The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) conducts the National e-Governance Webinars (NeGW 2023-24) for public administrators to present their initiatives that have received the prestigious National Award for Excellence in e-Governance, with the objective of greater learning, dissemination and replication.
The Department successfully convened the 4th and 5th editions of NeGW on 5th January, 2024, and 16th February, 2024, respectively, to showcase these award-winning initiatives and facilitate knowledge-sharing among stakeholders from across the nation.
The 4th National e-Governance Webinar, chaired by Joint Secretary DARPG, Shri Punit Yadav, focused on the theme “Excellence in District Level Initiative in e-Governance for Other States.” This session shed light on exemplary initiatives:
The Gang Canal Computerization Project, presented by Smt. Rukmani Riar Sihag, District Collector of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, aims to facilitate farmers in Ganganagar district by providing real-time information about the status of the entire network of canals within the Gang Canal Irrigation System. It is designed to connect every farmer across 1222 villages and 7 blocks, covering an irrigated land area of 3.14 lakh hectares, the project enhances efficiency and accessibility in agricultural practices.
The OTP and Feedback Based Public Grievance Redressal System, introduced by Shri Chetan K Nandani, Director & CEO, Dy. Municipal Commissioner of RMC, Gujarat, has significantly improved citizen interaction with RMC authorities in addressing concerns related to Rajkot city. With features like a 24*7 call centre and a mobile application, coupled with toll-free complaint booking and quick resolution mechanisms, the system ensures efficient grievance management and citizen satisfaction.
The 5th National e-Governance Webinar, chaired by Secretary DARPG, Shri V. Srinivas, centred around the theme “Excellence in Government Process Re-engineering for Digital Transformation at State/UT Level.” The session highlighted pioneering initiatives:
MINE MITRA, presented by Shri Amit Kaushik, Joint Director of the Directorate of Geology & Mining, Government of Uttar Pradesh, offers citizen-centric e-services catering to various stakeholders involved in mining activities. With features facilitating digital scrutiny and processing of licenses, permits, and leases, coupled with real-time monitoring using AI/IoT technology, MINE MITRA streamlines processes, enhances user convenience, and combats illegal mining effectively.
Kutumba – An Entitlement Management System, introduced by Smt. Annapurna K, Additional Secretary, 5th State Finance Commission, Government of Karnataka, serves as a centralized database system with unique Family IDs. This initiative aims to enable inclusive and proactive welfare service delivery by identifying and excluding ineligible beneficiaries, thereby preventing revenue leakage and ensuring efficient resource allocation.
These initiatives exemplify innovation and efficiency in leveraging technology for improved governance practices. The 4th and 5th webinars witnessed participation from 418 and 315 officials nationwide, including Principal Secretaries, AR Secretaries, IT Secretaries, public administrators, and institutes from various sectors, reflecting a collective commitment towards digital transformation.