UPSC Exams
Latest Update
Coaching
UPSC Current Affairs
Syllabus
UPSC Notes
Previous Year Papers
Mock Tests
UPSC Editorial
Bilateral Ties
Books
Government Schemes
Topics
Avalokana Software: Empowering Data-driven Governance in Karnataka
Download As PDFIMPORTANT LINKS
Avalokana software is a citizen engagement platform developed by the Government of Karnataka. It provides transparency and accountability in governance. Karnataka launched this decision support system (DSS) in 2021. The software was developed in partnership with the World Bank.
This article on Avalokana Software will help you prepare for the Prelims and the Mains stage of the UPSC IAS/IPS exam. This article explores the key features and potential impact of Avalokana Software in driving effective governance in Karnataka.
To learn about more such topics under the guidance of an expert mentor join UPSC CSE Online Coaching.
Download Governance UPSC Notes!
What is Avalokana Software?
Avalokana software is a decision support system that was launched by the Karnataka government. It provides the government with access to data on expenditures and sanctions related to 1,800 programs. This data helps the government to manage the financial aspects associated with these programs.
- The name Avalokana comes from the Sanskrit word "avalokita." This means "to observe closely."
- The software aims to enable citizens to closely observe government projects and schemes through a centralized portal.
- This portal allows users to view details of all government schemes and projects. They can track their progress and register grievances.
- Avalokana software also includes many tools that allow officials to simulate different scenarios.
- This helps them to assess the potential impact of different policy decisions. This allows officials to make more informed decisions on how to allocate resources.
Key Features of Avalokana
Avalokana software has many features and benefits, including:
Access to a wide range of data and analytics
Avalokana software provides officials access to a wide range of data and analytics. This includes information on demographics, economic conditions, and social indicators. This data can help officials understand the needs of their constituents. They can identify the most effective ways to address those needs.
Ability to simulate different scenarios
Avalokana software includes many tools that allow officials to simulate different scenarios. They can assess the potential impact of different policy decisions.
Easy to use
Avalokana software is designed to be easy to use. Officials can access the software from any device with an internet connection.
Scalable
Avalokana software is scalable, which means that it can be used by governments of all sizes.
Transparent
The software provides comprehensive data on ongoing government projects and schemes.
Identification of Lapses
It enables the identification of deficiencies and loopholes in implementation.
Citizen Empowerment
Gives citizens a platform to take part in governance.
Know more on the Significance of e-Governance!
How does Avalokana Work?
- Avalokana provides information on over 6,000 government projects across 31 departments.
- It gives details like project name, location, cost, status, start and end date, executing agency, etc.
- Citizens can upload photos, videos, and documents related to projects to track their progress.
- Officials are required to update project details regularly on the portal.
- Any issues found by citizens can be raised as complaints through Avalokana.
- Complaints are forwarded to relevant authorities for timely response and resolution.
Avalokana Software - Overall Coverage
- Avalokana provides information on over 6,000 government projects across 31 departments. It gives details like project name, location, cost, status, etc.
- Citizens can upload photos, videos, and documents related to projects to track their progress.
- Any issues found by citizens can be raised as complaints on Avalokana. These are forwarded to relevant authorities for resolution.
- The key features of Avalokana are transparency, accountability, grievance redressal, and citizen empowerment.
- Avalokana aims to improve the effectiveness of government programs. This is achieved through citizen participation and feedback.
Such initiatives can foster greater trust and collaboration between citizens and the government.
Central Funds Processed by Avalokana
The Avalokana Software can accurately determine the government's fiscal data. This allows the government to be accountable for funds.
The software processes three types of central funds:
- The Consolidated Fund of India gets money from interest on loans and taxes. Article 266 of the Constitution mentions this fund.
- The Contingency Fund of India is used for unexpected government spending. Article 267 mentions this fund.
- The Public Account of India includes money that the Government of India did not receive and is not part of the Consolidated Fund. This money goes into the Public Account.
Know more on Good Governance!
Potential Impact of Avalokana Software
Avalokana software can make the government more transparent, accountable, and efficient.
- It provides comprehensive data on government funds and projects, which can be monitored by citizens. This can increase the accountability of officials and help them implement projects properly and utilize funds efficiently.
- It makes fiscal data on actual needs and spending patterns easily available. This can help the government make more informed decisions about fund allocations.
- It can help identify lapses and plug leakages, reducing the wastage of public funds.
- It gives citizens a platform to track projects and raise issues. This can enhance active participation in governance and foster greater trust in government.
- If successful in Karnataka, Avalokana could act as a model for other states in strengthening governance.
Know more on the Barriers to Good Governance!
Conclusion
Avalokana is a step in the direction toward more accountable and citizen-centric governance. Its success in monitoring government projects depends on active citizen participation. Avalokana holds the potential to be expanded to other states. With time, it can act as a model for improving governance through technology.
Testbook provides comprehensive notes for Civil services and various other competitive examinations. It has always assured the quality of its product like content pages, live tests, GK and current affairs, mocks, and so on. Ace your UPSC preparation with Testbook. Download the Testbook App now!
Avalokana Software FAQs
What is Avalokana software?
Avalokana is an e-governance tool launched by the Karnataka government. It provides transparency in fund allocation to its departments.
When was the Avalokana software launched in Karnataka?
BS Yediyurappa, the Chief Minister of Karnataka, launched Avalokana on 20th January 2021.
What are the features of Avalokana software?
The key features of the software include:
Transparency, convenience, easy navigation, fiscal data tracking, and accountability.
Why was the Avalokana software launched by the government of Karnataka?
Avalokana was launched to help track fund releases and spending across 39 departments and 1,800 programs.
How can Avalokana improve governance?