Context: India needs a new all-India service, Indian Digital Service (IDS), as a part of Civil Services.
Need for a new all-India service cadre — Indian Digital Service (IDS)
To serve as backbone of GoI’s multiple digital and other emerging technology initiatives:
It will create a roadmap for e-governance, data protection, a level playing field in ecommerce for producers, especially MSMEs, and consumers, cryptocurrency, intellectual property protection, cybersecurity, etc.
Streamline technology policy work currently being carried out across ministries such as telecom, electronics and IT, commerce and industry, and external affairs.
Addressing the capacity gap in e-governance: Currently, the Indian Telecommunication Service (ITS) is the primary cadre from which officers are assigned to work on different aspects of technology policy and digital issues. But this is inadequate.
Reinforce existing institutions to deal with challenges arising out of digital world: From data protection and white labelling to cryptocurrency, use of the dark net, ecommerce abuse, etc.
Role at state level in strengthening digitisation and building capacity: Bring in requisite institutional strength and skill-set for digital technology policymaking.
Leverage India’s attractive digital ecosystem:
IDS can implement lateral hiring, by bringing in domain expertise from the private sector.
To propel India’s digital economy through able preparation and administration, effective dispute resolution and a futuristic outlook.