E- Governance Initiatives in Karnataka - A Case Study of Bhoomi Project in Kodagu District

Abstract E-Governance has been recognized as a vital force for improvement in quality, efficiency and effectiveness of governance. Electronic Governance is defined as the application of Information Technology to the processes of Government functioning to bring about Simple, Moral, Accountable, Responsive and Transparent (SMART) Governance. Karnataka has been among front ranking states in adopting e-Governance and has implemented several projects for improving the internal efficiency of the government and delivering better services to the citizens. The Karnataka Information Technology Rules, 2007 provides for a comprehensive process for electronic delivery of e-governance services to citizens. This study examines how Computerised Land Records Management in Karnataka (Bhoomi) has brought transparency, effectiveness and ease in the management and maintenance of the land records. Kodagu was selected as the area of study as it has unique land tenure system like Jamma Tenure, Jagir, Batamanya, Sarvamanya and Jodi, Mathamanya, Gowdumbali and Naimannu, Umbli Tenure, Sagu Tenure. The main source of data collection for this study was through questionnaire and interview with agriculturists, revenue officials and investors on land in Kodagu.