Fully digital applications at e-grams remains lower than 4% since 2022 fiscal: GARC report

A recent report by the Gujarat Administrative Reforms Commission (GARC) has revealed that fully digital applications at e-grams have remained below 4% since the 2022 fiscal year, indicating a slow pace in the state’s rural digital transformation. Despite significant government investment in digital infrastructure and training, the majority of services at e-gram centers are still being processed manually or semi-digitally. The report highlights that limited internet connectivity, lack of technical staff, and low digital literacy in villages are key factors behind the sluggish adoption rate. According to GARC officials, out of nearly 1.2 crore service requests received through e-grams across Gujarat, less than 4 lakh were completed through fully digital means. The commission has recommended urgent measures such as upgrading network facilities, increasing training for gram panchayat operators, and enhancing citizen awareness about online services. The state government, in response, has said that a comprehensive action plan will soon be rolled out to ensure that rural citizens can seamlessly access government schemes and services through digital platforms.