BENGALURU: The government will soon allow private firms to access “specific” data about farmers and students for a “nominal” fee under the e-Sahamati framework.
With data the next big precious commodity, the state is positioning itself as a pioneer in the country to usher in digital transformation while keeping open the option to monetise data. However, questions remain on safety.
The e-Sahamati platform aims to connect companies with data fiduciaries (portals and data sets vested with different government departments), allowing private firms “controlled access” to the information.
For example, the government has information on 75 lakh farmers across the state and details of crops they grow every season. If an agriculture produce aggregator or a retailer wishes to secure data on the number of farmers growing a particular vegetable in a particular area, e-Sahamati will give access details of farmers and their produce.
Similarly, if an IT firm wants to hire an engineer with a specific skillset or top 10% of some 75 lakh engineering degree holders, the platform will provide access to names and contacts of students with relevant skillset. This information will be subject to consent from students; they must agree to share their mark sheets and personal information with companies for job prospects.
Since the datasets will be authenticated by government departments and universities and include a digital signature, the move will weed out middlemen and fake certification. However, every private company that intends to access this data must procure a licence from the state.
Sources say the state government has decided to charge a one-time fee of Rs 50,000 per company.
“If we levy a higher fee, it will automatically be transferred to its clientele. In this case, it may be a farmer selling produce or a student seeking a job. We don’t intend to tax people,” said a senior government official. The government will reserve the right to monetise the information by levying a higher fee or a yearly amount later.
With the election code of conduct in place, the government is likely to onboard private companies on e-Sahamati after December 10 when elections to the legislative council are over. At present, the government is framing rules and regulations which will include details on the licence and fees.
