Gujarat has emerged as a leader in digital governance under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. With the backing of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state has embraced transparency, accountability, and citizen-centric governance. A key initiative in this transformation is the Chief Minister Dashboard, which facilitates real-time monitoring of development projects and public services.
Project Setu Module Overview
Launched on Good Governance Day in 2023, the ‘Project Setu’ module is a high-level monitoring tool within the Pragati-G Portal. This initiative aims to ensure timely execution of government projects by identifying and addressing implementation challenges.
Monitoring and Management
Senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary, conduct detailed reviews of projects across multiple sectors. Issues are categorised into over ten categories for effective resolution strategies. This structured approach allows for micro-level monitoring of development initiatives.
Success Metrics of Project Setu
In its first year, ‘Project Setu’ reviewed 380 key projects worth ₹78,001 crore. It identified 327 issues, of which 193 have been resolved, achieving a 60 per cent success rate. This rapid problem-solving capability has improved project completion timelines .
Paperless Review Mechanism
The introduction of a paperless review mechanism has revolutionised project monitoring in Gujarat. This system enhances transparency and accelerates decision-making processes, making governance more efficient.
Key Departments and Financial Overview
The projects reviewed span various departments, including – – Urban Development – ₹22,653 crore, 76 projects – Roads and Buildings – ₹6,755 crore, 73 projects – Water Supply – ₹17,756 crore, 78 projects – Energy and Petrochemicals – ₹2,777 crore, 21 projects – Industries and Minerals – ₹6,579 crore, 11 projects – Tribal Development – ₹318 crore, 12 projects These figures illustrate the extensive scope of the ‘Project Setu’ initiative across critical sectors.
Pragati-G Portal
The Pragati-G Portal monitors projects with budgets exceeding ₹5 crore. To date, over 7,812 projects have been registered. Among these, 3,753 projects (48 per cent) have been completed, while others are at various execution stages. This portal exemplifies effective project management and accountability.
Impact on Governance and Development
The Pragati-G Portal and ‘Project Setu’ initiatives have not only improved monitoring and implementation but also enhanced inter-departmental coordination. This success story positions Gujarat as a model for good governance and sustainable development on national and international stages.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of digital governance on public service delivery in India.
- Estimate the role of real-time monitoring in enhancing project execution efficiency.
- Point out the significance of inter-departmental coordination in government initiatives.
- What are the challenges faced in implementing large-scale governance projects? Provide suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of digital governance on public service delivery in India.
- Digital governance enhances transparency, reducing corruption and increasing public trust.
- Real-time data accessibility improves decision-making and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
- It streamlines processes, reducing delays in service delivery and improving efficiency.
- Digital platforms enable better resource allocation and monitoring of public services.
- Challenges include digital literacy gaps and unequal access to technology among citizens.
2. Estimate the role of real-time monitoring in enhancing project execution efficiency.
- Real-time monitoring identifies issues promptly, allowing for immediate corrective actions.
- It facilitates accountability among stakeholders, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
- Data-driven insights improve project planning and resource allocation.
- Enhanced communication channels encourage collaboration among departments and agencies.
- Increased transparency in project execution builds public confidence in government initiatives.
3. Point out the significance of inter-departmental coordination in government initiatives.
- Inter-departmental coordination ensures alignment of goals and objectives across various sectors.
- It facilitates sharing of resources, expertise, and information, enhancing project outcomes.
- Reduces duplication of efforts and streamlines processes, leading to cost savings.
- Improves problem-solving capabilities by leveraging diverse perspectives and solutions.
- Effective coordination enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of government initiatives.
4. What are the challenges faced in implementing large-scale governance projects? Provide suitable examples.
- Common challenges include bureaucratic inertia and resistance to change within government agencies.
- Lack of adequate funding and resource allocation can hinder project execution.
- Digital infrastructure issues, such as internet connectivity, can limit project reach and effectiveness.
- Examples include delays in the implementation of the Smart Cities Mission due to coordination issues.
- Skill gaps among personnel can impede the adoption of new technologies and processes.
