E-Governance facilitates interaction between different stakeholders in governance. These interactions may be described as follows: 

G2G (Government to Government)

Explanation: Here, Information and Communications Technology not only transforms the governmental processes involving the operation of government entities but also enhances the exchange of information and services within and across different entities. This type of interaction occurs solely within the government sector and can be horizontal, meaning between various government agencies or functional areas within an organization, or vertical, involving national, provincial, and local government bodies, as well as different organizational levels. The main aim is to boost efficiency, performance, and output.

Example: An illustrative example of G2G interaction is the KHAJANE initiative by the government of Karnataka. It is a comprehensive online platform for financial management, designed to streamline and automate financial transactions of the government departments. KHAJANE stands for ‘Karnataka Headquartered Accounting System Using Networked Environment’.

KHAJANE is a web-based application that provides a single platform for various financial operations, such as budget allocation, payment, receipts, and accounting. It enables real-time tracking of financial transactions, which makes it easier to manage and monitor finances. This platform is open to all government departments, promoting greater financial management efficiency and transparency.

One of the key features of KHAJANE is the integration of multiple banking services. It is integrated with several banks, including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), to ensure smooth and seamless transactions. It is also integrated with the Goods and Services Tax (GST) network, making it easier to manage taxes and refunds. KHAJANE has also improved the efficiency of financial operations in the state of Karnataka. It has reduced the time taken for financial transactions, eliminated the need for paper-based transactions, and minimized the possibility of errors. The platform has also enabled faster budget allocation, which has resulted in improved delivery of public services.

G2C (Government to Citizens)

Explanation: In this scenario, a connection is established between the government and its citizens, allowing them to benefit from the effective delivery of a wide array of public services. This not only broadens the availability and accessibility of public services but also enhances their quality. It grants citizens the flexibility to choose when to engage with the government (for instance, 24/7), where to interact with the government (such as at a service center, an unattended kiosk, or from one’s home or workplace), and how to connect with the government (e.g., via internet, fax, telephone, email, or face-to-face). The fundamental aim is to create a citizen-friendly government.

Example: Example of G2C interaction is the online application process for obtaining a passport. The Ministry of External Affairs has introduced a web-based passport application system called Passport Seva, which allows citizens to apply for a passport online and track their application status. This system has streamlined the process of obtaining a passport, reducing the time and effort required to apply and eliminating the need to visit a passport office in person. Citizens can also use the system to schedule an appointment at a passport office, pay the application fee online, and access various passport-related services. This G2C interaction in e-governance has made the passport application process more efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly.

G2B (Government to Business)

Explanation: In this context, e-Governance tools are employed to assist the business community—providers of goods and services—in effectively engaging with the government. The goal is to reduce bureaucratic obstacles, save time, lower operational costs, and foster a more transparent business atmosphere in interactions with the government. G2B initiatives can be transactional, such as licensing, permits, procurement, and tax collection, or they can be promotional and supportive, like in trade, tourism, and investment. These actions aid in creating a conducive environment for businesses, enabling them to operate more efficiently. 

Example: Example of G2B (Government-to-Business) interaction in e-governance is the online registration and licensing system for businesses known as the eBiz portal. The eBiz portal was launched in 2013 as a one-stop-shop for all regulatory clearances and services required for starting and operating a business in India. Through the eBiz portal, businesses can apply for licenses and permits, register their company, file tax returns, and access other government services online. The portal is designed to streamline the process of starting and operating a business in India, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and promote transparency.

G2E (Government to Employees)

Explanation: Government is by far the biggest employer and like any organisation, it has to interact with its employees on a regular basis. This interaction represents a two-way relationship between the organization and its employees. The implementation of ICT tools facilitates quicker and more efficient interactions while also enhancing employee satisfaction. 

Example: Example of G2E (Government-to-Employee) interaction in e-governance is the implementation of the HRMS (Human Resource Management System) by the Indian Railways. The HRMS is an online platform that has been developed to streamline the recruitment, training, and management of the railway employees. The system enables employees to access their personal and professional details, apply for leave, view their payslips, and check their attendance records. It also allows them to update their personal information, such as contact details and bank account information. The system has helped to eliminate the need for paper-based records, which were prone to errors and delays. The HRMS has also benefited the railway administration by providing real-time information on the availability and skills of the workforce. This information has been used to optimize the deployment of staff, improve workforce planning, and reduce the administrative burden on the human resource department.

M2M (Machine-to-Machine)

Explanation: This model involves the use of machine-to-machine communication to improve efficiency and automate processes within government. 

Example: Example of M2M interaction in e-governance in India is the use of Smart Grid technology. Smart Grid technology enables two-way communication between the electricity supplier and consumers, allowing for more efficient energy management and consumption. In this system, sensors and meters installed in homes and businesses are connected to a central server that collects and analyses data in real-time. This data is then used to optimize the supply of electricity and reduce wastage. For instance, during periods of low demand, the grid can automatically adjust the power supply to conserve energy and save costs. Furthermore, this M2M interaction can also provide better outage management and faster response times during emergencies, as the grid can detect faults and quickly reroute power to prevent blackouts.