‘Use IT to herald economic, social changes’

SHILLONG, SEPT 19:  In the 21^st century, governance no longer means just to delivery but it is also synonym with ‘making others deliver’ as geographical disadvantages has been neutralized by Information Technology (IT) and government interface in north eastern states including Meghalaya has to be IT enabled to create possibilities to others to deliver.

These were the core  of the lecture delivered by former union secretary and Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) member Mohammad Haleem Khan on the theme “Public Administration- Knowledge Economy and Inclusive Governance” organized by the Meghalaya Institute of Governance (MIG) at the State Convention Hall on Saturday afternoon.

The lecture is part of the series of lectures organized by the MIG to upscale the knowledge of the state and MIG officials, entrepreneurs, youths, ngos and other stakeholders.

What struck a chord with the audience consisting of Meghalaya additional chief secretary KS Kropha, principal secretaries, other officers and  youth entrepreneurs’ is that the quote ‘Live and let live’ has become obsolete as the new 21^st century chord is ‘Excel and help others Excel.’

Khan also spoke about the millennium development goal and on how to overcome geographical and infrastructure handicapped through Information technology.

Talking on economic activities, Khan said IT can be used for helping producers to find a   market if a local market is not available. He said through e-commerce the producer can find a ready market and sell his produce to      a market anywhere in the world.

Khan said these days you do not need to be present in the stock exchange to buy shares as you can sit in the comfort of your house and buy the shares if you have e-banking.

Stating that India had been left out of the Industrial Revolution but is in the forefront of the IT revolution in the 21^st century, Khan felt that the country must use IT to herald economic, social and educational changes. He, of course, conceded that IT development is uneven and government must see that internet connectivity reaches the last post to ensure that all citizens have access to this modern tool that opens up a plethora of possibilities.- By Our Reporter