ITI Limited Bags ₹167 Crore E-Governance Contract to Improve Digital Services in Rural Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s rural digital infrastructure, state-owned telecom equipment manufacturer ITI Limited has been awarded a ₹167 crore contract by the state’s Rural Development Department. This contract, announced on January 22, 2025, will see ITI Limited implement and manage the Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendra (ASSK) project across key regions of Maharashtra, including Chatrapathi Sambhaji Nagar, Nagpur, and Amaravati.
The Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendra project is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to bring digital governance to the rural areas, enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of government services. The project’s main objective is to establish digital service centres in Gram Panchayats, where citizens can easily access a range of government services, bridging the urban-rural digital divide. Through these centres, local residents will have better access to important services, such as applying for certificates, making payments, and interacting with various government departments, all with greater transparency and ease. As part of the ₹167 crore contract, ITI Limited will not only set up the centres but will also provide technical manpower to manage the operations effectively. Moreover, the company will offer system maintenance for a year, ensuring smooth functionality of the e-governance services. This comprehensive approach will enable seamless integration of technology into the day-to-day workings of the rural areas, providing significant improvements in how government services are delivered.
Rajesh Rai, Chairman and Managing Director of ITI Limited, expressed confidence that the project would play a critical role in strengthening the Panchayati Raj system. By enabling digital access to essential government services, it will help decentralise governance and empower local communities. The introduction of digital services in these regions is expected to enhance transparency, streamline bureaucratic processes, and improve the overall efficiency of the public administration. ITI Limited’s involvement in this project is a testament to the company’s extensive experience in telecommunications and technology services. Founded as India’s first post-independence public sector undertaking in the telecom sector, ITI has diversified its operations over the years. The company now also focuses on defence, railways, solar equipment, IT services, and even operates a state-of-the-art data centre in Bengaluru serving government institutions and banks. This diverse expertise positions ITI well to handle the complexities of an e-governance project like ASSK.
The contract with Maharashtra’s Rural Development Department strengthens ITI’s role as a key player in India’s digital governance landscape. The successful implementation of this project will not only improve the delivery of government services in rural areas but also demonstrate ITI’s ability to leverage its technological capabilities for the advancement of digital infrastructure in underserved regions. For Maharashtra, the Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendra initiative promises to transform how citizens engage with their government, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location, has access to the services they need. With ITI Limited’s involvement, the project is set to become a shining example of digital empowerment in India’s rural areas. Through this project, ITI Limited continues to cement its place in India’s evolving digital ecosystem, further proving that technology is a powerful tool for improving lives and building a more inclusive future for all.
