Management of e-Governance Project Implementation in Panchayat Institutions: A Case Study of Kerala

Abstract

Computerisation and the use of IT are inevitable to all the aspects of governance in modern times. While the social, infrastructural and communication challenges and the targeted benefits of e-governance projects are studied in detail, studies on the different aspects of change management during the implementation of these projects are limited. Here, change management is more than integrating technology involving respective functionaries and governance processes and adapting to the new realities. So change management is a crucial component in the effective implementation of e-governance projects. Though the Panchayat Raj institutions are established in the country, the systemic issues related to service delivery, administrative efficiency and lack of access to information challenge its effectiveness. In this regard, the Government of India initiated e-Panchayat MMP. This paper looks into the structure and implementation of the project, and the technical challenges institutions had to deal with as part of change management. Further, it explores the case of Kerala, where a State-specific application suite has been developed to suit its distinct nature of Panchayat administration.