IT modernisation project of DoP gets Rs 4,909 cr

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has sanction Rs.4,909 crore for the roll out of phase II IT modernization project, Department of Posts (DoP). The fund would be utilized for the entire implementation, operation and maintenance of the phase 2 IT infrastructure of post offices. The IT project of the Department is a part of the Mission Mode Project (MMP) included in the National e-Governance Plan (NEGP).

The IT modernisation project will improve the delivery of mails, banking and insurance services rendered by the post offices across the country.

For the purpose of implementation, the IT modernisation project has been structured into 8 segments catering to IT infrastructure such as datacentre, network, computers and peripherals, software applications which will cover all the product and services of the Department of Posts; it would also change management which will help in effective transformation into IT mode. The project will be implemented in all the 1.55 lakh post offices in a phased manner over a time period of 2 years, to be followed by the O&M phase over the period of contract, said a note.

Cabinet gave a nod to the project on 26th August 2010. The overall project has been segregated into eight Request For Proposal (RFPs). Selection of vendors have been finalized for 5 RFPs and Letter Of Intents have been issued. Of these 5 RFPs, contracts have been signed for four. In respect of two RFPs the financial bids have been opened and selection of the bidder is under process, added the note.