Hughes Network Systems (HNS) is the global leader in providing broadband satellite networks and services for large enterprises, governments, small businesses, and consumers. In India, the company is also a pioneer in e-governance initiatives. In an interview with Manoj Gairola, Hughes Networks Systems India Ltd president Pranav Roach talks about the status of e-governance in India and plans of HNS India. Excerpts:

• What is the status of e-governance in India?

In 2006, the Government approved the National e-Governance Plan which involved setting up 100,000 Common Service Centers to help bring the benefits of ICT to rural India. Several state governments have since awarded or initiated steps to award e-Governance projects to private players. Hughes is today working to implement CSC projects in seven states.

These centers will enable reliable connectivity but, more importantly, help deliver e-Governance services and other services, including vocational educational. In addition, Hughes is also independently deploying broadband centers all across the country to deliver e-Services to citizens in underserved regions.

It has been observed that a major reason for the lack of or slow pace of development in any region is not the lack of or absence of development programmes aimed at improving the economic condition of the people but the lack of awareness of the schemes and access to the benefits. We expect the e-Governance projects to bridge the digital divide and spread the benefits of ICT.

• What is the role of HNS India in this field?

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