Informatics Publishing Limited

Jayakumar. R ¹, Kinslin D ²

Affiliations
1 Research Scholar, Department of Management Studies, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education, IN
2 Professor & Head, Department of Management Studies, N Islam Centre for Higher Education, IN

Abstract

This paper examines the transformative impact of e-marketplaces on the procurement and installation of solar energy systems, highlighting their role in addressing the challenges of accessibility, cost, and information standardization in the renewable energy sector. Through a comprehensive analysis of digital platforms such as the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) in India, "BuyMySun" by ANERT in Kerala, and similar initiatives by SECI and EnergySage, the study elucidates how these e-marketplaces have revolutionized the way solar energy solutions are procured and installed. By aggregating demand, standardizing offerings, and facilitating financing options, these platforms have significantly lowered barriers to solar energy adoption, making it more accessible to a wider audience. The paper further explores the integration of emarketplaces into e-governance frameworks, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and public accountability in procurement processes. Through case studies and practical examples, the narrative underscores the crucial role of e-marketplaces in fostering a sustainable and energy-independent future, leveraging technological innovation to promote the widespread adoption of solar energy. This abstract encapsulates the essence of the narrative, presenting key findings on the pivotal role of digital platforms in accelerating the transition towards renewable energy sources and contributing to global sustainability goals.

Keywords

e-marketplace, e-governance, BuyMySun, ANERT

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Manoj K ¹, Kinslin D ²

Affiliations
1 Research Scholar Department of Management Studies, IN
2 Professor & Head of Department, Management Studies, Noorul Islam Centre For Higher Education(NICHE), IN

Abstract

This paper explores the transformative impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on the operational efficiency, outreach, and financial inclusion of microfinance Self-Help Groups (SHGs), with a special focus on the Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) project. By integrating advancements in computational intelligence and language technology, the study underscores how ICT can revolutionize SHG operations, aligning them with the global digitization trend in financial services. Our methodology combines a comprehensive literature review with a case study analysis of the KFON initiative, offering a model for leveraging ICT infrastructure to empower SHGs. It highlights the benefits of ICT adoption in reducing operational costs, enhancing service delivery, increasing financial inclusion, improving transparency and trust, and mitigating risks, while also addressing the challenges faced by SHGs in adopting ICT, such as high initial investment costs, digital literacy gaps, infrastructure limitations, data security concerns, and resistance to change. The results and conclusions from the review indicate that ICT adoption significantly reduces operational costs, enhances service delivery, improves transparency and trust, and mitigates risks, promising a future of socio-economic development and digital inclusivity. The paper showcases a model for leveraging ICT infrastructure to empower SHGs through the lens of the KFON initiative and offers insights into the strategic role of partnerships, the significance of emerging technologies like computational intelligence & language technology for accelerating ICT adoption, and provides policy recommendations to support ICT integration in the microfinance sector

Keywords

Digital Transformation, Microfinance, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Financial Inclusion, Digital Divide

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