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Broader benefits still should be achievable through the government's role in pioneering the extended use of ICTs, in purchasing equipment, software, and services, and in supporting training and education programmes. If the government's procurement
practices were to make direct use of e-commerce techniques such as on-line ordering and funds transfers, this would also help to establish these activities as both legitimate and reliable.

There are numerous models for public-private partnership in promoting development of new technologies and even industries, without imposing excessive bureaucratic restrictions on private companies or inhibiting market competition and innovation. Joint participation in studies, research, cross-sectoral programmes, and even investment ventures should be encouraged. The public would stand to benefit from co-operation between industry and government as new technologies are applied to corporate and official operations and relationships.

Current Policy & Initiatives in India

The new government of India has made it one of its central aims to eliminate social and economic inequities and to create new opportunities for the country's most disadvantaged population sectors. The Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) established by the Mandela administration defined the following among its fundamental goals: -