UP gets 'cloud computing' for paperless secretariats

Taking e-governance a notch higher, Uttar Pradesh government has adopted 'cloud computing' for gradual shift to 'paperless' secretariats in the state.

The advanced cloud computing concept is still in nascent stage in India. It refers to storing and accessing data over internet instead of computer's local hard drive. Cloud is used as a metaphor for web.

In first phase, UP IT and Electronics department is getting shifted to a paperless domain, wherein files would be stored in a highly secure environment in state-of-art 'Data Centre' here.

The Centre has been established on 'virtualisation concept' based on cloud computing. All files would also have backups and supplemented with disaster recovery mechanism, so that records are not destroyed during natural disasters or accidents and are easily retrieved.

The government is going paperless for bringing in more transparency and 'green governance'. Paperless office would ensure faster 'e-movement' of files/documents and disposal, while they could be tracked to fix procedural delays.

Besides, all government websites are in the process of upgrading and makeover.

The Akhilesh Yadav government has realised the imperatives of e-governance in ensuring prompt delivery of public services.

Earlier, e-district programme had been launched in select districts for the delivery of government services, such as issuance of certificates. Till July 2014, over 10 million applications were received under e-district in Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, Gorakhpur, Sitapur, Sultanpur and Rae Bareli.

The government has further decided to use social media platforms viz. Twitter and Facebook to propagate public welfare schemes.

All principal secretaries and secretaries have been directed to nominate nodal officer in their respective departments. This is aimed at speedy and transparent dissemination of information amongst general public and incorporating a system of getting feedback from the people.

The judicious use of social media would ensure the schemes get maximum publicity and reach masses.