MobileActive.org

The M-Governance project in Kerala, is a comprehensive Mobile Governance project covering ninety odd Government Departments. The objective of the project is to integrate the advancements in mobile technology with various Government departments with an aim to create cost effective, efficient and round the clock Government information systems. The three channels of mobile communication (Voice, Signalling and Data) and a wide range of technologies (Voice Applications, Applications using signalling channel and data service based Applications ) are being used for this purpose. A comprehensive and integrated Service Delivery Platform is being created to roll out the various services and the M-Governance strategy is being formulated.

This paper examines the approach adopted to identify services and design solutions, wherein the primary focus has been to leverage the existing networks and available wireless technologies. The core platforms being used for M-Governance are based entirely on Open Source Technologies.

The paper also tries to present the various challenges faced while trying to implement M-Governance, and the solutions deviced to address some of those challenges, with relevant case studies. The Service Delivery models for various M-Governance Services, some of which have already been frozen, and others that are being considered are also being discussed. The paper also tries to examine the strategy adopted for deployment of these services.

When information is limited or costly, agents are unable to engage in optimal
arbitrage. Excess price dispersion across markets can arise, and goods may not be
allocated efficiently. In this setting, information technologies may improve market
performance and increase welfare. Between 1997 and 2001, mobile phone service
was introduced throughout Kerala, a state in India with a large fishing industry.
Using microlevel survey data, we show that the adoption of mobile phones by
fishermen and wholesalers was associated with a dramatic reduction in price
dispersion, the complete elimination of waste, and near-perfect adherence to the
Law of One Price. Both consumer and producer welfare increased.