13th February 2023, Kathmandu
The Integrated SMS Gateway is a system designed to provide a centralized platform for government agencies. It sends text messages to its stakeholders.
The use of this system by 37 government agencies and the sending of 68 lakh 27 thousand SMSs demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of this platform in reaching a large number of people in a short amount of time.
SMS has been sent to the said number during the 1 year of the integrated SMS gateway implemented by the government.
According to the semi-annual review report of the current year published by the Ministry of Finance, a total of 68 lakh 27 thousand 278 SMS messages have been sent through the integrated SMS Gateway system by 37 entities so far.
In 2078, the Information Technology Department developed the ‘SMS Gateway,’ which is used by government agencies.
At the time of launching the SMS gateway, per SMS, the government agency charged Rs. The department said that after the implementation of this system, only 20 paisa will be charged per SMS.
Using the integrated ‘SMS Gateway’ operated by the Department of Information Technology. Government agencies can exchange effective communication (timely sending and receiving information about various programs, payments, and messages) with employees and the public at a minimal fee.
The statistics of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology do not mention detailed information about which 37 agencies used the service.
Reach:
It enables government agencies to reach a vast audience cost-effectively. SMS messages are typically delivered in seconds. And, when compared to other forms of communication, are more likely to be read and acted upon. This makes the integrated SMS gateway an ideal solution for government agencies.
That need to communicate critical information quickly and effectively.
Furthermore, the 37 government agencies that used the integrated SMS gateway varied in their scope and functions. Some of these agencies were responsible for providing essential services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare. Others were involved in disaster response and emergency management.
The use of the SMS gateway allowed these agencies to reach their stakeholders in a timely and efficient manner.
Notifications and Reminders:
One of the ways that government agencies used the integrated SMS gateway was to send notifications. and reminders to citizens regarding important events and deadlines.
For example, agencies responsible for healthcare and education could use the platform to send reminders about vaccination schedules and school registration deadlines. These reminders not only helped citizens stay informed. But also helped reduce the burden on agency staff. Who would otherwise have to manually reach out to each individual?
Emergency management and Disaster response:
Another way that government agencies used the integrated SMS gateway was for emergency management and disaster response.
In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, the SMS gateway allowed agencies to quickly disseminate important information to the public. This could include evacuation notices, road closures, and other critical information that would help keep citizens safe.
Benefits:
In addition to its benefits for government agencies, the integrated SMS gateway also provided benefits to citizens.
By receiving timely notifications and reminders, citizens were able to stay informed. And take proactive steps to participate in important events and meet critical deadlines. Furthermore, the SMS gateway allowed citizens to receive critical information during emergencies. Which could help them make informed decisions and stay safe.
Furthermore, the use of the integrated SMS gateway by 37 government agencies and the sending of 68 lakh 27 thousand SMSs demonstrate its effectiveness in supporting the goals of government agencies.
The platform allowed agencies to reach a large audience cost-effectively. And provided citizens with important information and notifications in a timely fashion.
In conclusion, the use of the integrated SMS gateway by 37 government agencies and the sending of 68 lakh 27 thousand SMSs highlights the potential for technology to support and improve the operations of government agencies.
As technology continues to advance, more government agencies will likely adopt similar solutions to better serve their stakeholders.
