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Unit 4.3 : National Informatics Centre (NIC)

MLIS-101: Information System and Programmes.

Table of Contents:

1. National Informatics Centre (NIC)
2. Historical Evolution
3. Mandate and Multifaceted Services
4. Robust Infrastructure and Network Connectivity
5. Innovations and Initiatives
6. Centres of Excellence (CoE) and Technological Advancements
7. National Portal of India and Information Accessibility
8. Budget Allocation and Government Support

Name	Abbreviation	Established	Headquarters Address & Contact Details	URL
National Informatics Centre	NIC	1976	National Informatics Centre, A-Block, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road,New Delhi - 110 003 India Contact: 1800111555, 011-24305000 Email: servicedesk-nic@nic.in	https://www.nic.in

1. National Informatics Centre (NIC)

The National Informatics Centre (NIC) is a cornerstone in India's technological landscape, functioning as a crucial governmental department under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Since its inception in 1976, NIC has been a pioneering force in facilitating the Government of India's digital transformation journey.

2. Historical Evolution

Initially founded under the Electronics Commission of India, NIC's visionary Additional Secretary, Narasimaiah Seshagiri, introduced NICNET, a foundational network system that revolutionised communication in the country. NIC underwent various administrative transitions before finding its place within the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Notably, it has been instrumental in propelling the Indian government's IT adoption during the 1990s, catalysing the spread of e-governance initiatives across the nation.

3. Mandate and Multifaceted Services

NIC's mandate revolves around designing, developing, and implementing cutting-edge IT systems. Its expansive array of services encompasses Digital Government Research, Government Local Area Networks (LANs), Video Conferencing facilities, National Knowledge Network (NKN), Mobile Competency Centre, Email and messaging solutions, Remote Sensing and GIS, Webcasting services, Domain Registration, National Cloud infrastructure, Command and Control, among others.

4. Robust Infrastructure and Network Connectivity

Operating from multiple high-tech Data Centres across strategic locations like New Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, and Bhubaneshwar, NIC ensures seamless storage and processing capabilities for government operations. Complementing this infrastructure are offices dispersed across all 36 states and Union Territories, further bolstered by 741 district offices. These district centres play a pivotal role, providing essential technical support and consultancy services for executing e-Governance and Digital India initiatives at the grassroots level.

5. Innovations and Initiatives

One of NIC's hallmark initiatives is the establishment of the National Cloud, known as MeghRaj, inaugurated in February 2014. MeghRaj Cloud offers a diverse range of service models, including Platform as a Service (PaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), Virtual servers, Kubernetes containers, DevOps, and more. Noteworthy is the recent contract secured by Jio Platforms to enhance NIC's cloud services, signifying the growing significance of cloud infrastructure in governmental operations.

6. Centres of Excellence (CoE) and Technological Advancements

NIC has spearheaded the creation of various Centres of Excellence (CoE) dedicated to emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain Technology, Microservices, Data Analytics, and Application Security. These CoEs serve as innovation hubs, actively exploring and implementing pioneering solutions to integrate these technologies into governance.

7. National Portal of India and Information Accessibility

The National Portal of India, meticulously maintained by NIC, is a comprehensive repository housing critical documents, including the Constitution of India. It is a unified interface for citizens, enabling easy access to government-related information and services.

8. Budget Allocation and Government Support

The substantial annual budget allocation of ₹11.5 billion (US$140 million) primarily caters to providing free services to various Government Departments. This commitment underscores NIC's dedication to supporting governmental initiatives and fostering digital growth across India.
In summary, the National Informatics Centre is an indomitable force in India's digital transformation, shaping a landscape where technology empowers governance, citizens, and society.

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