NEW DELHI, Dec 25: In a decisive move to enhance grassroots governance, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh introduced the ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ initiative as part of the “Good Governance Day” celebrations, honoring the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
This initiative is aligned with the larger ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Aur’ campaign, aiming to boost the capacity and capability of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) by providing elected representatives and officials with the resources and knowledge necessary for effective governance and participative planning.
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that governance reforms must initiate at the grassroots level to catalyze sustainable and meaningful transformation while addressing capacity deficits. The “Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi” initiative concentrates on fortifying Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) through innovative tools and frameworks for capacity development.
Commencing in Odisha, Assam, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, the initiative utilizes e-learning platforms, AI-driven chatbots, and mobile applications to bridge knowledge gaps and improve service delivery,” stated the Minister. He asserted that this program aligns with the government’s overarching plan to decentralize governance and encourage participatory decision-making at local levels. It is anticipated that this initiative will create scalable models of citizen-focused governance, empowering PRIs to facilitate equitable and sustainable development in rural regions of India.
On Good Governance Day, Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled several other groundbreaking initiatives aimed at advancing efficiency, transparency, and citizen-centric governance. These projects, steeped in technological advancements and collaborative efforts, reinforce the government’s dedication to inclusive and accountable administration.
The first initiative announced by Dr. Jitendra Singh involved the launch of a new dashboard on the iGOTKarmayogi platform, coinciding with the introduction of the 1600th e-learning course. This upgraded dashboard is intended to equip ministries, departments, and state officials with advanced capabilities to monitor user registrations, course completions, and overall progress in capacity development efforts. With customizable views and robust data filtering capabilities, the dashboard offers detailed insights aimed at enhancing decision-making and optimizing training initiatives. The addition of the 1600th course on the platform underscores the government’s commitment to building a diverse and comprehensive learning ecosystem. These courses, collaboratively curated with governmental and private ecosystem partners, aim to equip officials with the essential skills and knowledge needed to tackle dynamic governance challenges. Collectively, these advancements represent a substantial leap toward establishing a capable, future-ready civil service, aligned with Mission Karmayogi.
The second initiative was the unveiling of the Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi initiative.
The third initiative, the release of the CPGRAMS Annual Report 2024, provides a comprehensive evaluation of the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS). As the world’s largest platform for citizen engagement, CPGRAMS has transformed grievance resolution by incorporating advanced technologies, multilingual support, and comprehensive tracking systems. The report highlights key accomplishments, including the resolution of over 25 lakh grievances annually and the introduction of the Grievance Redressal Assessment and Index (GRAI). By fostering transparency, accountability, and best practices, CPGRAMS has significantly upgraded public service delivery and government responsiveness, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of governance reforms.
The fourth initiative, the Single Simplified Pension Application Form, revolutionizes the pension process for retiring officials. By merging nine distinct forms into one streamlined digital format, the new system ensures complete digitization through the integration of e-HRMS with Bhavishya. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the advantages of this initiative, including real-time tracking of pension applications, Aadhaar-based e-signatures, and seamless verification via e-Service Books. This innovation minimizes processing time and costs, delivering timely pension disbursements while enhancing the user experience through a pensioner-friendly interface.
Another vital initiative launched at the event was the Compendium of Pension Related Instructions, 2024, which consolidates all updated rules, procedures, and guidelines related to pensions. This compendium serves as a single reference point for pensioners and administrative staff, eliminating ambiguities and ensuring clarity in pension-related procedures. Dr. Jitendra Singh indicated that this initiative aligns with the government’s vision of simplifying and streamlining pension systems, making them more accessible and user-friendly. By incorporating the latest amendments, including digital innovations and procedural reforms, the compendium is anticipated to improve the quality of life for pensioners and facilitate efficient pension administration across the nation.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reflected on the advancements in governance reforms under the Modi administration since 2014, underscoring inclusive and participatory governance as foundational components of the government’s approach. He noted that Good Governance Day, institutionalized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serves as a reminder of the government’s commitment to initiatives that tangibly impact citizens’ lives.
The Minister pointed to various governance achievements realized in recent years. Among these, he highlighted the liberalization of childcare leave and extending maternity benefits to women delivering stillborn babies, describing these measures as advancements that promote equity and address longstanding societal issues. He also remarked on the success of the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), which has transformed grievance redressal in India. Since 2014, the annual number of addressed grievances has surged from 2 lakh to over 25 lakh, illustrating increased public trust in the system.
Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that technology has played a crucial role in modernizing governance. He cited the implementation of face recognition technology for digital life certificates for pensioners as a significant advancement in simplifying processes for elderly citizens. He recalled the difficulties faced by pensioners in the past and detailed how the government transitioned from paper-based methods to biometric systems and now to face recognition technology, ensuring ease and accessibility for all.
He also underscored the importance of scrapping outdated practices in governance. He shared personal experiences with bureaucratic inefficiencies, particularly in pension processing, and stressed the need for a corporate-style approach to enhance productivity in government systems. He advocated for a one-page pension form and the elimination of unnecessary paperwork, which he deemed a waste of valuable time and resources.
The Minister praised the Capacity Building Commission for its efforts to incorporate private-sector efficiency into public administration, noting that this corporate-style work culture has significantly improved service delivery and productivity within government organizations.
Looking ahead to India’s journey toward its centenary of independence in 2047, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the necessity of preparing for a future where citizens can manage governance processes independently with minimal bureaucratic dependency. He cited his experience of introducing AI-driven mobile health clinics in rural areas, illustrating how technology not only aids governance but also engages and involves communities.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also paid homage to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision of good governance significantly inspired the establishment of this day. He stated that each year, the government endeavors to roll out new initiatives that enhance governance and demonstrate its dynamic and evolving character.
In conclusion, Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked that initiatives such as ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ exemplify the government’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and technological advancement. By empowering panchayats and promoting participatory governance, the government seeks to establish a foundation for a future-ready India where citizens play active roles in shaping their own destinies.
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