E-PRI for Better Governance

Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched a unique scheme to proposes to provide a whole range of IT related services such as Decentralized Database & Planning, PRI Budgeting & Accounting, Implementation & monitoring of Central and State sector schemes, Citizen-centric Services, Unique codes to Panchayats and Individuals, Essential GIS based applications, On-line Self-learning medium for elected representatives and official functionaries. The scheme known as e-PRI has the potential to revolutionize PRIs as the symbol of modernity & efficiency and induce mass ICT culture. e-Governance Project for Panchayati Raj Institutions (e-PRI) is identified as one of the Mission Mode Projects (MMPs) under NeGP.

e-PRI envisages providing computing facilities along with connectivity to all the 2.36 lac Panchayats at a tentative cost of Rs. 4500 crore. over 3 years. Panchayats being the basic unit for planning and implementation of Cenral/ States programmes and schemes, e-PRI would, in a way, be the umbrella MMP. Government would, therefore, give high priority to e-PRI under NeGP. Information and Service Needs Assessment, Business Process Engineering and Detailed Budget Reports for 27 States has already been done and the Project is ready for roll out.

Source: Press Information Bureau