Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and Online...

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Transcript of Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and Online...

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December 2010

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public GrievancesMinistry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of Indiahttp://indiagovernance.gov.in/

Researched and Documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and Online Remittance System

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

Table of Contents BACKGROUND ................................

OBJECTIVE ................................

WORKING DESIGN ................................

SETTING UP CASH COLLECTION CENTRES & TRAINING VILLAGE LEVEL

ENTREPRENEURS ................................

MONITORING SYSTEM

FINANCIAL MODEL ................................

METHODOLOGY ................................

KEY STAKEHOLDERS

LESSONS LEARNED ................................

APPENDIX A - INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................

SETTING UP CASH COLLECTION CENTRES & TRAINING VILLAGE LEVEL

................................................................................................

MONITORING SYSTEM ................................................................................................

................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................

................................................................................................

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS ................................................................

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

1

........................................ 2

................................................ 3

................................................................. 3

SETTING UP CASH COLLECTION CENTRES & TRAINING VILLAGE LEVEL

................................................................... 3

............................................... 7

.................................................... 7

..................................... 8

.................................................. 8

............................................................... 9

........................................................ 10

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

BACKGROUND

COMMON SERVICES CENTRES

To introduce e-governance on a national scale and provide government services at the doorstep

of every citizen, the Government of India introduced the National e Governance Plan (NeGP)

in 2006. To achieve the mission of the NeGP, the Department of Informat

(DIT), has planned for the rollout of over 100,000 Common Services Centres (CSCs) across the

country, particularly in rural areas, by March 2011. CSCs are envisioned to be the front

delivery points for government services including wel

certificates, and bill payments for utilities including electricity, telephone and water to all rural

citizens of India.

Private and non-governmental organisations play an active role in operating CSCs. The PPP

model is comprised of a three

Entrepreneur or VLE); the Service Centre Agency (SCA), responsible for a subdivision of 500 to

1000 CSCs; and a State Designated Agency (SDA) responsible for managing im

across the state.

NETWORK FOR INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY’S (NICT)

CASH COLLECTION CENTRES

Network for Information and Communication Technology’s (NICT) is an Indian

nongovernmental organisation that has been working in the field

better service delivery. The SDA of Madhya Pradesh

Development Corporation (MPSEDC)

for establishing CSCs in 2158 locations in Indore and Ujj

To date, NICT has set up around 1800 CSCs across Madhya Pradesh. Each centre provides a

gamut of services including banking

and Tata Sky sale and recharge; and sale of agro inp

thus far fall under the categories of business to business (B2B) and business to

services.

The complete roll out of government to citizen (G2C) services, for example, provision of

birth/death certificates, is still underway. Meanwhile however, to ensure the sustainability

viability of CSCs, NICT has developed the innovative idea of electricity bill payment to

Madhya Pradesh State Electricity Board (MPSEB) from the CSCs in Indore and Ujjain

To do so, NICT signed a MoU with the Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

ENTRES

governance on a national scale and provide government services at the doorstep

of every citizen, the Government of India introduced the National e Governance Plan (NeGP)

in 2006. To achieve the mission of the NeGP, the Department of Informat

(DIT), has planned for the rollout of over 100,000 Common Services Centres (CSCs) across the

country, particularly in rural areas, by March 2011. CSCs are envisioned to be the front

delivery points for government services including welfare benefit applications, birth/death

certificates, and bill payments for utilities including electricity, telephone and water to all rural

governmental organisations play an active role in operating CSCs. The PPP

l is comprised of a three-tier structure consisting of the CSC operator (Village Level

Entrepreneur or VLE); the Service Centre Agency (SCA), responsible for a subdivision of 500 to

1000 CSCs; and a State Designated Agency (SDA) responsible for managing im

NETWORK FOR INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY’S (NICT)

CASH COLLECTION CENTRES

Network for Information and Communication Technology’s (NICT) is an Indian

organisation that has been working in the field of technology solutions for

better service delivery. The SDA of Madhya Pradesh - Madhya Pradesh State Electronics

Development Corporation (MPSEDC) - appointed NICT as the Service Centre Agency (SCA)

for establishing CSCs in 2158 locations in Indore and Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

To date, NICT has set up around 1800 CSCs across Madhya Pradesh. Each centre provides a

gamut of services including banking - micro insurance, microcredit; telecom recharge; Dish

and Tata Sky sale and recharge; and sale of agro input materials. Most of the services

thus far fall under the categories of business to business (B2B) and business to

The complete roll out of government to citizen (G2C) services, for example, provision of

ificates, is still underway. Meanwhile however, to ensure the sustainability

viability of CSCs, NICT has developed the innovative idea of electricity bill payment to

Madhya Pradesh State Electricity Board (MPSEB) from the CSCs in Indore and Ujjain

To do so, NICT signed a MoU with the Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

2

governance on a national scale and provide government services at the doorstep

of every citizen, the Government of India introduced the National e Governance Plan (NeGP)

in 2006. To achieve the mission of the NeGP, the Department of Information & Technology

(DIT), has planned for the rollout of over 100,000 Common Services Centres (CSCs) across the

country, particularly in rural areas, by March 2011. CSCs are envisioned to be the front-end

fare benefit applications, birth/death

certificates, and bill payments for utilities including electricity, telephone and water to all rural

governmental organisations play an active role in operating CSCs. The PPP

tier structure consisting of the CSC operator (Village Level

Entrepreneur or VLE); the Service Centre Agency (SCA), responsible for a subdivision of 500 to

1000 CSCs; and a State Designated Agency (SDA) responsible for managing implementation

NETWORK FOR INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY’S (NICT)

Network for Information and Communication Technology’s (NICT) is an Indian

of technology solutions for

Madhya Pradesh State Electronics

appointed NICT as the Service Centre Agency (SCA)

ain, Madhya Pradesh.

To date, NICT has set up around 1800 CSCs across Madhya Pradesh. Each centre provides a

micro insurance, microcredit; telecom recharge; Dish TV

ut materials. Most of the services provided

thus far fall under the categories of business to business (B2B) and business to consumer (B2C)

The complete roll out of government to citizen (G2C) services, for example, provision of

ificates, is still underway. Meanwhile however, to ensure the sustainability and

viability of CSCs, NICT has developed the innovative idea of electricity bill payment to the

Madhya Pradesh State Electricity Board (MPSEB) from the CSCs in Indore and Ujjain districts.

To do so, NICT signed a MoU with the Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut Viteran

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

Company ltd. (MPPKVVCL) in December 2008. Today, 350 CSCs are operating a

centres to assist in the smooth functioning of the electricity bill paym

OBJECTIVE The CSC cash collection for electricity bill payment programme aims to:

• Streamline the process of electricity bill collection by reducing delays and ensuring

transparency in billing procedures through a computerised system

• Ensure that the amount collected reaches the MPPKVCCL in a timely manner

• Empower the Village level Entrepreneurs with new opportunities

• Deliver a public service in a hassle

satisfaction

WORKING DESIGN

SETTING UP CASH COLLECTION CENTRES & TRAINING VILLAGE LEVEL

ENTREPRENEURS

The VLEs are selected through

qualified as a 12th standard pass.

VLEs, two witnesses have to be

present. VLEs manage the cash

collection unit equipment - computer

and dot-matrix printer. NICT

them with technical know-how and

assistance. The VLEs are given 1.5 days

of training to learn how to operate

system to collect payments. Thereafter,

NICT gives VLEs individual IDs to

access the online portal

(http://www.nictcsc.com/mpsebcollection/

transactions. This portal is linked to the MPPKVVCL

customer details including electricity usage and payment history.

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

Company ltd. (MPPKVVCL) in December 2008. Today, 350 CSCs are operating a

centres to assist in the smooth functioning of the electricity bill payment.

The CSC cash collection for electricity bill payment programme aims to:

Streamline the process of electricity bill collection by reducing delays and ensuring

transparency in billing procedures through a computerised system

ount collected reaches the MPPKVCCL in a timely manner

Empower the Village level Entrepreneurs with new opportunities

Deliver a public service in a hassle- -free manner and generate high levels of customer

WORKING DESIGN

COLLECTION CENTRES & TRAINING VILLAGE LEVEL

The VLEs are selected through an interview process. They are required

qualified as a 12th standard pass. VLE openings are advertised in the paper. While selecting

two witnesses have to be

VLEs manage the cash

computer

provides

how and

assistance. The VLEs are given 1.5 days

ow to operate the

Thereafter,

NICT gives VLEs individual IDs to

http://www.nictcsc.com/mpsebcollection/) through which they can conduct all necessary

transactions. This portal is linked to the MPPKVVCL database which stores all pertinent

customer details including electricity usage and payment history.

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

3

Company ltd. (MPPKVVCL) in December 2008. Today, 350 CSCs are operating a cash collection

Streamline the process of electricity bill collection by reducing delays and ensuring

transparency in billing procedures through a computerised system

ount collected reaches the MPPKVCCL in a timely manner

free manner and generate high levels of customer

COLLECTION CENTRES & TRAINING VILLAGE LEVEL

required to be minimally

e paper. While selecting

) through which they can conduct all necessary

database which stores all pertinent

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

TRANSACTION PROCESS

‘TOP-UP’ MECHANISM In order to perform a transaction, a VLE has to first obtain a ‘top

amount for the money that can be collected. When the limit is exceeded, the top

renewed. This is done according to the following procedure:

• The VLE has to deposit the amount of top

Bank of India (SBI) account either through

• Then, he/she has to login to the portal and go to the Top

• Enter the details of the payment made in the record payments sect

• Scan the bank paying slip and send the top

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

TRANSACTION PROCESS

In order to perform a transaction, a VLE has to first obtain a ‘top-up limit’ or a maximum

hat can be collected. When the limit is exceeded, the top

renewed. This is done according to the following procedure:

The VLE has to deposit the amount of top-up that is being requested in NICT’s State

Bank of India (SBI) account either through cheque or online transaction.

Then, he/she has to login to the portal and go to the Top-Up screen,

Enter the details of the payment made in the record payments section

Scan the bank paying slip and send the top-up request to NICT

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

4

up limit’ or a maximum

hat can be collected. When the limit is exceeded, the top-up must be

up that is being requested in NICT’s State

cheque or online transaction.

Up screen,

ion

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

• NICT’s banking division cross checks this request , making sure that the payment has

been made to the bank and then pushes the request forward to the MPSEB

administration who sits at the NICT

• The MPSEB administration make the final call for transfer

uplimit is transferred to the VLEs account

Now, every time the VLE performs a transaction and collects a certain amount from

theconsumer, the bill amount is deducted from the top

rupees as bill payment and suppose the VLEs top up limit is 10,000 rupees, the top

reduce to 9500 rupees post transaction.

BILL CYCLES

In order to evenly distribute the dates for electricity bill payment over each month so that there

is no rush on particular days, the MPPKVVCL has organised different bill payment cycles for

various areas. In this way, there is a constant flow of customers without any instance of traffic

overload.

BILL VERIFICATION AND COLLECTION

When a customer visits the CSC to pay f

with the data available on the portal. The VLE clicks on the ‘Bill Collection’ option under

transactions and enters the Distribution Centre Name (MPPKVVCL’s centre from where the

customer is receiving electricity) and customer number, at which time the details of the

customer appears. He/she cross checks the bill amount noted under the customer’s name online

with the amount written on the physical bill. Then he/she enters the collection amount and

records the transaction to get a receipt number.

RECEIPT PRINTING AND COLLECTING BILL STUBS

By inputting the receipt number, the VLE can print an online receipt and hand it over to the

customer. He/she keeps the lower part of the bill (stub), writes the rec

backside, and keeps it for submission at the MPPKVVCL distribution centre.

DAY-END PROCESS

At the end of the day, the VLE accesses a comprehensive report of the day’s transactions as

recorded on the portal.

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

NICT’s banking division cross checks this request , making sure that the payment has

been made to the bank and then pushes the request forward to the MPSEB

administration who sits at the NICT

The MPSEB administration make the final call for transfer and thereafter, the top

uplimit is transferred to the VLEs account

Now, every time the VLE performs a transaction and collects a certain amount from

theconsumer, the bill amount is deducted from the top-up. For example, if a customer pays500

bill payment and suppose the VLEs top up limit is 10,000 rupees, the top

reduce to 9500 rupees post transaction.

In order to evenly distribute the dates for electricity bill payment over each month so that there

ticular days, the MPPKVVCL has organised different bill payment cycles for

various areas. In this way, there is a constant flow of customers without any instance of traffic

BILL VERIFICATION AND COLLECTION

When a customer visits the CSC to pay for his/her electricity, the VLE verifies the printed bill

with the data available on the portal. The VLE clicks on the ‘Bill Collection’ option under

transactions and enters the Distribution Centre Name (MPPKVVCL’s centre from where the

ng electricity) and customer number, at which time the details of the

customer appears. He/she cross checks the bill amount noted under the customer’s name online

with the amount written on the physical bill. Then he/she enters the collection amount and

cords the transaction to get a receipt number.

RECEIPT PRINTING AND COLLECTING BILL STUBS

By inputting the receipt number, the VLE can print an online receipt and hand it over to the

customer. He/she keeps the lower part of the bill (stub), writes the rec

backside, and keeps it for submission at the MPPKVVCL distribution centre.

At the end of the day, the VLE accesses a comprehensive report of the day’s transactions as

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

5

NICT’s banking division cross checks this request , making sure that the payment has

been made to the bank and then pushes the request forward to the MPSEB

and thereafter, the top-

Now, every time the VLE performs a transaction and collects a certain amount from

up. For example, if a customer pays500

bill payment and suppose the VLEs top up limit is 10,000 rupees, the top-up limit will

In order to evenly distribute the dates for electricity bill payment over each month so that there

ticular days, the MPPKVVCL has organised different bill payment cycles for

various areas. In this way, there is a constant flow of customers without any instance of traffic

or his/her electricity, the VLE verifies the printed bill

with the data available on the portal. The VLE clicks on the ‘Bill Collection’ option under

transactions and enters the Distribution Centre Name (MPPKVVCL’s centre from where the

ng electricity) and customer number, at which time the details of the

customer appears. He/she cross checks the bill amount noted under the customer’s name online

with the amount written on the physical bill. Then he/she enters the collection amount and

By inputting the receipt number, the VLE can print an online receipt and hand it over to the

customer. He/she keeps the lower part of the bill (stub), writes the receipt number on the

backside, and keeps it for submission at the MPPKVVCL distribution centre.

At the end of the day, the VLE accesses a comprehensive report of the day’s transactions as

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

When he/she enters the desired date of the day end report, the system automatically generates

the details of all transactions conducted that day. The VLE can then correct any mistakes, such

as duplicate entries, and print out the complete report. This repo

collected during the day, is deposited at the MPPKVVCL Distribution Centre which is located

4-5 kilometres from the CSC. The following day, the VLE enters the details of the officer to

whom the report was submitted and the ti

month, the portal shows a record of all the day end process

details. In this way, the VLE is held accountable for carrying

ONLINE REMITTANCE SYSTEM

NICT remits the amount collected by the VLEs to the MPPKVVCL through two transactions

a day.

• Transactions made until 2:00pm: NICT, on its Management Information System, verifies

the amount collected by all the 350 VLEs. Then, transfers this total amount online

the top-up amount given by various VLEs) to MPPKVVCL’s account by 4:30 pm.

• Transactions made after 2:00 pm: All the transactions made by the VLEs after 2:00pm

are totalled the next day and the amount is transferred to the MPPKVVCL account by

11:30 am.

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

When he/she enters the desired date of the day end report, the system automatically generates

the details of all transactions conducted that day. The VLE can then correct any mistakes, such

as duplicate entries, and print out the complete report. This report, along with the total stubs

collected during the day, is deposited at the MPPKVVCL Distribution Centre which is located

5 kilometres from the CSC. The following day, the VLE enters the details of the officer to

whom the report was submitted and the time that the report was submitted. At the end of the

month, the portal shows a record of all the day end process reports and their

the VLE is held accountable for carrying out his/her duties.

ONLINE REMITTANCE SYSTEM

remits the amount collected by the VLEs to the MPPKVVCL through two transactions

Transactions made until 2:00pm: NICT, on its Management Information System, verifies

the amount collected by all the 350 VLEs. Then, transfers this total amount online

up amount given by various VLEs) to MPPKVVCL’s account by 4:30 pm.

Transactions made after 2:00 pm: All the transactions made by the VLEs after 2:00pm

are totalled the next day and the amount is transferred to the MPPKVVCL account by

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

6

When he/she enters the desired date of the day end report, the system automatically generates

the details of all transactions conducted that day. The VLE can then correct any mistakes, such

rt, along with the total stubs

collected during the day, is deposited at the MPPKVVCL Distribution Centre which is located

5 kilometres from the CSC. The following day, the VLE enters the details of the officer to

submitted. At the end of the

reports and their submission

out his/her duties.

remits the amount collected by the VLEs to the MPPKVVCL through two transactions

Transactions made until 2:00pm: NICT, on its Management Information System, verifies

the amount collected by all the 350 VLEs. Then, transfers this total amount online (using

up amount given by various VLEs) to MPPKVVCL’s account by 4:30 pm.

Transactions made after 2:00 pm: All the transactions made by the VLEs after 2:00pm

are totalled the next day and the amount is transferred to the MPPKVVCL account by

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

MONITORING SYSTEM

NICT transfers the collection amount to the MPPKVVCL along with reports of daily

transactions from all CSCs. The MPPKVVCL also has access to the MIS and can verify if

has transferred the correct amount. This,

the VLEs at the distribution centre, allows for monitoring of the entire

hired district coordinators to frequently perform checks on VLEs to

conducting transactions and issuing receipts to customers.

customers of the importance of taking and keeping their

FINANCIAL MODEL

For every bill collected, MPPKVVCL gives 2.60 rupees to NICT. The VLE gets 80 percent

the 2.60 rupees while NICT keeps the remaining 20 percent.

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

MONITORING SYSTEM

NICT transfers the collection amount to the MPPKVVCL along with reports of daily

transactions from all CSCs. The MPPKVVCL also has access to the MIS and can verify if

has transferred the correct amount. This, coupled with the day-end process report

the VLEs at the distribution centre, allows for monitoring of the entire system. NICT has also

hired district coordinators to frequently perform checks on VLEs to see if they are properly

sactions and issuing receipts to customers. Efforts have been made to inform

customers of the importance of taking and keeping their transaction receipts.

For every bill collected, MPPKVVCL gives 2.60 rupees to NICT. The VLE gets 80 percent

the 2.60 rupees while NICT keeps the remaining 20 percent.

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

7

NICT transfers the collection amount to the MPPKVVCL along with reports of daily

transactions from all CSCs. The MPPKVVCL also has access to the MIS and can verify if NICT

end process report submitted by

system. NICT has also

see if they are properly

Efforts have been made to inform

transaction receipts.

For every bill collected, MPPKVVCL gives 2.60 rupees to NICT. The VLE gets 80 percent of

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

METHODOLOGY Working with the objective of identifying best practices in governance, the OneWorld

team conducts extensive research to locate initiatives that contribute towards the

public service delivery. NICT’s Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

System, with its focus on streamlining the process of bill collection by

ensuring transparency through the CSCs, is a highly innov

socially sustainable initiative. Therefore, it was selected as a

The OneWorld research team conducted thorough secondary research using web sources

gather details of how the initiative works and to i

identify the key stakeholders and carry out interviews with them to gain a deeper

understanding of operations and impact.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS

Madhya Pradesh State Electronics Development Corporation (MPSEDC):

Operates under Department of Information Technology, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh as the nodal

agency to promote IT in the State. Under the NeGP, it has been appointed as the State

Designated Agency (SDA).

Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut Viteran Company

A public corporation in the state authorised to distribute and supply electricity on behalf of

the Madhya Pradesh State Electricity Board in Indore and Ujjain.

Network for Information and Communication Technology’s (NICT):

NICT is a registered Indian NGO, working in the field of ICT for development for the past 15

years. Under the NeGP, NICT has been appointed as the Service Centre Agency (SCA) for

implementing the Common Service Centre Project in 2158 locations.

Village level Entrepreneurs (VLEs):

The VLEs deliver the services to the citizens and

under the SCA.

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

Working with the objective of identifying best practices in governance, the OneWorld

team conducts extensive research to locate initiatives that contribute towards the

public service delivery. NICT’s Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

System, with its focus on streamlining the process of bill collection by

ensuring transparency through the CSCs, is a highly innovative, efficient and economically and

socially sustainable initiative. Therefore, it was selected as a best practice.

The OneWorld research team conducted thorough secondary research using web sources

gather details of how the initiative works and to identify its strengths. The next step was

identify the key stakeholders and carry out interviews with them to gain a deeper

understanding of operations and impact.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS

Madhya Pradesh State Electronics Development Corporation (MPSEDC):

under Department of Information Technology, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh as the nodal

agency to promote IT in the State. Under the NeGP, it has been appointed as the State

Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut Viteran Company ltd. (MPPKVVCL):

public corporation in the state authorised to distribute and supply electricity on behalf of

the Madhya Pradesh State Electricity Board in Indore and Ujjain.

Network for Information and Communication Technology’s (NICT):

istered Indian NGO, working in the field of ICT for development for the past 15

Under the NeGP, NICT has been appointed as the Service Centre Agency (SCA) for

implementing the Common Service Centre Project in 2158 locations.

eurs (VLEs):

The VLEs deliver the services to the citizens and manage and operate the CSCs. They work

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

8

Working with the objective of identifying best practices in governance, the OneWorld research

team conducts extensive research to locate initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of

public service delivery. NICT’s Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and Online Remittance

System, with its focus on streamlining the process of bill collection by reducing delays and

efficient and economically and

The OneWorld research team conducted thorough secondary research using web sources to

dentify its strengths. The next step was to

identify the key stakeholders and carry out interviews with them to gain a deeper

Madhya Pradesh State Electronics Development Corporation (MPSEDC):

under Department of Information Technology, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh as the nodal

agency to promote IT in the State. Under the NeGP, it has been appointed as the State

ltd. (MPPKVVCL):

public corporation in the state authorised to distribute and supply electricity on behalf of

istered Indian NGO, working in the field of ICT for development for the past 15

Under the NeGP, NICT has been appointed as the Service Centre Agency (SCA) for

manage and operate the CSCs. They work

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

LESSONS LEARNEDReliable, Consistent, Convenient

Before the digital process, electricity bill collection and payment was unreliable as it

consistently delayed. Now, approximately 55 lakh rupees are transacted daily and in a

manner. Earlier, villagers also had to travel a minimum of 3 to 4 kilometres to pay their

electricity bills; however, today the CSC collection centres allow fo

counters within a kilometre of users’ homes.

services is the widespread reach of over 4

Cost Efficient

The digital system decreases the operat

delays in deposits, the Electricity Board had to take an overdraft amount on high interest.

the transfer is now made online as a same

this cost savings is available for maintenance and operational

Effective Monitoring Mechanism

A new process can only be effective when it is sufficiently monitored. This system has

succeeded due to its well-designed monitoring process. The

the first step, which is followed by the reporting process that involves NICT sending a

report to MPPKVVCL.

Customer Satisfaction & Trust

When implementing the electricity bill payment system, customers had to be

their payment through VLE’s would reach the concerned authority. In other words, a

amount of trust needed to be built up between customers and the new system for

reach the levels desired.

Empowerment of VLEs

Today, VLEs feel empowered through their extensive responsibilities. They are also

through their increase in economic status. The bill collection system has helped

average earnings per month up to 15000 to 17000 rupees.

Technology as an Asset, Not a Hindrance

When creating ICT-based operations, building a computer culture within stakeholder

organisations is important. In this case, computer technology needed to be introduced to

MPPKVVCL in a way that it would be absorbed in a sustainable w

actors find ways of blaming problems on the breakdown of technology, rather

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

LESSONS LEARNED Reliable, Consistent, Convenient

Before the digital process, electricity bill collection and payment was unreliable as it

consistently delayed. Now, approximately 55 lakh rupees are transacted daily and in a

Earlier, villagers also had to travel a minimum of 3 to 4 kilometres to pay their

bills; however, today the CSC collection centres allow for electricity bill payment

within a kilometre of users’ homes. The outcome of such reliable and convenient

services is the widespread reach of over 4 crore users, particularly in rural areas.

The digital system decreases the operational cost of electricity bill collection. Earlier, due to

delays in deposits, the Electricity Board had to take an overdraft amount on high interest.

the transfer is now made online as a same-day transaction, the overdraft is

s cost savings is available for maintenance and operational expansion efforts.

Effective Monitoring Mechanism

A new process can only be effective when it is sufficiently monitored. This system has

designed monitoring process. The day end review at the VLE level

the first step, which is followed by the reporting process that involves NICT sending a

Customer Satisfaction & Trust

When implementing the electricity bill payment system, customers had to be

their payment through VLE’s would reach the concerned authority. In other words, a

amount of trust needed to be built up between customers and the new system for

feel empowered through their extensive responsibilities. They are also

through their increase in economic status. The bill collection system has helped

average earnings per month up to 15000 to 17000 rupees.

, Not a Hindrance

based operations, building a computer culture within stakeholder

organisations is important. In this case, computer technology needed to be introduced to

MPPKVVCL in a way that it would be absorbed in a sustainable way. Otherwise,

actors find ways of blaming problems on the breakdown of technology, rather

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

9

Before the digital process, electricity bill collection and payment was unreliable as it was

consistently delayed. Now, approximately 55 lakh rupees are transacted daily and in a timely

Earlier, villagers also had to travel a minimum of 3 to 4 kilometres to pay their

r electricity bill payment

of such reliable and convenient

crore users, particularly in rural areas.

ional cost of electricity bill collection. Earlier, due to

delays in deposits, the Electricity Board had to take an overdraft amount on high interest. Since

day transaction, the overdraft is unnecessary. Today,

expansion efforts.

A new process can only be effective when it is sufficiently monitored. This system has

day end review at the VLE level is

the first step, which is followed by the reporting process that involves NICT sending a daily

When implementing the electricity bill payment system, customers had to be convinced that

their payment through VLE’s would reach the concerned authority. In other words, a certain

amount of trust needed to be built up between customers and the new system for usage to

feel empowered through their extensive responsibilities. They are also motivated

through their increase in economic status. The bill collection system has helped to bring their

based operations, building a computer culture within stakeholder

organisations is important. In this case, computer technology needed to be introduced to the

ay. Otherwise, involved

actors find ways of blaming problems on the breakdown of technology, rather than attributing

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Government of India

efficiencies to its use. New technology users also need to be educated

technology including the possibility of poor

have to revert to manual practices to carry out work.

Moving Ahead

Currently, VLEs have to apply to NICT for top

whereby VLEs can directly request the bank for the

transaction.

Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

Documentation was created by

For further information, please contact Naimur Rahman, Director, OWFI at

APPENDIX A - INTERVIEW QUESTIONSMr. Mahendra Gupta, Founder and Chief Technical Officer NICT

1. When did the initiative begin? What was the need for its roll out? What was the

situation prior to it?

2. Who are the key stakeholders in addition to NICT and MPPKVCCL, CSC? What are

their respective roles?

3. How was the infrastructure and technical support set up? In which cities of

Madhya Pradesh does the initiative operate in?

4. How do the Cash Collection Centres functi

you explain this to us with the help of an example?

5. How are the Village level entrepreneurs selected? Trained?

6. Can you explain to us the financial model of the project?

7. How is transparency ensured?

8. What are the major achievements of the initiative?

9. Has there been any monitoring and evaluation from your side to assess its

impact?

10. What were the major challenges in implementing this programme? How were

they overcome?

11. Are their plans for any enhancemen

Transparency and Accountability

Governance Knowledge Centre

Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Researched and documented by

OneWorld Foundation India

Computerised Electricity Bill

Online Remittance System

efficiencies to its use. New technology users also need to be educated about the downfalls of

technology including the possibility of poor internet connectivity during which they would

have to revert to manual practices to carry out work.

Currently, VLEs have to apply to NICT for top-up. In the future, NICT will open a gateway

whereby VLEs can directly request the bank for the top-up amount. NICT will oversee the

Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

Documentation was created by Knowledge and Research Coordinator, Nicole Anand an

Associate, OWFI, Sapna Kedia

For further information, please contact Naimur Rahman, Director, OWFI at [email protected]

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS Mr. Mahendra Gupta, Founder and Chief Technical Officer NICT

1. When did the initiative begin? What was the need for its roll out? What was the

stakeholders in addition to NICT and MPPKVCCL, CSC? What are

3. How was the infrastructure and technical support set up? In which cities of

Madhya Pradesh does the initiative operate in?

4. How do the Cash Collection Centres function? What services do they offer? Can

you explain this to us with the help of an example?

5. How are the Village level entrepreneurs selected? Trained?

6. Can you explain to us the financial model of the project?

7. How is transparency ensured?

the major achievements of the initiative?

9. Has there been any monitoring and evaluation from your side to assess its

10. What were the major challenges in implementing this programme? How were

11. Are their plans for any enhancements in the future?

Transparency and Accountability

Case Study E-Governance

Computerised Electricity Bill Collection and

Online Remittance System

December 2010

10

about the downfalls of

during which they would

up. In the future, NICT will open a gateway

up amount. NICT will oversee the

Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

Knowledge and Research Coordinator, Nicole Anand and Research .

[email protected]

1. When did the initiative begin? What was the need for its roll out? What was the

stakeholders in addition to NICT and MPPKVCCL, CSC? What are

3. How was the infrastructure and technical support set up? In which cities of

on? What services do they offer? Can

9. Has there been any monitoring and evaluation from your side to assess its

10. What were the major challenges in implementing this programme? How were