The Union Government recently inaugurated the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Blockchain Technology in Bengaluru. This centre will be instrumental in delivering high-class blockchain services to various government departments by recognizing and distributing suitable data.
An Overview of the Centre of Excellence
The Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology is an initiative of the National Informatics Centre (NIC). Founded in 1976, NIC serves as a chief technology advisor and provides ICT solutions to the government at various levels using its comprehensive ICT Network, NICNET. The body plays a significant part in creating vital e-Governance solutions among numerous other services necessitated by the government.
Centre’s Key Objective
The overarching objective of the centre is to proffer Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) for efficient hosting of Blockchain networks. BaaS supports a shared learning platform, facilitating all stakeholders to benefit from collective experiences and resources. Blockchain-as-a-Service operates on a third-party cloud-based infrastructure and management system, allowing companies to build and manage blockchain applications effectively.
Facilitating Proof of Concepts
The CoE will work towards assisting government departments in developing proof of concepts (POCs) for implementing Blockchain technology across diverse governance facets. The aim of a POC is to test design ideas or assumptions and demonstrate their functionality. This process verifies if certain theories can be practically applied in development, which aids innovators in visualizing how the product will function. Therefore, while a POC demonstrates that a feature or product can be developed, a prototype displays how it will be developed.
| CoE | Location |
|---|---|
| Centre of Excellence for Data Analytics | New Delhi |
| Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence | Not mentioned |
| Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology | Bengaluru |
Potential Applications and Benefits
By applying Blockchain technology in various governmental operations, enhanced transparency, traceability, and trust in e-governance systems can be expected. It is an upcoming and niche technology. Its adoption across multiple sectors, including health, finance, and agriculture, can substantially support the government in executing various programmes.
