[Reader-list] Launch of Draft IT Policy & Discussion Portal

[Anivar Aravind]

Please see the new ICT policy at
 http://www.itforum.kerala.gov.in/discussion/index.htm

 Press Release

  Launch of Draft IT Policy & Discussion Portal

 The Draft IT Policy of the Government of Kerala was launched by the
 Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri V.S. Achuthanandan on 17-01-07.

 The Draft IT Policy document provides a comprehensive view of ICT as a
 transformation force which can turn Kerala into a knowledge based,
 economically vibrant, democratic and inclusive society. The draft
 document has been formulated in the background of emerging trends and
 changing requirements.

 The Hon'ble Chief Minister has also launched the web portal for public
 consultation on ICT Policies. Through this portal, the Government
 would like to invite all the interested people from around the world
 to participate in the public consultation. This Policy drafting
 process will be a model for using the new ICT technologies in building
 public policy through public participation. It may perhaps be the
 first time in India that such an exercise is being initiated.

 Salient features of the Draft IT Policy

 1. The Policy envisions transformation of the state into a
 knowledge society with a sustainable economic growth, social harmony
 and high quality of life for its citizen
    2. Ensure that all sections of the society are included in this
 transformation process. Conscious and positive steps will be taken in
 this regard.
    3. Creation of a favourable environment for increased economic
 activity and investment in ICT, ITES and other knowledge based
 industry sectors to significantly enhance direct and indirect
 employment opportunities.
    4. Spreading IT literacy and setting up of service delivery points
 to add value to the daily life of the common man residing even in the
 remotest part of the state
    5. Improving the quality, transparency and access of governmental
 service delivery through application of ICT to public services
    6. To take advantage of Free Software paradigm for the
 comprehensive development of ICT sector and to make Kerala the Free
 Software industrial destination of the country.

 In order to create an increased awareness as well as facilitate
 participation by all section of society, the Government proposes to
 conduct three regional work shops by mid February. The inputs received
 during the work shops and from the portal will be taken into
 consideration while drafting the final Policy Document.

Some news Reports

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2007/01/18/stories/2007011801800700.htm

http://in.news.yahoo.com/070117/43/6b93w.html

http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/21095.html