Technological Innovations on the Horizon in eCourts Phase III Initiative: Law Minister

Synopsis
The Indian government is set to implement advanced technologies like AI and Blockchain under the eCourts Phase III Project, aiming to enhance judicial infrastructure with a significant budget allocation.
Key Takeaways
- Implementation of AI and Blockchain in courts.
- Budget allocation of Rs 7,210 crore for the project.
- Development of paperless courts and digital infrastructure.
- Interlinking of all courts across the nation.
- Installation of solar power for ICT infrastructure.
New Delhi, Feb 6 (NationPress) The eCourts Phase III Project aims to incorporate cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and more, as disclosed in Parliament on Thursday.
With a substantial budget of Rs 7,210 crore, this initiative emphasizes the government's commitment to enhancing the judicial infrastructure across the nation, as stated by Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Minister of State for Law (Independent Charge), during a written response in the Rajya Sabha.
Meghwal, who also serves as the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, elaborated that numerous initiatives are underway to bolster and expand the capabilities of the current infrastructure at both district and sub-district levels.
Some significant undertakings within the eCourts Phase III project include establishing fully operational advanced e-Sewa Kendras in all court complexes, connecting all courts nationwide—including High Courts, District, and subordinate courts, enabling Information and Communication Technology (ICT) within the Indian judicial system, and making the justice delivery framework more accessible, cost-efficient, transparent, and accountable.
In addition, infrastructure is being developed for paperless courts in a phased approach, expanding virtual courts for case hearings by establishing a robust digital foundation, live streaming of court sessions, digitizing all court records, e-filing of cases, and providing video conferencing capabilities, as shared by the minister with Parliament.
He also pointed out that innovative technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and others are being integrated into the eCourts Phase III Project.
To ensure uninterrupted access to ICT infrastructure, solar power systems are being installed, and outdated hardware is being updated, Meghwal mentioned. The transition of District Court websites to the Secure, Scalable, & Sugamya Website as a Service (S3WAAS) platform is currently in progress, with ongoing efforts to provide sufficient cloud storage in the courts.