalculator.html
Online eMO status tracking Available services: Track status of your money order online	For more details visit https://www.epostoffice.gov.in/electronic_money_order.html
Search your city STD code Available services: Find out your city STD code online	For more details visit www.bsnl.co.in
Online Telephone Directory Find out the telephone number of any person by their state/city wise	For more details visit http://www.bsnl.co.in

E-Sanad portal

1. Services offered

2. Process followed

E-Sanad is a project aimed at online submission/verification of documents with an ultimate object to extend contact less, cashless, faceless and paperless document attestation service for apostille and normal attestation to applicants in India (to be extended to applicants abroad in a phased manner).

Services offered

1. Online verification of documents - Any type of document viz personal, educational or commercial can be authenticated/apostilled using e-Sanad. The document should be available in the digital repository for getting attestation/apostille through e-Sanad.

2. e-Register

3. Track your application status. (https://esanad.nic.in/checkStatus 

Users need to register in the e-Sanad portal  for accessing these services.

E-Sanad is currently operational in five passport offices and in Attestation Section, CPV Division, Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi. With further decentralization of attestation related work to other locations, it is going to be extended to entire country very soon.

To begin with, the e-Sanad, will start with CBSE depository (for years 2014 & onwards) and verification of the CBSE documents would be done online. It is also integrated with the NAD – National Academic Depository.

As regards its implementation/integration with States/UTs, it is being integrated with the General Administration (NRI) Department of the Government of Telangana as a pilot project.

Process followed

Any type of document viz personal, educational or commercial can be authenticated/apostilled using e-Sanad. The document should be available in the digital repository for getting attestation/apostille through e-Sanad. The digital documents to be verified are to be made available (uploaded) in a digital repository. After verification of documents by the Document Issuing Authorities (DIAs), the digital copy of the documents will be attested/apostilled by the Ministry of External Affairs and this copy will then be despatched to respective applicants by speed post.

Apostille and its need

An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document (e.g., a birth, marriage or death certificate, a judgment, an extract of a register or a notarial attestation). Apostilles can only be issued for documents issued in one country party to the Apostille Convention and that are to be used in another country which is also a party to the Convention.

You will need an Apostille if all of the following apply:

• The country where the document was issued is party to the Apostille Convention; and

• The country in which the document is to be used is party to the Apostille Convention; and

• The law of the country where the document was issued considers it to be a public document; and

• The country in which the document is to be used requires an Apostille in order to recognise it as a foreign public document.

An Apostille may never be used for the recognition of a document in the country where that document was issued. Apostilles are strictly for the use of public documents abroad.

An Apostille may not be required if the laws, regulations, or practice in force in the country where the public document is to be used have abolished or simplified the requirement of an Apostille, or have exempted the document from any legalisation requirements. Such simplification or exemption may also result from a treaty or other agreement that is in force between the country where the public document is to be used and the country that issued it (e.g., some other Hague Conventions exempt documents from legalisation or any analogous formality, including an Apostille).

If you have any doubts, you should ask the intended recipient of your document whether an Apostille is necessary in your particular case.

Fees payable

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) : A fee of Rs. 50/- is payable for Apostille of each document. (W.e.f 21 December 2016, payment by means of postal orders has been discontinued.) Normal Attestation is done free of cost.

Outsourced agencies: As the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is not accepting documents directly from the applicant/individual, all documents for the purpose of Attestation/ Apostille by MEA are to be submitted and collected from the four designated outsourced agencies. The fee chargeable by the outsourced agencies per document for its collection and delivery for Apostille/normal attestation by MEA will be Rs.22/- (Personal document), Rs.18/- (Educational document) and Rs.16/- (Commercial document).

Source : e-Sanad portal   https://esanad.nic.in/home 

MyVisit

1. Fixing appointment with a government officer using Myvisit / eVisitor

2. Check Appointment Status

MyVisit is an initiative by the Government of India to enable the citizens to have a smooth and simple process of making an appointment to meet a government officer, hassle free. It will bridge the gap between the Government and the common man and will enhance the opportunity of a common man to meet government officials. It has advanced features of eliminating all the cumbersome and tedious procedure of making a request for an appointment and then visiting the premises.

Fixing appointment with a government officer using Myvisit / eVisitor

• Visit website eVisitors.nic.in or MyVisit.gov.in and register yourself with your Aadhaar or another valid personal id.

• The details required are Name, Address, Gender, Age, Aadhaar Number (Optional), Identity proof, Email ID and mobile number.

• On registration, the user gets a One-Time Password (OTP) on his / her Mobile phone. The OTP allows the user to confirm the registration;

• Log in using registration details and select Office and officer with whom appointment is sought. Also input your preferred slots for date and time;

• The request for meeting is submitted to the concerned officer. The concerned officer will schedule the appointment based on his engagements.

• The visitor gets email and SMS alert on his mobile phone as soon as the appointment is fixed.

• Visitor logs into the system and prints his eVisitors Pass;

• Visit the office at the appointed time. The Visitor may kindly take the entered Digital ID for his / her identification purposes;

• In the event of change of appointment timing, the Visitor gets SMS and email alert.

• If visitor is earlier registered at least once with this eVisitor, he / she can refer his / her old registration number, mobile number or personal details for quick registration of his / her current visit at the Reception Counter.

Check Appointment Status

Please submit your registration details received through sms / email to know the approval status of your visit request.You can also get visitor pass sent to your email. To check status, click here.(http://myvisit.gov.in/public/MyVisitStatus.aspx )

Source( http://myvisit.gov.in/public/Home.aspx )

Bhoomi Rashi portal

1. Land Acquisition

2. Features of Bhoomi Rashi

3. Benefits

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Govt. of India has designed Bhoomi Rashi as a single point platform for online processing of land acquisition notifications to accelerate highway infrastructure development projects in India.

Land Acquisition

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is engaged in developing India’s road infrastructure sector and executes its projects through various implementation agencies, viz. National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways & Infrastructure Development Company Ltd. (NHIDCL) and State PWDs. The objective of the Ministry is to fast-track economic growth, for which improved road connectivity, specifically expansion and upgradation of the National Highways network, is of vital importance.

Land Acquisition is critical for the commencement and completion of construction of National Highways, which begins once the alignment plan and land acquisition plan for a specific project, are approved. The process starts with the appointment of a revenue functionary of the State Government as Competent Authority for Land Acquisition (CALA) for each NH Project. It ends at taking of physical possession of the land by the implementing authority and disbursal of compensation to each affected/interested party.

MoRTH has developed Bhoomi Rashi - online Land Acquisition (LA) system which would provide linkage across authorities, eliminate the need of physical copy, reduce the formatting errors/clerical mistakes and enable easy tracking of the draft notification.

Features of Bhoomi Rashi

• Bilingual application with Hindi and English for easy usability

• Preparation of interface for adding project basic details including LA sanction details.

• Preparation of interface for Land Acquisition locations i.e. villages

• Preparation of Interface for CALA details

• Interface for generating LA notification

• Interface for Land Details

• Interface for generation of 3a, 3A & 3D notification: organizational email IDS for all those involved in the process flow to ensure smooth e-office management

• Interface for Objections and processing

• Interface for compensation determination and finalization

• Generation of web service for getting payment status and beneficiary validation from Public Financial Management System (PFMS) platform of the Ministry of Finance

• Interface for Land owners and affected parties

• Interface for reports generation

As a citizen, one can know about the status of various Land acquisition projects by visiting http://bhoomirashi.gov.in/search_proj.asp?lang=1&link_id=4

Bhoomi Rashi was made operational on 1st April 2018. It can be accessed at http://bhoomirashi.gov.in/index.asp

Benefits

The portal would enhance the efficiency of the land acquisition process, ensure transparency and accountability, and result in e-transfer of benefits directly to the accounts of the beneficiaries. Its benefits would be faster process completion, transparent fund transfer to the land owners/beneficiaries and reduction of procedural errors.

The portal has the potential to open new opportunities, and enhance efficiency in the LA process. Earlier, physical processing of the cases usually took weeks to even months. Now, the portal has reduced the processing time to a few days, around 2 weeks for the majority of the cases.

Bhoomi Rashi has also been integrated with the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) platform of the Ministry of Finance, for deposition of compensation in the account of affected/interested person, on real-time basis.

Source : Bhoomi Rashi portal (  http://bhoomirashi.gov.in/index.asp ) 

 

e-Educational Services

Online learning, one of the many aspects of e-learning, is the result of the use of electronic and ICT in education. It is a method of delivering educational information through the Internet. It is flexible and self-paced and suited for distance learning. The use of ICT in education has made it possible to reach to millions of learners who want to pursue their education from far-off places.

National Career Service Portal Available services: Online and Offline Registration by job seekers Skills and Jobs in demand guidance Career assistance Search and apply for jobs, job fairs, training programs, and career exhibitions	For more details visit http://www.ncs.gov.in/Pages/default.aspx
National Scholarship Portal Available services: Students - Student Registration (Fresh and Renewal) - Online Submission of Application - Application Status Tracking Institutions - Institute Registration - Course Registration - Application Verification - Forward Applications	For more details visit http://www.scholarships.gov.in
Download NCERT Books Available services: Books of class I to XII are available Readable & printable version of books Books available in English, Hindi and Urdu	For more details visit www.ncert.nic.in
See your examination results Available services: Exam results of class X, XII and all competitive exams (i.e., Engineering, Medical, MBA, CA, etc.) Results of CBSE, ICSE and state board	For more details visit www.results.nic.in
Online employment news Available services: Current vacancy announced by— UPSC, SSC, Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, PSU & employment exchanges List of state employment exchanges for online application Link to Directorate of Employment & Training	For more details visit http://www.employmentnews.gov.in/
Locate your nearest study centre Available services: State-wise list of study centres for Academic (Secondary & Sr. Secondary), vocational and open basic education courses	For more details visit nios.ac.in
Download Indian Fonts Available services: Free downloadable fonts, i.e.,— Hindi, Tamil, Gujarati, Bengali, Assamese, Telugu, Malayalam, Marathi, Oriya, Punjabi & Kannada with registration only Free downloadable Bharteeya Open Office (BOO), Browser & e- mail service	For more details visit www.ildc.in
Apply for educational loans Available services: Information about loan schemes of various banks Common educational loan application for students Apply online to multiple Banks for Educational Loans	For more details visit https://www.vidyalakshmi.co.in/Students/index
Educational Institution of India Available services: List of universities/deemed universities, colleges, schools, specialised institutions, training centres and state educational institutions Scientific institutions	For more details visit http://www.ugc.ac.in/recog_College.aspx

Related Resources

1. National Institute of Open Schooling ( http://www.nios.ac.in/  )

2. University Grants Commission (http://www.ugc.ac.in/ )

National Scholarships Portal

1. Vision

2. Mission

3. Objectives

4. Benefits

5. Services offered to various stakeholders

6. Online Application procedure for scholarships

7. Procedure to register school/college/institution

8. Related resources

National Scholarships Portal is one-stop solution through which various services starting from student application, application receipt, processing, sanction and disbursal of various scholarships to Students are enabled. National Scholarships Portal is taken as Mission Mode Project under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP). Currently, the NSP has 9 participating ministry/departments and 21 registered schemes.

Vision

The initiative aims at providing a Simplified, Mission-oriented, Accountable, Responsive & Transparent 'SMART' System for faster & effective disposal of Scholarships applications and delivery of funds directly into beneficiaries account without any leakages.

Mission

The Mission Mode Project (MMP) of National Scholarships Portal under the National e-Governance Plan aims at providing common electronic portal for implementing various Scholarships schemes launched by the Union Government, State Government and Union Territories across the country.

Objectives

• Ensure timely disbursement of Scholarships to students

• Provide a common portal for various Scholarships schemes of Central and State Governments

• Create a transparent database of scholars

• Avoid duplication in processing

• Harmonisation of different Scholarships schemes & norms

• Application of Direct Benefit Transfer

Benefits

• Simplified process for the students

• Common application form for all scholarships

• Onetime registration of students

• Based on eligibility criteria, system itself suggests the schemes for which a student is eligible

• Improved Transparency

• Elimination of duplicate applications

• Release of scholarship amount directly to bank accounts of students through DBT

• SMS and E-Mail alerts at every step of scholarship process

• Serve as a Decision Support System (DSS) as up-to date information is available on demand

• Scalable and Configurable platform

Services offered to various stakeholders

Students

• Check your eligibility for scholarships (https://scholarships.gov.in/fresh/schemeEligibiltyPage  ) 

• Student Registration (Fresh and Renewal) (https://scholarships.gov.in/fresh/newstdRegfrmInstruction ) 

• Online Submission of Application

• Application Status Tracking ( https://schp.popularfrontindia.org/scholarship/guest/applicationstatus.html  

• Know your payment status ( https://pfms.nic.in/Users/LoginDetails/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f  

• Register Complaint / View Complaint Status

• Click here to download the NSP Mobile app to get the above listed services

Institutions

• Institute Registration ( https://nsp.gov.in/ ) 

• Course Registration

• Application Verification

• Forward Applications

State Government Departments

• Schemes and Workflow Configuration

• Data Verification

• Application Processing

• Release of Funds

Central Ministries /Departments

• Schemes and Workflow Configuration

• Fund Release

• Expenditure Monitoring

• Common MIS

Online Application procedure for scholarships

Fresh application :

• 1st step - Student have to go register using the “Student Registration page” on the National Scholarships Portal.( https://scholarships.gov.in/fresh/newstdRegfrmInstruction  

• Fill up the application as per the instructions given by the system then click on the save button. Preliminary details such as Student Name, Domicile State, Fresh/renewal, Father/Mothers/Guardian name, Date of Birth, Caste, Community, Aadhaar Number (If available), Email, Phone Number number/Student ID are required for filling the application.

• After saving, student will get a “Temporary ID”. The system will instruct the applicant to submit his/her Temporary ID and date of birth to fill subsequent details.

• Once registration is complete on click of submit button, a Permanent Registration ID is generated which can be used for Renewal and tracking the status of application. Once the student submits the Online application form and the student gets the Permanent Registration ID , he/she will will not be able to edit the details until the Scholarship application Processing is completed.

Renewal:

Renewal Students have to apply with their Bank Account No and Date of Birth which they registered the previous year. Student can also use Forgot Registration ID to retrieve their ID.

To access the complete user manual for registration, click here. (https://nsp.gov.in/public/manual/Operational_Steps_Involved_In_Filling_Institute_Registration_Form.pdf  

To know the scheme-wise and state-wise process flow for processing the submitted application, click here. (https://scholarships.gov.in/fresh/onlineSanctionedList  

Procedure to register school/college/institution

• Before Registering, check if it is already Registered with the Portal by using the “Find School/College”. The institution can be searched by location / institute code.

• If it is not found in the list, contact District / State Nodal Officers for Login Credentials.  To know the details of state nodal officers to the National Scholarships Portal,. (https://scholarships.gov.in/  ) 

Source : National Scholarship Portal (https://scholarships.gov.in/  

Related resources

1. FAQs on services offered by National Scholarship Portal ( https://scholarships.gov.in/public/FAQ/FAQ%20NSP.pdf  

National Academic Depository

1. Features of NAD

2. Stakeholders in NAD

3. Services being offered by the NAD

4. Benefits of NAD

1. For academic institutions

2. For students

3. For verification Users (Employer Companies, Banks etc.)

5. How it works

Indian Higher Education system is a large and growing system with approximately 55 school boards, 359 state universities, 123 deemed universities, 47 central universities and 260 private universities. Apart from these, there are 107 other institutions such as IISc/IITs/IIMs/NITs/IISERs/IIITs/NITIE and 12 other centrally funded institutions. These institutions issue academic awards to students including degrees, diplomas and certificates along with mark sheets and evaluation reports. Apart from these, institutions under various Ministries/Departments and other skill based institutions also dispense certificates, diplomas and advanced diploma.

Those who are entering into employment or pursuing higher studies require a credible, authentic and convenient mechanism for access, retrieval and validation of such academic awards. Retrieval of old academic records maintained in paper form is cumbersome. Academic records maintained in paper form are susceptible to hazards such as spoilage and forgery. Students often face difficulties in obtaining copies of their certificates/mark-sheets whenever they are lost or destroyed. Maintaining academic awards in a digital depository would enable educational institutions, students and employers online access/retrieval/verification of digitised academic awards and shall eliminate fraudulent practices such as forging of certificates and mark-sheets.

National Academic Depository (NAD) is a 24X7 online store house of all academic awards viz.certificates, diplomas, degrees, marksheets etc.duly digitised and lodged by academic institutions / boards / eligibility assessment bodies. NAD not only ensures easy access to and retrieval of an academic award but also validates and guarantees its authenticity and safe storage.

National Academic Depository (NAD) is an initiative of Government of India facilitated by Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD).

To access the NAD platform, ( http://nad.gov.in/index.html 

Features of NAD

NAD will:

• Operate in fully online mode

• Allow lodging of Academic awards in a digital format, maintaining the integrity of access to the database and of the awards lodged in the database.

• Allow students to retrieve their lodged academic awards at any time.

• Allow employers and other person with prior approval of the concerned student to verify the authenticity of any academic award.

• Maintain the authenticity, integrity and confidentiality of the database.

Stakeholders in NAD

1. Students and other academic award holders

2. Academic Institutions/Boards/Eligibility assessment bodies

3. Verifying Entities i.e. banks, employer companies (domestic & overseas), Government entities, academic institutions/boards/eligibility assessment bodies (domestic and overseas) etc.

4. Ministry of Human Resource Development/ University Grants Commission

5. Depositories i.e. NSDL Database Management Limited (NDML) and CDSL Ventures Limited (CVL)

Services being offered by the NAD

The NAD shall:

• Register Academic Institutions/Boards/Eligibility Assessment bodies

• Register students based on Aadhaar / Unique NAD ID;

• Register verification users;

• Allow Academic Institutions/Boards/Eligibility Assessment bodies to upload the academic awards issued by them.

• Allow Academic Institutions/Boards/Eligibility Assessment bodies to map/link the academic award to the NAD Accounts of Students concerned.

• Allow students to view the academic awards linked to their respective account.

• Allow students to download/print an authenticated copy of the academic award.

• Allow verifying entities to verify the authenticity of the academic award (subject to prior student consent)

Benefits of NAD

For academic institutions

• Permanent and safe record of keeping all academic awards issued;

• No need for issuing duplicate academic awards, students can get it from NAD;

• Effective deterrence to fake and forged paper certificates;

• All academic awards verification needs can be addressed by NAD;

• Efficient, effective and transparent administration.

For students

• Immediate availability of academic awards upon upload by Academic Institution

• Online, permanent record of academic awards

• No risk of losing, spoiling, damaging the academic awards

• Anytime, anywhere and convenient access to academic awards

For verification Users (Employer Companies, Banks etc.)

• Online, quick and reliable verification of academic awards (with prior consent of the student concerned)

• Access to authenticated copy of academic awards

• No risk of fake and forged Certificates.

• Reduction in cost, time and efforts for verification

How it works

NAD comprises of two inter-operable digital depositories namely NSDL Database Management Limited (NDML) and CDSL Ventures Limited (CVL). These digital depositories have ensured hardware, network facilities and software of prescribed quality for smooth and secured operationalisation of NAD.

Roles & Responsibilities of Students

Students shall:

• Register on either of the depositories by providing Aadhar details.

• To register for the CVL repository, click here. (https://cvl.nad.co.in/NAD/home.action ) 

• To register for the NDML repository, click here. ( https://nad.ndml.in/) 

• Avails Unique NAD ID in case of non availability of Aadhar Submits Aadhaar / Unique NAD ID to AI for verification and seeding into award data

• Views & accesses all awards online at any time in single account

• Student can

• View / download digitally signed awards

• Request printed copy of the certificate

• Approve / reject request of any verifier for access to his / her certificate

• Send copy of certificate to any verifier

Source : NAD platform ( http://nad.gov.in/index.html  )

Study in India portal

1. Education ecosystem in India

2. Indian Education System

3. Services offered - Study in India portal

Education is emerging to be one of the top focuses of all the developing nations around the world. Study in India, a unique initiative of the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India will help facilitate the student fraternity from all across the globe to come and experience the best of academic learning from the top institutions in India which would help accommodate the growing quality educational needs of students across the world.

Education ecosystem in India

Built on centuries of values, the Indian Education system is the world’s third largest higher education system, having a rich mix of premier Government and private institutes with a network of 38000 colleges and 800 universities. Higher Institutions in India offers degrees that are competitive in the world market in terms of quality but are delivered at 1/4th the cost hence guaranteeing value for money. India offers quality education and research, and students will earn internationally renowned degree. Students will have a range of courses to choose from such as latest advancements of science and technology like Virtual and Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Computing to traditional subjects, such as Ayurveda, Sanskrit, Hindi and Urdu.

Indian Education System

Details of Indian Education Systems consisting of Technical, BE, PhD, UG, Short-term Courses etc.

1. Undergraduate/ Bachelor's Level Education: The undergraduate course i.e. the Bachelor's degree is obtained after three years of study in the case of arts (B.A), science (B.Sc) and commerce (B.Com). UG courses in professional subjects, for the Bachelor's degree, like Engineering (B.E, B.Tech), Medicine (M.B.B.S), Dentistry (M.D) and Pharmacy (B.Pharma) range from 4 to 5 and a half years.

2. Post-Graduate/Master's Level Education: Post-graduate courses in Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering and Medicine are 2 year courses for the award of a Master's degrees. Master's program can be pursued only after completion of a bachelor's degree.

3. Doctoral Studies/ Ph.D Level Education: M.Phil. Program is of one and-half year to two years in duration. PhD program is for a minimum of 3 years and can take several years. These courses involve research work under a chosen/allotted guide, leading to thesis submission and viva-voce. Successful completion of PhD course designates the title of 'Doctor' to the individual.

4. Certificate and Diploma Programs: In addition to the degree programs, a number of diploma and certificate programs are also available in universities. Their range is wide and they cover anything from poetics to computers. Some of them are undergraduate diploma programs and other postgraduate programs. The duration varies from course to course and program to program usually ranges between one year and three years.

Services offered - Study in India portal

The Study in India portal - http://www.studyinindia.gov.in/home is a one-stop shop for foreign students seeking to study in India. It provides all the information one needs on Indian education institutions in India, how to plan their studies, how to stay in India, what kind of events are planned, application process among others.

The portal enables students from 30 countries across South Asia, Africa, Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Middle East to select and apply for different courses from 160 select Indian institutions with a 3.26 score on National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) which is an organisation that assesses and accredits higher education Institutions in India and the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). To access the list of Participating Institutions and Courses http://www.studyinindia.gov.in/InstituteSearch 

The website also has a helpline number - 0091 120 2512001 - 06 to address queries from students.

Study in India is helmed by EdCIL (Educational Consultants of India), a Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSE) under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India. It is a joint initiative of Ministry of HRD, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Source : Study in India portal ( http://www.studyinindia.gov.in)

CBSE Academic Repository

1. Utility of the repository

2. How to use

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched Parinam Manjusha - a Digital repository of academic records of CBSE affiliated students.

Utility of the repository

Students : Students can get digital mark sheet, pass certificate and migration certificate of CBSE examinations through DigiLocker. Parinam Manjusha has also been integrated with e-sanad software of Ministry of External Affairs to provide hassle free access of attested certificates and marksheets of students of CBSE affiliated schools to universities and prospective employers.

Employers and educational institutions : can use this repository to verify academic records of CBSE students online after due registration.

CBSE and its regional offices : can store, access and update academic records of students in a central repository.

How to use

Students

The digital certificates of CBSE examinations conducted in or after 2017 are available in DigiLocker. Students can login in to DigiLocker application to get the certificates. To register for a DigiLocker account,  click here .

To access the Old Certificates (2016 and older), Students can download the digital certificates of CBSE by visiting https://cbse.digitallocker.gov.in/public/search/certificates/searchmarksheet . A fee of Rs 100 is to be paid.

Employer or an educational institution

An employer or an educational institution who wish to verify students' academic records online, need to first register. To register, ( https://cbse.digitallocker.gov.in/public/register/orgreg/signup  

Source : CBSE Parinam Manjusha portal ( https://cbse.digitallocker.gov.in/ ) 

e-Transportation

1. National e-transport services

2. State-wise e-transport services

In 2006, Government of National started e-Governance Plan (NeGP), in an attempt to make all Government services accessible to the common man with the click of the mouse. Under the NeGP, e-Transport services which includes air, train and road transport has come into operation.

National e-transport services

Online motor vehicle coordination system - Vahan Samanvay Available services: Vehicle recovery status of stolen vehicle Verify status of 2nd hand vehicle you intend to buy (whether it is a stolen one or not)	For more details visit : http://164.100.44.112/vahansamanvay/Internetquery.aspx
Book your train ticket online Available services: Online train ticket booking PNR status check Trains between two stations Train fare and accommodation SMS services, etc. I-ticket services	For more details visit : www.indianrail.gov.in www.irctc.co.in www.erail.in
Online status check of running trains Available services: Available services: Current status of train Cancelled/diverted train status Train arrival/departure Train timetable	For more details visit: www.trainenquiry.com
Tour to the National Museum Available services: Online booking of tour to National Museum of natural history Information on museum collection Exhibit areas	For more details visit: www.nmnh.nic.in
Book your Air India ticket Available services: Arrival/departure Online ticket booking Flight schedule Fare & PNR status

Concierge Services

1. FAQs on Concierge Service

2. How to book Concierge/Cab ?

3. How to cancel Concierge/Cab booking?

FAQs on Concierge Service

What is Concierge Service?

Concierge Service would facilitate Rail passengers at major Railway Stations in hiring taxi, porter and coaches.

Where is Concierge Service available?

Click here to check List of Stations currently available for Concierge Service.

What are the rules for Cancellation of Concierge Service?

Cancellation rules of Concierge Service will be applicable as mentioned in Electronic Reservation Slip or can be checked in terms & conditions at the time of booking.

Who can book/avail Concierge Service.?

Any bonafide Railway passenger with confirmed train ticket in selected trains, list of these trains will be available at the time of booking.

Are debit/credit cards accepted for booking of Concierge Service?

All visa/master/maestro debit/credit cards are accepted for booking of Concierge Service.

How is service tax be charged?

The service tax will be charged @12.36% on each service.

What are the other facilities available with Concierge services?

Wheelchairs and stretcher services etc are available at actual Railway rate depending on availability from Railways.

How to book Concierge/Cab ?

Please visit www.irctctourism.com 

Rail Drishti

1. Salient features of Rail Drishti

2. How to access

3. Scope of information provided

Ministry of Railways has launched the Rail Drishti Dashboard to promote transparency and accountability.

Salient features of Rail Drishti

1. It brings information from various sources on a single platform and gives access to key statistics and parameters to every citizen of the country.

2. This dashboard can be accessed using a desktop/laptop or a mobile device such as a phone or tablet. The application is mobile optimized for ease of use of public.

3. Information on Rail Drishti has been categorised into 15 user friendly sections.

How to access

Rail Drishti can be accessed at raildrishti.cris.org.in ( https://raildrishti.cris.org.in/raildrishti/dashboard.jsp) 

Scope of information provided

The available information has been categorized under 15 user friendly sections on the Dashboard.

1. At a Glance - Gives information on 4 main parameters of Indian Railways. This includes Passenger Reservation, Unreserved Ticketing, Freight Earnings and Freight Loading. The parameters of each element for different periods are displayed. Information on any station on Indian Railways can be viewed in this tab.

2. Services - Passengers can view and avail the status of any digital service offered. Rail Drishti consists of 6 services, namely, PNR enquiry, ODC application enquiry, Complaint Enquiry, Tender Enquiry, Shramik Enquiry and Freight related enquiries. For citizen’s convenience links to eight important railway websites are available here.

3. Trains on Run -  Passengers can now track any train on the Indian Railways Network. Passengers will also be able to get information about the train as well as the contact number of the housekeeping staff. Filters are available to view specific trains.

4. IRCTC Kitchens - The Dashboard provides a facility to view live feeds from the cameras installed in various IRCTC base kitchens. Passengers can now view how the food being served to them in trains is being cooked and packed.

5. Grievances - This section shows status of Grievances reported via Complaint Management System (COMS). It displays the number of grievances resolved and pending. Zone wise and Division wise breakup as well as complaint type wise breakup can be viewed via the Dashboard.

6. Achievements - Achievements of Indian Railways as a whole and achievements of Railways in various states can be viewed via the dashboard.

7. Station images - The tab monitors the progress of some of the major initiatives launched to improve passenger experience on the Indian Railways network. It displays the images of various areas across the network before and after the work has been completed.

8. Heritage - The tab showcases the cultural aspect of travel on Indian Railways. There are 4 main sections in this tab, this includes, rail heritage, memorable journeys, 360 degree virtual tours of routes, trains, saloons, and the IRCTC tourism desk which provides important information and tourist services.

9. Shramik Kalyan - This section provides information about the unorganized sector working with Railway contractors. The amount of wages distributed to the casual workers is available on the dashboard. The same can be seen department wise and zone wise for various time periods. This is an attempt to ensure that the laborers in the unorganized sector are paid their dues.

10. Bills - Bills required to be paid by Indian Railways to suppliers and their duration wise pendency can be viewed on the dashboard.

11. Freight earnings - This section shows earnings of Freight across the Indian Railways Network. Earnings can be viewed for a day, for a week, for a month and for a year along with the zones and commodity wise breakup. Performance of nine major freight commodities has been made available.

12. Freight loading / unloading - Number of rakes and quantity of freight loaded and unloaded in a day, a week, a month and a year along with their zones and commodity wise breakup is provided. Performance of nine major freight commodities has been made available.

13. Passenger earnings - This section shows earnings of Passenger Reservations and Unreserved Ticketing. Number of passengers, tickets, and earnings can be viewed. Further, in Unreserved Ticketing the performance of suburban, non-suburban, and mobile bookings can be viewed.

14. Expenditure - Details of the expenditure and works by the Indian Railways can be viewed. Figures of four different periods are displayed - performance during the day, during the last 7 days, during the month and for the year.

15. Sugam - The Freight App This tab give access to Indian Railways freight business information. It helps customers keep track of their consignment. It provides information on various terminals and associated nodal officers, indents status, prevailing freight rates, rake allocation plans, restrictions applicable etc. Freight performance and other statististics are also available on the tab.

Source : Ministry of Railways

Digi Yatra Policy

1. Objectives

2. Target airports and users

3. Digi Yatra Journey Concept

4. Digi Yatra enrolment process

5. Processes at airport

6. Digi yatra Roadmap

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has released the Policy on biometric based digital processing of passengers at Airports called "Digi Yatra". DigiYatra envisages a connected ecosystem enhancing the seamless travel experience for the passengers and simultaneously improving the security.

Objectives

Every passenger, (Indian citizens and foreigners) b ecome a “Digi Yatri” and enjoys the privileges and benefits of the “Digi Yatra” Program. The main objectives are as follows:

1. Enhance passenger experience and provide a simple and easy experience to all air travelers.

• Deliver a seamless, paperless and hassle-free experience to all passengers across all processors/ Check-points at all Indian airports. (Including Tier-1, 2 and 3 airports)

• Improve passenger experience, so that they can plan their trips efficiently.

• Receive relevant information pertaining to various facilities, protocols, airline timings, queue waiting times at the airport.

2. Achieve better throughput through existing infrastructure using “Digital Framework”.

• Walk-through security scanners swiftly owing to advanced biometric security solutions.

• Stay connected through the airport, possibly through airport Wi-Fi, engage in customized digital offerings at experience zones.

3. Result in lower cost operations.

• Remove redundancies at Checkpoints.

• Enhance resource utilization.

4. Digitize current manual processes and to bring better efficiencies

• Get real time notifications about congestion & delays to have greater visibility on the next step of the journey.

• Navigate seamlessly through the airport using digital guidance systems, interactive kiosks and augmented reality apps.

• Stay connected during flights and indulge in immersive experiences. Also book in-flight services and destination based offerings digitally.

5. Enhance security standards and improve current system performance.

• Enhance security at Indian airports using “Digi Yatra ID” based Identification with real-time Biometrics.

• Validate Boarding pass or e-ticket with the airline system in real-time.

• Use face biometrics for processing Passengers at Checkpoints in the airport and also extend to Passengers without AADHAAR or Digi Yatra ID using biometric validation

• Phased rollout by all airports.

6. Rollout of “Digi Yatra” system with a digital “ID” backed by a strong verifiable government issued identity like AADHAAR, passport & others, enabling a seamless travel experience for Passengers at all airports across India.

Target airports and users

• The new process shall cater to all Passengers at any airport in India, be it Indian citizens (With or without Digi Yatra ID) or foreign nationals

• The process shall simplify & ease the Passenger process equally for different Passenger types

• First time and frequent flyers in India

• Group travelers and families

• Foreign citizens or tourists

Digi Yatra enrolment process

1. DigiYatra will have a centralised registration system for passengers. Passenger can create Digi Yatra ID in a central system by providing details such as Name, Email ID,  Mobile Number and Details of Identity (Voter Id, Driving License, Aadhar etc).

2. On submission Digi Yatra Id will be created. Pax can quote this number while booking the ticket. Pax data including Digi Yatra ID will be passed on to the departure airport by the airlines.

3. On the first travel, the Pax has to go to registration kiosk at the airport for validating the ID. In case of Aadhar the verification will be online. In case of other ID CISF will manually verify.

4. On successful verification the photo of pax will be added to Digi Yatra profile in central system.

Processes at airport

1. At the entry point E-Gate the pax will scan his boarding pass or e-ticket (Print or a soft copy in mobile).

2. On scanning the barcode/ QR code the system will validate the passenger details and flight details.

3. Digi Yatra ID will verify the identity by Face Recognition.

4. On successful verification of Ticket and Digi Yatra ID, e-Gate will open. Also, Face with ticket PNR is made in to a single token for the rest of the journey at the airport.

5. Passenger will gain entry to security area and aircraft Boarding through e-Gate operated on Facial Recognition System

Digi yatra Roadmap

DigiYatra Central Platform will be operational by the end of February, 2019. Bangalore & Hyderabad International Airports will be ready with pilot implementation by end of February, 2019. Airport Authority of India (AAI) intends to roll out the programme initially at Kolkata, Varanasi, Pune & Vijayawada by April, 2019.

To read the complete Digi Yatra document, click here. ( http://www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/Digi%20Yatra%20Policy%2009%20Aug%2018.pdf  

Source : Ministry of Civil Aviation ( http://www.civilaviation.gov.in/ 

National Common Mobility Card

1. What is NCMC

2. Need for NCMC

3. Key Features of NCMC

4. NCMC standards

5. Benefits of NCMC

National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) - One Nation, One Card for transport mobility is an initiative of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to enable seamless travel by different metros and other transport systems across the country besides retail shopping and purchases.

The Indigenous Automatic Fare Collection System based on One Nation One Card Model is the first of its kind in India.

What is NCMC

These are bank issued cards on Debit/Credit/Prepaid card product platform. The customer may use this single card for payments across all segments including metro, bus, suburban railways, toll, parking, smart city and retail. The stored value card supports offline transaction across all travel needs with minimal financial risk to involved stakeholders. The service area feature of this card supports operator specific applications e.g. monthly passes, season tickets etc.

Need for NCMC

Public Transport is extensively used across India as the economical and convenient mode of commuting for all classes of society. Cash continues to be the most preferred mode of fare payments across the public transport. However, there are multiple challenges associated with the cash payment e.g. cash handling, revenue leakages, cash reconciliation etc. Various initiatives have been taken by transit operators to automate & digitize the fare collection using Automatic Fare Collection System (AFC). The introduction of closed loop cards issued by these operators helped to digitize the fare collection to a significant extent. However, the restricted usability of these payment instruments limits the digital adoption by customers.

AFC System (gates, readers/validators, backend infrastructure etc.) is the core of any transit operator to automate the fare collection process. The major challenge associated with AFC system implementation in India till now is the lack of indigenous solution provider. Till now, AFC systems deployed at various Metros are from foreign players. In order to avoid the vendor lock-in and create an interoperable system, there was a need to develop indigenous standards and AFC system under Make in India initiative.

In order to ensure a seamless travel across metros and other transport systems in addition to retail shopping and purchases, the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) came out with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) Program.

Key Features of NCMC

Key Functionalities/Particulars	NCMC Proposition
Payment Model	Card based payment model
Transaction Type	Supports online (contact & contactless) & off-line (contactless) transactions
Stored Value	Provision to store balance on card for offline payments
Provision for multiple service areas	Multiple service areas (optional to use with mutual concurrence) to support acquirer/operator specific programs e.g. Passes / Season Tickets / Smart City Specific application / Loyalty points etc.
Card usage	Same card to be used at ATMs, Merchant establishments & online (e-commerce) payments in addition to other areas of contactless payments viz., transit, toll, parking & other small value merchant payments
Card issuance	Can be issued by any member authorized by RBI On the platform of Debit/Prepaid/Credit Cards
Topping up the stored value	Provision of Topping up the stored value through any mode of payment viz., Online using card, Internet Banking, IVR, ATM, Cash at customer service point, auto top-up etc.at the option of the issuing entity
Offline Transaction Risk	Since the offline transaction is permitted against stored value on card, there is minimal risk of any loss to the bank or merchants
Security	Underlying technology i.e. EMV is best available globally.
Cost of providing contactless card to the customer	RBI has mandated that effective Feb 01, 2016, all cards issued by banks in India would be EMV. Therefore, cost of providing contactless card to the customer will be only marginal as against steep increase in territories where mag-stripe ecosystem exists.
Synergy with existing technology	NCMC specifications can co-exist with the existing technology being used by acquirer/operator and migration to common standards may be achieved gradually to suit the convenience.

Source : NPCI Concept Note on NCMC Implementation

NCMC standards

A committee was formed with representatives from National Informatics Centre (NIC), Centre for Development of Advance Computing (C-DAC), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Ministry of Finance with an objective to develop the vendor agnostic interoperable ecosystem for NCMC including indigenous AFC System and banking interface.

NPCI was given the mandate to develop the specifications for card & terminal to support the NCMC ecosystem. Based on the best global practices and dynamics of Indian market, the committee recommended EMV based Open Loop Card with stored value as NCMC.

CDAC was entrusted the task of finalization of NCMC specification for AFC system including the interface with Bank server. CDAC worked in collaboration with NPCI to complete this activity. Thereafter, BEL was roped in for making Gates & Reader.

The Gate & Reader prototype has been made by BEL. This is the first gate and the reader which has been manufactured by an Indian company. This is also the first indigenous payment reader which has been certified as per International standards. India joins the very few elite nations who have indigenous capacity on gate and reader production.

To access the complete standards, click here.http://mohua.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/CommitteeReportofNCMC03.pdf ) 

Benefits of NCMC

NCMC Ecosystem offers the value proposition for customers as they do not need to carry multiple cards for different usage. Further, the super quick contactless transactions will improve the seamless experience. For operators, NCMC ecosystem brings common standards for implementation without vendor lock-in.

This will also help in higher digital payments penetration, savings on closed loop card lifecycle management cost and reduced operating cost. The rich data insights may be used by operators for business intelligence leading to efficient operation.

With NCMC Ecosystem, Banks will get an access to segments which are highly driven by cash but stickiness in nature. NCMC Ecosystem will further help government in digitization of low value payments and reduced cost for the entire ecosystem.

Source : Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ( http://mohua.gov.in/ )

PART III : Government to Business (G2B)

Digital India services those that facilitate any of the range of relationships and interactions between government and businesses.  Government-to-Business (G2B) initiatives receive a significant amount of attention, in part because of the high enthusiasm of the business sector and the potential for reducing costs through improved procurement practices and increased competition.14 The G2B sector includes both the sale of surplus government goods to the public, as well as the procurement of goods and services. Although not all are directly dependent on the use of information technology, several different procurement methods are used in relation to the G2B sector.

1. eBiz 

2. Goods and Services Tax : information related to the online services available with respect to GST.

3. DEEP portal is about (Discovery of Efficient Electricity Price) e-Bidding & e-Reverse Auction portal for procurement of short term power by DISCOMs.

4. Udyog Aadhaar:  is  a National Portal for Registration of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises

5. e-Filing tax return  covers the information about e-filing tax returns.

6. Online application of ISBN for publications  -about online application of ISBN for publications.

7. Shram Suvidha Portal  

8. Online Filing of Access and Benefit Sharing Applications  

9. Broadcast Seva Portal  

10. Web Platform for Sale and Purchase of Construction Material and Service  

11. Government e-marketplace  

12. India Handmade Bazaar  

13. E-Classification, Approval and Occupancy of Hotels  

14. Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically  (SPICe).

15. Reserve Unique Name service  

16. MSME SAMADHAAN  

17. MSME credit  

The focus of eBiz is to improve the business environment in the country by enabling fast and efficient access to Government-to-Business (G2B) services through an online portal. This will help in reducing unnecessary delays in various regulatory processes required to start and run businesses. 

eBiz is being implemented by Infosys Technologies Limited (Infosys) under the guidance and aegis of Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. The focus of eBiz is to improve the business environment in the country by enabling fast and efficient access to Government-to-Business (G2B) services through an online portal. This will help in reducing unnecessary delays in various regulatory processes required to start and run businesses.

Web Site:  https://www.ebiz.gov.in/home/ 

2. Goods and Services Tax (GST) 

E-Way bill system

1. E-Way Bill under GST

2. Purpose of E-Way Bill

3. Who should generate the e-way bill and why?

4. How is it generated?

5. Modes of e-way bill generation

6. Validity of E-Way Bill

7. Cancellation of E-Way Bill

8. Exceptions to e-way bill requirement

9. Consequences of non-conformance to E-way bill rules

10. FAQs on E-Way bill

A waybill is a receipt or a document issued by a carrier giving details and instructions relating to the shipment of a consignment of goods and the details include name of consignor, consignee, the point of origin of the consignment, its destination, and route.

Electronic Way Bill (E-Way Bill) is basically a compliance mechanism wherein by way of a digital interface the person causing the movement of goods uploads the relevant information prior to the commencement of movement of goods and generates e-way bill on the GST portal.

The e-way Bill System for Inter-State movement of goods across the country has been introduced from 01 April 2018. e-Way Bill is mandatory for Inter-State movement of goods of consignment value exceeding Rs.50,000/- in motorized conveyance.

E-Way Bill under GST

E-way bill is an electronic document generated on the GST portal evidencing movement of goods. It has two Components

1. Part A comprising of details of GSTIN of recipient, place of delivery (PIN Code), invoice or challan number and date, value of goods, HSN code, transport document number (Goods Receipt Number or Railway Receipt Number or Airway Bill Number or Bill of Lading Number) and reasons for transportation; and

2. Part B comprising of transporter details (Vehicle number). As per Rule 138 of the CGST Rules, 2017,every registered person who causes movement of goods (which may not necessarily be on account of supply) of consignment value more than Rs. 50000/- is required to furnish above mentioned information in part A of e-way bill. The part B containing transport details helps in generation of e-way bill.

Purpose of E-Way Bill

E-way bill is a mechanism to ensure that goods being transported comply with the GST Law and is an effective tool to track the movement of goods and check tax evasion.

Who should generate the e-way bill and why?

E-way bill is to be generated by the consignor or consignee himself if the transportation is being done in own/hired conveyance or by railways by air or by Vessel. If the goods are handed over to a transporter for transportation by road, E-way bill is to be generated by the Transporter. Where neither the consignor nor consignee generates the e-way bill and the value of goods is more than Rs.50,000/- it shall be the responsibility of the transporter to generate it.

Further, it has been provided that where goods are sent by a principal located in one State to a job worker located in any other State, the e-way bill shall be generated by the principal irrespective of the value of the consignment.

Also, where handicraft goods are transported from one State to another by a person who has been exempted from the requirement of obtaining registration, the e-way bill shall be generated by the said person irrespective of the value of the consignment.

How is it generated?

An e-way bill contains two parts- Part A to be furnished by the person who is causing movement of goods of consignment value exceeding Rs.50,000/- and part B (transport details) to be furnished by the person who is transporting the goods.

Where the goods are transported by a registered person - whether as consignor or recipient, the said person shall have to generate the e-way bill by furnishing information in part B on the GST Common Portal for eWay bill system.

Where the e-way bill is not generated by registered person and the goods are handed over to the transporter for transportation by road, the registered person shall furnish the information relating to the transporter in Part B of FORM GST EWB-01 on the GST Common Portal for eWay bill system and the e-way bill shall be generated by the transporter on the said portal on the basis of the information furnished by the registered person in Part A of FORM GST EWB-01.

A registered person may obtain an Invoice Reference Number from the common portal by uploading, on the said portal, a tax invoice issued by him in FORM GST INV-1 and produce the same for verification by the proper officer in lieu of the tax invoice and such number shall be valid for a period of thirty days from the date of uploading.

In the above case, the registered person will not have to upload the information in Part A of FORM GST EWB-01 for generation of e-way bill and the same shall be auto-populated by the common portal on the basis of the information furnished in FORM GST INV-1 .

Upon generation of the e-way bill on the common portal, a unique e-way bill number (EBN) generated by the common portal, shall be made available to the supplier, the recipient and the transporter on the common portal.

The details of e-way bill generated shall be made available to the recipient, if registered, on the common portal, who shall communicate his acceptance or rejection of the consignment covered by the e-way bill. In case, the recipient does not communicate his acceptance or rejection within seventy- two hours of the details being made available to him on the common portal, it shall be deemed that he has accepted the said details.

Modes of e-way bill generation

The e-way bill can be generated by the registered person in any of the following methods;-

• Using Web based system - please see the user manual for using web based system for e-way bill generation.

• Using SMS based facility - The taxpayer has to register the mobile numbers through which he intends to generate the e-way bill on the e-way bill system. For further details, please see the user manual for SMS based e-way bill generation.

• Using Android App - The mobile app is available only for the taxpayers and enrolled transporters. It is not available in Play Store. The main user has to login and select the ‘for mobile app’ under registration menu. The system asks to select the user/sub-user and enter the IMEI number of the user. Once it is entered, the concerned user gets the link in his registered mobile to download the app through SMS. Now, the user has to download the app by clicking that link and enable it to get installed on the mobile.

• Bulk generation facility - Through this facility, user can upload multiple invoices and generate multiple e-Way bill at one go. This facility can be used by the taxpayers or transporters who have automated their invoice generation system. In one go, they can prepare bulk requests for e-way bills in a file from their automated system, and upload it on the common portal and generate e-way bill in one go. This avoids duplicate data entry into e-way bill system and avoids data entry mistakes also. Any taxpayer or transporter can use the bulk generation facility.

• Using Site-to-Site integration - The integration between e-way bill system and registered persons’ system can be done through APIs. For availing this facility, the registered person should register the server details of his/her systems (through which he wants to generate the e-way bill using the APIs of e-way bill system) with e-way bill system. For further details, please go through the user manual.

• Using GSP ( Goods and Services Tax Suvidha Provider)

Validity of E-Way Bill

The validity of e-way bill depends on the distance to be travelled by the goods. For a distance of less than 100 Km the e-way bill will be valid for a day from the relevant date. For every 100 Km thereafter, the validity will be additional one day from the relevant date. The “relevant date” shall mean the date on which the e-way bill has been generated and the period of validity shall be counted from the time at which the e-way bill has been generated and each day shall be counted as twenty-four hours. In general, the validity of the e-way bill cannot be extended. However, Commissioner may extend the validity period only by way of issue of notification for certain categories of goods which shall be specified later.

Further, if under circumstances of an exceptional nature, the goods cannot be transported within the validity period of the e-way bill, the transporter may generate another e-way bill after updating the details in Part B of FORM GST EWB-01.

Cancellation of E-Way Bill

Where an e-way bill has been generated under this rule, but goods are either not transported or are not transported as per the details furnished in the e-way bill, the e-way bill may be cancelled electronically on the common portal, either directly or through a Facilitation Centre notified by the Commissioner, within 24 hours of generation of the e-way bill. However, an e-way bill cannot be cancelled if it has been verified in transit in accordance with the provisions of rule 138B of the CGST Rules, 2017 .

Exceptions to e-way bill requirement

No e-way bill is required to be generated in the following cases.

• Transport of goods as specified in Annexure to Rule 138 of the CGST Rules, 2017

• goods being transported by a non-motorised conveyance;

• goods being transported from the port, airport, air cargo complex and land customs station to an inland container depot or a container freight station for clearance by Customs;

• in respect of movement of goods within such areas as are notified under rule 138(14) (d) of the SGST Rules, 2017 of the concerned State; and

• Consignment value less than Rs. 50,000/-

Consequences of non-conformance to E-way bill rules

If e-way bills, wherever required, are not issued in accordance with the provisions contained in Rule 138 of the CGST Rules, 2017, the same will be considered as contravention of rules. As per Section 122 of the CGST Act, 2017, a taxable person who transports any taxable goods without the cover of specified documents (e-way bill is one of the specified documents) shall be liable to a penalty of Rs.10,000/- or tax sought to be evaded (wherever applicable) whichever is greater. As per Section 129 of CGST Act, 2017, where any person transports any goods or stores any goods while they are in transit in contravention of the provisions of this Act or the rules made there under, all such goods and conveyance used as a means of transport for carrying the said goods and documents relating to such goods and conveyance shall be liable to detention or seizure.

FAQs on E-Way bill

1. What is an e-way bill?
   e-way bill is a document required to be carried by a person in charge of the conveyance carrying any consignment of goods of value exceeding fifty thousand rupees as mandated by the Government in terms of Section 68 of the Goods and Services Tax Act read with Rule 138 of the rules framed thereunder. It is generated from the GST Common Portal for eWay Waybill ( https://ewaybillgst.gov.in/) system by the registered persons or transporters who cause movement of goods of consignment before commencement of such movement.

2. Why is the e-way bill required?
   Section 68 of the Act mandates that the Government may require the person in charge of a conveyance carrying any consignment of goods of value exceeding such amount as may be specified to carry with him such documents and such devices as may be prescribed. Rule 138 of CGST Rules, 2017 prescribes e-way bill as the document to be carried for the consignment of goods in certain prescribed cases. Hence e-way bill generated from the common portal is required.

3. Whether e-way bill is required for all the goods that are being transported?
   The e-way bill is required to transport all the goods except exempted under the notifications or rules. Movement of handicraft goods or goods for job-work purposes under specified circumstances also requires e-way bill even if the value of consignment is less than fifty thousand rupees. Kindly refer to the e-way bill rules for other exemptions.

4. Who all can generate the e-way bill?
   The consignor or consignee, as a registered person or a transporter of the goods can generate the e-way bill. The unregistered transporter can enroll on the common portal and generate the e-way bill for movement of goods for his clients. Any person can also enroll and generate the e-way bill for movement of goods for his/her own use.

5. What are pre-requisites to generate the e-way bill?
   The pre-requisite for generation of eway bill is that the person who generates eway bill should be a registered person on GST portal and he should register in the e-way bill portal. If the transporter is not registered person under GST it is mandatory for him to get enrolled on e-waybill portal (https://ewaybillgst.gov.in) before generation of the e-way bill. The documents such as tax invoice or bill of sale or delivery challan and Transporter’s Id, who is transporting the goods with transporter document number or the vehicle number in which the goods are transported, must be available with the person who is generating the e-way bill.

Source: http://www.cbic.gov.in/

GST Suvidha Provider  

Background

1. Who Can Become a GSP?

2. Existing GSPs

3. Utility model of GSPs

4. Do Taxpayers mandatorily need services of GSP or ASP under GST?

Background

The Goods and Services Tax constitutional amendment having been promulgated by the Govt of India, the rollout of the GST Bill will be a collective effort of the Central and State Governments, the tax payers and the IT platform provider i.e. Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN), Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) and State Tax Departments. Besides these main participants there are going to be other stakeholders.

The GST System can be accessed by taxpayers through a Government to Business (G2B) portal. However, there will be a wide variety of tax payers (SME, Large Enterprise, Small retail vendor etc.) who will require different kind of facilities like converting their purchase/sales register data in GST compliant format, integration of their Accounting Packages/ERP with GST System. GST Suvidha Provider (GSP) is hence an ecosystem of Service Providers created by the GSTN to provide innovative solutions (Portal, Mobile App, Enriched API) either themselves or through its third party partners for making tax filing easier and convenient to taxpayers.

Who Can Become a GSP?

The organisations and entities who are expected to sign up as GSPs are visualised to be as under:

• Registered companies in India in the IT / ITES / BFSI domain.

• The prospective applicant for GSP will need to meet a pre-qualification criteria for GSPs.

• GSPs who meet the pre-qualification criteria will sign a contract with GSTN to become an authorised GSP.

• This draft contract has the following content:

1. Definitions, responsibilities of GSPs and their legal obligations as well as liabilities.

2. Technical architectural framework as to how GSPs shall integrate with GST System.

3. Commercial terms and conditions along with SLAs to be met.

On signing of the contract, GSPs will get a unique license key for accessing the GST system. GSPs will be authenticated using this license key (Client id + Client Secret) provided by GSTN. GSP will have a provision to generate multiple License keys as per its need.

Existing GSPs

GSTN has on-boarded GSPs on the basis a selection process that involved evaluating their financial ability and IT capability to deliver the necessary services to tax payers for becoming GST compliant in the new GST regime. Businesses may avail of the services of the GSP as per their need.To access the list of existing GSPs, Utility model of GSPs

The GSPs are free to charge the taxpayers depending on the services they offer to the taxpayers. Agreements between tax payers and GSPs shall be decided by them exclusively. GSTN will not have any lien on them.

Do Taxpayers mandatorily need services of GSP or ASP under GST?

For the convenience of taxpayers, GSTN has come-up with an Offline Tool where data on invoices (business to business), exports, supplies to consumers etc., which are required to create GSTR-1 (Outward Supply Return), can be entered in an excel sheet in offline mode (without being connected to Internet). At desired interval, the tool can be run to upload all such data on the portal. Only while uploading the data on GST portal, Internet connectivity will be required. The Offline tool will be provided free of cost and taxpayers will be able to download it from the GST portal from last week of June. GSTN will release the format of Excel in which businesses will start maintaining the data from 1st of July for using the free offline tool for uploading the invoice data and other return data.

Taxpayers using offline tool will not require services of any GSP. Similarly those having small number of business to business invoices, like retailers and small traders, can do the data entry on portal itself and they will also not require the services of GSPs.

Source : GSP portal https://www.gstn.org/ecosystem/index.php  

GST Common portal

1. Enrollment in GST common portal

2. Enrolment Activities Post Appointed Date

3. Related resources

The GST Common Portal has been made available to enable taxpayers enrol with GST and to meet the GST compliance requirement like filing return and making tax payments.

Enrollment in GST common portal

Enrolment under GST means validating the data of existing taxpayers and filling up the remaining key fields by the taxpayer in the Enrolment Application at the GST Common Portal.

Is there a fee or charge levied for enrolment under GST?

No. There is no fee or charge levied for the enrolment of a taxpayer under GST.

When do I need to enrol with the GST Common Portal?

The enrolment process is common for all taxpayers registered under Centre, State or Union Territory Tax Acts. The State VAT and Central Excise registered taxpayers enrollment has commenced from October, 2016 on the GST Common Portal. Enrolment is being taken up in a staggered manner. Click here for Enrolment Schedule for your state

Which information and documents are required to enrol with GST?

Before enrolling with the GST Common Portal, you must ensure to have the following information:

• Provisional ID received from State/ Central Authorities

• Password received from the State/ Central Authorities

• Valid E-mail Address

• Valid Mobile Number

• Bank Account Number

• Bank IFSC

Documents

S.No.	Documents	File Size Format	Maximum Allowable Size
1.	Proof of Constitution of Business In case of Partnership firm: Partnership Deed of Partnership Firm (PDF and JPEG format in maximum size of 1 MB) In case of Others: Registration Certificate of the Business Entity	PDF or JPEG	1 MB
2.	Photograph of Promoters/ Partners/ Karta of HUF	JPEG	100 KB
3.	Proof of Appointment of Authorized Signatory	PDF or JPEG	1 MB
4.	Photograph of Authorized Signatory	JPEG	100 KB
5.	Opening page of Bank Passbook/ Statement containing Bank Account Number of < Account Number>, Address of Branch, Address of Account holder and few transaction details	PDF and JPEG	1 MB

For FAQs on enrollment,  go to  ( https://www.gst.gov.in/help/helpmodules/) 

Enrolment Activities Post Appointed Date

• How can I check the status of my Registration Application on the GST Common Portal?

To check the registration status, users can visit the https://services.gst.gov.in/services/check-registration-status 

• Can the Enrolment Application of a taxpayer get rejected?

Yes, the Enrolment Application for enrolment under GST can be rejected in case incorrect details have been furnished or uploaded fake or incorrect documents have been attached with the Enrolment Application and the application is electronically signed. However, the applicant taxpayer will be provided reasonable opportunity of being heard where applicant taxpayer can present his or her viewpoints.

• Can amendments be made after the enrolment application is submitted?

Yes, the Enrolment Application can be amended after the appointed date.

Can the mobile number and e-mail address given at the time of enrolment be changed after enrolment?

Yes, the mobile number and e-mail address can be changed after the appointed date on following the amendment process.

• When will Provisional Registration Certificate be issued?

The Provisional Registration Certificate will be available for viewing and download at the Dashboard of the GST Common Portal on the appointed date. The certificate will be available only if the Registration Application was submitted successfully.

• When will Final Registration Certificate be issued?

The final Registration Certificate will be issued within 6 months of verification of documents by authorized Center/ State officials of the concerned Jurisdiction (s) after the appointed date.

Source : GST portal (https://www.gst.gov.in/ 

GST Facilitation desks

1. GST Helpdesk - Central Board of Excise and Customs

2. GST Facilitation Cell - Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion

3. Web page on GST - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)

4. GST - State portals

GST Helpdesk - Central Board of Excise and Customs

1. GSTN HELPDESK - Toll free Helpline:1800-1200-232; Email: cbecmitra.helpdesk@icegate.gov.in

2. GSTN HELPDESK - Helpline: 0124-4688999; Email: helpdesk@gst.gov.in 

GST Facilitation Cell - Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion

A GST facilitation cell has been set up in the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion to answer queries regarding GST.

They can be contacted over phone: 011-23062379, 23062665; gstcell-dipp@gov.in #mociseva. The cell will function on all working days between 9.00 A.M.to 5.30 P.M.

Web page on GST - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)

In order to ensure preparedness for GST implementation from 1st of July 2017, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology has launched a dedicated Webpage for facilitating taxpayers with regard to addressing issues related to Information Technology Services & Electronics goods. To access the Webpage, click here.

Individuals, Companies and Entrepreneurs in IT & Electronics sector can visit the webpage for sector-specific information. The web page also enables filing of grievances in relation to implementation of GST.

DEEP portal

1. Utility of the portal

2. Benefits of the portal

3. Related resources

DEEP (Discovery of Efficient Electricity Price) is a e-Bidding and e-Reverse auction portal for procurement of short term power by DISCOMs. The web portal seeks to ensure seamless flow of power from seller to buyer. The portal is an initiative of the Ministry of Power with the objective to introduce uniformity and transparency in power procurement by the DISCOMs and at the same time promote competition in electricity sector.

Utility of the portal

The portal is meant for the short term procurement of the power. Short term procurement could be for a period of more than one day up to one year. Currently out of total generation of around 91671.33MUs, above 10% (9215.24MUs) is transacted through short term through bilateral and through power exchanges etc. The Guidelines for short term procurement of power was also notified on 30.03.2016 by Ministry of Power, Government of India, making it mandatory for all the Procurer(s) to procure short term power by using this e-Bidding portal. Power Procurement from Power Exchange has been excluded from the scope of these guidelines.

Bidders have the option to bid multiple bids from separate logins either from same or different sources. Bidders also can quote their best prices and need not match or bid lower price against the prevailing lowest Bidder.

All the bidders would be able to participate in the e-Bidding events on making payment of the requisite fee of Rs 500 per MW for the maximum capacity, a bidder is willing to bid, to PFC Consulting Limited (PFCCL). After the completion of the bidding process, only successful Bidders(s) will have to pay these charges for the quantum allocated to each bidder. The balance amount will be refunded by PFCCL within seven (7) working days without any interest. The fee deposited by non Selected Bidder(s) will also be refunded by PFCCL within seven (7) working days of completion of the event without any interest.

The scope of this portal shall be further expanded soon to cover medium term and long term procurement of power. All states are also expected to put their power purchase data on the portal shortly.

Benefits of the portal

• The e-Reverse auction process for competitive procurement is expected to result in overall reduction of cost of procurement of power thereby significantly benefiting the ultimate consumers.

• This will also provide a common e-bidding platform with e-Reverse Auction facility, provide nation-wide power procurement to a wider network including the stakeholders in power sector, to bring uniformity in the process of power procurement.

• The portal builds confidence through transparency and efficiency in the procurement of power.

Source :  www.mstcecommerce.com 

Related resources

1. Guidelines for short term procurement of power ( https://www.mstcecommerce.com/auctionhome/RenderFileGeneralAuctions.jsp?file=PPA-Revised-Guidelines-Short-Term.pdf ) 

2. Notice regarding payment of fees dtd 27-04-2016 ( https://www.mstcecommerce.com/auctionhome/RenderFileGeneralAuctions.jsp?file=PPA-Notice-Fees-27-04-16.pdf )

Udyog Aadhaar

1. Background

2. Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM)

3. Guidelines for Filling the Online Udyog Aadhaar Form

4. Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum - Online Verification

5. Related Resources

Background

Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector has emerged as a highly vibrant and dynamic sector of the Indian economy over the last five decades. MSMEs not only play a crucial role in providing large employment opportunities at comparatively lower capital cost than large industries but also help in industrialization of rural & backward areas, thereby, reducing regional imbalances, assuring more equitable distribution of national income and wealth.

The primary responsibility of promotion and development of MSMEs is of the State Governments. However, the Government of India supplements efforts of the State Governments through various initiatives. The role of the M/o MSME and its organizations is to assist the States in their efforts to encourage entrepreneurship, employment and livelihood opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs in the changed economic scenario.

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act was notified in 2006 to address policy issues affecting MSMEs as well as the coverage and investment ceiling of the sector. As per MSME Act of 2006, all enterprises are expected to register with District Industries Centre (DIC) of their area and file Entrepreneurs Memorandum (EM) 1 for intention to start business if manufacturing or service and file EM 2 after starting production.

A large chunk of enterprises in India are simply not registered due to the cumbersome paperwork involved in the process and, therefore, can't tap the government schemes for them. The Ministry for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises had in September 2015 notified Udyog Aadhaar  to ensure ease of registration and wider coverage of MSMEs to avail the benefits under various Schemes of Central/ State governments. Hence, at present, filing of EM-I has been abolished. Udyog Aadhaar (UA) has been introduced for running units. No need to apply for upcoming units. Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM) can be filled online on the portal created by Ministry of MSME i.e. http://udyogaadhaar.gov.in.

Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM)

UAM is a one-page registration form which constitutes a self-declaration format under which the MSME will self-certify its existence, bank account details, promoter/owner’s Aadhaar details and other minimum information required. There shall be no fee for filing the Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum. On submission of the form, Udyog Aadhaar Acknowledgement shall be generated and mailed to the email address provided in the Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum which shall contain unique 

 

Udyog Aadhaar Number  (UAN).

Existing enterprises, which have filed Entrepreneurship Memorandum-I or Entrepreneurship Memorandum-II or both, or the holders of Small Scale Industry registration, prior to the coming into force of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006 (27 of 2006) shall not be required to file Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum, but if they so desire, they may also file the Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum. There is no restriction on filing more than one Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum using the same Aadhaar Number.

The Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum is filed on self-declaration basis, and no supporting document is required to be uploaded or submitted while filing the Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum, but the Central Government or the State Government or such person as may be authorized in this behalf may seek documentary proof of information provided in the Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum, wherever necessary.

Guidelines for Filling the Online Udyog Aadhaar Form

1. Aadhaar Number - 12 digit Aadhaar number issued to the applicant should be filled in the appropriate fields.

2. Name of Owner- The applicant should fill his/her name strictly as mentioned on the Aadhaar Card issued by UIDAI. E.g. if Raj Pal Singh has his name as Raj P. Singh, the same should accordingly be entered if the name does not match with the Aadhar Number, the applicant will not be able to fill the form further.

3. To Validate Aadhar:-

1. Validate Aadhar- The applicant must click on Validate Aadhaar button for verification of Aadhaar, after that only user can fill the form further.

2. Reset- The applicant can click on reset button to clear the field of Aadhaar No and Name of the owner for different Aadhaar.

4. Social Category- The Applicant may select the Social Category (General, Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe or Other Backward Castes (OBC). The proof of belonging to SC, ST or OBC may be asked by appropriate authority, if and when required.

5. Name of Enterprise- The Applicant must fill the name by which his/her Enterprise is known to the customers/public and is a legal entity to conduct business. One applicant can have more than one enterprises doing business and each one can be registered for a separate Udyog Aadhaar and with the same Aadhaar Number as Enterprise 1 and Enterprise 2 etc.

6. Type of Organization- The Applicant may select from the given list the appropriate type of the organisation for his/her enterprise. The Applicant must ensure that he/she is authorised by the legal entity (i.e. enterprise being registered for Udyog Aadhaar) to fill this online form. Only one Udyog Aadhaar number shall be issued for each enterprise.

7. Postal Address- The Applicant should fill in the appropriate field the complete postal address of the Enterprise including State, District, Pin code, Mobile No and Email.

8. Date of Commencement- The date in the past on which the business entity commenced its operations may be filled in the appropriate field.

9. Previous Registration Details(if any)- If the Applicant's enterprise, for which the Udyog Aadhaar is being applied, is already issued a valid EM-I/II by the concerned GM (DIC) as per the MSMED Act 2006 or the SSI registration prevailing prior to the said Act, such number may be mentioned in the appropriate place.

10. Bank Details- The Applicant must provide his/her bank account number used for running the Enterprise in the appropriate place. The Applicant must also provide the IFS Code of the bank's branch where his/her mentioned account exists. The IFS code is now a days printed on the Cheque Books issued by the bank. Alternatively, if the Applicant knows the name of the Bank and the branch where his/her account is there, the IFSC code can be found from the website of the respective Bank.

11. Major Activity- The major activity i.e. either "Manufacturing" or "Service" may be chosen by the enterprise for Udyog Aadhaar. If your enterprise involves in both type of activities and if major work involves in Manufacturing and small portion of activity involves in Service sector then select your major activity type as "Manufacturing" and if major work involves in Services and small portion of activity involves in Manufacturing then select your major activity type as "Services"

12. National Industry Classification Code (NIC Code)- The Applicant may choose multiple National Industrial Classification-2008 (NIC) Codes to includes all their activities. Which means user can select multiple NIC code of Manufacturing and Service sector by clicking "Add More" button.If you want to add Manufacturing then select "Manufacturing" radiobutton and keep on adding by clicking "Add More" button otherwise if you want to add Service then select "Services" radiobutton and keep on adding by clicking "Add More" button. The NIC codes are prepared by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Program implementation, Government of India.

13. Person employed- The total number of people who are directly been paid salary/ wages by the enterprise may be mentioned in the appropriate field.

14. investment in Plant & Machinery / Equipment- While computing the total investment , the original investment ( purchase value of items) is to be taken into account, excluding tho cost of pollution control, research and development, industrial safety devices, and such other items as may be specified, by notification of RBI. If an enterprise started with a set of plant and machinery purchased in 2008 worth Rs. 70.00 lakh has procured additional plant and machinery in the year 2013 worth Rs. 65.00 lakh, then the total investment in Plant & Machinery may be treated as Rs. 135.00 lakh.

15. DIC- The Applicant, based on the location of the Enterprise, has to fill in location of DIC. This Column will be active and show option only when there are more than one DIC in the district. In fact if there is only one DIC in the district system will automatically register you in the same DIC.

16. Submit- The Applicant must click on Submit button to generate acknowledgment number.

Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum - Online Verification

Instructions for Verify Online UAM :

• Visit http://udyogaadhaar.gov.in/UA/UA_VerifyUAM.aspx

• Enter 12 digit UAM No. (i.e. DL05A0000001)

• Enter Valid Verification Code as given in Captcha Image. Verification Code is not case sensitive.

• Click on Verify Button

Source: MSME (https://udyogaadhaar.gov.in/UA/UAM_Registration.aspx ) 

Related Resources

1. Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (http://udyogaadhaar.gov.in/Web/doc/English.pdf )

2. Filled Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum template (http://udyogaadhaar.gov.in/Web/doc/udyogaadhaar.gov.in_UA_PrintApplication.pdf )

3. Udyog Aadhaar Acknowledgement template (http://udyogaadhaar.gov.in/Web/doc/udyogaadhaar.gov.in_UA_PrintAcknowledgement.pdf )

4. Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum - Notification ( http://udyogaadhaar.gov.in/Web/doc/GazetteNotification2576.pdf ) 

e-Filing tax return

1. Types of e-Filing

2. Pre-requisites for registration in e-Filing application

3. How to e-File

4. Modes of e-Verification

5. To upload Income Tax Form by Tax Professional

6. Need Assistance

The process of electronically filing Income tax Returns/Forms through the internet is known as e-Filing.

e-Filing of Returns/Forms is mandatory for

1. In the case of an Individual/HUF

• Where accounts are required to be audited under section 44AB;

• Where the above is not applicable and

• The return is furnished in ITR - 3 or in ITR - 4; or

• The individual/HUF being a resident (other than not ordinarily resident) has Assets, including financial interest in any entity located outside India, or signing authority in any account located outside India, or income from any source outside India;

• Any relief in respect of tax paid outside India under section 90 or 90A or deduction under section 91 is claimed.

• Where the assessee is required to furnish an Audit Report specified under sections 10(23C) (iv), 10(23C) (v), 10(23C) (vi), 10(23C) (via), 10A, 10AA, 12A(1) (b), 44AB, 44DA, 50B, 80 - IA, 80 - IB, 80 - IC, 80 - ID, 80JJAA, 80LA, 92E, 115JB, 115VW or give a notice under section 11(2)(a) shall e-File the same. These Audit Reports are to be e-Filed and any person required to obtain these Audit Reports are required to e - File the return.

• Total income exceeds five lakh rupees or any refund is claimed (other than Super Senior Citizen furnishing ITR1 or ITR2)

• In cases where accounts are required to be audited under section 44AB, the return is required to be e-Filed under digital signature (DSC).

• In cases where accounts are not required to be audited under section 44AB, the return is required to be e - Filed using any one of the three manners namely i) Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or ii) Electronic Verification Code (EVC), or iii) Verification of the return in Form ITR - V.

2. In all cases of company the return is required to be e-Filed under digital signature (DSC)

3. In the case of a person required to file ITR - 7:

• For a political party the return is required to be e - Filed under digital signature (DSC)

• In any other case of ITR 7, the return is required to be e-Filed using any one of the three manners namely i) DSC or ii) EVC or iii) ITR V D.

4. In case of Firm or Limited Liability Partnership or any person (other than a person mentioned in 1, 2 & 3 above) who are required to file return in Form ITR - 5

• Where accounts are required to be audited under section 44AB, the return is required to be e - Filed under digital signature (DSC)

• In any other case the return is required to be e - Filed using any one of the three manners namely i) DSC or ii) EVC or iii) ITR V.

5. A company and an assessee being an individual or HUF who is liable to audit u/s 44AB are required to furnish Form BB (Return of Net Wealth) electronically using DSC.

6. Information to be furnished for payments, chargeable to tax, to a non - resident not being a company, or to a foreign company in Form 15CA.

7. Appeal to the Commissioner (Appeals) in Form 35.

Types of e-Filing

There are three ways to file Income Tax Returns electronically:

1. Option 1 - Use Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to e-File. There is no further action needed, if filed with a DSC.

2. Option 2 - e-File without Digital Signature Certificate. In this case an ITR-V Form is generated. The Form should be printed, signed and submitted to CPC, Bangalore using Ordinary Post or Speed Post (without Acknowledgement) ONLY within 120 days from the date of e-Filing. There is no further action needed, if ITR-V Form is submitted.

3. Option 3 - e-File the Income Tax Return through an e-Return Intermediary (ERI) with or without Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

Note: The Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) used in e-Filing the Income Tax Return/Forms should be registered on e-Filing application.

Pre-requisites for registration in e-Filing application

1. A user must register at https://incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in

2. Prerequisites to register are
   
   

• PAN (Permanent Account Number)

• TAN (Tax Deduction Account Number)

• Membership with ICAI - For Chartered Accountant

3. Registration process
   
   

• Provide PAN / TAN, Password details, Personal details as per PAN, Contact details and Digital signature (if available and applicable)

• Submit request

• On success, Activation link is sent to user through e-mail and a mobile PIN to mobile number. Click on the activation link and provide Mobile PIN to activate e-Filing account.

• Once registered, LOGIN using User ID (PAN/TAN), Password, Date of Birth/ Incorporation and Captcha code.

How to e-File

An Income Tax return can be e-Filed by:

1. Uploading Income Tax Return- A taxpayer can e-File Income Tax Return from ITR 1 to ITR 7.

2. Submit ITR-1/ITR4S Online- An Individual taxpayer can e-File Income Tax Return – ITR 1/ ITR4S Online.

To upload Income Tax Return:

1. GO TO 'Downloads' section and select applicable Income Tax Return Form of the relevant Assessment Year .

2. Download the utility of the Income Tax Return (ITR).

3. Fill the utility and Validate.

4. Generate an XML file and save in desired path/destination in your desktop/system.

5. LOGIN to e-Filing application and GO TO --> e-File --> Upload Return.

6. Select the Income Tax Return Form and the Assessment Year.

7. Browse and Select the XML file.

8. Upload Digital Signature Certificate, if available and applicable.

9. Click 'SUBMIT'.

10. On successful upload, Acknowledgement details would be displayed. Click on the link to view or generate a printout of Acknowledgement/ITR-V Form.

Note:

1. To e-File using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), the DSC should be registered in the application.

2. If the Income Tax Return is uploaded with DSC (digitally signed), on generation of "Acknowledgement“, the Return Filing process is complete.

3. If the return is not uploaded with a DSC (digitally signed), on successful upload of e-Return, an ITR-V Form will be generated. This is an Acknowledgement cum Verification form. A duly verified ITR-V form should be signed and submitted to CPC. The Return filing process shall be complete only on receipt of the ITR-V at CPC, Bangalore.

To submit ITR-1/ITR4S Online

1. Login to e-Filing application

2. GO TO 'e-File' --> 'Prepare and Submit ITR Online'

3. Select the Income Tax Return Form ITR 1/ITR4S and the Assessment Year.

4. Fill in the details and click the SUBMIT button

5. On successful submission, Acknowledgement detail is displayed. Click on the link to view or generate a printout of Acknowledgement/ITR-V Form.

Note:

1. To e-File using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), the DSC should be registered in the application.

2. If the Income Tax Return is uploaded with DSC (digitally signed), on generation of "Acknowledgement“, the Return Filing process is complete.

3. If the return is not uploaded with a DSC (digitally signed), on successful uploading of e-Return, an ITR-V Form will be generated. This is an Acknowledgement cum Verification form. A duly verified ITR-V form should be signed and submitted to CPC. The Return filing process shall be complete only on receipt of the ITR-V at CPC, Bangalore.

Modes of e-Verification

The below are the options provided to electronically verify the returns.

1. Option 1: e-Verification using e-Filing OTP (only available if Total Income is less than or equal to Rupees 5 Lakhs and Refund or Tax payable upto 100 Rupees.

2. Option 2: e-Verification using NetBanking login

3. Option 3: e-Verification using Aadhaar OTP validation.

4. Option 4: e-Verification using Bank ATM (SBI, AXIS bank, Canara bank, ICICI bank and IDBI)

5. Option 5: e-Verification using Bank Account Number (Punjab National Bank, United Bank of India and ICICI bank)

6. Option 6: e-Verification using Demat Account

Note: No Further actions required by the taxpayer post e-Verifying the Return.

To upload Income Tax Form by Tax Professional

1. GO TO 'Downloads' section and select applicable Income Tax Form of the relevant Assessment Year OR Login to e-Filing application and GO TO 'Downloads'-->'Download Forms' and select applicable Income Tax Form of the relevant Assessment Year.

2. Download the excel utility of the Income Tax Form.

3. Fill the excel utility and Validate.

4. Generate an XML file and save in desired path/destination in your desktop/system.

5. LOGIN to e-Filing application and GO TO --> e-File --> Upload Form.

6. Select the Income Tax Form and the Assessment Year.

7. Browse and Select the XML file

8. Upload Digital Signature Certificate.

9. Click 'SUBMIT'.

10. On successful upload, the Income Tax Form is sent to Assessee's workflow for acceptance.

11. The Assessee should LOGIN to e-Filing application, GO TO Worklist and accept/reject the Income Tax Form.

12. On Approval, the Form is successfully submitted with e-Filing application. No further action is required.

13. If Rejected, the Tax Professional can prepare and e-File the Income Tax Form again by following the above mentioned steps.

Note:

1. You can upload the Forms after you have registered in e-Filing.

2. Assessee can "Add CA", using My Account menu, after login.

3. To e-File using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), the DSC should be registered in the application. (To register DSC, you should LOGIN and GO TO --> Profile Settings --> Register Digital Signature Certificate)

4. The Form will be further processed and the Assessee will be intimated accordingly. Please check your emails on these intimations.

Need Assistance

For queries related to Income tax / PAN / TAN / general call : 1800 180 1961

For queries related to Refund call: 1800 425 2229 / 1800 103 4455

For queries related to e-Filing of Returns call : 1800 4250 0025

Source - Income tax Department, Ministry of Finance, Government of India

Online application of ISBN for publications

1. About ISBN

2. Scope and Assignment of ISBN

3. Process for registration and allotment of ISBN

1. Salient features of the ISBN online portal

2. Benefits of ISBN Online portal

3. Process for Online application for ISBN

About ISBN

ISBN or International Standard Book Number is a unique identifier number. It is displayed in barcode format on publications ex. books on their back jacket (lower right). An ISBN is a product that is used by publishers, booksellers and libraries for ordering, listing and stock control purposes. It enables them to identify a particular publisher and allows the publisher to identify a specific edition of a specific title in a specific format within their output.

ISBN is in the form of 13 digits, consisting of 5 elements separated by spaces and hyphens ex. ISBN No. 978-81-8038-835-4 indicates following information:

• Ist element- Denotes a specified prefix element (978).

• IInd element- Identifies the particular country or geographical area (81).

• IIIrd element- Identifies the particular publisher (8038).

• IVth element- Identifies the particular edition, format of a specific title (835).

• Vth element- Check digit (4).

What ISBN does not indicate

• It does not give any legal protection.

• No copyright protection.

• No statement on content form and documentation and distribution of the book.

What ISBN indicates

• It is a product number required to assist in internal processing and ordering while book selling.

• It provides access to bibliographic data bases used by the book industry and libraries to provide information.

• ISBN can be applied by publisher of the book, author of the book if he decides to publish the book himself.

Benefits of ISBN

• Unique international identifier for monographic publications.

• Assigning ISBN replaces handling of long bibliographic descriptive records-saving time, reducing staff costs & coping errors.

• Correct use different product forms to be clearly differentiated, enabling comparisons between different subject areas, publishing houses.

• Facilitates compilation and updating of book trade directories and bibliographic databases.

• Fast and efficient method of ordering and distribution of books, managing sale system in shops, supply chain systems, managing sales data, stock control.

• Ensures that the book is widely known.

Scope and Assignment of ISBN

ISBNs are assigned to Publishers in the country where the Publisher's main office is based /publishing activity takes place. This is irrespective of the language of the publication or the intended market for the book. Any Publisher who is publishing a qualifying product for general sale or distribution to the market, any author whose name is indicated on the cover page of book along with title, Institutions against the Seminars and Conferences on a specified title.

ISBN is allotted by International ISBN Agency based in UK. In India, ISBN is allotted through the National ISBN Agency. Raja Ram Mohan Roy National Agency for ISBN is responsible for ISBN registration in the country and is affiliated to UK based International Agency. It is under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Deptt. of Higher Education, Book Promotion and Copyright Division.

ISBN is assigned for the following products:

• Monographic works (books) that are textual and/or have an instructional content

• Publications not intended by the publisher to be updated regularly

• Individual articles

• Educational instructions, films, videos including audio books not purely for entertainment

• Electronic publications, Mixed media text based publications

• Print on demand publications

• Set of volumes or packs of books

Products which do not qualify for ISBN

• Serials/periodicals/journals (these are suitable for ISSN)

• Journals, record books

• Videos, DVDs or other media for entertainment

• Documentaries on video/CD-ROM, DVD or other media

• Computer games

• Computer application packages

• Music scores

• Items available to a restricted group, e.g. a course book only available to students on the course

• Websites

• Non text-based publications

ISBNs are available in blocks for publishers and the smallest block is of 10 numbers. For an author, a single ISBN number is allotted against a single title. An ISBN is assigned to each edition and variation (except reprintings) of a book. For example, an e-book, a paperback and a hardcover edition of the same book would each have a different ISBN. Applicant(author) can apply for more than one variation in the same application. The ISBN no to be allotted is the prerogative of the Raja Rammohun National Agency, which takes in account the publishing activity already done and proposed to be done in the future by the applicant.

Process for registration and allotment of ISBN

The authors, publishers and educational institutions are to send filled in relevant forms with the required documents and the ISBN numbers are allotted free of cost. Over a period of time with the growth of the publishing industry and awareness about ISBN, the request for ISBN has increased exponentially. Efforts have been made from time to time to streamline the operations of the agency which caters to the requirement of the applicants of the entire country. The online ISBN portal has hence been designed to further streamline the process. All the offline ISBN Application received beyond 30th April 2016 will not be processed. The standard service time to get a ISBN is at least a month.

Salient features of the ISBN online portal

• Complete automation of the process of seeking application, their application by RRRNA examination and allotment of ISBNs.

• The developed software has several modules – users registration, online application submission, examination, allotment of ISBN No. and ISBN generation which includes ISBN generation request from the National Agency to the International Agency at UK.

• The automation process also seeks to maintain inventory as well as process the data that will be provided by the users.

• There will be doing away with receipt of hard copy of any document unless considered appropriate for establishing the identity of the applicant.

• It would also be ensured that the ISBN has been genuinely used and assigned to the books applied for by the user, which will be ensured by seeking details of the previously assigned ISBNs against a title and through oath and affirmation and declaration on their part.

Benefits of ISBN Online portal

• Online portal will streamline registration process, make it fast, efficient and transparent.

• Streamline operation of data accumulation, ease in examination, followed by fast delivery of services.

• Quick and easy search of bibliographic data.

• The books published and allotted ISBN Numbers by RRRNA will get globally identified in worldwide catalog of published books.

• The initiative will place India on the global map with other countries providing digital services.

• Will ensures smooth processing in the publishing industry and help authors, editors, printers, booksellers and distributors etc.

• Ease of access of ISBN services across the country through digital approach.

Process for Online application for ISBN

• To apply for ISBN Numbers the Applicant has to first register on the ISBN portal

• After submission of the registration form, the system will send the mail on the registered mail ID containing the Password for online system and the User Name will be your Email ID

• Applicant can login with the login credentials received through mail.

• Apply for ISBN Numbers by clicking on APPLY FOR NEW APPLICATION. Note :  In case you have earlier applied for ISBN Numbers through the online system then you can apply for fresh ISBN Numbers only after consumption of 90% of allotted ISBN Numbers.

• Fill in the form with all requisite details and upload required documents in specified format - JPEG /Pdf formats and maximum size allowed is 100 kb. Save and Submit the application.

• After issue of ISBN Numbers by the department the system will send an update on your registered email ID and the status of the Application will be changed accordingly. In case In case any clarification is required by the Agency, the system will indicate the same in the APPLICATION STATUS Column and the same can be viewed and answered by clicking on View Details Link .

• The application once approved and the ISBN series allotted will show an application status ALLOTTED (PLEASE FILL BOOK DETAIL.

• The book details can be either bulk uploaded or as single entry

• After registration they can further apply of ISBN Numbers as and when required.

For complete step by step process, click here

Source : ISBN portal  ( http://isbn.gov.in/index.aspx?langid=1 ) 

Online Filing of Access and Benefit Sharing Applications

1. Need for the platform

2. Services offered

3. Activities which need prior approval under the Biological Diversity Act 2002

4. Who is required to get approval?

5. Process

6. Related resources

Need for the platform

National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), established in 2003 to implement the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, is an autonomous and statutory body to perform regulatory and advisory functions for Government of India on issues of conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use of its components and realization of fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of use of biological resources.

As part of its mandatory functions, NBA regulates access to India’s biological resources and associated knowledge by Indians and non‐Indians as well, for various kinds of activities, such as access for research, commercial utilization and obtaining of IPRs for inventions based on any research or information on a biological resource obtained from India.

Biological Diversity Rules, 2004 lays down various Forms, fees, time lines and procedures to facilitate the applicants in obtaining prior approval of the NBA for various activities under the BD Act. The online platform facilitates the online filing of such applications. With the process being made online, transparency, ease of submission of applications and timely clearance of applications will be possible.

Services offered

Through the online platform, users can submit an application for access to biological resources and associated knowledge for various activities, attach the required documents and also make payment of fee at a time. Users can also know the application that needs to be submitted for obtaining various approvals.

Activities which need prior approval under the Biological Diversity Act 2002

Accessing biological resources and/ or associated knowledge for:-

1. Research

2. Bio-survey and Bio-utilization

3. Commercial Utilization

4. Transfer of research results

5. Applying for Intellectual Property Rights

6. Third party transfer of accessed biological resources and/ or associated knowledge.

'Biological resources' means plants, animals and micro-organisms or parts thereof, their genetic material and by products (excluding value added products) with actual or potential use or value, but does not include human genetic material

'Research' means study or systematic investigation of any biological resource or technological application, that uses biological systems, living organisms or derivatives thereof to make or modify products or processes for any use.

'Bio survey and bio utilization' means survey or collection of species, subspecies, genes, components and extracts of biological resource for any purpose and includes characterization, inventorization and bioassay.

'Commercial utilization' means end uses of biological resources for commercial utilization such as drugs, industrial enzymes, food flavours, fragrance, cosmetics, emulsifiers, oleoresins, colours, extracts and genes used for improving crops and livestock through genetic intervention, but does not include conventional breeding or traditional practices in use in any agriculture, horticulture, poultry, dairy farming, animal husbandry or bee keeping.

Who is required to get approval?

Accessing biological resources and/ or associated knowledge for:-

1. Persons who are citizens of India,

2. Body corporate, association or organization registered in India

3. Persons who are not citizens of India

4. Non-resident Indian as defined under clause 30 of Section 2 of the Income-Tax Act, 1961

5. Body corporate, Association or Organization which is not incorporated or registered in India

6. Body corporate, Association or Organisation incorporated or registered in India having non-Indian participation in its share capital or management.

Process

• Users are required to register using the registration form. On submission of the filled-in form, a confirmation mail will be sent to the email ID provided by the user at the time of registration. By clicking the link provided in the email, the user will be directed to the Home page-log in site.  The user can can now log in using his / her User ID and Password.

• Basic documents required to be kept ready before e-filing

• Address/ID proof- self-attested copies of any one of the following documents, each in A & B:
  A – Address Proof

1. Valid passport

2. Overseas resident card / PIO card

3. Any document to prove NRI status

4. Aadhaar card

• B – Identity Proof

1. Driving Licence

2. Government ID card

3. Aadhaar card

4. PAN Card

5. Voter ID

• Other documents required are

1. Letter of authorization, if there are more than one applicant or the applicant authorises someone or attorney to represent on his/her behalf

2. Proof for doing business (for entity) – Document of Incorporation

3. Agreement / MoU / letter of intent with the national/R&D institution for collaboration.

4. Agreement / any negotiated instrument between applicant and provider of biological resources

• Scanned copies of all these shall be self-attested and uploaded, wherever required, while filling up the Form.To know about the type of form to be filled-in, click here.

• After entering necessary details and submitting the form, a unique reference number will be generated by the system and then the user will be led to the payment gateway to facilitate making payment of application fee.

• After successful payment, an acknowledgement will be auto-generated with an application number. If no digital signature is available, a print out of the acknowledgement has to be taken and forwarded to the NBA, duly signed by the applicant.

• On successful submission of the application, the user gets a system generated unique Application Number along with an Acknowledgement.

Source : ABS e-filing portal

Related resources (CHECK)

1. FAQS on ABS e-filing

2. Instructions to applicants

Broadcast Seva Portal

1. Services offered

2. How to access

3. Help desk contact details

The Broadcast Seva (BS) Portal provides a single point facility to the various stakeholders and applicants to make their applications for various permissions, registrations, licences, etc. issued by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) for broadcast related activities. It provides for an efficient and transparent regime for the growth and management of the Broadcast sector.

Services offered

Presently the following four modules have become Live.

• Database of institutions - Community Radio Stations, DTH Operators, HITS Operators, MSOs, News Agencies, Private FM Channels, Satellite TV Channels, Teleports, TRP Agencies etc.

• Payment of Annual Permission Fees for TV Channels / Teleports

• Application and process guidelines for Temporary uplink of Live Events

• Application and process guidelines for setting up of Community Radio Stations

• Application and process guidelines for registration as Multi-System Operators

How to access

1. To access the Broadcast Seva portal, click here.

2. To access the database of institutions, click on the respective links.

• Community Radio Stations ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-crs ) 

• DTH Operators ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-dth )

• HITS Operators ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-hits )

• MSOs (http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-DasMSO-All )

• News Agencies ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-newsAgency )

• Private FM Channels ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-fm ) 

• Satellite TV Channels  (http://broadcastseva.gov.in/#secondLink )

• Teleports ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-teleport )

• TRP Agencies (http://broadcastseva.gov.in/webpage-User-trp )

3. To access all other services, a user has to register. To do the online registration, click here.

Help desk contact details

For any support related information and queries, Contact 18001804343 or write to support-broadcastseva@gov.in 

Source : Broadcast Seva. ( http://broadcastseva.gov.in/ )

Government e-marketplace

GeM Advantages For Buyers

GeM Advantages For Sellers

FAQs on GeM

 

Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is a one stop portal to facilitate online procurement of common use Goods & Services required by various Government Departments / Organizations / PSUs. GeM aims to enhance transparency, efficiency and speed in public procurement. It provides the tools of e-bidding, reverse e-auction and demand aggregation to facilitate the government users achieve the best value for their money.

The purchases through GeM by Government users have been authorized and made mandatory by Ministry of Finance by adding a new Rule No. 149 in the General Financial Rules, 2017.

The platform can be accessed at https://gem.gov.in/.

GeM Advantages For Buyers

Offers rich listing of products for individual categories of Goods/Services

• Makes available search, compare, select and buy facility

• Enables buying Goods and Services online, as and when required.

• Provides transparency and ease of buying

• Ensures continuous vendor rating system

• Up-to-date user-friendly dashboard for buying, monitoring supplies and payments

• Provision of easy return policy

GeM Advantages For Sellers

• Direct access to all Government departments.

• One-stop shop for marketing with minimal efforts

• One-stop shop for bids / reverse auction on products / services

• New Product Suggestion facility available to Sellers

• Dynamic pricing: Price can be changed based on market conditions

• Seller friendly dashboard for selling, and monitoring of supplies and payments

• Consistent and uniform purchase procedures

FAQs on GeM

For Buyers

Who can buy/purchase through GeM?
All Central government and State Government Ministries/Departments including its attached/subordinate offices, Central and State autonomous bodies, Central and State Public Sector Units and local bodies etc. are authorized to make procurement through GeM portal.

Who is authorized to register as Primary User on GeM?
Authorized officers of the rank of Deputy Secretary/Equivalent or Head of the Office at Sub Center / Unit / Branch of Government Organisation / PSU / Autonomous Bodies / Local Bodies / Constitution Bodies / Statuary Bodies can register as Primary User on GeM.

What are the Requirements to utilize the GeM portal?
For Using GeM portal first a Primary User needs to register on GeM portal. Requirements of Registration on GeM are as follows:

• Aadhaar number of the user

• Mobile number which is linked with Aadhaar

• Email ID ending with gov.in/nic.in/gembuyer.in 

• Verifying authority details such as name, mobile number and email ID ending with gov.in/nic.in

• Goods up to what value can be purchased on GeM?
  Please refer Rule 149 of GFR 2017. The GeM portal shall be utilized by the Government buyers for direct on-line purchases as under :
  Up to Rs.25,000/- through any of the available suppliers on the GeM, meeting the requisite quality, specification and delivery period. The procuring authorities will certify the reasonability of rates.

Above Rs.25,001/- and up to Rs.5,00,000/- through the GeM Seller having lowest price amongst the available sellers, of at least three different manufacturers, on GeM, meeting the requisite quality, specification and delivery period. The tools for online bidding and online reverse auction available on GeM can be used by the Buyer if decided by the competent authority. The procuring authorities will certify the reasonability of rates.

Above Rs.5,00,000/- through the supplier having lowest price meeting the requisite quality, specification and delivery period after mandatorily obtaining bids, using online bidding or reverse auction tool provided on GeM. The procuring authorities will certify the reasonability of rates.

How to make a purchase on GeM?

SignUp using the link https://gem.gov.in/register/buyer/signup. On completion of verification, Login as Primary user/HoD in GeM portal and create secondary users (Buyer/Consignee/PAO/DDO) after clicking on Manage users tab available in Dashboard.

Buyer to login to GeM portal. Select and cart the product as per the requirement through application of various filters. Buyers should apply filters carefully to define their requirements without adversely affecting competitiveness. Select the proper buying method as per the GFR-149.

Create demand -- Generate Sanction order -- Generate contract. Once order is placed, Seller to deliver the Goods/ Services to consignee within stipulated delivery date and generate on-line invoice on GeM portal.

Consignee to login after receipt of Items. Generation of Provisional receipt Certificate (PRC) within 48 hrs of receipt of stores. Generation of Consignee Receipt and Acceptance Certificate (CRAC) within 10 days of receipt of stores.

Bill processing by buyer (within 2 days of generation of CRAC by consignee) -- Bill to be forwarded to PFMS by DDO within 1 day of on-line receipt of bill from Buyer against e-signed Consignee’s Receipt and Acceptance Certificate (CRAC) (In case of central government organizations paying through PFMS) -- Payment to be made by PAO from PFMS within 2 days of receipt of bill from DDO (total time limit for payment is 10 days from date of generation of CRAC). Or Buyer to forward all documents for payment to Paying Authority and Payment to be released by Paying Authority / PAO within 10 days of generation of Consignee’s Receipt (In case of users paying through SBI e-pay or Other mode of Payment.)

To read more FAQs, click here. https://gem.gov.in/userFaqs/buyer 

For sellers

• Who can sell on GeM?
  The “Seller(s)” on GeM will be the OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and/or their authorized channel partner(s)/ resellers (having any general authorization / dealership of the OEM to sell their product in open market) and e- Marketplaces.

• How do I sell on GeM?
  To sell on GeM, Register yourself on the GeM portal.

List your products under specific product categories.

Once an order is received, deliver the product to the Consignee duly entering its details on the portal.

Once an order is successfully delivered, Consignee shall inspect / test the product for its conformity with contract specifications and issue acceptance / rejection through on-line CRAC.

After CRAC, buyer will process the bill and forward to paying authority for time bound payments.

To read more FAQs, click here. https://gem.gov.in/userFaqs/seller 

Source : GeM Portal https://gem.gov.in/https://gem.gov.in/ 

India Handmade Bazaar

1. Objectives

2. Key Features

3. Handloom Major Categories covered in the portal

4. Handicraft Major Categories covered in the portal

5. How to use

India Handmade Bazaar is a Ministry of Textiles for portal that exhibits Indian handicrafts and handloom products. The portal can be accessed at http://www.indiahandmadebazaar.com/index.php  

Objectives

1. To provide direct market access facility to genuine handloom weavers and handicraft artisans.

2. To provide updated information about handloom and handicraft producers and their products to retail customers, e-commerce players, wholesalers and exporters.

Key Features

1. Weavers and artisans registered with the Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Development Commissioner for Handicrafts or other participating Government of India Ministries and their agencies shall have access to the portal on the basis of their registered mobile number in respective database. For example: Weavers registered in Handloom Census data base or Artisans registered in 'Pehchan' database.

2. Once registered on the portal, weaver/artisan can any time add, update or modify details of their products, process, photographs etc.

3. Buyer can see the product offering statewise, product category wise or by simply through search on the product name.

4. Buyer can view the products available and can also send a query to the concerned weaver/artisan.

5. Registered weaver/artisan will be able to view the queries and send reply e-mail to buyer.

Handloom Major Categories covered in the portal

• Saree

• Dress Material

• Fabric

• Home furnishing

• Stole/Scarf

• Shawl/chadar

• Bed sheet

• Dhoti

• Other

Handicraft Major Categories covered in the portal

• Metal Craft

• Glass & Ceramics

• Dolls & Toys Other Craft

• Wood Craft

• Natural Fiber Craft

• Hand block printing

• Leather Craft

• Stone Craft

• Painting Embroidery Craft

• Jewellery

• Terracotta (Pottery)

• Musical Instrument

How to use

Buyers

The buyers can browse the portal for interested categories of products. They can also contact the sellers of the items of their choice through the platform.

Sellers

To use the platform, Weavers and artisans need to have their mobile number registered with the Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Development Commissioner for Handicrafts or other participating Government of India Ministries and their agencies.

For getting your mobile number registered, Handloom Weavers may contact nearest Weavers' Service Centre and Handicraft Artisans may contact nearest Marketing Centre. You can also contact the Toll Free Helpline No: 1800 208 9988 to know more.

Source : India Handmade Bazaar portal http://www.handicrafts.nic.in/index.aspx 

E-Classification, Approval and Occupancy of Hotels

1. Use of the platform

2. Process to be followed

3. Related resource

Hotels are an important component of the tourism product. They contribute in the overall tourism experience through the standards of facilities and services offered by them. With the aim of providing contemporary standards of facilities and services available in the hotels, the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) has formulated a voluntary scheme for classification of operational hotels which will be applicable to the following categories:

1. Star Category Hotels: 5 Star Deluxe, 5 Star, 4 Star, 3 Star, 2 Star & 1 Star

2. Heritage Category Hotels: Heritage Grand, Heritage Classic & Heritage Basic

Hotel classification guidelines have been streamlined to make them simple, transparent and time bound. The application for classification and payments of fees have been made through digital platform only and all other options of application have been done away with. This has ensured the eradication of possibility of delay/manipulation caused by human interference.

Use of the platform

E-Classification, Approval and Occupancy of Hotels is an online application that allows Hotelier to get classification and approval of their Hotel.This Web Application permits a hotelier to fill up the Application form online with few general details and apply for Hotel Project Approval or Hotel Classification in the selected category. All classified hotels will also have to submit their monthly occupancy. This website facilitates every user to check their monthly reports and application submission details with just a single click after successful login with the self-created user-id and password.

Process to be followed

There are three easy steps to apply online :

1. Registration

2. Application

3. Occupancy

All the three steps are Mandatory to get complete Recognition from MOT.

To begin the process, visit https://hotelcloud.nic.in/HotelDivision/Default.aspx

To register, visit https://hotelcloud.nic.in/HotelDivision/Hotels/Registration.aspx . After Filling the complete Registration Form, click on SUBMIT button to complete the Registration Process. Your new Registration Number will be generated and shown on your screen. You will also receive the Registration Number on your registered Mobile Number & E-Mail address.

Visit   https://hotelcloud.nic.in/HotelDivision/Default.aspx 

 and Login with your Registered User ID and Password. When you Login, a new window will appear where you can Apply for hotel classification/reclassification for a particular category or more than single category or Upload the  "Approval Letter" ia user is already an Approved hotelier. For complete user manual, click here.

To track your application status, click here.

To verify/ Validate Hotel Approval, click here.

Source : E-Classification, Approval and Occupancy of Hotel portal.

Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically

1. What is SPICe

2. Salient features of SPICe

3. How to access the service

The Ministry had notified a new e-form called Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically (SPICe), on October 2, 2016 with the specific objective of providing speedy incorporation related services within stipulated time frames which are in line with international best practices.

What is SPICe

SPICe is a Simplified electronic form for Company Incorporation with a number of new functionalities, designed to facilitate ease of incorporation. Incorporating a company through Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company electronically (SPICe -INC-32), with eMoA (INC-33), eAOA (INC-34), is the default option and most companies are required to be incorporated through SPICe only. It delivers five services viz. DIN, Name reservation, Incorporation, PAN and TAN by two different Ministries through filing of a single form.

Salient features of SPICe

• Standardised format of e-Memorandum of Association (eMoA) and e-Articles of Association (eAoA) as per Companies Act, 2013 as linked e-forms.

• Provision to apply for Company Incorporation with a pre-approved Company Name.

• Mandatory usage of Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) by Subscribers and Witnesses (max 7+1) in SPICe eMOA and SPICe eAOA instead of ink signed signatures.

• Standardisation and machine tracking of changes made by stakeholders to standardised eMoA and eAoA.

• Whenever any stakeholder encounters any technical issues in using SPICe, a ticket is raised by him/her for resolution of the same. These tickets are resolved by the service provider within specified timelines.

• Dedicated e-mail and helpline facilities have also been created for resolution of any issues faced by stakeholders.

How to access the service

• To access SPICe, go to http://www.mca.gov.in/MinistryV2/incorporation_company.html .

• To access FAQs on SPICe, http://www.mca.gov.in/MinistryV2/spicefaq.html 

Source : Ministry of Corporate Affairs http://www.mca.gov.in/MinistryV2/homepage.html

Reserve Unique Name service

1. What is RUN

2. How to access

3. FAQs on RUN service

What is RUN

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has introduced a web service "RUN” (Reserve Unique Name) for reserving name of proposed company and for changing name of existing company w.e.f. 26th January 2018.

How to access

To access the service, click here. http://www.mca.gov.in/mcafoportal/runService.do 

This is a post-login service and existing users would need to login into their account using their credentials. New users are required to create a login account first before using the service. After login, they may click on the icon RUN (Reserve Unique Name) under the head ‘MCA Services’.

To upload relevant documents, if any, please note that only one file is allowed to be uploaded as an attachment and the size of the file should not exceed 6MB. In case of multiple attachments, please scan all documents into a single file not exceeding 6MB in size, and then upload the same.

Name applications submitted through RUN will be processed by Central Registration Centre (CRC) under Non-STP mode. The name applied for will be subjected to a comprehensive check by the Central Registration (CRC) and thereafter approval or rejection, as the case may be, shall be communicated by e-mail to the applicant.

FAQs on RUN service

1. What are the types of entities for which a name can be reserved using the RUN service?

Entity Type represents the Type/Class/Category of the proposed company in case name is being reserved for incorporating a new company. It has the following options :

• New Company (Others)

• Producer Company

• Unlimited Company

• Private (OPC)

• IFSC Company

• Section 8 Company

• Nidhi Company

2. Points to be considered while selecting name of a proposed company

• Users are requested to ensure that the proposed name selected does not contain any word which is prohibited under Section 4(2) & (3) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 8 of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014. Users are also requested to read and understand Rule 8 of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014 in respect of any proposed name before applying for the same.

• To check if the proposed Name is already existing, use Name Search service available at http://www.mca.gov.in/mcafoportal/showCheckCompanyName.do

• Stakeholders are requested to also check the Trademark search to ensure that the proposed name is not in violation of the provisions of Section 4(2) of the Companies Act, 2013, failing which it is liable to be rejected. For Trade Mark Search visit http://www.ipindia.nic.in/index.htm

3. For how many days is a reserved name valid?

An approved name is valid for a period of

• 20 days from the date of approval (in case name is being reserved for a new company) or

• 60 days from the date of approval (in case of change of name of an existing company)

4. Is it mandatory to attach documents while reserving name?

No. It is mandatory to attach relevant documents and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) only when a name which requires the approval of a Sectoral Regulator or NoC etc. if applicable, as per the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014, is being applied for.

5. What is the Fee payable?

Rs.1000 for each submission.

Source : Ministry of Corporate Affairs ( http://www.mca.gov.in/MinistryV2/homepage.html ) 

MSME SAMADHAAN

1. MSMED Act 2006

2. MSME Samadhaan Portal

The Ministry of Micro,Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) has launched MSME Delayed Payment Portal – MSME Samadhaan for empowering micro and small entrepreneurs across the country to directly register their cases relating to delayed payments by Central Ministries/Departments/CPSEs/State Governments.

MSMED Act 2006

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Act, 2006 contains provisions to deal with cases of delayed payment to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs). As per the provisions, the buyer is liable to pay compound interest with monthly rests to the supplier on the amount at three times the bank rate notified by the Reserve Bank in case he does not make payment to the supplier for the supplies of goods or services within 45 days of the day of acceptance of the goods/service or the deemed day of acceptance.

State Governments are to establish Micro and Small Enterprise Facilitation Council (MSEFC) for settlement of disputes on getting references/filing on Delayed payments. (Section 20 and 21). Any Micro or small enterprise having valid Udyog Aadhar (UAM) can apply. MSEFC of the State after examining the case filed by MSE unit will issue directions to the buyer unit for payment of due amount along with interest as per the provisions under the MSMED Act 2006. Every reference made to MSEFC shall be decided within a period of ninety days from the date of making such a reference as per provisions laid in the Act.

The provisions under the Act are implemented by MSEFC chaired by Director of Industries of the State /UT having administrative control of the MSE units.

MSME Samadhaan Portal

Ministry of MSME has taken an initiative for filing online application by the supplier MSE unit against the buyer of goods/services before the concerned MSEFC of his/her State/UT. These will be viewed by MSEFC Council for their actions. These will be also visible to Concerned Central Ministries, Departments, CPSEs, State Government, etc for proactive actions.

Features

1. File online application by MSME : Entrepreneurs / MSE can file online applications for delayed payments using the portal. A user is to have Udyog Aadhaar Number that is validated with Aadhaar to file application.

2. Check case status : Entrepreneurs / MSE can check the status of the filed online applications for delayed payments using the portal.

3. Dashboard of pending payments : The Portal will give information about the pending payment of MSEs with individual CPSEs / Central Ministries, State Governments, etc. The CEO of PSEs and the Secretary of the Ministries concerned will also be able to monitor the cases of delayed payment under their jurisdiction and issue necessary instructions to resolve the issues.

Source : MSME SAMADHAAN- Delayed Payment Monitoring System ( https://samadhaan.msme.gov.in/MyMsme/MSEFC/MSEFC_Welcome.aspx 

 

 

Web portal for MSME credit

1. About the portal

2. Salient features of the platform

3. How to apply

2. The web portal www.psbloansin59minutes.com  is a transformative initiative in the MSME credit space.

3. The portal will enable in principle approval for MSME loans up to Rs. 1 crore within 59 minutes from SIDBI and 5 Public Sector Banks (PSBs). It is a strategic initiative of SIBDI led PSB consortium incubated under the aegis of Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance.

4. The Portal sets a new benchmark in loan processing and reduces the turnaround time from 20-25 days to 59 minutes. Subsequent to this in principle approval, the loan will be disbursed in 7-8 working days.

About the portal

5. A first in MSME banking credit space, www.psbloansin59minutes.com is one of its kind platform in MSME segment which integrates advanced fintech to ensure seamless loan approval and management. The loans are undertaken without human intervention till sanction and disbursement stage.

6. A User Friendly Platform has been built where MSME borrower is not required to submit any physical document for in-principle approval. The solution uses sophisticated algorithms to read and analyse data points from various sources such as IT returns, GST data, bank statements, MCA21 etc. in less than an hour while capturing the applicants basic details using Smart analytics from available documents. The system simplifies the decision making process for a loan officer as the final output provides a summary of credit, valuation and verification on a user-friendly dashboard in real time.

7. Salient features of the platform

8. The key features of the contactless platform include:

9. Majority stake of SIDBI & big 5 PSBs- SBI, Bank of Baroda, PNB, Vijaya and Indian Bank.

10. A first for MSME borrowers-Connect with multiple banks without visiting the branch.

11. Advanced Digital Platform for MSME Financing with Services Driven Architecture and highest level of Information Security.

12. Only Platform in the market with a Banker Interface which covers the Branch Level integrations (with maker-checker-approver) in tune with current systems of PSBs.

13. Only Platform that enables Bankers to create Loan Products in line with the Scoring models & assessment methods within their approved credit policy.

14. Only Platform that has an integrated GST, ITR, Bank Statement Analyzer, Fraud Check and Bureau Check as well as a host of other features which at present is not available with any other player in the market.

15. Only Platform that has been integrated with CGTMSE for checking the eligibility of Borrowers.

16. MSME borrower gets loan up to Rs.2 crore without any collateral, which is a major relief for MSME borrowers.

17. How to apply

18. To apply, visit www.psbloansin59minutes.com and register.

19. If the loan is being applied for an existing business, the following documents of an existing business is to be kept ready before initiating the application process.

20. GST Identification Number (GSTIN), GST User-ID & Password

21. Income Tax E Filing password & Date of Incorporation/ Birth OR ITR for latest 3 years in XML format

22. Current A/c - Net Banking: Username & Password or Bank Statement for the last 6 months in PDF format

23. Director/Owners details: Basic, Personal, Educational & Ownership Details in the Entity

24. Convenience fee Rs 1000 + GST on In-Principle approval. No Hidden Charges.

Source : PIB ( http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1547245 ) 

PART IV :  DIGITAL INDIA Government to Government (G2G) SERVICES

These are Digital India projects or systems that support information sharing and  collaboration within or between government agencies. G2G e-government involves sharing data and conducting electronic exchanges between governmental actors. This involves both intra- and inter-agency exchanges at the federal level, as well as exchanges between the federal, state, and local levels

G2C initiatives are designed to facilitate citizen interaction with government, which is what some observers perceive to be the primary goal of e-government. These initiatives attempt to make transactions, such as renewing licenses and certifications, paying taxes, and applying for benefits, less time consuming and easier to carry out. G2C initiatives also often strive to enhance access to public information through the use of dissemination tools, such as web sites and/or kiosks. Another feature of many G2C initiatives is the effort to attenuate the agency-centric, and at times, process-laden nature of some government functions. A potential outgrowth of G2C initiatives is that they may facilitate citizen-to-citizen interaction and increase citizen participation in government by creating more opportunities that overcome possible time and geographic barriers, thereby connecting citizens who may not ordinarily come into contact with one another.

DIGITAL INDIA INFRASTRUCTURE 

The existence of a reliable digital infrastructure is a prerequisite for delivering citizen services electronically and online. Realising this, the indian government has been building a national level connectivity infrastructure and networks. Here is the list of infrastructure projects undertaken as building blocks for Digital India  Programme. 

1

AADHAAR

Aadhaar identity platform is one of the key pillars of ‘Digital India’, wherein every resident of the country is provided with a unique identity or Aadhaar number. The largest biometrics based identification system in the world, Aadhaar is a strategic policy tool for social and financial inclusion, public sector delivery reforms, managing fiscal budgets, increase convenience and promote hassle-free people-centric governance. It is unique and robust enough to eliminate duplicate or fake identities and may be used as a basis/primary identifier to roll out several Government welfare schemes and programmes for effective service delivery thereby promoting transparency and good governance.

Website: https://uidai.gov.in 

2

BHARAT BROADBAND NETWORK (BBNL)

Bharat Broadband Network Limited is a special purpose vehicle set up under the Companies Act by Government of India with an authorized capital of Rs. 1000 Cr. It has been mandated to create the National Optical Fiber Network (NOFN) in India. A total of around 2,50,000 Gram Panchayats spread over 6,600 Blocks and 641 Districts are to be covered by laying incremental fiber. 

Website.http://www.bbnl.nic.in/index.aspx 

3. 

CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE FOR INTERNET OF THINGS (COE-IT)

The Centre of Excellence for IoT was announced as a part of  the Digital India Initiative to jump start the IOT ecosystem taking advantage of India's IT strengths and help the country attain a leadership role in the convergent area of hardware and software. The main objective of the center is to create innovative applications and domain capability. Additionally, the center will help build industry capable talent, start-up community and an entrepreneurial ecosystem for IOT.

Website.http://www.coe-iot.in/ 

 

4

CERT-IN

CERT-In was formed with an aim to secure Indian cyber space. CERT-In provides Incident Prevention and Response services as well as Security Quality Management Services. CERT-In has been designated under Section 70B of Information Technology (Amendment) Act 2008 to serve as the national agency to perform the following functions in the area of cyber security:

• Collection, analysis and dissemination of information on cyber incidents

• Forecast and alerts of cyber security incidents

• Emergency measures for handling cyber security incidents

• Coordination of cyber incident response activities

• Issue guidelines, advisories, vulnerability notes and whitepapers relating to information security practices, procedures, prevention, response and reporting of cyber incidents

Website.http://www.cert-in.org.in/

 

5.

CSC 2.0

CSC 2.0 aims to establish a self sustaining network of 2.5 lakh CSC centres at Gram Panchayat (GP) level under Digital India and deliver various citizen centric services. It is envisaged as transaction-based and service delivery-based model, delivering a large bouquet of e-services through a single delivery platform, which would increase the sustainability of the CSCs across the Country. The project proposes to strengthen the CSC network by ensuring standardization of service availability and ensuring capacity building of all stakeholders involved.

Website : https://csc.gov.in/

 

6.

CYBER SWACHHTA KENDRA

Cyber Swachhta Kendra (Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre) is a part of the Government of India's Digital India initiative to create a secure cyberspace by detecting botnet infections in India and to notify, enable cleaning and securing systems of end users so as to prevent further infections. It is set up in accordance with the objectives of the ‘National Cyber Security Policy’, which envisages creating a secure cyber eco-system in the country. This centre operates in close coordination and collaboration with Internet Service Providers and Product/Antivirus companies.

Website.http://www.cyberswachhtakendra.gov.in/

7

DEEN DAYAL UPADHYAYA GRAM JYOTI YOJANA

One of the flagship programmes of the Power Ministry (MoP), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) is designed to provide continuous power supply to the entire rural India. With this scheme, the government had decided to electrify 18,452 unelectrified villages within 1000 days, by May 1, 2018. The DDUGJY can benefit rural households significantly as electricity is extremely vital for growth and development of the country.

Website.http://www.ddugjy.in/

8

DIGILOCKER

DigiLocker is the Indian Government’s flagship program aimed at transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. DigiLocker ties into Digital India’s visions areas of providing citizens a shareable private space on a public cloud and making all documents/certificates available on this cloud. Targeted at the idea of paperless governance, DigiLocker is a platform for issuance and verification of documents & certificates in a digital way, thus eliminating the use of physical documents.

Website. https://digilocker.gov.in

9

DIGISEVAK- VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (VMS)

DigiSevak is an online volunteering platform for interested citizens who want to contribute to the success of Digital India program. Various government departments and agencies can create volunteering tasks and volunteers can choose tasks based on their skills and interest areas. The platform provides means for end-to-end execution of a volunteering task, right from registration of volunteers to creation of tasks, evaluation of tasks and rewards & recognition of contribution by volunteers.

Website.http://digisevak.gov.in/

 

10.

DIGITAL SAKSHARTA ABHIYAAN (DISHA)

The Digital Saksharta Abhiyan or National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) Scheme has been formulated to impart IT training to 52.5 lakh persons, including Anganwadi, ASHA workers and authorised ration dealers in all the States/UTs across the country. The initiative aims at training non-IT literate citizens to become IT literate to enable their active and effective participation in the democratic, developmental process, and enhance their livelihood too.

 

11.

DIGITIZE INDIA

Digitize India Platform (DIP) is an initiative of the Government of India under the Digital India Programme to provide digitization services for scanned document images or physical documents for any organization. The aim is to digitize and make usable all the existing content in different formats and media, languages, digitize and create data extracts for document management, IT applications and records management.

Website.https://digitizeindia.gov.in/

12

DIRECT BENEFIT TRANSFER (DBT)

DBT was initiated with the aim to reform Government delivery system by re-engineering the existing process in welfare schemes for simpler and faster flow of information/funds and to ensure accurate targeting of the beneficiaries, de-duplication and reduction of fraud. DBT will bring efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and accountability in the Government system and infuse confidence of citizens in the governance. Use of modern technology and IT tools will realize the dream of MAXIMUM GOVERNANCE MINIMUM GOVERNMENT.

Website.https://dbtbharat.gov.in/

13.

eBASTA

In line with the Government's Digital India initiative, this project has created a framework to make school books accessible in digital form as e-books to be read and used on tablets and laptops. The main idea is to bring various publishers (free as well as commercial) and schools together on one platform. In addition to the portal, a back-end framework to facilitate the organization and easy management of such resources has been developed, along with the web-based applications that can be installed on tablets for navigating the framework.

 

14

ELECTRONIC DEVELOPMENT FUND (EDF)

As part of the ‘Digital India’ agenda of the Government, and to develop the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector in order to achieve ‘Net Zero Imports’ by 2020 and to look at India as their next destination to cater to the domestic Indian demand as well as act as an exports hub in the ESDM sector. It is with this objective that an Electronic Development Fund (EDF) is set up as a "Fund of Funds" to participate in professionally managed "Daughter Funds" which in turn will provide risk capital to companies developing new technologies in the area of electronics, nano-electronics and Information Technology (IT).

Website.http://www.edfindia-canbankventure.com/

15

eSIGN

eSign is an online electronic signature service which can be integrated with service delivery applications via an open API to facilitate an Aadhaar holder to digitally sign a document. Using authentication of the Aadhaar holder through Aadhaar e-KYC service, online electronic signature service is facilitated

Website.http://cca.gov.in/

 

16

ESSO-INDIAN NATIONAL CENTER FOR OCEAN INFORMATION SERVICES

ESSO-INCOIS was established as an autonomous body in 1999 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and is a unit of the Earth System Science Organization (ESSO). ESSO- INCOIS is mandated to provide the best possible ocean information and advisory services to society, industry, government agencies and the scientific community through sustained ocean observations and constant improvement through systematic and focussed research.

 Website.http://www.incois.gov.in/portal/index.jsp

17

eTRADE

The Department of Commerce is pursuing the project eTRADE, the purpose of which is to facilitate foreign trade in India by way of promoting effective and efficient delivery of services by various regulatory / facilitating agencies involved in foreign trade so as to enable the trade to avail services from these agencies in online environments.

18

GARV GRAMEEN VIDYUTIKARAN MOBILE APP

.

The mobile application provides real-time updated data of ongoing electrification process to all users/stakeholders and provides information about Government schemes and electrification data. The app can also be used for sharing inspirational stories of differently-abled, who achieved success despite all odds.

 

19

GOVERNMENT eMARKETPLACE

Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is single window solution for online procurement of common use Goods & Services required by various Government Departments / Organizations / PSUs. GeM aims to enhance transparency, efficiency and speed in public procurement. It also provides the tools for direct purchase, e-bidding and reverse e-auction to facilitate the government users to achieve the best value for the money. The portal offers online registration facilities for all stakeholders namely Government Users, Product Sellers and Service Providers. 

Website.https://gem.gov.in/ 

20.

HERITAGE CITY DEVELOPMENT AND AUGMENTATION YOJANA (HRIDAY)

The Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India, launched the National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) scheme on 21st January, 2015, with a focus on holistic development of heritage cities. The scheme aims to preserve and revitalise soul of the heritage city to reflect the city’s unique character by encouraging aesthetically appealing, accessible, informative & secured environment.

Website.http://hridayindia.in/

21.

INTEGRATED HEALTH INFORMATION SYSTEM (IHIP)

An Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) is being setup by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The primary objective of IHIP is to enable the creation of standards compliant Electronic Health Records (EHRs) of the citizens on a pan-India basis along with the integration and interoperability of the EHRs through a comprehensive Health Information Exchange (HIE) as part of this centralized accessible platform.

Website.https://www.nhp.gov.in/

22

IRCTC CONNECT

In order to cater to the growing demand of passengers to make the ticketing application more user-friendly and faster, IRCTC Connect was developed. The new app with several add-on features is based on the next generation e-ticketing system. Synchronised with the ticketing website, the app facilitates search and book train tickets, check existing reservations or cancel them, and get upcoming journey alerts 

Website.https://www.irctc.co.in 

23.

JEEVAN PRAMAAN

Jeevan Pramaan is a biometric enabled digital service for pensioners of Central Government, State Government or any other Government organization. The new service aims to streamline the process of issuing life certificate and make it a hassle-free experience for the pensioners. With this initiative the pensioner’s requirement to physically present him/her in front of the disbursing agency or the certification authority will become a thing of the past benefiting the pensioners in a huge way and cutting down on unnecessary logistical hurdles.

Website.https://jeevanpramaan.gov.in/

24

MEGHRAJ

In order to utilise and harness the benefits of Cloud Computing, Government of India has embarked upon an ambitious initiative - "GI Cloud" which has been named as 'MeghRaj'. The focus of this initiative is to accelerate the delivery of e-services in the country while optimizing ICT spending of the Government. This will ensure optimum utilization of the infrastructure and speed up the development and deployment of eGov applications. 

Website.https://cloud.gov.in/index.php 

25

MOBILE SEVA APP STORE

A mobile applications store (m-AppStore) has been created to facilitate the process of development and deployment of suitable mobile applications for delivery of public services through mobile devices. The m-AppStore store is integrated with the MSDG and it shall use the MSDG infrastructure for deployment of such applications. The m-AppStore is based on service oriented architecture and cloud based technologies using open standards as far as practicable.

Website:  https://apps.mgov.gov.in/index.jsp 

 

26

NATIONAL SUPERCOMPUTING MISSION (NSM)

National SuperComputing Mission has been envisaged to empower the national academic and R&D institutions, spread across the country, by installing a vast supercomputing grid comprising of more than 70 high-performance computing facilities. These supercomputers will also be networked on the National Supercomputing grid over the National Knowledge Network (NKN).

Website.  https://nsmindia.in  

27

OPEN DATA

Open Government Data (OGD) Platform India - data.gov.in - is a platform for supporting Open Data initiative of Government of India. The portal is intended to be used by Government of India Ministries/ Departments their organizations to publish datasets, documents, services, tools and applications collected by them for public use. It intends to increase transparency in the functioning of Government and also open avenues for many more innovative uses of Government Data to give different perspectives.

Website.https://data.gov.in/

28

RAPID ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

National e-Governance Division, a division of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, has developed a Rapid Assessment System (RAS) for continuous feedback for e-services delivered by Government of India and State Governments. This system has multiple channels for receiving feedback and is backed by analytics. These analytics will help integrated departments for continuous system improvement and better governance.

Website.http://ras.gov.in/

29.

SINGLE WINDOW INTERFACE FOR TRADE (SWIFT)

As part of the “Ease of Doing Business” initiatives, the Central Board of Excise & Customs, Government of India has taken up implementation of the Single Window Project to facilitate the Trading Across Borders in India. The 'India Customs Single Window' would allow importers and exporters, the facility to lodge their clearance documents online at a single point only. Required permissions, if any, from other regulatory agencies would be obtained online without the trader having to approach these agencies. The Single Window Interface for Trade (SWIFT), would reduce interface with Governmental agencies, dwell time and the cost of doing business.

Website.https://www.icegate.gov.in/SWIFT/

30.

STATE WIDE AREA NETWORK

The Government had approved the Scheme for establishing State Wide Area Networks (SWANs) across the country, in March, 2005 to be expended by the Department under Grant-in-Aid of Rs. 2,005 crore, over a period of five years. Under this Scheme, technical and financial assistance are being provided to the States/UTs for establishing SWANs to connect all State/UT Headquarters up to the Block level via District/ sub-Divisional Headquarters, in a vertical hierarchical structure with a minimum bandwidth capacity of 2 Mbps per link. 

Website.http://meity.gov.in/content/state-wide-area-network-swan 

PART V: DIGITAL INDIA  Government to Employees (G2E) Services

Digital India information and internal services that provide easy access to  government information and systems that enable staff to perform well, provide opportunities for feedback, engagement, and collaboration. 

National Career Service

1. Components of National Career Service

2. Stakeholders involved

3. Other services offered

National Career Service (NCS) aims to bridge the gap between those who need jobs and those who want to hire them, between people seeking career guidance and training and those who can provide counselling and training. NCS brings jobseekers, employers, counselors, trainers and placement organisations together on one platform by offering convergence of information that enlightens minds and empowers people.

National Career Service aims at reaching out to people across the country, in particular the youth, through a well-designed structure that comprises an ICT-based portal, a countrywide set-up of career centres, a multilingual call centre, and a network of career counsellors.

Components of National Career Service

1. NCS portal - Job opportunities at the click of a button ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/Pages/default.aspx )

The NCS Portal links job-seekers, employers, counsellors and training providers, all through Aadhaar-based authentication. Registration is online and free of charge. The portal provides information on over 3000 career options from 53 key industry Sectors - from IT to Textiles, Construction to Automobiles, Pharma and much more. Job-seekers also have access to industry trends in a user-friendly way.

2. Career centres - Hubs of Career related Services

In case people are unable to register online, they can register themselves Development by visiting the nearest Career Centre and get notifications on all kinds of jobs, career counseling, job fairs and various other employment-related services. The Government is transforming Job Fairs Employment Exchanges and University Placements Employment Information Guidance Bureaus into Career Centres, To locate the career centres,  (http://www.ncs.gov.in/career-center/Pages/Search.aspx ) 

3. Call Centre - A helpline to get started on the NCS platform

A multilingual call centre to cater to the needs of those who face difficulty in registration or have other queries. The Call Centre is operational from Tuesday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM (1800-425-1514).

Stakeholders involved

Job seekers

Job-seekers can now make an informed decision by going through the 3000+ career options available to them from as many as 53 industry sectors on the NCS platform. All they have to do is register online on the portal or offline at Career Centers or CSCs. They can avail the following services.

• Search and apply for jobs ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/job-seeker/Pages/Search.aspx ) 

• Find information on training/skill programs- Those who have completed schooling or are fresh graduates can browse through the courses offered by the training providers to enhance their skills, including IT skills and soft skills. With skill enhancement, they can look for better employment.

• Search and book appointment with Career Counsellor- ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/Pages/SearchCounsellors.aspx   Should a job-seeker be confused about which career to choose, or what job to move to for better prospects or whether a skill upgradation is needed to land a better job, he or she can now turn to one of the Career Counsellors of the NCS. They are a part of a countrywide network of experts who can provide valuable guidance. Job-seekers can view their profiles, contact numbers and book appointments online to get going. The mode of counselling - telephonic, in-person or video conferencing is up to the job-seeker.

• Participate in events and job fairs

• Finding contact information of nearest local help

• View Reports

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services,. ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/User%20Manuals/Jobseeker.pdf  

Employers

Employers can now locate the talent most appropriate for their organisations by looking through a countrywide database of workforce from blue-collar workers to white-collar staff. They simply need to register, at no charge, online or offline to avail the following services.

• Post new Jobs

• Search for suitable candidates

• Send Interview Invites

• Participate in events and job fairs

• Finding contact info of nearest Local help

• View Report

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services, click here.

Counsellors

A counsellor is a trained professional who can help you to resolve problems in a positive way by helping you to clarify an issue, explore options, develop strategies and increase self - awareness. The portal will also be equipped to provide psychometric and other similar tests which can help job seeker to identify his/her area of interest and strength. The results of the test will be uploaded alongside the profile of the job seeker. This will also aid counsellors to do a skill gap analysis of their client. This will help them in guiding the job seeker with appropriate career guidance depending upon his/her requirement. Counsellors who have signed in at NCS portal can access the following services.

• Publish counselling calendar

• Schedule counselling session

• Approve/Cancel session bookings

• Update profile, services

• Apply for jobs, set job preferences

• Participate in events and job fairs

• Find contact info of nearest Local help

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services, click here.

Career centres

The Career Center offers a variety of professional development services and programs to explore job seekers' interests, discover paths to opportunities, and prepare for professional interactions. Career centres can avail the following services on registration.

• Manage users and roles

• Register Jobseeker, employer, local help counsellor and placement organisation

• Search Candidates based on Criteria

• Search/download candidate profile

• Discussion forum for career center

• Create job fairs and events

• View internal counselling calendar

For guidelines on career centres, ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/User%20Manuals/CareerCenterGuidelines.pdf  

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services, ( https://www.ncs.gov.in/User_Manuals/Career_Center.pdf  )

Skill providers

For those who provide specialised training to enhance the capabilities of job seekers to get better jobs, the NCS platform provides the following services.

• View and Update profile of skill provider

• Access to a large database of training seekers

• Information on various skill training and placement programs

• Find contact info of nearest local help

• View Reports

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services, ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/User%20Manuals/Skill%20Provider.pdf  

Placement organisations

A Placement Organisation is a person who runs a private business. The NCS portal helps a placement organisation to search for jobseeker matching their requirements and hire them. The following services can be accessed on registration.

• Post new Jobs (or on behalf of employers)

• View/update job postings

• Search/download suitable candidate profiles

• Send Interview Invites

• Participate in events and job fairs

• Finding contact info of nearest Local help

• View status of jobs posted

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services, ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/User%20Manuals/Placement%20Organisation.pdf  

Government departments

The NCS portal helps Government Departments to search for jobseeker matching their requirements and hire them. To do so the Govt. Department has to register themselves on the portal. The following services can be accessed on registration.

• Post new Jobs

• Search for suitable candidates

• Send Interview Invites

• Participate in events and job fairs

• Finding contact info of nearest Local help

• View Reports

For the complete information on registration and accessing the services, click here.

Other services offered

Local services

A unique service on the NCS Portal brings together the households with those who offer specialised services for homes like drivers, electricians, plumbers, carpenters and others, all of whom are local area service providers. On one hand this helps the small needs in the household to be addressed smoothly while on the other hand it generates employment for people at the grassroots. These service providers are Aadhaar authenticated to ensure security of the household. To access the services, . ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/local-service-provider/Pages/default.aspx )

Information for entrepreneurs

With better access to finance, technology and open markets, the self-employed workforce has a huge potential to grow and become entrepreneurs who could provide employment opportunities to others.

Towards this aim of encouraging entrepreneurship, NCS brings a collation of material and helpful links to facilitate entrepreneurs on their entrepreneurship journey. To access the information,( http://www.ncs.gov.in/pages/syob.aspx 

Source: National Career Service ( http://www.ncs.gov.in/Pages/default.aspx ) 

Know your Employee Provident Fund balance through online

1. What is EPF ?

2. Step by step process to download PF passbook

3. UAN Activated Members Can Know PF Balance Through Missed Call AND SMS Alert

What is EPF ?

Employee Provident Fund is a social security initiative by Government of India. This fund is being implemented by Employee Provident Fund Organization of India (Statutory body of the Government of India). In this fund both employer (owner of organization) and employee give compulsory contribution from salary. This small contribution will help employee to use this fund at an older age or emergency situation.

Now Employee Provident Fund Organization extends various online services. The employees can benefit out of the following services.

1. PF account balance.

2. Download PF passbook.

3. File transfer claim.

4. Register grievance

5. Other services.

Step by step process to download PF passbook

Following is the process to download PF passbook.

1. Visit  https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/

2. If you already have an activated Universal Account Number (UAN), enter your UAN number, password and Captcha code to view / generate your PF passbook.On successful login, go to the menu ‘Download’ and select ‘Download Passbook’. There is a link given to download PDF of this passbook also.

3. If you are a first time user, you need to do the following.

• You need to have a UAN. UAN stands for Universal Account Number. The UAN will act as an umbrella for the multiple Member Ids allotted to an individual by different establishments. Contact your employer to obtain your UAN . Your UAN is readily available with employer. To check the status of UAN, https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/ 

• The activation of UAN is to be done. For activation of the UAN, ( https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/ . In the process of UAN activation, the password has to be created by the member. The password should be alphanumeric, have minimum 1 special character and 8-25 character long. Special characters are !@#$%^&*() Sample Password:: abc@1973

4. A member can view the passbooks of the EPF accounts which has been tagged with UAN.

5. The facility of passbook is not available for members of establishments having exemption under the EPF Scheme 1952.

For more information and FAQs on knowing your PF status online, click here.

Source : Employees' Provident Fund Organisation ( http://www.epfindia.com/site_en/For_Employees.php?id=sm2_index  )

UAN Activated Members Can Know PF Balance Through Missed Call AND SMS Alert

Members registered on the UAN portal may get their details available with EPFO by giving a missed call at 011-22901406 from their registered mobile number.  If the UAN member is seeded with any one of the Bank A/c number, AADHAAR and PAN, the member will get details of last contribution and PF balance.  To avail this facility, mobile number must be activated with UAN at Unified Portal. Giving missed call from registered mobile number at 011-22901406 automatically gets disconnected after two rings. This service is available free of cost to the member. Moreover, these services can be availed from non-smart phones also.

The information for availing missed call facility and SMS service for getting PF balance and last contribution is now available on UMANG app also.

Universal Account Number (UAN) activated members may know their latest PF contribution and balance available with EPFO by sending an SMS at 7738299899 from registered mobile number. The Member has to SMS “EPFOHO UAN” to 7738299899. The facility is available in 10 languages viz. English (default), Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannad, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Bengali. For receiving SMS in any of the languages other than English, first three characters of the preferred language needs to be added after UAN. For example, to receive SMS in Telugu, then SMS to be send will be “EPFOHO UAN TEL” to 7738299899

SMS should be sent from the registered mobile number of UAN.  In response, EPFO will send last PF contribution and balance details of the member along with available KYC information.

Source : PIB ( http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1523909  

PART VI  DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES  Government to Visitors/Foreigners (G2F) 

Digital India information, advice, and services for individuals and businesses planning to invest, visit, work, study, and live in the country.

National Portal of India

https://www.india.gov.in/

Incredible India is the name of an international tourism campaign maintained by the Government of India since 2002, to promote tourism in India. The "Incredible India" title was officially branded and promoted since 2002 Incredible India - https://www.incredibleindia.org/ 

 

Visit India

India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by area, the second-most populous country, and the most populous democracy in the world

http://tourism.gov.in/ 

 

Invest India 

We are the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India and act as the first point of reference for investors in India. ... Invest India, set up in 2009, is a non-profit venture under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.Mar 15, 2019

About us - Invest India

https://www.investindia.gov.in  

 

Study in India

https://www.studyinindia.gov.in/

Education is emerging to be one of the top focuses of all the developing nations around the world. Study in India, a unique initiative of the Government of India will help facilitate the student fraternity from all across the globe to come and experience the best of academic learning from the top institutions in India which would help accommodate the growing quality educational needs of students across the world. Built on centuries of values, the Indian Education system is the world’s third largest higher education system, having a rich mix of premier Government and private institutes with a network of 38000 colleges and 800 universities. Higher Institutions in India offers degrees that are competitive in the world market in terms of quality but are delivered at 1/4th the cost hence guaranteeing value for money. India offers quality education and research, and students will earn internationally renowned degree. Students will have a range of courses to choose from such as latest advancements of science and technology like Virtual and Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Computing to traditional subjects, such as Ayurveda, Sanskrit, Hindi and Urdu.

https://www.studyinindia.gov.in/ 

PART VII 

DIGITAL INDIA STACKS 

1.

Digital India Stacks

Digital  India is building a world class digital foundation. The popularity of the mobile phone, the digital bank accounts, they have been created under the PMJDY flagship financial inclusion scheme, and over a billion people enrolled in Aadhaar. Aadhaar is an interesting case. It’s something that had never been done by any government before, not even in a rich country. Digital India foundation  going to underlie all of our digital systems, whether it’s document sharing, banking, tax payments, tracking healthcare records, it is an incredible asset and it took a lot of bravery and good government leadership to pull that together. India is just starting to see what can be done with Digital India Platform that in terms of government payments of all types, even been able to track patients and been able to connect the government and the private sector in terms of delivering health interventions The Unified Payment infrastructure(UPI)  is another key element to make this come together. This shared infrastructure at the core of the payment system really is cutting costs for every provider and encouraging innovation and competition. The bill payment service will make it easier for people to pay utility bills and that is just the start of full digitisation. 

2.

Application Programming Interface ( API)

An application program interface (API) is a set of routines, protocols, and tools for building software applications. Basically, an API specifies how software components should interact. Additionally, APIs are used when programming graphical user interface (GUI) components. A good API makes it easier to develop a program by providing all the building blocks. A programmer then puts the blocks together.

3.

Well known Developer APIs

1. Google Maps API: Google Maps APIs lets developers embed Google Maps on webpages using a JavaScript or Flash interface. The Google Maps API is designed to work on mobile devices and desktop browsers.

2. YouTube APIs: YouTube API: Google's APIs lets developers integrate YouTube videos and functionality into websites or applications. YouTube APIs include the YouTube Analytics API, YouTube Data API, YouTube Live Streaming API, YouTube Player APIs and others.

3. Flickr API: The Flickr API is used by developers to access the Flick photo sharing community data. The Flickr API consists of a set of callable methods, and some API endpoints.

4. Twitter APIs: Twitter offers two APIs. The REST API allows developers to access core Twitter data and the Search API provides methods for developers to interact with Twitter Search and trends data.

5. Amazon Product Advertising API: Amazon's Product Advertising API gives developers access to Amazon's product selection and discovery functionality to advertise Amazon products to monetize a website.

4.

OPEN API POLICY 

Under the overarching vision of Digital India, Government of India (GoI) aims to make all Government services digitally accessible to citizens through multiple channels, such as web, mobile and common service delivery outlets. To meet this objective, there is a need for an interoperable ecosystem of data, applications and processes which will make the right information available to the right user at the right time.

For promoting Open Standards for software interoperability across various Government departments and agencies, GoI has already notified the Policy on Open Standards for e-Governance and Technical Standards on Interoperability Framework for e-Governance. The world-wide initiatives on F.No. 1(4)/2014-EG II Ministry of Communications & Information Technology Department of Electronics and Information Technology “Open Government” also focus on open APIs to easily access the information collected by Government organizations. Given the enormous advantages in this regard, there is a need to formulate a policy for the Government organizations in India to provide Open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). The “Policy on Open APIs for Government of India” (hereinafter referred to as the “Policy”) will encourage the formal use of Open APIs in Government organizations. This policy sets out the Government’s approach on the use of “Open APIs” to promote software interoperability for all e-Governance applications & systems and provide access to data & services for promoting participation of all stakeholders including citizens.

The objectives of this policy are to: 

• Ensure that APIs are published by all Government organisations for all eGovernance applications and systems. 

• Enable quick and transparent integration with other e-Governance applications and systems.

• Enable safe and reliable sharing of information and data across various e-Governance applications and systems. 

• Promote and expedite innovation through the availability of data from eGovernance applications and systems to the public. F.No. 1(4)/2014-EG II Ministry of Communications & Information Technology Department of Electronics and Information Technology

• Provide guidance to Government organizations in developing, publishing and implementation using these Open APIs.

 

5.

India Stack:  APIs available under open API policy 

The following APIs are available for public access and consumption 

1. Aadhaar e-KYC

2. Aadhaar Authentication, 

3. eSign

4. Digital Locker

5. Unified Payment Interface (UPI)

6. Digital User Consent 

7. GSTN - The Goods and Services Tax Network

8. BBPS - The Bharat Bill Payment System

9. ETC - Electronic Toll Collection (known under the brand FASTag)

 

6

Open Government Data (OGD) Platform India 

The Open Government Data (OGD) Platform India (https://data.gov.in ) has been set up by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in compliance with the Open Data Policy (NDSAP) of India. The objective of the policy is to provide proactive access to Government owned shareable data along with its usage information in open/machine readable format, through a wide area of network across the country, in a periodically updated manner, within the framework of various related policies, rules, and acts of the Government. Developed using Open Source Stack, the project is one of the initiatives under Pillar 6 (Information for All) of the Digital India initiative. It facilitates community participation for further development of the product with Visualizations, APIs, Alerts, etc. It has an easy to use and user friendly interface with dynamic/pull down menus, search based reports, secured web access, bulletin board, based on Dublin Core metadata standards and parametric & dynamic reports in exportable format. The platform reflects how innovative use of information technology has led to a paradigm shift in accommodating huge data potential of the country. The Platform has a rich mechanism for citizen engagement, which could help Ministries/Departments/Organizations prioritize the release of Government Datasets. Besides, enabling citizens to express their need for specific datasets or apps, it also allows them to rate the quality of datasets, seek clarification or information from nodal officers of participating government entities. The Platform also acts as a knowledge-sharing platform through online communities. Citizens with specific interests are encouraged to contribute blogs and join online forums around various datasets or their domain of interest.

One of the major parameters for making the Open Data initiative and NDSAP policy a success is to engage with the larger population. Community engagement encourages citizen participation with Open Government Data. A separate Community Portal (http://community.data.gov.in ) has been launched to provide a common platform for knowledge sharing through discussion and to contribute through Blogs, Info-graphics, Visualizations, etc. using data available on the platform. Similarly a dedicated event portal (https://event.data.gov.in ) has also helps in the management of workshops, hackathons, challenges,

 

7.

Salient features of OGD Platform:

- Ministry/Department/State contributes/publishes resources in open format (CSV,

XLS, XML, ODS, JASON) either directly or by Web Services through workflow

based Data Management System.

• Provides single window access to the datasets and apps published by different Ministries/Departments/Organizations/States of in open format.

• Suggestions and requirement of data can be submitted by citizens/ community to help prioritize data sharing by participating ministries/ departments. 

• Anyone can endorse already submitted suggestions.

• People can directly write to Chief Data Officer (provider) (previously called Data Controller) seeking any further clarification/information on the released resources or related requirements.

• Platform enables better discovery and usage of Government datasets through visualizations and development of apps, mash-ups, etc. Visualization Platform with facility to create maps as well as different chart options like radar, bar, line, area, pie, column, etc.

• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to Query Datasets - Direct and dynamic query to access data items of selected datasets have also been provided through the APIs.

• Update alert service can be subscribed for Catalogs.

A separate Community Portal (http://community.data.gov.in) has been launched to

provide a common platform for knowledge sharing through discussion and to

contribute through Blogs, Info-graphics, Visualizations, etc. using data available

on the platform.

• People can create visualizations of their own data using the visualization engine service of the OGD Platform.

• Custom Widgets to Share/Link/Consume filtered set of catalogs (Ministry/

• Department/Organization as well as Sectors etc.).

• Platform has Responsive Web Layout design i.e. service available on multiple web/mobile platforms.

• People can rate the resources (datasets/apps) on three aspects i.e. Quality, Accessibility and Usability on the scale of 5.

• Separate Event portal (https://event.data.gov.in) for management of workshops, hackathons, challenges, etc. have been created.

• Software as a Service (SaaS) portal for OGD SaaS instance has also been launched for State and other organizations to create their own Open Data site. 

• Work on Government Open Data Use License has also been under consideration of the Ministry of Law. 

 

IndiaStack

1

Digital India aims to transform India into a digital economy and knowledge society.  At the core of this transformation is moving  resident's traditional physical transactions to digital platform. A set of technologies used to enable digital transactions is called digital India stack or IndiaStack

Examples:

Before Digital India Resident	Now in Digital India a Resident
used to stand in a queue to book railway tickets and show that ticket to TTE during journey.	Books a railway ticket online and show his mobile ticket to TTE during travel
used to get a paper-based driving license or degree certificate or marks cards	Get her driving license in digital format directly delivered to
Needed to present a xerox copy of relevant documents while opening a bank account	Shows Aadhaar card and proves his identity through online authentication

 

2.

Traditional Vs Digital Transactions

Traditional Transaction	Digital Transaction	Digital India Technology Supporting
Presence is required     (stand in a queue )	Presence-less( booking online)	Aadhaar Number
Paper-based (document/xerox)	Paper-less ( digital copy)	Digilocker
Cash based ( payment are done using physical currency)	Cashless ( transfer funds digitally)	UPI
Physical signature	Digital signature	E-sign

 

These set of Digital India Technologies enabling presence-less, paperless and cashless transactions is called IndiaStack.

 

3

IndiaStack  Technology layers 

The four distinct technology layers provided are

1. Presenceless layer : Where a universal biometric digital identity allows people to participate in any service from anywhere in the country.

2. Paperless layer : Where digital records move with an individual's digital identity, eliminating the need for massive amount of paper collection and storage.

3. Cashless layer : Where a single interface to all the country's bank accounts and wallets to democratize payments.

4. Consent layer : Which allows data to move freely and securely to democratize the market for data

Layer	Functionality	Examples
Consent Layer	Provides a modern data sharing framework	Data empowerment and data protection architecture (DEPA)
Cashless Layer	Game changing electronic payment systems, Transactions to cashless	AEPS, APB and UPI
Paperless layer	Rapidly growing base of paperless system	Aadhaar e-KYC, E-sign, Digilocker
Presence   layer	Unique digital biometric identity with open access of nearly entire indian population	Aadhaar Authentication
JAM	Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile	Used by government for direct benefit transfer (DBT)

4.

IndiaStack Defined 

IndiaStack is a complete set of API, made available under the Open API Policy, which enables the development of payment-enabled Apps. It includes 

• Aadhaar for Authentication (Aadhaar already covers over 1.28 billion people and will quickly cover the population of the entire nation providing the world’s largest authentication system), 

• e-KYC documents (safe deposit locker for issue, storage and use of documents), 

• e-Sign (digital signature acceptable under the laws), 

• unified payment interface (for financial transactions) and 

• privacy-protected data sharing within the stack of API.

5.

India Stack APIs

The following APIs are considered to be a core part of the India Stack.

1. Aadhaar Authentication, 

2. Aadhaar e-KYC

3. eSign

4. Digital Locker

5. Unified Payment Interface (UPI)

6. Digital User Consent 

                                                6

6. IndiaStack APIs extended 

The following APIs are also considered to be societal platforms built on similar principles like India Stack:

1. GSTN - The Goods and Services Tax Network

2. BBPS - The Bharat Bill Payment System

3. ETC - Electronic Toll Collection (known under the brand FASTag)

7

Benefits of IndiaStack 

1. Citizens : Brings millions of Indians into the formal economy by reducing friction.

2. Software ecosystem : Fosters innovation to build products for financial Inclusion, healthcare & educational services at scale.

3. Government : Brings a paradigm shift in the way government services are delivered in a transparent, accountable and leakage free model.

8

Indiastack powers  Software ecosystem

Together, the India Stack enables Apps that could open up many opportunities in financial services, healthcare and education sectors of the Indian economy. What this essentially means is that developers and tech startups can now build software and create businesses around the readily available infrastructure offered through India Stack, thus opening a huge potential to tap into the booming smartphone market in the country. Since the consumer market in India is very large, such startups could also hope for institutional funding and gain from the early mover advantage

.

9

IndiaStack has the potential to revolutionize the way government services of the future are delivered in a large country like India. The nation is looking for “a transition from technology-poor to innovation-rich society” and entrepreneurs have a good role to play. The problems (read opportunities) in financial services, healthcare and education are all so large that only the right technology and entrepreneurial brainpower can cost-effectively solve them. Solving these scale problems should mean great business sense too. India is the only country in the world offering such an open and secure API, India is determined to take the Digital India campaign to a whole new level.

10

IndiaStack as Enabler:

The rapid adoption of Aadhar, Jan Dhan Yojna, and smartphones (JAM) have created a fundamental layer of customer identification and access, on which multiple other digital transactions can be built. The combined initiative of UIDAI, CCA, DeitY, and NPCI has created a unified, integrated layer of digital tools and services (or information system highway) that is called as India Stack. Similar to the creation of the Internet (based on TCP/IP stack), where browsers and applications form the front end for access, here too the private sector players can focus on building customer facing solutions that ride on India Stack. 

11

APIs: Standing on the Shoulders of Great 

A good analogy of the kind of innovation possible is Uber which uses the building blocks of GPS, Google Maps, electronic payment and smartphone - none of which Uber built nor owns - to create a customer friendly transportation solution.. World over systems that provide information like IndiaStack are controlled by private companies where fear of monopolistic practices looms large e.g.

• Apply Pay is based on one click two factor authentication, 

• Facebook Connect provides ID for a billion people, 

• M-pesa provides digital payments on mobile to most of Kenya.

12.

IndiaStack: API as Public Good

In India, the entire stack is an open API stack built as a ‘public good’ which can be leveraged by the smallest startup. The focus has been to create this open plumbing and let innovation happen on the customer end of any solution. The explosion of innovation possible on this freely accessible digital foundation is extraordinary. This sets the stage for the hundreds of experiments or what Nobel Prize winning economist Edmund S. Phelps calls as ‘mass flourishing’ on the basis of widespread, indigenous innovation.

13

Inclusive Society 

Millions of people could not access current financial systems due to various friction points around paper based identity proof, access and interaction with physical bank, availability of hard cash. IndiaStack - starting from the basic foundation of JAM and building on the other layers - has completely eliminated these friction points and made these services universally accessible; thereby solving the demand side. More importantly, by becoming a free infrastructure service available to the smallest entrepreneur it has opened up the number of suppliers ready to innovate and fulfill demand from this demographic. It gives marginalized consumers more power to choose his/her provider.

14

IndiaStack is the key enabler for lowering barriers to entry for experimentation by the small entrepreneur. For the first time in the country (and the world) there is an opportunity to combine the sweeping tide of multiple technological forces into a unifying digital platform of change.

• For the first time, more than 1B Indian customers have access to the trinity of tools viz. mobile phone, Aadhaar number, and bank account. 

• For the first time, innovators and entrepreneurs have access to a free, at scale, backend information system like India Stack, for launching digital products and services. 

• For the first time, there will be a systemic injection of financing and regulatory support for the small person to experiment. India is  at an inflection point in India’s history; we stand at the edge of unprecedented digital innovation across customers needs and demographics. These innovations will leapfrog any existing solution worldwide, as they are backed by freely available cutting edge digital infrastructure, India Stack, and large scale demand - a fortuitous convergence that is unique to India.

15.

IMPACT ON CITIZENS (END USERS)

End user services are many and have to be tailored for consumption by demographic and regional needs of the population. Good services becoming available at their doorstep, most of the time on their mobile phones would should translate into convenience and increase in national productivity.

16

IMPACT ON THE SOFTWARE ECOSYSTEM

While government has the credibility and trust of its population in a democracy, involving the technology innovations from entrepreneurs and startups (private sector participation) would complete the circle. IndiaStack should start the ecosystem of software products offering financial inclusion, healthcare and education areas.

17

IMPACT ON E-GOVERNANCE

The model of API-driven integration should be a paradigm shift in e-governance applications, given the focus on transparency, security and availability of the integration points. Larger services can now be composed by different government organizations, while the consumed services and data are best managed by organizations responsible for them.

18

IndiaStack APIs

IndiaStack is a complete set of API, made available under the Open API Policy, which enables the development of payment-enabled Apps. An API is a set of rules or code built into applications to enable software to communicate with each other . For example Google Maps API or Facebook APIs

It includes

• Aadhaar for Authentication (Aadhaar already covers over 1280 million people and will quickly cover the population of the entire nation providing the world’s largest authentication system)

• e-KYC documents (safe deposit locker for issue, storage and use of documents),

• e-Sign (digital signature acceptable under the laws),

• unified payment interface (for financial transactions) and

• privacy-protected data sharing within the stack of API.

1.

National Health Stack

The National Health Stack (NHS) is a visionary digital framework usable by centre and state across public and private sectors. It represents a holistic platform that supports a multitude of health verticals and their disparate branches, and is capable of integrating future IT solutions for a sector that is poised for rapid, disruptive changes and unforeseen twists.  It is now conceivable to aim for digital health records for all citizens by the year 2022.

Ayushman Bharat’s first component is setting up of 1.5 lakh health and wellness centres to deliver primary healthcare in the country. The second component is the National Health Protection Scheme (also being called Pradhan Matrix – Rashtriya Swasthya Suraksha Mission) to provide an annual health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family to 10 crore families, or 50 crore people. The NHS will be “built for NHPS but designed beyond NHPS” to enable development of “diverse solutions in health and their adoption by states.”

National Health Stack is a collection of cloud-based services. Each service provides just one capability across multiple health services, accessible via simple open APIs compatible with global standards. It is designed to leverage India Stack. According to the proposal, data collected through the NHS will not only allow policy makers to experiment with policies, detect fraud in health insurance, measure outcomes and move towards smart policy making.

2

The proposed National Health Stack (NHS) will  deploy a powerful technology arsenal, from Big Data Analytics and Machine Learning all the way to Artificial Intelligence and a state of the art Policy MarkUp Language. A complete redesign of the flow of people, money, and information, as well as a layered approach to providing comprehensive foundational health functions for all states and programs—grounded in an inclusive and interoperable technology. Once implemented, the National Health Stack will significantly bring down the costs of health protection, converge disparate systems to ensure a cashless and seamlessly integrated experience for the poorest beneficiaries, and promote wellness across the population. 

3

The key components of the National Health Stack are— 

• A. National Health Electronic Registries: to create a single source of truth for and manage master health data of the nation; 

• A Coverage and Claims platform: building blocks to support large health protection schemes, enable horizontal and vertical expansion of RSSM by states and robust fraud detection; 

• A Federated Personal Health Records (PHR) Framework: to solve twin challenges of access to their own health data by patients and availability of health data for medical research, critical for advancing our understanding of human health; 

• A National Health Analytics Platform: to bring a holistic view combining information on multiple health initiatives and feed into smart policy making, for instance, through improved predictive analytics; 

• Other horizontal Components: including, but not restricted to, unique Digital Health ID, Health Data Dictionaries and Supply Chain Management for Drugs, payment gateways etc shared across all health programs. 

4

Focus from Illness to Wellness

1. Continuum of Care as the Stack supports information flow across primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare •

2. Shift focus from Illness to Wellness to drive down future cost of health protection 

3. Cashless Care to ensure financial protection to the poor 

4. Timely Payments on Scientific Package Rates to service providers, a strong lever to participate in government-funded healthcare programs 

5. Robust Fraud Detection to prevent funds leakage 

6. Improved Policy Making through access to timely reporting on utilization and measurement of impact across health initiatives and 

7. Enhanced Trust and Accountability through non-repudiable transaction audit trails.

5

Aims of the National Health Stack

The aim of the National Health Stack, according to the Niti Aayog document, is to improve access and affordability of healthcare, facilitate national health programmes, monitor insurance policies and claims, and boost medical research and health analysis. The stack is being designed to support existing and future health initiatives, both public and private.

The proposed India Health Stack will have four key components – (1)  electronic health registries of health service provides and beneficiaries, (2) a coverage and claims platform, (3) a federated personal health records framework and (4) a national health analytics platform. It will also have other components like digital health IDs, health data dictionaries, supply chain management for drugs, payment gateways and more.

The coverage and claims platform in particular will be the digital structure for the Pradhan Mantri-Rashtriya Swasthya Suraksha Mission or PM-RSSM, which is the health insurance component of the Ayushman Bharat programme through which the government intends to provide Rs 5 lakh health insurance cover each to more than 10 lakh families.

Through these platforms, the National Health Stack is supposed to facilitate collection of comprehensive healthcare data across the country. Analysis of this data can help policy makers design health policy and help detect fraud in health insurance, the document states.

6.

Components, design and scope of the National Health Stack

Five key components:

• National Health Electronic Registries: will create a single source of data for both beneficiaries and provider, incorporating existing registries, and overcome data duplication and redundancy
  Coverage and Claims platform: Meant to support expansion of NHPS via claims engines and fraud detection service;

• Federated Personal Health Records (PHR) Framework: to make health profiles of individuals for own access and for “medical research”;
  National Health Analytics Platform: to provide anonymised and aggregated health data for targeted policy-making, “for instance, through improved predictive analytics”;

• Other horizontal Components: includes among other things the creation of a unique Digital Health ID, Health Data Dictionaries and Supply Chain Management for Drugs, payment gateways, etc.

7

Built on two “layers”

National Health Registries Layer – forms the base of the Stack and includes services to manage the data for all health programs and
Software services and platforms Layer – additional software built on the registry for “operationalizing programs.” It includes a Coverage and Claims Platform, a Federated Personal Health Records (PHR) Framework and a National Health Analytics Framework (NHAF) amongst others.

8

Scope

“Induction of Private Hospitals and Private Practitioners into the Primary and Secondary healthcare ecosystem; Focus on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD); Disease Surveillance; Health Schemes Management Systems; Nutrition Management; School Health Schemes; Emergency Management; e-Learning Platform for health, LMS, Telehealth, Tele-radiology; Diagnostic Equipment; Health Call Centre(s) etc.”

 

9

Designing the National Electronic Health Registry

• Provider Registry
  The provider registry will build and manage data for all healthcare providers i.e. public and private hospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs and other clinical establishments.

• Incorporation of existing provider registries: existing registries such as National Health Resource Repository (NHRR) and the Registry of Hospitals in Network of Insurance (ROHINI) will be able to publish provider information securely to the NHS registry, on a per-provider basis or in bulk.
  -The registry will provide self-maintainability, non-repudiability and consented access of data.

• Validation of providers: a surveyor will be tasked with physically visiting providers and validating registry data; “interfaces for surveyors and data validators will be defined and their role scoped out in detail.”

• Beneficiary Registry
  -Suggests Aadhaar-linked registration of beneficiaries, for the creation of a Health ID to enable a “holistic view of the different programs that beneficiaries participate in” and to search for any details of a beneficiary.
  -Will capture and store important beneficiary-to-beneficiary linkages e.g, information about a beneficiary’s family will be available from the record corresponding to that beneficiary.
  -Specifies that the NHS registry “will not assign any group IDs (e.g., family IDs) to beneficiaries although such attributes may be added by individual NHS applications.”

Claims and Coverage Platform

This consists of three sub-components: a policy engine, a claims engine, and a fraud management service.

10

Policy Engine

Key Components:
a. Unified Multi-Policy View: will provide beneficiaries with a unified view of all the health insurance policies they have purchased, government-funded or from private insurance companies.
b. Policy Markup Language: a machine-readable language designed for describing, updating, accessing and communicating policies between software programs. It will have to consist of essential information typically required from any health insurance policy: list of empanelled hospitals, list of procedures covered, costs for each procedure, and so on.-Health insurance policies have to be uploaded and validated in the repository with a digital signature, linked to the entity that is providing the coverage (e.g., insurance company or a health trust set up by the state). Policies will be activated when premiums are transferred to the insurance company/trust.

C. Suggests use of blockchain to process claims:
There could be a possibility for policies to be developed based on Smart Contracts, a derivative of Blockchain Technology. Smart contracts will enable policies to have intelligence embedded in them, which will allow each policy to directly interact with the Claims Engine (or other parts of the Stack). So, for example, policies would automatically be able to trigger insurance payments once certain conditions in the claims process are met

11

Claims Engine

The Claims Engine will manage the way claims flow in health insurance schemes and ensure ease of filing and settling claims, it will:

1.  Ensure auto-adjudication of claims: automates the claims process via a machine-readable description of policies, to speed up claims processing

2. Orchestrate the payment flow: it will send payment triggers and notifications to ensure that Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are adhered to and claims processing times are accurately reported to the authorities.

3. Provide data points: will serve as a data-bank to which will be a key input to the Fraud Management Service (FMS).

4. Receive requests for audit: claims engine may also receive requests for audit on past claims from the FMS. In such situations, claims would be re-assessed and the resulting analyses provided back to the FMS. With better data, suspicious claims can be detected and analysed in this manner.

12.

Fraud Management Services

“Engines will be incentivized to report fraud events and will compete with each other in the process. This approach will boost the rates of true positives as well as the rate of true negatives in fraud detection. The data feed into the fraud management system will be anonymized to protect patient and provider privacy.”

• When a fraud is reported, all pending claim settlements and any new claim settlements for a hospital are placed on hold until the fraud raised can be investigated.

• Personal Health Records (PHR) are a core requirement to avoid fraud and bring greater trust into the claim handling process, as most fraud is based upon either unwanted or redundant tests and procedures, or claims made by patients/providers on false procedures.

13

Creation of Digital Health ID

It will create a unique system-wide identifier called the Digital Health ID for each user, possibly Aadhaar-based although the document says others such as PAN Card, Election ID can be used as well, followed by a KYC process

• Allows for creation of Virtual Health ID to “preserve users’ privacy when interacting with other users or stakeholders in the system.”

• Suggests Aadhaar Authentication in lieu of Health ID: “The Health ID may also be looked up in a secure manner if the beneficiary does not have her identifier handy. For example-a beneficiary visiting a provider, in the absence of NHS Health ID, may authenticate against Aadhaar.”

14

Federated Personal Health Records (PHR)

Personal Health Records (PHR) has been defined as an “integrated view” of all data related to an individual across various health providers comprising of “medical history, medication and allergies, immunization status, laboratory test results, radiology images, vital signs, personal stats, demographics and billing information, and multiple health apps.” PHR will paint a “complete picture of the patient.”

–Suggests a framework for the protection of medical data: “PHR is maintained in a secure and private environment, with the individual determining rights of access. This will be made possible through Health Data Fiduciaries (trustees) that shall facilitate consent-driven interaction between those that generate the health data and those who use PHR data.

-“the federated structure of PHRs (with pre-authorizations built in) can facilitate access to this valuable data in a consented manner for the purposes of medical research.”

15.

National Health Analytics Framework

A framework to enable the use of anonymised and aggregated data to “present the overall direction of the health of the country/state/district leading to data-driven decisions and targeted policymaking” in alignment with the National Data Sharing & Accessibility Policy (NDSAP). Data collected will be statistics such as an average number of patients treated in a day, epidemiological data, the percentage of claims accepted/rejected, the average time of claim settlement, years of experience of doctors, and so on.

• Will provide for “horizontal expansibility” with the potential to cover “disease surveillance, predicting epidemics, classifying and clustering population segments for proactive care, nutrition, health schemes, and national health infrastructures such as telemedicine, teleradiology, and the enhancement of process controls.

• Can provide insights into the healthcare workers’ shortage at various governance levels and “enable the implementation of skill development initiatives at a very granular level (for instance, through ASHA workers).”

16

 National Health Stack Guidelines

1. Mandated PHR: Every citizen has a right to not just her/his health data but also right to access to structured data. All service provider EHRs and stand-alone PHRs which include wearables, mHealth devices and health apps etc should have APIs compatible to NHS PHR.

2. Separating the consent layer from data flow: Patients may consent to archive their data in meta-directories that will then allow (or restrict) automated access for clinical, research, quality improvement, or marketing purposes. The document also states that this guideline has been incorporated into India Stack.

3. Open APIs: NHS must be built using open standards, absent dependence on specific platforms or software frameworks to ensure interoperability.

4. Privacy and security “by design”: Mandates use of APIs to “ensure centralised management of security controls. NHS will disseminate data to “authenticated and authorised stakeholders only. User consent is guided by the MeitY Electronic Consent Framework.

5. Strong data governance: Data about any individual (patient, doctor, etc) in the system must be under the control of that individual, using the MeitY Electronic

6. Consent Framework. The entity holding the data “must first obtain legitimate consent from that individual before sharing the data or processing it in other ways.

PART VIII

India Enterprise Architecture

1. Vision

2. Purpose

3. Scope

4. Intended Audience

5. Structure

India Enterprise Architecture (IndEA) is a way to establish Unity in Diversity in the domain of e-Governance. It is a framework that enables the development and implementation of Enterprise Architectures independently and in parallel by all governments and their agencies across India, conforming to the same models and standards. It enables planned development through architecture thinking.

IndEA has been notified as a e-Governance standard by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in October 2018.

Vision

To establish best-in-class architectural governance, processes and practices with optimal utilization of ICT infrastructure and applications to offer ONE Government experience to the citizens and businesses.

Purpose

The primary purpose of IndEA is to help state governments, ministries and departments in the governments at various levels to adopt a structured approach for developing their enterprise architecture. This is necessitated due to inconsistent maturity levels that exist in various government entities with respect to architecture driven approach to digital governance, yet mandated to adopt Digital India. Therefore, IndEA is expected to fill a clear gap in current capability and drive its adoption in an effective manner to build a digital economy.

Scope

IndEA is a collection of architecture reference models. Reference models are documented best practices for solutions delivery teams to make effective design and technology choices. The purpose of the reference models is to increase adoption of standards, speed up service design and delivery, and advance towards the target state architecture. IndEA aims at:

• Documenting and sharing explicit and implicit architecture best practices;

• Providing guidance in the development of enterprise architectures;

• Capturing the key elements of architecture and inter-relationships between them;

• Providing the means for architecture governance by enabling an audit process;

• Enabling the adoption of standards based on common understanding;

Intended Audience

IndEA is intended for the following groups:

• All state governments, central government ministries and other government departments especially those that do not currently have an enterprise architecture initiative or are just in the early stages of their enterprise architecture development;

• Senior government officials who have been tasked to oversee and guide enterprise architecture initiatives to augment their understanding and promote active commitment;

• Government Leaders, Chief Architects, Analysts and Designers seeking better, quicker and easier approaches to respond to the needs of their internal and external customers;

Structure

IndEA provides a generic framework, (based on The Open Group Architecture Framework -TOGAF) comprising of a set of architecture reference models, which can be converted into a Whole-of-Government Architecture for India, Ministries, States, Govt. Agencies etc. The IndEA framework is based on federated architecture approach and recognizes the need to accommodate both greenfield (new) and brownfield (existing / legacy) eGovernance initiatives.

The framework is based on 36 principles and 08 reference models supported by a globally acceptable standards.

Reference models of IndEA

In line with other globally known architectural frameworks, the structure of IndEA consists of a number of Reference Models, each dealing with a specific domain of the Enterprise Architecture.

A Reference Model is an abstract representation of the entities relevant to a domain of the Enterprise Architecture, the inter-relationships among those and the standards to be followed. All the Reference Models follow 3 basic attributes namely, abstraction, standards-base and technology-neutrality.

IndEA framework comprises of 8 Reference Models - Business, Application, Data, Technology, Performance, Security, Integration and Architecture Governance.

Principles of IndEA

An Enterprise Architecture is to be founded on a set of Principles that inform and guide the Architecture Development process. A good set of Principles should satisfy five criteria, namely, Understandable, Robust, Complete, Consistent and Stable. Citizen-centricity, Outcome-focus, Standardization, Reusability and Integration are the key mantras followed while designing IndEA.

Principle	Statement
Performance
SDG Linkage	Performance Measurement Systems derive from and are linked to Sustainable Development Goals prioritized by the Government.
Outcome Orientation	All Performance Measurement Systems are outcome-oriented
Identifying Performance Categories through Value-Chain	Performance Measurement Categories must cover the entire value chain such that the KPIs at each step of the service can be monitored and performance optimized.
Enable quantitative and qualitative data driven decisions	The PRM must enable quantitative and qualitative data driven decisions through a better analysis of the actual output & outcome.
Business
Maximization of benefit	All information Management decisions are made to maximize the benefit to Government as a whole.
Prioritization of SDG Initiative	Enterprise Architecture efforts focus on the SDG initiatives prioritized by the Government.
Integrated Services	Integrated Service that cut across agency-silos are identified, designed and delivered through multiple delivery channels, to realize the vision of ONE Government.
Process RE-engineering	Existing processes are re-engineered to eliminate non-value-adds and to make the services citizen-centric / business-centric.
Application
Ease of Use	Applications are easy to use, with the underlying technologies being transparent to the users.
Sharing & Reusability	All commonly required Applications are abstracted to be built once and deployed across the Whole-of-Government through reuse and sharing. Sharing & Resuability shall be subject to conformance with the principles of Security & privacy.
Technology Independence	Application Design is open standards-based and technology-independent.
Application Security	Applications are secure by design and developed using secure coding standards and practices.
Data
Data Assets	Data is an asset that has a specific and measurable value to the Government and is managed accordingly. Archive and preserve all information (both in raw and aggregated form) exchanged, especially outside the government ecosystem, for future reference and if needed, for resolution of disputes. The Archival and preservations must be in accordance with the applicable regulatory requirements.
Data-Sharing	Data is shared across the Government, subject to rights and privileges, so as to prevent duplicative sets of data by different agencies. Data Sharing shall be subject to conformance with the principles of Security & Privacy.
Data Trustee	Each data set has a trustee accountable for data quality and security.
Data Security	Data is protected from loss, unauthorized for data quality and Security.
Common Vocabulary	Data is defined consistently throughout all levels of Government, and the definitions are understandable and available to all users.
Technology
Technology Independent Architecture	Enterprise Architectures are developed in a technology-neutral manner so as to avoid captivity to a specific product or implementation method.
Future-Proof Architecture	Enterprise Architectures are suitably designed and developed so as to be future-proof, not requiring frequent revisions with the advent of every new technology.
Open Standards	Open Standards are adopted in the design and implementation of all greenfield systems. Legacy systems are incentivized to migrate to open standards, where required.
Shared Infrastructure	IT Infrastructure is shared to ensure optimal utilization and effective maintenance.
Cloud First	Cloud infrastructure is chosen by default for deployment of applications and on-site option is resorted to only with strong justification.
Mobile First	Mobile channels are the mandatory  for delivery of all services, among all delivery channels.
Availability	The information systems along with the applications and services are available 24 x 7.
Integration
Openness and Transparency	Government data is made open, barring exceptions, so that external parties can build services.
Interoperability	Interoperability is assured through adoption of open standards and open interfaces.
Data Portability	Data is easily transferable and usable across jurisdictions, applications and systems.
Primary of User Experience	All service interactions are designed with citizens at the core, by providing integrated multi-channel service delivery.
Elimination of Digital Divide	Digital public services are available to citizens and users belonging to all groups, and there are no differences and discrimination based on location (rural versus urban), access to technological infrastructure, and physical abilities.
Multilingualism	Services are delivered in language/s that are preferred by the consuming populations with the option of multi-lingual support, wherever feasible.
Security
Data Integrity	Data is correct, consistent and un-tampered.
Data Privacy and Confidentiality	Data is shared on a Need-To-Know basis and is collected / accessed / modified only by authorized personnel.
Architecture Governance
Primary of Principles	These principles of enterprise information management apply to all organizations in Government.
Discipline	All Stakeholders of EA Governance structure need to follow the discipline of conformance to the principles and standards.
Transparency	The architectural decision taken are transparent to all stakeholders.
Accountability	Stakeholders, including service providers are accountable for the responsibility assigned to them in the Architecture Development and Implementation, and in strict adherence to these principles.

To access the complete document http://egovstandards.gov.in/sites/default/files/IndEA%20Framework%201.0.pdf 

To access the IndEA Adoption Guide, click here. ( http://egovstandards.gov.in/sites/default/files/IndEA%20Adoption%20Guide%201.0_0.pdf ) 

Source : NeGD, MeitY

PART  IX     DIGITAL INDIA BUILDING BLOCKS

Digital India Infrastructure-  Digital India Services-  Digital India Empowerment

Digital India Cyber Laws

DIGITAL INDIA INFRASTRUCTURE 

The existence of a reliable digital infrastructure is a prerequisite for delivering citizen services electronically and online. Realising this, the indian government has been building a national level connectivity infrastructure and networks. Here is the list of infrastructure projects undertaken as building blocks for Digital India  Programme. 

1

AADHAAR

Aadhaar identity platform is one of the key pillars of ‘Digital India’, wherein every resident of the country is provided with a unique identity or Aadhaar number. The largest biometrics based identification system in the world, Aadhaar is a strategic policy tool for social and financial inclusion, public sector delivery reforms, managing fiscal budgets, increase convenience and promote hassle-free people-centric governance. It is unique and robust enough to eliminate duplicate or fake identities and may be used as a basis/primary identifier to roll out several Government welfare schemes and programmes for effective service delivery thereby promoting transparency and good governance.

Website: https://uidai.gov.in 

2

BHARAT BROADBAND NETWORK (BBNL)

Bharat Broadband Network Limited is a special purpose vehicle set up under the Companies Act by Government of India with an authorized capital of Rs. 1000 Cr. It has been mandated to create the National Optical Fiber Network (NOFN) in India. A total of around 2,50,000 Gram Panchayats spread over 6,600 Blocks and 641 Districts are to be covered by laying incremental fiber. 

Website.http://www.bbnl.nic.in/index.aspx 

3. 

CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE FOR INTERNET OF THINGS (COE-IT)

The Centre of Excellence for IoT was announced as a part of  the Digital India Initiative to jump start the IOT ecosystem taking advantage of India's IT strengths and help the country attain a leadership role in the convergent area of hardware and software. The main objective of the center is to create innovative applications and domain capability. Additionally, the center will help build industry capable talent, start-up community and an entrepreneurial ecosystem for IOT.

Website.http://www.coe-iot.in/ 

 

4

CERT-IN

CERT-In was formed with an aim to secure Indian cyber space. CERT-In provides Incident Prevention and Response services as well as Security Quality Management Services. CERT-In has been designated under Section 70B of Information Technology (Amendment) Act 2008 to serve as the national agency to perform the following functions in the area of cyber security:

• Collection, analysis and dissemination of information on cyber incidents

• Forecast and alerts of cyber security incidents

• Emergency measures for handling cyber security incidents

• Coordination of cyber incident response activities

• Issue guidelines, advisories, vulnerability notes and whitepapers relating to information security practices, procedures, prevention, response and reporting of cyber incidents

Website.http://www.cert-in.org.in/

 

5.

CSC 2.0

CSC 2.0 aims to establish a self sustaining network of 2.5 lakh CSC centres at Gram Panchayat (GP) level under Digital India and deliver various citizen centric services. It is envisaged as transaction-based and service delivery-based model, delivering a large bouquet of e-services through a single delivery platform, which would increase the sustainability of the CSCs across the Country. The project proposes to strengthen the CSC network by ensuring standardization of service availability and ensuring capacity building of all stakeholders involved.

Website : https://csc.gov.in/

6.

CYBER SWACHHTA KENDRA

Cyber Swachhta Kendra (Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre) is a part of the Government of India's Digital India initiative to create a secure cyberspace by detecting botnet infections in India and to notify, enable cleaning and securing systems of end users so as to prevent further infections. It is set up in accordance with the objectives of the ‘National Cyber Security Policy’, which envisages creating a secure cyber eco-system in the country. This centre operates in close coordination and collaboration with Internet Service Providers and Product/Antivirus companies.

Website.http://www.cyberswachhtakendra.gov.in/

7

DEEN DAYAL UPADHYAYA GRAM JYOTI YOJANA

One of the flagship programmes of the Power Ministry (MoP), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) is designed to provide continuous power supply to the entire rural India. With this scheme, the government had decided to electrify 18,452 unelectrified villages within 1000 days, by May 1, 2018. The DDUGJY can benefit rural households significantly as electricity is extremely vital for growth and development of the country.

Website.http://www.ddugjy.in/

8

DIGILOCKER

DigiLocker is the Indian Government’s flagship program aimed at transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. DigiLocker ties into Digital India’s visions areas of providing citizens a shareable private space on a public cloud and making all documents/certificates available on this cloud. Targeted at the idea of paperless governance, DigiLocker is a platform for issuance and verification of documents & certificates in a digital way, thus eliminating the use of physical documents.

Website. https://digilocker.gov.in

9

DIGISEVAK- VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (VMS)

DigiSevak is an online volunteering platform for interested citizens who want to contribute to the success of Digital India program. Various government departments and agencies can create volunteering tasks and volunteers can choose tasks based on their skills and interest areas. The platform provides means for end-to-end execution of a volunteering task, right from registration of volunteers to creation of tasks, evaluation of tasks and rewards & recognition of contribution by volunteers.

Website.http://digisevak.gov.in/

 

10.

DIGITAL SAKSHARTA ABHIYAAN (DISHA)

The Digital Saksharta Abhiyan or National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) Scheme has been formulated to impart IT training to 52.5 lakh persons, including Anganwadi, ASHA workers and authorised ration dealers in all the States/UTs across the country. The initiative aims at training non-IT literate citizens to become IT literate to enable their active and effective participation in the democratic, developmental process, and enhance their livelihood too.

 

11.

DIGITIZE INDIA

Digitize India Platform (DIP) is an initiative of the Government of India under the Digital India Programme to provide digitization services for scanned document images or physical documents for any organization. The aim is to digitize and make usable all the existing content in different formats and media, languages, digitize and create data extracts for document management, IT applications and records management.

Website.https://digitizeindia.gov.in/

12

DIRECT BENEFIT TRANSFER (DBT)

DBT was initiated with the aim to reform Government delivery system by re-engineering the existing process in welfare schemes for simpler and faster flow of information/funds and to ensure accurate targeting of the beneficiaries, de-duplication and reduction of fraud. DBT will bring efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and accountability in the Government system and infuse confidence of citizens in the governance. Use of modern technology and IT tools will realize the dream of MAXIMUM GOVERNANCE MINIMUM GOVERNMENT.

Website.https://dbtbharat.gov.in/

13.

eBASTA

In line with the Government's Digital India initiative, this project has created a framework to make school books accessible in digital form as e-books to be read and used on tablets and laptops. The main idea is to bring various publishers (free as well as commercial) and schools together on one platform. In addition to the portal, a back-end framework to facilitate the organization and easy management of such resources has been developed, along with the web-based applications that can be installed on tablets for navigating the framework.

Website.https://www.ebasta.in/ ( site not accessible) 

 

14

ELECTRONIC DEVELOPMENT FUND (EDF)

As part of the ‘Digital India’ agenda of the Government, and to develop the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector in order to achieve ‘Net Zero Imports’ by 2020 and to look at India as their next destination to cater to the domestic Indian demand as well as act as an exports hub in the ESDM sector. It is with this objective that an Electronic Development Fund (EDF) is set up as a "Fund of Funds" to participate in professionally managed "Daughter Funds" which in turn will provide risk capital to companies developing new technologies in the area of electronics, nano-electronics and Information Technology (IT).

Website.http://www.edfindia-canbankventure.com/

15

eSIGN

eSign is an online electronic signature service which can be integrated with service delivery applications via an open API to facilitate an Aadhaar holder to digitally sign a document. Using authentication of the Aadhaar holder through Aadhaar e-KYC service, online electronic signature service is facilitated

Website.http://cca.gov.in/

 

16

ESSO-INDIAN NATIONAL CENTER FOR OCEAN INFORMATION SERVICES

ESSO-INCOIS was established as an autonomous body in 1999 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and is a unit of the Earth System Science Organization (ESSO). ESSO- INCOIS is mandated to provide the best possible ocean information and advisory services to society, industry, government agencies and the scientific community through sustained ocean observations and constant improvement through systematic and focussed research.

 Website.http://www.incois.gov.in/portal/index.jsp

17

eTRADE

The Department of Commerce is pursuing the project eTRADE, the purpose of which is to facilitate foreign trade in India by way of promoting effective and efficient delivery of services by various regulatory / facilitating agencies involved in foreign trade so as to enable the trade to avail services from these agencies in online environments.

18

GARV GRAMEEN VIDYUTIKARAN MOBILE APP

.

The mobile application provides real-time updated data of ongoing electrification process to all users/stakeholders and provides information about Government schemes and electrification data. The app can also be used for sharing inspirational stories of differently-abled, who achieved success despite all odds.

 

19

GOVERNMENT eMARKETPLACE

Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is single window solution for online procurement of common use Goods & Services required by various Government Departments / Organizations / PSUs. GeM aims to enhance transparency, efficiency and speed in public procurement. It also provides the tools for direct purchase, e-bidding and reverse e-auction to facilitate the government users to achieve the best value for the money. The portal offers online registration facilities for all stakeholders namely Government Users, Product Sellers and Service Providers. 

Website.https://gem.gov.in/ 

20.

HERITAGE CITY DEVELOPMENT AND AUGMENTATION YOJANA (HRIDAY)

The Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India, launched the National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) scheme on 21st January, 2015, with a focus on holistic development of heritage cities. The scheme aims to preserve and revitalise soul of the heritage city to reflect the city’s unique character by encouraging aesthetically appealing, accessible, informative & secured environment.

Website.http://hridayindia.in/

21.

INTEGRATED HEALTH INFORMATION SYSTEM (IHIP)

An Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) is being setup by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The primary objective of IHIP is to enable the creation of standards compliant Electronic Health Records (EHRs) of the citizens on a pan-India basis along with the integration and interoperability of the EHRs through a comprehensive Health Information Exchange (HIE) as part of this centralized accessible platform.

Website.https://www.nhp.gov.in/

22

IRCTC CONNECT

In order to cater to the growing demand of passengers to make the ticketing application more user-friendly and faster, IRCTC Connect was developed. The new app with several add-on features is based on the next generation e-ticketing system. Synchronised with the ticketing website, the app facilitates search and book train tickets, check existing reservations or cancel them, and get upcoming journey alerts 

Website.https://www.irctc.co.in 

23.

JEEVAN PRAMAAN

Jeevan Pramaan is a biometric enabled digital service for pensioners of Central Government, State Government or any other Government organization. The new service aims to streamline the process of issuing life certificate and make it a hassle-free experience for the pensioners. With this initiative the pensioner’s requirement to physically present him/her in front of the disbursing agency or the certification authority will become a thing of the past benefiting the pensioners in a huge way and cutting down on unnecessary logistical hurdles.

Website.https://jeevanpramaan.gov.in/

24

MEGHRAJ

In order to utilise and harness the benefits of Cloud Computing, Government of India has embarked upon an ambitious initiative - "GI Cloud" which has been named as 'MeghRaj'. The focus of this initiative is to accelerate the delivery of e-services in the country while optimizing ICT spending of the Government. This will ensure optimum utilization of the infrastructure and speed up the development and deployment of eGov applications. 

Website.https://cloud.gov.in/index.php 

25

MOBILE SEVA APP STORE

A mobile applications store (m-AppStore) has been created to facilitate the process of development and deployment of suitable mobile applications for delivery of public services through mobile devices. The m-AppStore store is integrated with the MSDG and it shall use the MSDG infrastructure for deployment of such applications. The m-AppStore is based on service oriented architecture and cloud based technologies using open standards as far as practicable.

Website:  https://apps.mgov.gov.in/index.jsp 

 

26

NATIONAL SUPERCOMPUTING MISSION (NSM)

National SuperComputing Mission has been envisaged to empower the national academic and R&D institutions, spread across the country, by installing a vast supercomputing grid comprising of more than 70 high-performance computing facilities. These supercomputers will also be networked on the National Supercomputing grid over the National Knowledge Network (NKN).

Website.  https://nsmindia.in  

27

OPEN DATA

Open Government Data (OGD) Platform India - data.gov.in - is a platform for supporting Open Data initiative of Government of India. The portal is intended to be used by Government of India Ministries/ Departments their organizations to publish datasets, documents, services, tools and applications collected by them for public use. It intends to increase transparency in the functioning of Government and also open avenues for many more innovative uses of Government Data to give different perspectives.

Website.https://data.gov.in/

28

RAPID ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

National e-Governance Division, a division of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, has developed a Rapid Assessment System (RAS) for continuous feedback for e-services delivered by Government of India and State Governments. This system has multiple channels for receiving feedback and is backed by analytics. These analytics will help integrated departments for continuous system improvement and better governance.

Website.http://ras.gov.in/

29.

SINGLE WINDOW INTERFACE FOR TRADE (SWIFT)

As part of the “Ease of Doing Business” initiatives, the Central Board of Excise & Customs, Government of India has taken up implementation of the Single Window Project to facilitate the Trading Across Borders in India. The 'India Customs Single Window' would allow importers and exporters, the facility to lodge their clearance documents online at a single point only. Required permissions, if any, from other regulatory agencies would be obtained online without the trader having to approach these agencies. The Single Window Interface for Trade (SWIFT), would reduce interface with Governmental agencies, dwell time and the cost of doing business.

Website.https://www.icegate.gov.in/SWIFT/

30.

STATE WIDE AREA NETWORK

The Government had approved the Scheme for establishing State Wide Area Networks (SWANs) across the country, in March, 2005 to be expended by the Department under Grant-in-Aid of Rs. 2,005 crore, over a period of five years. Under this Scheme, technical and financial assistance are being provided to the States/UTs for establishing SWANs to connect all State/UT Headquarters up to the Block level via District/ sub-Divisional Headquarters, in a vertical hierarchical structure with a minimum bandwidth capacity of 2 Mbps per link. 

Website.http://meity.gov.in/content/state-wide-area-network-swan 

DIGITAL INDIA SERVICES

Digital India services are built and delivered online and electronically. Given the diversity of India and differing needs of its population, an assorted set of services have been built and delivered. Here is a list of Digital India services.

1.

ACCESSIBLE INDIA CAMPAIGN MOBILE APP

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Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan or Accessible India Campaign is a nation-wide flagship campaign for achieving universal accessibility that enables people with disabilities to gain access for equal opportunity, live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life in an inclusive society. The campaign targets at enhancing the accessibility of built environment, transport system and Information and communication ecosystem. The mobile application is a crowdsourcing platform to comprehensively obtain information on inaccessible places across the country. The mobile application is available on IOS, Android and Windows platform and can be downloaded from the respective App Stores.

Website.http://accessibleindia.gov.in/content/

2.

AGRIMARKET APP

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The mobile application has been developed with an aim to keep farmers abreast with the crop prices and discourage them to carry-out distress sale. Farmers can get information related to prices of crops in markets within 50km of their own device location using the AgriMarket Mobile App. This app automatically captures the location of the farmers using mobile GPS and fetches the market prices of crops which fall within the range of 50km. The prices of agri commodities are sourced from the Agmarknet portal. Currently, the apps are available in English and Hindi languages.

Website.http://mkisan.gov.in/downloadmobileapps.aspx 

3.

BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO

The campaign aims at ensuring girls are born, nurtured and educated without discrimination to become empowered citizens of this country. The Campaign interlinks National, State and District level interventions with community level action in 100 districts, bringing together different stakeholders for accelerated impact. The initiatives youtube channel show various videos related to the campaign.

Website.http://wcd.nic.in/BBBPScheme/main.htm ( site not working) 

4. 

BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money)

Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) is an app that makes payment transactions simple, easy and quick using Unified Payments Interface (UPI). It enables direct bank to bank payments instantly and collect money using a Mobile number or Payment address. Bharat Interface for Money app is currently available on Android and it is  downloadable from Google Playstore, for smartphones. 

Website.http://www.npci.org.in/

5. 

CRIME AND CRIMINAL TRACKING NETWORK & SYSTEMS (CCTNS)

Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) is a plan scheme conceived in the light of experience of a non-plan scheme namely - Common Integrated Police Application (CIPA). CCTNS aims at creating a comprehensive and integrated system for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of policing through adopting of principle of e-Governance and creation of a nationwide networking infrastructure for evolution of IT-enabled-state-of-the-art tracking system around 'Investigation of crime and detection of criminals'.

Website.http://www.ncrb.gov.in/BureauDivisions/CCTNS/cctns.htm ( Site Not working) 

6. 

CROP INSURANCE MOBILE APP

Crop Insurance mobile app can be used to calculate the Insurance Premium for notified crops based on area, coverage amount and loan amount in case of loanee farmer. It can also be used to get details of normal sum insured, extended sum insured, premium details and subsidy information of any notified crop in any notified area. 

Website.http://mkisan.gov.in/downloadmobileapps.aspx

 

7

DIGITAL AIIMS

The first step in the Digital AIIMS project was taken in January 2015 with the creation of an effective linkage between AIIMS, Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeiTY). A unique health identification number for every patient visiting AIIMS was generated on an Aadhar platform. The Unique Health Identification Number gave every Patient visiting AIIMS a Digital Identity.

Website. http://ehospital.nic.in 

8

e-GRANTHALAYA

e-Granthalaya is an Integrated Library Management Software developed by National Informatics Centre,(NIC), Department of Electronics & Information Technology. The application is useful for automation of in-house activities of libraries and to provide various online member services. The software provides built-in Web OPAC interface to publish the library catalogue over Internet. The software is UNICODE Compliant, thus, supports data entry in local languages.

Website.http://egranthalaya.nic.in/

9.

E-PANCHAYAT

e-Panchayat is an e-Governance initiative for the rural sector providing comprehensive software solution attempting automation of Gram Panchayat functions. It is a platform for panchayat representatives to connect with rest of the world, which aims to bring out the local voices by empowering the local communities to showcase and share local social, cultural and economic practices, stories and challenges.

Website.http://epanchayat.in/

 

10

Ebiz

eBiz is being implemented by Infosys Technologies Limited (Infosys) under the guidance and aegis of Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. The focus of eBiz is to improve the business environment in the country by enabling fast and efficient access to Government-to-Business (G2B) services through an online portal. This will help in reducing unnecessary delays in various regulatory processes required to start and run businesses.

Website.https://www.ebiz.gov.in/home/ ( site not working)

 

11.

ECI EVM TRACKING

It is a GPRS based mobile application for ECI Officials to scan barcode on EVM machines (BU or CU or VVPAT), which is used in Polls.

Website.https://apps.mgov.gov.in/descp.do?appid=217

 

12.

eDISTRICT

The e-District Mission Mode Project (MMP) is envisaged to strengthen the district administration of the state by providing ICT support to the participating departments and district administration in terms of providing centralized software application for selected category of citizen services and training for staff of the departments with a view to improve the delivery of citizen services being rendered by these departments. Services developed under e-District project would be delivered through various delivery channels like:

·     Direct access by Citizens through e-District portal as a registered user.

·     Existing Atal Jana Snehi Kendras / B1 / K1 service centres.

·     Common Service Centres (To be established upto Grama Panchayat Level).

 

13.

eGREETINGS

eGreetings portal aims to promote a contemporary and eco-friendly method of sharing greetings by Government officials and agencies as well as citizens to colleagues and friends for National Holidays and other national occasions. The portal allows users to select and send greetings from multiple occasion-specific templates. Government Departments can also customize the greetings by adding tag-lines and messages related to their programmes and schemes.

Website.https://egreetings.gov.in/ 

14.

 eHOSPITAL

eHOSPITAL is an open source health information management system ( HMIS) which is configurable and easily customizable with multi-tenancy support. It is designed to deploy in cloud infrastructure to manage multiple hospitals seamlessly. The generic application addresses all major functional areas of a hospital. A workflow based HL7 compliant and ISO/IEC 9126 certified end-to-end solution Software for hospital management which covers complete treatment cycle of OPD/IPD as well integrates clinical, administrative, and billing/ insurance activities.

Website. http://ehospital.nic.in 

 

15

eMSIPS

The electronic MSIPS (e-MSIPS) Application System enables online submission and scrutiny of applications submitted to the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) under the Modified Special Incentive Package Scheme (MSIPS) and Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) schemes. All registered users can submit their applications in the system, using the forms designed for the same. The system will enable online scrutiny of applications and online generation of responses to the applicant. The applicants can view the response in the system.

 

16.

eNAM

National Agriculture Market (NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which networks the existing APMC (Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee) mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. The NAM Portal provides a single window service for all APMC related information and services. This includes commodity arrivals and prices, buy and sell trade offers and provision to respond to trade offers, among other services. While material flow (agriculture produce) continues to happen through mandis, an online market reduces transaction costs and information asymmetry.

Website.  http://www.enam.gov.in 

17.

eOFFICE

The eOffice product aims to support governance by ushering in more effective and transparent inter and intra-government processes. The vision of e-Office is to achieve a simplified, responsive, effective and transparent working of all government offices. The Open Architecture on which eOffice has been built, makes it a reusable framework and a standard reusable product amenable to replication across the governments, at the central, state and district levels. The product brings together the independent functions and systems under a single framework.

Website.https://eoffice.gov.in/

18

ePATHSHALA

Developed by NCERT, ePathshala for showcasing and disseminating all educational e-resources including textbooks, audio, video, periodicals and a variety of other print and non-print materials through website and mobile app. The platform addresses the dual challenge of reaching out to a diverse clientele and bridging the digital divide (geographical, socio-cultural and linguistic), offering comparable quality of e-contents. All the concerned stakeholders such as students, teachers, educators and parents can access e-books through multiple technology platforms i.e. mobile phones (android, iOS and Windows platforms), and tablets (as e-pub) and on web through laptops and desktops (as flipbooks).

Website.http://epathshala.nic.in/

19.

EPFO WEB PORTAL & MOBILE APP

The web portal for Employees' Provident Funds Ordinance allows employees to check their EPF balance through an ePassbook which is an online version of their physical passbook. The mobile app allows the members to activate their UAN accounts from the comfort of their mobile phones and can also access their accounts for viewing their monthly credits through the passbook as well view their details available with EPFO. Similarly the EPF pensioners have been given the facility to access their pension disbursement details through this mobile app. Likewise, the employer can also view their remittance details.

Website.http://epfindia.gov.in/site_en/

20

ePRISON

The Scope of this project is to computerize and integrate all the activities related to prison and prisoner management in the jail. This application suite will provide the vital information about the inmates, lodged in the prisons, in real time environment to the prison officials and other entities, involved in Criminal Justice System. It will also facilitate online visit request and grievance redressal. ePrisons application suite, developed by NIC, is cloud based product designed with easy to use GUI and embedded with a comprehensive security features. It can be easily adopted by any state prisons department with minimum customization efforts since all the possible customization features are parameterized and can be configured by the users.

Website.  http://eprisons.nic.in

21

ePROCUREMENT PORTAL (CPP)

The Central Public Procurement Portal of Government of India facilitates all the Central Government Organizations to publish their Tender Enquiries, Corrigendum and Award of Contract details. The primary objective of this portal is to provide a single point access to the information on procurements made across various central government organizations..

Website.https://eprocure.gov.in/eprocure/app 

22.

eSAMPARK

e-Sampark is a mechanism to connect the government directly with citizens across India by running mailer, outbound dialing and SMS campaigns. The platform is used for sharing informational and public service messages. The concept of e-Sampark has been introduced to establish proactive communication by digitization of campaigns. The multi-faceted platform facilitates not only seamless communication between the government and citizens, but also maintains a database of contacts of the nodal officers, representatives and citizens. In addition, users can also view the previous campaigns conducted.

Website.   https://sampark.gov.in 

23.

eTAAL

eTaal is a web portal for dissemination of e-Transactions statistics of National and State level e-Governance Projects including Mission Mode Projects. It receives transaction statistics from web based applications periodically on near real time basis. eTaal presents quick analysis of transaction counts in tabular and graphical form to give quick view of transactions done by various e-Governance projects.

 

24.

 eVISA

The Ministry of Tourism supported the initiative regarding the implementation of Tourist Visa on Arrival enabled with Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) (renamed as e-Tourist Visa) strongly and committed all support to Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Civil Aviation for implementing this programme. The e-Tourist Visa enables the prospective visitor to apply for an Indian Visa from his/her home country online without visiting the Indian Mission and also pay the visa fee online.

Website. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in 

 

25

FARMER PORTAL

It is envisaged to make available relevant information and services to the farming community and private sector through the use of information and communication technologies, to supplement the existing delivery channels provided for by the department. Farmers’ Portal is an endeavour in this direction to create a one stop shop for meeting all informational needs relating to Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries sectors production, sale/storage of an Indian farmer. With this Indian Farmer will not be required to sift through maze of websites created for specific purposes.

Website. http://farmer.gov.in/

26

FERTILISER MONITORING SYSTEM (FMS)

The FMS software monitors movement of various fertilisers at various stages in their value chain. The website provides information on fertiliser companies dealing with these fertilisers, the rate of concession on each fertiliser, its MRPs and product wise / state wise details of despatch and receipts of fertilisers at different destinations across the country.

Website.http://www.urvarak.co.in/

27

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS)

Geographic Information System (GIS Software) is designed to store, retrieve, manage, display and analyze different types of geographic and spatial data, which allows users to produce maps and other graphic displays of geographic information for analysis and presentation and thus serves as a valuable tool to visualize spatial data and/or to build decision support systems for further use in any organization or research bodies. GIS stores data in geographical features and their characteristics; these features are typically classified as points, lines or areas, or as raster images. GIS stores information using spatial indices that make it possible to identify the features located in any arbitrary region of a map.

Website.https://ncog.gov.in/

28.

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA (GSI)

The Portal has been developed through the Online Core Business Integrated System Project (OCBIS). The objective behind the Portal is to provide a single window access to information and services being provided by the GSI for the broad geoscientific community, citizens and other stakeholders. An attempt has been made through this Portal to provide comprehensive, accurate, reliable and single point source of information about GSI, its activities, achievements, geoscientific information and its various facets. 

Website. https://www.gsi.gov.in/

 

29.

GOODS AND SERVICE TAX NETWORK (GSTN)

The GST System Project is a unique and complex IT initiative. It is unique as it seeks, for the first time to establish a uniform interface for the taxpayer and a common and shared IT infrastructure between the Centre and States. The portal envisions becoming a trusted National Information Utility (NIU) which provides reliable, efficient and robust IT Backbone for the smooth functioning of the Goods & Services Tax regimen enabling economic agents to leverage the entire nation as One Market with minimal Indirect Tax compliance cost.

Website.http://www.gstn.org/index.php 

30.

HIMMAT APP

Himmat is an initiative by Delhi police especially for women. Himmat is an emergency service, comprised of an android emergency application, which can send a distress call or emergency message to Delhi Police officials and specified contact or group in an emergency situation faced by a woman. The Police personnel will get these SOS alerts and locations on a portal and as an sms on their mobile phones as well.

31

ICDS SYSTEMS STRENGTHENING AND NUTRITION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (ISSNIP)

SSNIP is World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) assisted project, implemented by the Ministry of Women Child Development in 162 high malnutrition burden districts in 8 States viz. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The objectives of the project is to support the Government of India and participating States to (i) strengthen the ICDS policy framework, systems and capacities, and facilitate community engagement, to ensure greater focus on children below three years of age; and (ii) strengthen convergent actions for improved nutrition outcomes.

 

32. 

KHOYA PAYA

The Khoya Paya portal is a citizen-based website to exchange information on missing and found children. It has been developed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY). The website is an enabling platform, where citizens can report missing children, as well as sightings of their whereabouts without wasting much time. The ‘Found’ children can also be reported on this web portal. The reporting can be done through text, photographs, videos and other means of transmitting and uploading information to the site.

Website.http://khoyapaya.gov.in/mpp/home 

33.

KISAN SUVIDHA

Kisan Suvidha is an omnibus mobile app developed to help farmers get relevant information instantly. The app provides information on various details such as weather, market prices, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, agriculture machinery, dealers, agro advisories, plant protection and  IPM practices etc. Other unique features like extreme weather alerts, market prices of commodities in nearest area and the maximum price in state as well as in  India have been added to empower farmers in the best possible manner. 

Website.http://www.kisaansuvidha.com 

 

34.

KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (KMS)

Digital India Program envisions to ‘Transform India into a Digitally Empowered Society and Knowledge Economy’. To spearhead this vision, Knowledge Management Portal has been created to establish a culture where knowledge is captured, shared, created and reused. It provides a platform to leverage the transformation of data to knowledge by systematically aligning with the organizational goals and strategy.

35

LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (LMS)

Learning Management System (LMS) is a software application for the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting and delivery of electronic courses (e-learning) and training programs. As a capacity building tool, LMS facilitates efficient administration of e-learning and training for various government officials both at centre and states/union territories. It has the objective of enhancing knowledge and skills of users as per their roles envisaged in the e-Governance Competency Framework (eGCF).

 

36.

MADAD APP

Consular Services Management System (MADAD) has been setup for Indian Citizens to log and track Grievances pertaining to the Consular Services offered by the Indian Embassies (Missions/Posts) abroad. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) with a view to provide mobile enablement of MADAD, has launched MADAD Mobile Application on Android, iOS, and Windows platforms.

Website.http://www.madad.gov.in/AppConsular/welcomeLink 

37

mASSET

mAsset is a mobile based tool that acts as a supplement application to capture details such as photo and Geo-coordinates of the Assets into National Asset Directory (NAD). Additionally, this application is also used to capture the details of Asset (Category, sub-category, name of the Asset, Photo & Geo-coordinates) which are not available in the NAD application. NAD is one of the applications developed under Panchayat Enterprise Suite under e-Panchayat Mission Mode Project. 

Website.http://assetdirectory.gov.in 

38

MCA21

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India, has initiated the MCA21 project, which enables easy and secure access to MCA services in an assisted manner for corporate entities, professionals, and the general public. The MCA21 project is designed to fully automate all processes related to enforcement and compliance of the legal requirements under the Companies Act, 1956.

The project further seeks to achieve interoperability with the National e-Governance Services Delivery Gateway (NSDG), which will help extend MCA services to businesses via multiple front-end delivery channels, and which will also help provide other value-added services over and above the base services offered by MCA21.

Website.http://www.mca.gov.in 

 

39

mCESSATION

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, in partnership with World Health Organisation and the International Telecommunications Union, has started an initiative for utilising mobile technology for tobacco cessation. WHO-ITU’s ‘Be Healthy Be Mobile’ initiative, aims to reach out to tobacco users of all categories who want to quit tobacco use and support them towards successful quitting through constant text messaging on mobile phones.

Website.http://www.nhp.gov.in/quit-tobacco 

40

mKAVACH

MKavach is a comprehensive mobile device security solution with an emphasis and approach on protecting mobile device resources rather than scanning for malwares signatures. The major threats on mobile devices can be broadly categorized into data compromise, malicious applications, physical thefts and mis-utilization of hardware resources. M-Kavach is designed to provide protection against the above mentioned threats, through its features such as Secure Storage, Application Manager, Anti-Theft, Call/SMS filter and authorized access to device resources like WiFi, Bluetooth & Camera.

Website.https://cdac.in/index.aspx?id=cs_eps_mkavach  

41

mKISAN

mKisan SMS Portal has been conceptualised to give a quantum leap in coverage of farmers and geographical area in a timely, specific, holistic and need based knowledge dissemination among the farmers by leveraging the power of mobile telephony in such a way that all sectors use this platform to not only reach out to the farmers but also to address their concerns and queries.

Website.http://mkisan.gov.in/ 

 

42

MOTHER & CHILD TRACKING SYSTEM (MCTS)

Mother and Child Tracking System (MCTS) is an initiative of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to leverage information technology for ensuring delivery of full spectrum of healthcare and immunization services to pregnant women and children up to 5 years of age. It facilitates and monitors service delivery and also establishes a two way communication between the service providers and beneficiaries.

Website.http://nrhm-mcts.nic.in/Home.aspx

43

mRAKTKOSH

The web-based mechanism interconnects all the Blood Banks of the State into a single network. The Integrated Blood Bank MIS refers the acquisition, validation, storage and circulation of various live data and information electronically regarding blood donation and transfusion service. Such a system is able to assemble heterogeneous data into legible reports to support decision making from effective donor screening to optimal blood dissemination in the field. 

Website.http://www.eraktkosh.in/

 

44

NATIONAL CAREER SERVICE PORTAL

A national ICT based portal has been developed, primarily to connect opportunities with the aspirations of the youth. This portal facilitates registration of job seekers, job providers, skills providers, career counsellors, etc. Additionally, it provides job matching services in a highly transparent and user-friendly manner. These facilities along with career counselling will be delivered by the portal through multiple channels like career centers, mobile devices, CSCs, etc.

Website.https://www.ncs.gov.in/

45. 

NATIONAL KNOWLEDGE NETWORK

National Knowledge Network (NKN) project is aimed at establishing a strong and robust Indian network which will be capable of providing secure and reliable connectivity. Globally, frontier research and innovation are shifting towards multidisciplinary and collaborative paradigm and require substantial communication and computational power. In India, NKN with its multi-gigabit capability aims to connect all universities, research institutions, libraries, laboratories, healthcare and agricultural institutions across the country to address such paradigm shift.

Website.http://nkn.gov.in/home 

46

NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PORTAL (NSP)

NSP is a one-stop solution for end-to-end scholarship process right from the submission of student application, verification, sanction and disbursal to end beneficiary for all the scholarships provided by the Government of India. This initiative aims at providing a Simplified, Mission-oriented, Accountable, Responsive & Transparent 'SMART' System for faster & effective disposal of Scholarships applications and delivery of funds directly into beneficiaries account without any leakages.

Website.http://scholarships.gov.in/

47

NATIONAL UJALA DASHBOARD

The initiative is part of the Government of India’s efforts to spread the message of energy efficiency in the country. UJALA scheme aims to promote efficient use of energy at the residential level; enhance the awareness of consumers about the efficacy of using energy efficient appliances and aggregating demand to reduce the high initial costs thus facilitating higher uptake of LED lights by residential users.

Website.http://www.ujala.gov.in/

48

NATIONAL VOTERS SERVICE PORTAL (NVSP)

The portal was developed with an aim to provide single window service electors. Through NVSP, a user can avail and access various services such as   access the electoral list, apply for voter id card, apply online for corrections in voter’s card, view details of Polling booth, Assembly Constituency and Parliamentary constituency, and get the contact details of Booth Level officer, Electoral Registration Officer, among other services.

Website.http://www.nvsp.in/ 

49

NIKSHAY

To monitor Revised National Tuberculosis Programme (RNTCP) effectively, a web enabled and case based monitoring application called NIKSHAY has been developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC). This is used by health functionaries at various levels across the country in association with Central TB Division (CTD), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. NIKSHAY covers various aspects of controlling TB using technological innovations. Apart from web based technology, SMS services have been used effectively for communication with patients and monitoring the programme on day to day basis.

Website.http://nikshay.in 

50.

NIRBHAYA APP

Nirbhaya: Be Fearless© is an android emergency application, which can send a distress call or emergency message to a specified contact or group in an emergency situation faced by a woman or any other individual in general. Correct Location, Information and Communication, with and from the app is dependent upon the basic hardware/software requirements, like - Active Data plan, SMS plan, minimum talk time and active GPS functionality.

51.

ONLINE LABS (OLABS)

Online Labs (OLabs) for school lab experiments provides students with the ease and convenience of conducting experiments over the internet. It has been developed to supplement the traditional physical labs and bridge the constraints of time and geographical distances. This not only reduces the costs incurred for conducting experiments in real time but gives a student the flexibility to explore and repeat experiments till they are thorough.

Website.http://www.olabs.edu.in/

 

52

PARIVAHAN PORTAL

The portal was launched to improve the quality of service delivery to the citizen and the quality of work environment of the RTOs. Its mission has been to automate all Vehicle Registration and Driving License related activities in transport authorities of country with the introduction of smart card technology to handle issues like inter-state transport vehicle movement and to create state and national level registers of vehicles/DL information. The latest initiative has been to centralize both applications- VAHAN and SARATHI, for ensuring higher transparency, security and reliability of operations through a countrywide unified database and provision of a highly citizen and trade centric web enabled environment.

Website.https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/

 

53.

PASSPORT SEVA PROJECT (PSP)

Passport Seva enables simple, efficient and transparent processes for delivery of passport and related services. Apart from creating a countrywide networked environment for Government staff, it integrates with the State Police for physical verification of applicant's credentials and with India Post for delivery of passports. The Passport Seva Project is transforming passport and related services in India to provide a best-in-class experience to Indian citizens. PSP is enabling MEA to deliver passport services in a reliable, convenient and transparent manner, within defined service levels.

Website.http://www.passportindia.gov.in/

54

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (PMIS)

Project Management and Information System (PMIS) has been developed in National eGovernance Division (NeGD) for Mission Mode Projects under e-Kranti.

·         PMIS is an integrated information system

·         PMIS offers information on cost, time and performance parameters of a project

·         PMIS is decision oriented

·         PMIS is capable of providing exception reports

Website.http://pmis.negd.gov.in/

55

PROJECT MONITORING WEBSITE FOR ECOURTS

 The website was planned to develop, deliver, install and implement automated decision-making and decision support system in 700 courts of Delhi, Bombay, Kolkata & Chennai; 900 courts in the 29 capital city courts of the states and UTs and 13000 district and subordinate courts. The objective of the project was to help judicial administrations of the courts in streamlining their day-to-day activities.

 

56

PUBLIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (PFMS)

PFMS initially started as a Plan scheme named CPSMS of the Planning Commission in 2008-09 as a pilot in four States of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab and Mizoram for four Flagship schemes e.g. MGNREGS, NRHM, SSA and PMGSY. After the initial phase of establishing a network across Ministries / Departments, it has been decided to undertake National rollout of CPSMS (PFMS) to link the financial networks of Central, State Governments and the agencies of State Governments.

57

PUSA KRISHI

With the vision to take technology to the farm fields, Pusa Krishi application was developed. The app helps the farmers to find easy solutions to problems in their farm fields and get information about weather and accordingly take measures to save crops. It also offers information related to new varieties of crops developed by Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), resource conserving cultivation practices as well as farm machinery and its implementation will help in increasing returns to farmers.  

Website.http://agricoop.nic.in/recentinitiatives/mobile-apps-kisan-suvidha-and-pusa-krishi-launched 

58.

SARANSH

A CBSE Initiative, Saransh is a tool for comprehensive self-review and analysis for CBSE affiliated schools and parents. It enables them to analyze students' performance in order to take remedial measures. Saransh brings schools, teachers and parents closer, so that they can monitor the progress of students and help them improve their performance.

 

59

SHAALA DARPAN

KV Shaala Darpan is an e-Governance platform for all Kendriya Vidyalayas in the country. It aims to improve the quality of learning, efficiency of school administration, governance of schools & service delivery to key stakeholders namely, students, parents, teachers, community and schools.

Website.https://darpan.kvs.gov.in/shaaladarpan/

 

60.

Shala Siddhi

The National Programme on School Standards and Evaluation (NPSSE), known as Shaala Sidhdhi is a comprehensive instrument for school evaluation leading to school improvement. Developed by the National University of Educational Planning and Administration (NUEPA), it aims to enable schools to evaluate their performance in a more focused and strategic manner and facilitate them to make professional judgments for improvement.

61.

SMS-BASED MID-DAY MEAL MONITORING SCHEME

Mid-Day Meal mobile app is meant for effective monitoring of daily and monthly mid-day meal data to be sent by the schools. The app provides additional data communicating mechanism for the MDM in-charge/teacher who has to send the daily/monthly data using SMS. The app, once installed on android device, does not need the Internet to send MDM figures as user has option to send the figure through SMS from the app. This simplifies the job of MDM in-charge, who even does not have to remember the SMS formats. The higher authorities at Block, District and State level have a very simple and effective mechanism in the shape of this app on their mobile devices for effective and efficient monitoring of daily as well as monthly data transmission by all the MDM in-charge falling under their jurisdiction. The authorities can send SMS alerts to all defaulters using single button available in the app.

Website.http://mdm.nic.in/ 

62.

SOIL HEALTH CARD

It aims at promoting Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) through judicious use of chemical fertilisers including secondary and micro nutrients in conjunction with organic manures and bio-fertilisers for improving soil health and its productivity; strengthening of soil and fertiliser testing facilities to provide soil test based recommendations to farmers for improving soil fertility; ensuring quality control requirements of fertilisers, bio-fertilisers and organic fertilisers under Fertiliser Control Order, 1985; upgradation of skill and knowledge of soil testing laboratory staff, extension staff and farmers through training and demonstrations; promoting organic farming practices etc.

63

STARTUP INDIA PORTAL AND MOBILE APP

Startup India is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, intended to build a strong eco-system for nurturing innovation and Startups in the country that will drive sustainable economic growth and generate large scale employment opportunities. The Government through this initiative aims to empower Startups to grow through innovation and design.

Website.http://www.startupindia.gov.in/ 

64.

SUGAMAYA PUSTAKALYA

Sugamaya Pustakalaya is an online platform that makes accessible content available to print-disabled people. The library houses publications across diverse subjects and languages and multiple accessible formats. It has been created by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in collaboration with member organizations of Daisy Forum of India and powered by TCS Access.

Website.https://library.daisyindia.org/NALP/welcomeLink.action 

65

SWATCH BHAARAT APP

The Swachhta Abhiyan has turned into a National Movement with citizens now becoming active participants in cleanliness activities across the nation. The dream of a ‘Clean India’ once seen by Mahatma Gandhi is being realized with millions of people across the country joining the cleanliness initiatives of the government departments, NGOs and local community centres to make India clean as a part of this ‘Jan Andolan’.

Website.https://swachhbharat.mygov.in/

66.

SWAYAM

SWAYAM seeks to bridge the digital divide for students who have hitherto remained untouched by the digital revolution and have not been able to join the mainstream of the knowledge economy.This is done through an indigenous developed IT platform that facilitates hosting of all the courses, taught in classrooms from 9th class till post-graduation to be accessed by anyone, anywhere at any time. 

Website.https://swayam.gov.in 

67.

UDAAN

Udaan is a special initiative to address the needs of the educated unemployed in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). It is focused on youth of the state, who are graduate, post graduate and three year diploma engineers. The programme is designed to encourage corporates to travel to J&K meet with the youth and hire aspiring youth in J&K who wish to explore the opportunity to work with corporates. Udaan provides a framework of support to the youth to travel, undergo training in firms and transit to work. 

68

UMANG

UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance) is one of the key initiatives under the Digital India program to develop a common, unified platform and mobile app to facilitate a single point of access to all government services. It is envisaged to act as a master application, which will integrate 200 applications which will offer around 1,200 services of various government departments of the Centre, states and local bodies, and even some important utility services from the private sector. Its primary aim is to abridge inconvenience faced by users in managing multiple mobile apps and facilitate a one-stop-solution to avail varied government services.

Website.https://umang.gov.in 

 

69

UN-RESERVED TICKET THROUGH MOBILE APPLICATION (UTS APP)

In order to promote paperless economy, Indian Railways has launched its new UTS on mobile application. This official android mobile ticketing app enables booking unreserved paperless journey ticket, issue/renew season ticket and platform ticket. The app has introduced two modes of booking mobile tickets-Paper Ticket and Paperless Ticket.

Website.https://www.utsonmobile.indianrail.gov.in/RDS/ 

 

DIGITAL INDIA EMPOWERMENT

With digital india infrastructure and service are in place, it is time to put them into action.  Government has implemented many schemes and projects integrating them with Digital India services. Here is the list of such projects   

1.

AADHAAR ENABLED PAYMENT SYSTEM

AEPS is a bank led model which allows online interoperable financial inclusion transaction at PoS (MicroATM) through the Business correspondent of a bank using the Aadhaar authentication. It is a payment service empowering a bank customer to use Aadhaar as his/her identity to access his/ her respective Aadhaar enabled bank account and perform basic banking transactions like balance enquiry, cash deposit, cash withdrawal, remittances through a Business Correspondent.  

2.

BPO Scheme

The India BPO Promotion Scheme (IBPS) seeks to incentivize establishment of 48,300 seats in respect of BPO/ITES operations across the country. It is distributed among each State in proportion of State's population with an outlay of Rs. 493 Crore. This would help in capacity building in smaller cities in terms of infra & manpower and would become the basis for the next wave of IT/ITES led growth. This scheme has the potential to create employment opportunities for around 1.5 lakh direct jobs considering three shift operations. It may also create a good number of indirect jobs.

Website.https://ibps.stpi.in/

3.

DigiDhan ABHIYAAN

The initiative plans to enable citizens and merchants to undertake real time digital transactions through the DIGIDHAN Bazaar.Through organising DigiDhan Melas across the country, it aims to handhold users in downloading, installing and using various digital payment systems for carrying out digital transactions.

Website.https://digidhan.mygov.in/

4.

MyGov

MyGov platform is a unique path breaking initiative which was launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. It is a unique first-of-its-kind participatory governance initiative involving the common citizen at large. The idea of MyGov brings the government closer to the common man by the use of online platform creating an interface for healthy exchange of ideas and views involving the common citizen and experts with the ultimate goal to contribute to the social and economic transformation of India.

Website.http://mygov.in 

 

5.

NATIONAL MISSION ON EDUCATION USING ICT

The National Mission on Education through Information and Communication Technology (NMEICT) has been envisaged as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to leverage the potential of ICT, in teaching and learning process for the benefit of all learners in Higher Education Institutions in any time any where mode. It is a landmark initiative of the Ministry of Human Resource Development to address all the education and learning related needs of students, teachers and lifelong learners.

Website.http://www.nmeict.ac.in/#

6.

NORTH EAST BPO PROMOTION SCHEME (NEBPS)

The North East BPO Promotion Scheme (NEBPS) has been approved under Digital India Programme, to incentivize BPO/ITES Operations in North East Region (NER) for creation of employment opportunities for the youths and growth of IT-ITES Industry. The objectives of NEBPS are as under:

(i) Creation of employment opportunities for the local youth in NER, by promoting the IT/ITES Industry particularly by setting up the BPO/ITES operations.

(ii) Promotion of investment in IT/ITES Sector in NER in order to expand the base of IT Industry and secure balanced regional growth.

Website.http://meity.gov.in/nebps  

7

NREGA-SOFT

NREGAsoft envisions implementing e-Governance across State, District and three tiers of Panchayati Raj Institutions. It empowers the common man using the information technology as a facilitator. NREGAsoft provides information to citizen in compliance with the right to information Act (RTI Act). It makes available all the documents like Muster Rolls, registration application register, job card/employment register/muster roll issue register, muster roll receipt register which are hidden from public otherwise.

8.

OPEN FORGE

OpenForge is Government of India's platform for open collaborative development of e-governance applications. Through this platform, the government wants to promote the use of open source software and promote sharing and reuse of e-governance related source code. OpenForge has the following objectives:

-To provide a platform for maintaining code repositories and version control for government source code

-To promote a culture of open collaborative application development between public agencies and private organizations, citizens and institutions

-To reduce development cycles and fasten the rollout of e-governance applications in the country

-To deliver e-governance services and solutions of higher quality and security through increased transparency and mass peer review

-To reduce e-governance project cost and bring down the total cost of ownership through a system of reuse, remixing and sharing

Website.https://openforge.gov.in 

9.

PAHAL (DBTL)

The PAHAL (DBTL) aims to reduce diversion and eliminate duplicate or bogus LPG connections. The scheme was earlier launched in 2013 and was modified in 2015. Under the PaHaL scheme, LPG cylinders are sold at market rates and entitled consumers get the subsidy directly into their bank accounts. This is done either through an Aadhaar linkage or a bank account linkage.

Website.http://petroleum.nic.in/dbt/index.php 

 

10.

PAYGOV INDIA

A National Payment Service platform has been envisaged for a common e-Governance infrastructure that will offer end-to-end transactional experience for a citizen which includes accessing various services through internet with payment gateway interface for online payments. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology along with NSDL Database Management Ltd (NDML) created a common infrastructure that can be used by Center/States/Departments to offer various services through their National / State portals with a facility to make online payment using net banking, credit cards and debit cards.

Website.http://paygovindia.gov.in/ 

11

PRADHAN MANTRI GRAMIN DIGITAL SAKSHARTA ABHIYAAN

Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan is the scheme to make six crore persons in rural areas, across States/UTs, digitally literate, reaching to around 40% of rural households by covering one member from every eligible household by 31st March, 2019. The Scheme aims to bridge the digital divide, specifically targeting the rural population including the marginalised sections of society like Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST), Minorities, Below Poverty Line (BPL), women and differently-abled persons and minorities.

Website.https://www.pmgdisha.in 

12

PRADHAN MANTRI JAN-DHAN YOJANA (PMJDY)

PMJDY is a National Mission on Financial Inclusion encompassing an integrated approach to bring about comprehensive financial inclusion of all the households in the country. The plan envisages universal access to banking facilities at least one basic banking account in every household, financial literacy, access to credit, insurance and pension facility. The initiative envisages channeling all Government benefits (from Centre / State / Local Body) to the beneficiaries’ accounts and pushing the Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) scheme of the Union Government.

 

13

PRADHAN MANTRI KAUSHAL VIKAS YOJANA (PMKVY)

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The objective of this Skill Certification Scheme is to enable a large number of Indian youth to take up industry-relevant skill training that will help them in securing a better livelihood. Individuals with prior learning experience or skills will also be assessed and certified under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Website.http://www.pmkvyofficial.org/Index.aspx 

14

SMART CITIES

The Government of India launched the Smart Cities Mission in June 2015.Its objective is to promote sustainable and inclusive cities that provide core infrastructure and give a decent quality of life to its citizens, a clean and sustainable environment and application of ‘Smart’ Solutions.The focus is on sustainable and inclusive development and the idea is to look at compact areas, create a replicable model which will act like a lighthouse to other aspiring cities. The Smart Cities Mission is meant to set examples that can be replicated both within and outside the Smart City, catalysing the creation of similar Smart Cities in various regions and parts of the country.

Website.http://smartcities.gov.in/content/

15

TARGETED PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM (TPDS)

The Government of India launched the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) with a focus on the poor. Under the TPDS, states were required to formulate and implement foolproof arrangements for the identification of the poor for delivery of foodgrains and for its distribution in a transparent and accountable manner at the FPS level. The scheme, when introduced, was intended to benefit about 6 crore poor families for whom a quantity of about 72 lakh tonnes of food grains was earmarked annually.

Website.http://dfpd.nic.in/

16

VISVESVARAYA PHD SCHEME FOR ELECTRONICS AND IT

One of the key goals of the Visvesvaraya PhD Scheme is to encourage working professionals and non-PhD faculty members to pursue a PhD in the ESDM & IT/ITES sectors as part-time candidates. It is envisioned that having part-time PhD students is likely to encourage the Industry-Academia interaction, help in the alignment of the R&D efforts between them and bring value to the country.

Website.http://phd.medialabasia.in/

 

DIGITAL INDIA CYBER LAWS 

1

India is one of the rising powers as far as Information Technology is concerned. The huge adoption and usage of mobile phones by the Indian population has made India a fertile e-commerce and m-commerce basin for the entire world.  Digital India needs a legal framework for online transactions. Such a law that governs online transactions is called Cyberlaw.

2

Cyber Laws yields legal recognition to electronic documents and a structure to support e-filing and e-commerce transactions and also provides a legal structure to reduce cybercrime and frauds 

India has put a legal framework for supporting online line transaction: Information Technology Act, 2000. India’s digital law has not only provided for legal framework for electronic commerce and mobile commerce to prosper but has also provided a solid foundation for the regulation of unwarranted activities in the digital ecosystem.  Some of the major acts are as follows

• Information Technology Act 2000

• Aadhaar ACT 2016

• Aadhaar ACT 2019 

• Data empowerment ACT 2019 

3.

Information Technology Act, 2000

 The Information Technology Bill, 1999, and passed in May 2000.

4

Objectives of the Act

The Information Technology Act, 2000 provides legal recognition to the transaction done via electronic exchange of data and other electronic means of communication or electronic commerce transactions.

This also involves the use of alternatives to paper-based methods of communication and information storage to facilitate the electronic filing of documents with the Government agencies.

Further, this act amended the Indian Penal Code 1860, the Indian Evidence Act 1872, the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act 1891, and the Reserve Bank of India Act 1934. The objectives of the Act are as follows:

1. Grant legal recognition to all transactions done via electronic exchange of data or other electronic means of communication or e-commerce, in place of the earlier paper-based method of communication.

2. Give legal recognition to digital signatures for the authentication of any information or matters requiring legal authentication

3. Facilitate the electronic filing of documents with the Government agencies and also departments

4. Facilitate the electronic storage of data

5. Give legal sanction and also facilitate the electronic transfer of funds between banks and financial institutions

6. Grant legal recognition to bankers under the Evidence Act, 1891 and the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, for keeping the books of accounts in electronic form.

5

Features of the Information Technology Act, 2000

1. All electronic contracts made through secure electronic channels are legally valid.

2. Legal recognition for digital signatures.

3. Security measures for electronic records and also digital signatures are in place

4. A procedure for the appointment of adjudicating officers for holding inquiries under the Act is finalized

5. Provision for establishing a Cyber Regulation Appellate Tribunal under the Act. Further, this tribunal will handle all appeals made against the order of the Controller or Adjudicating Officer.

6. An appeal against the order of the Cyber Appellate Tribunal is possible only in the High Court

7. Digital Signatures will use an asymmetric cryptosystem and also a hash function

8. Provision for the appointment of the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) to license and regulate the working of Certifying Authorities. The Controller to act as a repository of all digital signatures.

9. The Act applies to offences or contraventions committed outside India

10. Senior police officers and other officers can enter any public place and search and arrest without warrant

11. Provisions for the constitution of a Cyber Regulations Advisory Committee to advise the Central Government and Controller.

6.

Applicability and Non-Applicability of the Act

Applicability

According to Section 1 (2), the Act extends to the entire country, which also includes Jammu and Kashmir. In order to include Jammu and Kashmir, the Act uses Article 253 of the constitution. Further, it does not take citizenship into account and provides extra-territorial jurisdiction.

Section 1 (2) along with Section 75, specifies that the Act is applicable to any offence or contravention committed outside India as well. If the conduct of person constituting the offence involves a computer or a computerized system or network located in India, then irrespective of his/her nationality, the person is punishable under the Act.

7.

Non-Applicability

According to Section 1 (4) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Act is not applicable to the following documents:

1. Execution of Negotiable Instrument under Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, except cheques.

2. Execution of a Power of Attorney under the Powers of Attorney Act, 1882.

3. Creation of Trust under the Indian Trust Act, 1882.

4. Execution of a Will under the Indian Succession Act, 1925, including any other testamentary dispositions.
   by whatever name called.

5. Entering into a contract for the sale of conveyance of immovable property or any interest in such property.

6. Any such class of documents or transactions as may be notified by the Central Government in the Gazette.

Source: https://indiacode.nic.in/ 

8

The AADHAAR ACT 2016

The Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 intends to provide for targeted delivery of subsidies and services to individuals residing in India by assigning them unique identity numbers, called Aadhaar numbers.

9.

The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018

The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced by the Minister of Law and Justice, and Electronics and Information Technology, Mr. Ravi Shankar Prasad, in the Lok Sabha on January 2, 2019. The Bill amends the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.  The Aadhaar Act provides targeted delivery of subsidies and benefits to individuals residing in India by assigning them unique identity numbers, called Aadhaar numbers.
 

10. 

Offline verification of Aadhaar number holder:

 Under the Aadhaar Act, an individual’s identity may be verified by Aadhaar ‘authentication’. Authentication involves submitting the Aadhaar number, and their biometric and demographic information to the Central Identities Data Repository for verification.  The Bill additionally allows ‘offline verification’ of an individual’s identity, without authentication, through modes specified by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) by regulations.
 

During offline verification, the agency must (i) obtain the consent of the individual, (ii) inform them of alternatives to sharing information, and (iii) not collect, use or store Aadhaar number or biometric information.
 

11.

Voluntary use of Aadhaar to verify identity

 The Act provides for the use of Aadhaar number as proof of identity of a person, subject to authentication.  The Bill replaces this provision to state that an individual may voluntarily use his Aadhaar number to establish his identity, by authentication or offline verification.  The Bill states that authentication of an individual’s identity via Aadhaar, for the provision of any service, may be made mandatory only by a law of Parliament.
The Bill amends the Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 to state that telecom companies, banks and financial institutions may verify the identity of their clients by (i) authentication or offline verification of Aadhaar, or (ii) passport, or (iii) any other documents notified by the central government. The person has the choice to use either mode to verify his identity and no person shall be denied any service for not having an Aadhaar number.
 

13.

 Entities using Aadhaar:

Under the Act, usage of Aadhaar number for establishing the identity of an individual, by the State or a body corporate under any law, is permitted.  The Bill removes this provision.  An entity may be allowed to perform authentication through Aadhaar, if the UIDAI is satisfied that it is (i) compliant with certain standards of privacy and security, or (ii) permitted by law, or (iii) seeking authentication for a purpose specified by the central government in the interest of the State.

14.

Aadhaar number of children: 

The Bill specifies that at the time of enrolling a child to obtain an Aadhaar number, the enrolling agency shall seek the consent of his parent or guardian. The agency must inform the parent or guardian of (i) the manner in which the information will be used, (ii) the recipients with whom it will be shared, and (iii) their right to access the information. After attaining eighteen years of age, the child may apply for cancellation of his Aadhaar.

15. 

Disclosure of information in certain cases

Under the Act, restrictions on security and confidentiality of Aadhaar related information do not apply in case the disclosure is pursuant to an order of a District Court (or above). The Bill amends this to allow such disclosure only for orders by High Courts (or above).
Further, under the Act, an officer not below the rank of a Joint Secretary may issue directions for disclosing information in the interest of national security. The Bill amends this to allow such disclosure on directions of officers not below the rank of a Secretary.

16

Data Protection BILL  2019

India’s data protection law is a step closer to being enacted was introduced the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, in Parliament on December 11. The Bill provides a framework for protecting individuals’ privacy, the ways in which their data can be processed without consent, and the obligations of the processing individuals and organisations. The Bill articulates exemptions such as national security, under which even sensitive data of individuals can be processed without their express permission; it also sets the guidelines about which data needs to strictly remain, and be processed, within India, and what can be processed overseas. A Data Protection Authority will be set up to oversee the implementation of the law.

CONCLUSION

India’s Digital journey has begun. Digital India platform created by the government has three components namely Infrastructure, services and empowerment. Both central and state governments are delivering a number of services online- Aadhaar authentication, Digilocker, BHIM just few to name.  The open policy of government makes this digital india platform both Data and APIs accessible to the public at large. This represents a huge opportunity for entrepreneurial India and has potential unleash new prosperity.  The Digital India creates three levels of responsibilities. 

• The first and foremost is for the government to strengthen the existing  components of Digital India platform ( such as bandwidth )  and expand its reach further in terms for internet connectivity to every nook and corner of the nation.    

• The second but more important and dynamic responsibility  is for the citizen of India. Participating actively in digital india campaign by using services created for them - Aadhaar, Digilocker and UPI increasingly in their personal , professional and social lives and thus encouraging government to bring out more  useful service in future

• Lastly but most important responsibility lies with industry and institutions. They should take Digital India reach further from where government has left. They need to explore the possibility of integrating digital india resources into their working (such as Aadhaar enabled attendance,  UPI based transactions This will help in creating a more seamless industry and  government interfaces.  Budding and future entrepreneurs innovate on this Digital India platform and create new generation enterprises and  making themselves wealthy and country rich.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1.  Digital India Homepage ( https://dastikop.blogspot.in )

2. Digital India Video (  https://youtube.com/user/dastikop) 

3. Digital India Presentations ( https://slideshare.net/indravi )

4. Digital India Government Website  ( https://www.digitalindia.gov.in/ ) 

5. IndiaStack - https://indiastack.org/ 

6. National Health Stack - Digital Infrastructure ( https://niti.gov.in/writereaddata/files/document_publication/NHS-Strategy-and-Approach-Document-for-consultation.pdf 

7. National Health Stack ( https://niti.gov.in/writereaddata/files/document_publication/NHS-Strategy-and-Approach-Document-for-consultation.pdf 

8. https://www.medianama.com/2018/07/223-national-health-stack/ 

           AFTERWORD

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