LEVERAGING BLOCKCHAIN FOR GOVERNMENT AND POLICY IN INDIA: INNOVATIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Abstract [English]

Blockchain technology, also known as Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), is growing across the world due to its decentralized, verifiable, and secure framework. With its huge population and complex bureaucratic structure, India presents a tremendous opportunity to use blockchain to improve the processes involved in government functioning and policymaking. Several initiatives have been taken by Indian authorities with the aim of improving public management through the use of blockchain. Most of these efforts have been made in the management of land registry. India suffers from several ill practices and one of these is the culture of inefficiency, corrupt practices, and fraud, which creates legal problems and lack of trust from the community. Frauds and disputes are bound to be reduced due to the use of blockchain to create tamper-free records. The effectiveness of land registry processes aided by blockchain technology was demonstrated in pilot projects in states like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and has therefore been recommended for wider use across the country.
The impact of blockchain on supply chain management, especially in the Public Distribution System (PDS), is another important area. The PDS, aimed at providing subsidised essential commodities to the poor, is often plagued with inefficiencies and corruption. Blockchain enhances traceability and accountability, ensuring that subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries without any diversion. This transparency can increase public trust and improve the effectiveness of the PDS. In electoral processes, blockchain can address fraud and increase voter confidence. Applying blockchain to voter registration and electronic voting can create a secure, transparent and verifiable system, reducing malpractice and potentially increasing voter turnout by making voting more accessible.
Public health is another area where blockchain can play a transformative role. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for efficient, secure health data management. Blockchain can create a decentralized health information system, which ensures data integrity, enhances patient privacy and facilitates seamless data sharing among healthcare providers.
Despite its potential, the adoption of blockchain in Indian governance faces challenges. Technological, regulatory and infrastructural barriers, digital literacy gaps, data privacy concerns and the need for robust cybersecurity measures must be addressed. A supportive legal and regulatory framework is critical for sustainable integration. Blockchain technology offers transformational potential for Indian government operations by enhancing transparency, security and efficiency. Coordinated efforts of policymakers, technologists and stakeholders are necessary to overcome challenges and create a conducive environment for blockchain adoption.