Indian Public Administration in the Era of Digital Governance: Challenges, Artificial Intelligence Integration, and Pathways Toward a Corruption-Free State

The digital transformation of public administration has emerged as a critical governance reform strategy in India, driven by initiatives such as Digital India, e-Governance frameworks, and data-driven public service delivery models. While digital governance promises enhanced transparency, administrative efficiency, and citizen-centric service delivery, it also introduces complex challenges related to infrastructural disparities, digital literacy gaps, cybersecurity risks, bureaucratic resistance, and evolving forms of digital corruption. This study critically examines the structural, technological, and institutional challenges confronting Indian public administration in its digital transition and evaluates the role of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and data analytics in strengthening governance integrity. Using a doctrinal and policy analysis methodology, this paper proposes a multidimensional governance framework to build a resilient and corruption-free digital administrative ecosystem. The findings highlight that technological innovation alone is insufficient without institutional capacity building, regulatory reforms, and participatory governance mechanisms.