Ranchi, July 24: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday reviewed the progress of the state’s Digital Vision-2029 roadmap and directed officials to accelerate efforts to expand digital infrastructure, strengthen cybersecurity and improve technology-enabled public services across the state.
Chairing a meeting of the Information Technology and e-Governance Department, the Chief Minister said digital transformation should reach every section of society, including people living in remote and rural areas.
He stressed that technology must be used to make governance more transparent, efficient and citizen-centric.
During the meeting, officials presented updates on the proposed Digital Vision-2029 roadmap, including plans for developing IT parks, expanding digital infrastructure and building a stronger technology ecosystem to attract investment and generate employment.
The Chief Minister reviewed the progress of the proposed Data Intelligence Platform, which is intended to integrate information from various government departments to support faster decision-making, better policy planning and improved coordination.
He instructed officials to strengthen data integration and ensure effective use of digital tools in governance.
Soren directed the government to appoint dedicated IT officers in every department and district to improve digital administration and ensure better management of technology-driven initiatives.
He also called for strengthening the state’s data centre with enhanced security measures and reliable data management systems.
Emphasising digital inclusion, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that government services are accessible online across urban and rural areas.
He said every citizen should benefit from digital governance regardless of location.
Reviewing digital connectivity projects, Soren set a target of extending 5G connectivity to all gram panchayats within the next three years.
He also asked officials to prepare a comprehensive mapping of the state’s digital infrastructure and identify areas with weak or no network coverage for phased expansion.
The meeting reviewed the implementation of major connectivity initiatives, including BharatNet Phase-III, Connecting Jharkhand and Jharnet 2.0, aimed at improving broadband access and strengthening communication networks across the state.
The Chief Minister also directed departments to gradually shift more public services to online platforms while ensuring standardised data systems, regular cybersecurity audits and stronger protection against digital threats.
Officials briefed the meeting on the functioning of the Jharkhand Agency for Promotion of Information Technology (JAP-IT), the progress of CCTV and geospatial technology projects, and the implementation status of the Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana, including beneficiary verification and Aadhaar-linked payments.
Soren emphasised the need to promote startups, innovation, research and skill development alongside the establishment of IT parks, saying a robust technology ecosystem would create employment and self-employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
He also directed departments to ensure timely completion of digital projects through regular monitoring and practical planning, stating that technology-driven governance should ultimately improve public service delivery and the quality of life of citizens.
