Software developer Microsoft today said it is in talks with the governments of Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal to help them roll out e-governance projects on cloud computing platform.

"We are in dialogue with governments of HP and Uttaranchal to assist them in rolling out their e-governance services fast through cloud (computing) which also results in reduction in capital outlay," Microsoft Director (Public Sector) Pratik Mehta told reporters here today.

Cloud Computing allows sharing of IT applications, software and other infrastructure through internet.

Microsoft has already facilitated launching of e-governance services like making death or birth certificates, trade licenses in Jammu and Kashmir via cloud computing whereby it enabled the state to use various IT applications developed by the state government of Madhya Pradesh.

"This was a first pilot project in which cloud computing was used to roll out e-governance project in the country," he said.

Microsoft has also offered its services in developing State Data Centres to the Centre under Private Cloud model.

"Under private cloud model, we have proposed Union IT Ministry to develop State Data Centre through virtualisation while ensuring the protection of the data from any external threat," he said.

"India's experience in e-governance initiatives has demonstrated significant success in improving accessibility, cutting down costs, enhancing transparency and increased access to un-served groups," said Karan Bajwa, Country Head, Microsoft.

"The government is completely focused towards accelerating this progress by coming up with new projects and successfully implementing the projects in pipeline. The proof lies in the government's commitment in initially investing Rs 10,000 crore earlier this year and future investments of Rs 20,000 crore in next few years," Bajwa said.

Microsoft works with over 10,000 multi-system integrators like Wipro, Infosys, TCS, Patni etc.